JSU Benard's strength, speed set him apart

Photo: JSU Head Coach Rick Comegy

By David Brandt, Clarion Ledger

Two years ago, as a freshman defensive end at Grand Rapids (Mich.) Community College, Marcus Benard was on the wish list of several Division I-A schools.

Michigan State wanted him. So did Purdue. Both Marshall and Eastern Michigan put in a word with the ferocious pass rusher.

But injuries derailed his sophomore season at Grand Rapids, and Benard missed four games because of a leg injury. Even when he came back, he wasn't the same.

One by one, the Division I-A interest began fading away. He grew up in Michigan, but his dream of playing in the Big 10 never materialized.

By the time his sophomore year ended, he was prepared to accept a scholarship to Division II Grand Valley State (Mich.).

But that's when Jackson State came calling.

And now the Tigers have a pass rusher who defensive coordinator Darrin Hayes says is so good "he shouldn't be on a Division I-AA field."

From the opening practice, Benard (6-foot-4, 260 pounds) has shown the best combination of strength and speed on the defensive line.

A man on a mission, he appears to be trying to make the Michigan States of the world regret their decision.

"That boy came into this camp in shape, didn't he?" defensive tackle Jamile Owens said. "It didn't take him long at all to start ripping things up. He's going to be really, really good this year."

And while Benard admits he was originally disappointed to not land at a Division I-A school, Jackson State has been much better than he imagined.

"It's fun to be part of a program with a proud tradition," Benard said. "I've also got a good chance to start and make an impact right away. In my situation, that's all you can ask."

Benard's ascension onto the first team has helped ease concerns at other spots on the defensive front.

Defensive tackle Corey Clark, who led the line with 44 tackles last season, has missed a week of practice due to "personal" problems and it's unclear whether he'll be back for the opener against Delta State. Coach Rick Comegy said he hoped to have Clark back by Monday at the latest.

"He's the emotional leader of this defense and we need him," Owens said. "Obviously, he's good and he's strong. But he's also a hard worker in the middle and sets the tone for us."

Having Benard at defensive end has meant senior Idrees Abdur-Rashied can move over to defensive tackle. His transition has been slowed by a broken bone in his right hand.

"Both Corey and Idrees are a huge part of our group," Benard said. "Those guys are senior leaders and helped win games last season."

But Comegy said that from what he's seen through the first three weeks of practice, Benard might be the one who will be looked to as a leader by midway through the season.

"He's got big-time talent," Comegy said. "Already, you see the other guys respecting his ability and work ethic."