CLEVELAND - Friday night's session under the lights marked the fifth day of fall camp for the No. 24 Delta State University football team.  The practice was originally scheduled for 3 p.m., but the dangerous heat and humidity this week forced coach Ron Roberts to move drills to 8 p.m. 

"Despite the changes in the schedule and the tremendous heat, our guys have really stayed focused on and task," Roberts stated.  "We've had several outstanding performances tonight and I feel like we're making great strides towards the season opener at Jackson State."

What looked like a potential question mark entering camp has turned into a bright spot with less than a week under their belts, as the Statesmen receiving corps continued to excel on Friday. 

Senior Ray Chisolm and transfers Chance Dennis, L.J. Castille and Carlton Ollie all had outstanding efforts on Friday.  With a shorter fall camp, every chance to show what you're capable of only helps your chances on Saturdays.

"I think we're starting to pick things up at a much greater pace and the guys effort has been amazing," stated DSU receivers coach Chet Pobolish.  "Ray, L.J., Chance and whole lot of others have really started to push themselves and that has affected the entire corps."

It wasn't all offense on Friday, as the Statesmen defense continued to put in the package that led them to back-to-back Gulf South Conference championships in Roberts' first two seasons as head coach. 

"We've got a ton of returning talent, but our new players have grasped what we're trying to accomplish and that translates into their effort on the field," Pete Golding, DSU's defensive coordinator added.

Defensive backs Dominique Davenport and Preston Felder, and defensive tackles Mark Hoskins and Matt Melton were among the players highlighted by Golding and Roberts.

DSU will hold its first two-a-day on Saturday with practice "A" at 8:50 a.m. and practice "B" at 8 p.m.  All practices are open to the public. 

All 103 Statesmen will also get a chance to make a play for time on the field Sunday, as Roberts and company hold their first scrimmage of the fall.  The scrimmage is set for 3 p.m., but the forecast calls for highs in the upper 90s, which could force Roberts to change kickoff.  An update will be available in Saturday's practice report.