CLEVELAND – The first signs of spring have yet to show themselves, but some familiar sounds of fall – the crunching of football pads – were heard Saturday at Parker Field-McCool Stadium.

The Statesmen football team competed in its annual Green & White game in front of an estimated 200 fans. The intrasquad scrimmage, the public highlight of the spring practice season, was well-played according to Statesmen head football coach Ron Roberts.

“I thought it was really good. I thought the kids competed really hard,” Roberts said. “I was real pleased overall.”

Roberts was particularly pleased with the play of his offense, which only committed one turnover throughout the game. The Statesmen receiving corps played particularly strong according to the coach.

“We got some big plays from Ray Chisolm, Rafael Mitchell and Xavier Rambo,” Roberts said.

On the defensive side of the ball, Roberts said he was pleased with his first teamers, while his second team needs to “be a little more consistent,” in order for the team to fare well in the Gulf South Conference.

With three more practices remaining in spring football season, Roberts said the Statesmen still has room for improvement.

“We've got our work cut out for us, but right now I'm real pleased with our effort and where we're at,” he said.

The Statesmen open the 2010 season Sept. 4 against Jackson State at Memorial Coliseum in Jackson, Miss. Kickoff is scheduled for 7 p.m.