Monday, September 1, 2008

Hampton hangs on in Holmes' debut over JSU Tigers

The Pirates overcome a slugglish start to top Jackson State in their season opener.

ORLANDO, FL - Just 10 minutes after walking off the Florida Citrus Bowl field, a stunning 17-13 MEAC/SWAC Challenge win over Jackson State still dancing through his head, victorious first-year Hampton coach Jerry Holmes tried to hold back his smile as he sat down at the post-game news conference. That attempt was the first loss of his career. Coming off a disappointing 6-5 season and fourth-place finish in the MEAC, the former Bethel star led the Pirates to their third straight win over the Tigers.

Coach Jerry Holmes and the Pirates will face Southern Illinois University, Carbondale, IL on the road this Satudary at 6 p.m. CST.

"It's exciting," he said. "Especially to get that first leading lady on the schedule as you try to forge some momentum for the season. It's a great feeling." Hampton trailed 7-3 at the half, but used plays on both sides of the ball to take control. JSU got the opening kickoff in the second half and looked as if it was about to blow the game open after driving all the way to the Pirates' 6. But Hampton's Rasoul Wilson picked off Trae Rutland in the end zone to end the threat.

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Attendance: 10,723, Florida Citrus Bowl, Orlando, FL (Capacity: 74,635)

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