(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. 21, 1999

It was a rainy day in Clemson for today's morning practice. Since it was impossible to work out outside, Coach Bowden split the defense and offense up into Jervey Gym and Fike Gym, respectively. Since no kicking game could be done inside, we worked against the scout team offense for a couple of hours.

Today's practice was scheduled to be in shoulder pads, shorts, and thigh and hip pads, so we still wore this attire for our inside practice. Running full speed plays against the offense is a little unusual indoors on a court because you definitely can not take people to the ground with the hard surface.

Traditionally -- in younger levels of football -- a rainy day might be a positive thing for players because practice will be lighter and indoors. At the college level, however, things are run like a business, and the job has to be done full speed every day, rain or shine. Therefore, most players would actually just assume it wouldn't rain so we can go outside and get our normal work done on the nice, soft grass.

The plays we are running during these scrimmages against the scout team are starting to become more and more familiar. With all of this time to work against the opposition's offense, we are trying to pick up any little tendencies, consistencies, or keys that the offensive schemes might give. We know that Mississippi State is doing the exact same thing, so whoever will be able to prepare the best might have that small advantage which can be crucial in a close game.

Tomorrow is the last practice day at Clemson. It will be a lighter practice, in shorts and shirts, and the kicking game will be heavily emphasized. As soon as practice is over, I will be rushing out of town and driving the two-and-a-half hour trip back to Newnan, GA. I'm looking forward to a nice, relaxing few days for Christmas. The 26th will be the beginning of our stay in Atlanta for the Peach Bowl at the Marriot Marquis. I know all the players will be excited as the final countdown to the big game begins.