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Aug. 13, 2009

PHOTO GALLERY

AUBURN, Ala. - The Auburn football team returned to the practice fields on a cool, comfortable evening Thursday, working out for close to two hours in shells.

The Tigers went through their normal routine with individual and position drills early in practice, special teams work mid-way through the workout, and team work to close the practice.

Following practice, head coach Gene Chizik stated that he was pleased with the team's focus.

"I thought we had a really, really good practice," said Chizik. "It was obviously a night practice, it was a little cooler and gave them a little bit of time to rest today. It was very up-tempo, very focused. A lot of great effort out there tonight and it was a really, really good night."

Chizik also announced after practice that senior Chris Todd had been selected as the team's first-string quarterback.

"We made some very tough decisions after very thoroughly evaluating the whole situation," said Chizik. "We talked to all of our quarterbacks today and we basically told them our assessment. We decided to go with Chris Todd as our starter. We talked to our team about it, and we talked to each quarterback about it. At the end of the day, we're always going to make the decision that we feel gives us the best chance to win, so that's what we did. We've got classy young men at that position. It was a tough day for everybody. They handled it like true pros, with a lot of class."

Auburn also had a special guest at Thursday's practice, as 1985 Heisman Trophy winner Bo Jackson attended practice, then spoke to the team for several minutes following the workout.

The Tigers will hold their final session of two-a-day practices on Friday. The first practice begins at 10:15 a.m., while the second workout is slated to start at 4:20 p.m.

Quick Hit Q&A With Jonathan Evans

How did the first scrimmage go for you personally?
"I think it went really well. I still need to work on a few things though. Coach Roof told me that I still need some work but I'm working hard out there. I just need to get in my playbook and continue to learn."

How excited are you for the first game?
"Oh I'm very excited. I am just excited to try and get out onto the field. I am going to continue to give all that I've got and work hard on the practice field every day."

How did you end up wearing No. 35?
"It was just given to me when I came here. I was surprised and shocked when I saw it in my locker."

How does to feel to follow in the footsteps of your brother, Chris, who was a linebacker here at Auburn from 2005-08?
"It feels really good that I had an older brother come here and graduate. I have high standards out here for myself as well."

How does it feel to have Bo Jackson out here at practice?
"He is a legend here and looking up to a man like that, I really want to step into his shoes and do the same thing that he did."

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