Jackson State Speaks sees zone

Photo: This is one sister in the JSU Sonic Boom of the South Band you may not want to play with unless you can stand the heat.

By David Brandt, Clarion Ledger

Jackson State middle linebacker Marcellus Speaks said he expects to see a healthy dose of zone blocking and running schemes from the Alabama State offense on Saturday.

"They've got a good system," Speaks said. "We've got to be smart about what we're doing out there and not get caught out of position because they've got some really good running backs."

Alabama State senior Jay Peck has been one of the SWAC's best running backs for the past two years. Peck is averaging 105.4 rushing yards per game and 4.6 yards per carry so far this season.

MCLAURIN OUT

Wide receiver Kethonne McLaurin will miss the Alabama State game after his shoulder injury - suffered three weeks ago against Texas Southern - turned out more serious than expected.

"Apparently, his shoulder's got a pretty good crack in it," JSU coach Rick Comegy said. "If it lasts much longer we'll probably look at redshirting him and bringing him back next season."

McLaurin would be a solid veteran in what will be a young receiving unit next year. Three of JSU's current top six receivers - Jaymar Johnson, Chris Johnson and Terrance Jones - will exhaust their eligibility at season's end.