Aug. 14, 2000

Memphis, TN - Keydrin Ward, who had lettered for two years as a reserve strong safety for the Tigers, has decided to give up football and has left the squad. A graduate of Melrose High School, Ward registered 37 tackles as a sophomore, including a career high 10 stops against Louisville. The Tigers continued with two-a-day drills on Monday and the play of the offensive line seem to please head coach Rip Scherer. "The line has really taken to Rick (Mallory, new Tiger offensive line coach) and they are responding with enthusiasm in practice," Scherer said. "Joey Gerda has made great strides at offensive guard and Austin O'Dell really had a good summer in the weightroom and offers us depth at left tackle." It was also reported that offensive tackle Baki Celaj suffered a broken sesamoid bone in his right toe and will be out of action for several weeks.