When: Thursday morning

Where: Lindsey Nelson Stadium

Wet Ball Work: Rain fell consistently throughout practice. Head coach Phillip Fulmer said he was happy with the weather so the Vols could get used to slick conditions. Fulmer said he was especially pleased with the quarterbacks’ ball handling. Fumbling had been a concern earlier this fall, especially among the freshmen quarterbacks. Since then, the unit has done a much better job holding onto the ball.

Big Step: Senior center Chuck Prugh said he achieved a major goal by participating in Wednesday’s scrimmage. Prugh played between 10-15 snaps. Prugh said he hasn’t regained all of his upper body strength but is pleased with his lower body. Prugh wouldn’t go so far as to say that he felt like a freshman as he returned to full contact. Jokingly, he said he felt like a sophomore. Prugh said he developed an irregular heartbeat in February from his strict workout regimen. He said the condition cleared up in June. The former Maryville High School star is still recovering from a serious viral infection in October.

Confident C.J.: Senior quarterback C.J. Leak said he is pleased with the way he has handled the leadership role of playing quarterback this fall. Leak said he has improved when it comes to managing the huddle and calling the appropriate audible. UT coaches have stressed that Leak must minimize mistakes. So far, he had done just that.

Dual Threat: Senior Karlton Neal said he welcomed the tryout at defensive tackle. Neal has played defensive end throughout his career. Neal said he thinks he can bring some quickness to the position with his lighter frame. Neal’s move is a result of a lack of depth at the tackle position.

MIA: Several players were held out of practice for minor injuries: sophomore wide receiver Bret Smith (foot), senior tight end Victor McClure (shoulder), junior linebacker Marvin Mitchell (knee), junior tight end Jake Finlayson (back), junior linebacker Kevin Simon (rib muscle), and freshman wideout Bill Grimes (back).

Looking Ahead: The Vols will hold an afternoon practice today. UT’s first scrimmage is scheduled for Saturday. Expect a light day on Friday as the Vols recover from Thursday’s two-a-day practice and prepare for Saturday.