Savannah State Tigers Keep Moving In Right Direction

SAVANNAH, Georgia  --  Savannah State University head coach Earnest Wilson, III took a view of his football team from a very different angle this past Wednesday. He sat high up in the bleachers of Ted Wright Stadium and got a chance to see things he could not see from the field level.

What he saw was a group of players moving in the right direction, but still needing to refine themselves.

The offense had a quartet of running backs that carried the ball for most of the light scrimmage. Justin Clark, Anthony Criswell, Les Jordan and Damani Dabeatham logged in most of the time as the ground game of the Tigers was showcased.

"We have a lot of film to grade," said Wilson. "The offense ran the ball pretty well today and the defense has got to be able to come off the ball quicker.

Wilson called the practice a good one, because it was teachable.

"I think you guys have gotten a lot better, but you must become more confident in your play," said Wilson. "Don't be satisfied with what you have done. You must make up for lost time."

Practicing in the hot and humid conditions can be useful during the season Coach Wilson pointed out to his players. He advised them to take advantage of the sweltering heat and use it to prepare for teams coming from up north in the conference.

The spirited practice tested the endurance of the defense. While the offensive line took the challenge of associate head coach/offensive line coach Willard Scissum, who wanted his offensive line to give a better account of itself against the defense.

After a tough hour and a half session, some of the players gave recognition for individual efforts during the day. There was also a time during end of the scrimmage where apologies were given by teammates from playing overly aggressive against each other.

The Tigers will scrimmage for the second time on Saturday, August 16, at 8 a.m. at Ted Wright Stadium. They open the season on the road in Murfreesboro, Tenn., at Johnny "Red Floyd Stadium, at 6 p.m. (CDT) versus Middle Tennessee State University.
  Get to Know #8 Quarterback Ker-Sean Wilson

Question: Why did you pick Savannah State University over the other many universities wanting to give you a scholarship?

Answer: It was a spiritual movement that led me to make this decision. I wanted to be close to home so that my family and friends could see me play. So far, I feel as if I made the right decision.

Question: What has been the biggest change in your game, since coming up to a Division I program?
Answer: I have learned to see the game in a different way. I can read what type of coverage the defense is in better and can see the pace of the game and make adjustments when need be.

Question: You have a new set of teammates and you are one of the upper classmen on the team, what do you do to help your teammates get better?

Answer: Away from practice and on the field, I try to push the guys to know each other better and make them realize that if we come together as a team, we will have success.

Question: This is a fairly new coaching staff for you and you have had to learn things quickly. What makes it work for you?

Answer: We have a lot of good experienced coaches on the staff, along with a good strength and conditioning coach and trainers. Listening and learning is key to making things work and the team is buying into what they are telling us.

Question: What goals have you set for yourself for this year?

Answer: I want to get closer to the Lord and have a better relationship with God. If I do those things, then everything else will work itself out.

Wilson came to SSU from Eastern Arizona Community College. He originates from Columbia, S.C., stands 6-2, and weighs 195 pounds. He had a great spring practice and caught the attention of coaches and fans with his passing and running ability.

View Photo Practice Gallery from August 15, 2014 (Here).

COURTESY SAVANNAH STATE UNIVERSITY ATHLETIC MEDIA RELATIONS