<strong>July 30, 2005</strong>
Source: <a href="http://sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?f=/n/a/2005/07/30/sports/s181456D82.DTL">San Francisco Chronicle</a>

The Chargers' practice Saturday morning was highlighted by what has become a Marty Schottenheimer tradition: conducting the physically demanding "Oklahoma Drill."

It matches an offensive and defensive player heads-up, as they wrestle with one another until the ball carrier passes by or Schottenheimer or another coach blows the whistle.

Players circle the combatants, yelling for their chosen player.

"It has an energy, a dynamic among the players," Schottenheimer said. "There is a lot of cheering, excitement."

Linebacker Steve Foley and guard Kris Dielman had a choice battle. Foley said he didn't get any favors by drawing Dielman.

"Dielman is one of the dirtiest players on this team," Foley said. "He'll grab you and throw dirt in your face."

Schottenheimer said the drill is more than a way to build team spirit.

"On tape it shows the fundamentals and technique," of a player, he said.

One fan yelled out: "They should name it the 'USC Drill,'" in reference to Southern Cal's win over Oklahoma in the national championship game.

Saturday's practices were held without top draft pick Shawne Merriman and All-Pro tight end Antonio Gates, both holdouts.

Chargers general manager A. J. Smith said he was in contact with both of the players' agents.

"We're still talking," he said.