University of Southern Mississippi Athletics
Bower Says Louisville "Will Be Tough"
11/13/2002 12:00:00 AM | Football
Bower Says Louisville "Will Be Tough"
Hattiesburg, Miss. -- Southern Miss wrapped up its "short week" of preparation today for Thursday's nationally-televised ESPN game against C-USA rival Louisville, and Head Coach Jeff Bower says the practice-week has been one of the best his Golden Eagles have had this season.
"I think our players really responded this week," he said. "We went a lot shorter today than we had planned, but we felt like we had to. Our players worked hard, and I've been pleased with how we've practiced."
Bower says Thursday games and the short work week that goes with such games, demands more from the players. "They have to mentally focus, intensify their preparation, and cram everything into a short week; but our players have done a great job with it," Bower said. "We came out Sunday, after the UAB game, and had as good a practice as we've had all season. The players really bounced around, and I think they're excited about playing this game."
Bower also says the Cardinals will be as tough as ever. "We look for a good football team," he said. "They're very talented, really good in the special teams. They have a talented quarterback and an outstanding defense. We'll have to play really well to win the game."
Louisville won last year's game between the two teams, 24-14, In Louisville, Ky. Southern Miss went into the fourth period leading 14-6, but saw the Cardinals score 18 unanswered fourth-period points to win. The Golden Eagles suffered an interception and lost three fumbles in that game.
Louisville has won the last two games between the two teams, including a 49-28 decision in Roberts Stadium in 2002, but Southern Miss leads the series 18-7-1.
Much of The University of Southern Mississippi will close early Thursday, and many members of the Hattiesburg business community will close early to allow their employees to attend the 6:30 p.m., game.
Tickets will remain on sale throughout the day Thursday at the Athletic Ticket Office located in the Ferlise Ticker Office or by calling 601-266-5418 or 1-800-844-TICK.
