ELON, N.C. -- Thuds echoed across the Hunt and Tucker practice fields on Tuesday afternoon as the Elon Phoenix football team put on the pads for the first time this preseason.  The maroon and gold worked out for just over two hours in its third session of the camp.

Tuesday's practice saw the Phoenix work in more team periods than the previous two days.

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Following the day's work, which was conducted at a quick tempo, head coach Jason Swepson provided his thoughts.

Swepson on the first day in pads:
"We stayed on our feet.  That shows that we understand the tempo of practice, especially when you have your pads on.  Last year, we had a lot of bodies on the ground in that first practice.  Today, we went 12 straight plays with the first unit and didn't have anyone on the ground.  It looked like a pro camp out there.  They understand what's expected of them each and every practice."

Swepson on the physical nature of his team:
"We came out hitting.  We started with a board drill to get the blood going.  We had some popping.  We had some contact between the running backs and linebackers.  This will begin to separate the men from the boys.  Right now, I think we have all men.  I don't think anyone came out and tried to hide."

Swepson on more team periods in the practice:
"We are advanced in the playbook so we're not teaching little things.  The kids can see the big picture.  Last year, everyone was focused on what they were supposed to do.  I think everyone has a great understanding of the playbook and what all 11 are doing on the field."

Swepson on the running backs:
"I think we have four good candidates to carry the ball.  I'm anxious to see what happens when we scrimmage and see if they can protect the ball.  They're not afraid to stick it up in there.  Matt (Eastman) is doing a great job with the transition from tight end to running back.  If he can stay healthy, he will help us win a lot of football games."

Swepson on the offensive line depth:
"The depth on the offensive line is critical.  We're able to have a full practice.  Last year, by practice three we were having to cut down on some periods.  That third group is pretty much all freshmen on offense and defense.  I'm excited because I think we've got a great foundation for the future."

Swepson on the approaching first scrimmage:
"The first scrimmage is right around the corner.  I'm looking forward to that because I think that we're so far advanced compared to where we were last year."

The Phoenix will be back on the Hunt and Tucker practice fields again at 3:40 p.m. on Wednesday afternoon.

Upcoming 2012 Elon Phoenix Preseason Practice Schedule
(All practices are at the Hunt and Tucker practice fields unless otherwise noted)
Wed., Aug. 8 - 3:40 p.m.
Thurs., Aug. 9 - 3:40 p.m.
Fri., Aug. 10 - 8:25 a.m.
Fri., Aug. 10 - 6:10 p.m.
Sat., Aug. 11 - 3:40 p.m.
Sun., Aug. 12 - 6:00 p.m. (Scrimmage; Rhodes Stadium)
Tues., Aug. 14 - 8:25 a.m.
Tues., Aug. 14 - 6:10 p.m.
Wed., Aug. 15 - 3:40 p.m.
Thurs., Aug. 16 - 8:25 a.m.
Thurs., Aug. 16 - 6:10 p.m.
Fri., Aug. 17 - 3:40 p.m.
Sat., Aug. 18 - 3:00 p.m. (Scrimmage; Rhodes Stadium)
Mon., Aug. 20 - 8:25 a.m.
Mon., Aug. 20 - 6:10 p.m.
Tues., Aug. 21 - 3:40 p.m.
Wed., Aug. 22 - 3:40 p.m.
Thurs., Aug. 23 - 3:40 p.m.
Fri., Aug. 24 - 12:30 p.m. (Scrimmage; Rhodes Stadium)
* Schedule subject to change