TOWSON, Md. - In their second spring practice, the Tigers worked out for more than two hours on Saturday morning in Unitas Stadium.

Although the Tigers practiced in a stready drizzle for much of the workout, it didn't dampen the enthusiasm of the team as the Tigers practiced in shoulder pads for the first time.

"It was a decent practice," said Coach Rob Ambrose. "It was sloppy at times and it was good at times. It's what you expect when your team is working out in shoulder pads for the first time. It's an adjustment for the players because their arm motion can be restricted."

The Tigers' linebacking corps has stood out in the first two practices of the season. The team appears to have ten solid linebacking candidates, giving the Tigers improved depth.

Seniors Winn McAloney, Josh McCants and Chris Patterson are the team's most experienced linebackers. Juniors Danzel White and Trevor Walker are also competing for playing time, along with sophomore Kyle Polk.

Honored as the Colonial Athletic Association Rookie of the Week last October, Polk is coming off a very promising freshman season. A starter in nine games last season, Polk ranked among the team leaders with 52 tackles.

The Tigers' depth has been enhanced by the addition of "red shirt" freshmen Inongo Agbormbai, Trey Jackson, Kenton Powell and Derek Wright.  

Defensive coordinator Matt Hachmann is excited about the depth on the defensive unit.

He says, "Every year, we get more talent and more depth. It's the progression of building a program. At this point, our defense is mostly freshmen and sophomores."

The Tigers' third spring practice is set for Tuesday, April 5 at 5:45 a.m. in Unitas Stadium.