SEMO DEFENSE STRONG IN OPENING SCRIMMAGE

As far as controlled football scrimmages go, Southeast Missouri State University's Indians took part in a pretty typical one Saturday night.

At least that was the observation of Southeast head coach John Mumford after his team's opening scrimmage of the preseason that lasted nearly 90 minutes at Houck Stadium.

"The defense looked like it was ahead of the offense, which is usually the case early like this," said Mumford. "We stayed pretty basic on offense, but we still messed up quite a few things. But our defense looked good. We've got some guys who can run to the football."

Even though the offense had plenty of advantages -- namely starting with the football deep in scoring territory during several drills -- it was only able to come up with a pair of touchdowns, both on runs by Riki Smith.

Smith, a sophomore who is currently listed No. 1 on the depth chart at tailback, has looked impressive in practice so far, demonstrating plenty of quickness.

"Riki has really been playing well," Mumford said. "He worked hard in the offseason and he's really matured."

Southeast's defense was impressive, pretty much throttling the offense the entire scrimmage, particularly when the offense had to try and drive most of the length of the field, which it never was able to. The Indians even came up with an early safety defensively.

"I think our defense has looked solid from the start of practice," said Mumford.

Four quarterbacks -- returning starter Justin Martini along with sophomore Tom Fetsch and freshmen Bobby Brune and Mike Gross -- shared playing time.

The quarterback Southeast fans are anxiously waiting to see -- Southern Mississippi transfer Heath Graham -- did not participate in the scrimmage as he continues to nurse a sore throwing arm.

Graham has not yet thrown during practice but Mumford said he is getting better and should be ready to see action today as two-a-day workouts continue.

This week will mark the final week of two-a-days for the Indians, who will practice just once daily when school begins on Aug. 25. The season opener is set for Aug. 30 when Lambuth comes to Houck Stadium for a 7 p.m. kickoff.