JSU Palmer's frame belies his wallop

Photo: Paul Roberts gets trapped by JSU defenders #26 Malcolm Palmer (left) and Willie Williams.

By David Brandt, Clarion Ledger

THE JSU GAME
What: Alabama State at Jackson State
When: Oct. 6, 3 p.m.
Radio: JSU Network (WOAD-1300 AM)

After four stellar games to begin his sophomore season, Jackson State safety Malcolm Palmer is being compared to the Tigers' unsung defensive player from last season - linebacker Ken Woodard, who finished third on the team in tackles.

"Both of them don't physically look that big when you see them without pads," JSU defensive coordinator Darrin Hayes said. "But when they get on the football field you can't live without them. Palmer's been better than I ever dreamed he would be - at least this quickly."

Palmer (6 feet, 185 pounds) was the SWAC's defensive player of the week with 12 tackles, a forced fumble and a blocked kick in Saturday's 50-16 win over Mississippi Valley State. As a freshman, Palmer rarely played before earning a starting spot last spring.

Hayes said Palmer is proof that you can't judge a football player by physical appearance.

"We have a saying that some guys look like Tarzan, but play like Jane," Hayes said grinning. "But Malcolm's the other way around."

STILL HANDY

Defensive end Idrees Abdur-Rashied has seen his role reduced over the first four weeks because of a broken bone in his left hand.

The senior has just six tackles this season and has trouble wrapping up opposing players because of the club he has to wear on his hand for protection. In Abdur-Rashied's place, Sam Washington and Marcus Benard have had increased playing time.

"There's no question it makes things tougher," Abdur-Rashied said. "But there's no use complaining. I'm just trying to contribute as much as I can."

Abdur-Rashied said he hoped to be rid of the club in about two weeks.

A FAMILIAR FOE

Jackson State offensive line coach Bruce Johnson is quite familiar with Alabama State, the Tigers' next opponent on Oct. 6

Johnson was an assistant for Alabama State from 2002-05, a run that included a SWAC championship in 2004.

Johnson said he counts ASU offensive coordinator Maurice Harris as his best friend in the coaching business.

"He's a very talented coach," Johnson said. "It'll be tough to beat him and it's always fun because we know each other so well."