Bowling Green, Ky. — The Western Kentucky University football team took to Feix Field at Houchens Industries-L.T. Smith Stadium for the third practice of the 2008 campaign before being halted by a thunderstorm that hit the Bowling Green area. The Hilltoppers saw their first action of the season in shoulder pads and helmets.

“We were able to get back into it and then we lost our composure. We showed that we are very immature and it kept us from getting in the reps that we needed to,” stated head coach David Elson. “We have a lot to learn.”

The Hilltoppers were moving swiftly through practice before the storm set in. The delay lasted between 30 and 45 minutes.

“We were going pretty good before the delay but we let our emotions get the best of us. We have to learn to play smart. We teach playing hard, smart and together,” said Elson.

“We want to see more in full pads. Our young guys looked good and we need to work and learn how to play with pads on,” stated Elson. “We have never practiced together as a full team until this week and we are excited about it and we have to play smart.”

WKU football is entering its 90th season on the Hill and is in its final transition year before the Hilltoppers are eligible to compete for a Sun Belt Conference title and a bowl opportunity in 2009.