By Angie Ledbetter

Houston Nutt spoke to the media on Tuesday morning for the first time as the new Ole Miss head football coach. Only one day after the first practice, Nutt was very upbeat and proud of his players.

“It goes back to the offseason and summer workouts. In the heat, you can tell how well they trained and worked out during the summer.”

Nutt was also impressed with the freshman.

“They’re going to be good one day. They showed a lot of athleticism. I’m really proud of how quickly they picked up, how athletic they were, and just the great attitude they have.

“Now we have got to build on that and keep getting better,” Nutt continued. “We’re going to depend on our leaders, guys like Jason Cook, Michael Wallace, Jamarca Sanford, Michael Oher and Peria Jerry.”

Nutt also talked about the fan support he has had this summer as he traveled throughout the southeast.

“It has re-energized me. They’ve been there. We’ve had gymnasiums full, cafeterias full, and conference rooms full of a real spirit and attitude that they just want to get behind this football team. It really excites us as a staff and as players. I told the players they have a lot to be thankful for. The people are there, they’re coming to support you, so it’s only fair you give them all you have. That’s what we’re trying to get done.”

Batesville was well represented when the media talked to the players. Three South Panola products were at the tables eager to talk.

Senior Jamarca Sanford will be at the safety position.

“We’re  excited and it’s just a matter of working hard. You want to give credit to Coach Nutt and his staff. They trust in each other. We know they can lead us where we want to go.”

Peria Jerry, a senior defensive tackle gives a lot of credit to the new coaching staff.

“They’ve brought a lot to the table and I think we’re going to be pretty solid. My expectations for the season are to just go out and have fun.  Every Saturday is anybody’s game.”

The youngest player to see action is junior John Jerry, an offensive lineman.

“The biggest thing that the coaching staff has brought to us is that you have got to have a different mind set about things and learn how to win every day.”