(Editor's note: Clemson sophomore linebacker Chad Carson will periodically check in with ESPN.com as he and the Tigers continue to prepare for the Peach Bowl. For more information on Clemson, visit the Tigers' official athletic site.)

Dec. 14, 1999

Today was another workout day, but we worked our lower body instead of upper body. A lower body workout includes heavy squats, power cleans, a jammer machine for explosiveness, shrugs for the neck and shoulders, lower back exercises, and a bunch of abdominal work.

The rain finally ended today, so we were able to go outside and run. This included numerous form running exercises for increasing speed and technique. After these speed drills, we ran our conditioning. Conditioning today consisted of 12 110-yard accelerations, in which we start at a slower speed and gradually reach full speed by the end. This conditioning was relatively lighter than yesterday, but full pad practices begin tomorrow, so we will need that little bit of extra energy.

We also had another walk-through session after workouts. During the walk-through, we reviewed assignments and responsibilities in a more relaxed environment. But tomorrow during practice, the heat will once again be on and the intensity will escalate. Full pad practices require a lot of focus and energy from the players, and I need to get ready for that by trying to get a nice, long night of sleep.