Harrison Keegan/News-Leader
Missouri State's players were filled with optimism last week as they opened fall camp.
But mixed in with the dreams of a winning season were thoughts of running back Richard Nelson, who was shot to death during the offseason while back home in Las Vegas.
To honor Nelson, the players were all given wristbands on the first day of practice Thursday with Nelson's number and favorite Bible verse — Jeremiah 29:11.
"It is just really special to wear this thing every day in remembrance of Richard," said junior running back Jason Randall.