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.

JSU Tigers' TE would trade all aliases for catches

Photo: Antoine Ott-Terrell, JSU

By Rod Walker, Clarion Ledger

For now at least, Jackson State tight end Antoine Ott-Terrell has more nicknames than receptions.

There's Lew Alcindor, pinned on him by his offensive line coach because of his resemblance to the player more commonly known as Kareem Abdul-Jabbar.

And Steve Harvey. "People say I looked like him when I had my afro," says Ott-Terrell with a laugh.

And O-T. And simply Twan.

"And I have some that you can't put in the newspaper," the sophomore added.

But while the nicknames have been plentiful, the receptions haven't been. Ott-Terrell caught his first two passes of the season in the Tigers' last game, a 50-16 blowout victory over Mississippi Valley State. He hopes to add to that total Saturday when Jackson State (2-2, 2-0 in the SWAC) hosts Alabama State (4-1, 3-1) at 3 p.m.

"It felt like I got a monkey off my back," said Ott-Terrell, all smiles as he reminisced about his first catch. "(Quarterback) Jimmy (Oliver) put the ball on the money and I went and grabbed it and brought it in."

It was Ott-Terrell's first reception in an actual game in three years. Before then, his last catch was in 2004 as a senior at Lahser High (Mich.).

It was at Lahser that Ott-Terrell excelled in football and basketball - "eighteen points and 10 rebounds," he boasts - and in the classroom.

The computer engineering major considered playing basketball at some smaller schools in Michigan and also at Ivy League member Princeton, but instead decided to walk on and play football at Tennessee.

"I love football because it's more of a team game," he said.

After a redshirt season and his freshman year in 2006 where he never touched the field, he transferred to JSU.

"This was the best situation for me," said Ott-Terrell, whose parents are Jackson State alums. "This gave me an opportunity to succeed in football. It's different, but my focus is still there and my drive is still there. I'm just going out every day and making sure that I take care of the things I need to take care of to contribute to the team. The location has changed. I'm in the SWAC now, not the SEC, but mentally I'm still the same hard-working guy."

And JSU coaches say the hard work is paying off for Ott-Terrell, who is trying to help the Tigers fill the giant void left after tight end Marcel Frost broke his leg in the spring game.

"He has height and he is getting better each week," said JSU coach Rick Comegy. "He's getting stronger in the weight room as we go along. I think he is going to be a premier tight end. I don't think right now he is in the class of a Frost, but I think he is developing into that type of a guy. Time will tell."

And according to JSU offensive line coach Bruce Johnson, Ott-Terrell doesn't mind putting in that time.

"He has some big shoes to fill, but he's constantly watching film and trying to get better," said Johnson. "He's going to be a very good one when it's all said and done. It's all starting to fall in place for him now. His attitude and demeanor is a little different from Frost, though. Frost knows his potential and is a little more cocky. Antoine is a little more humble and reserved."

But don't be surprised if that reserved demeanor escapes Ott-Terrell soon. Especially if he somehow finds his way into the end zone of Mississippi Veterans Memorial Stadium.

"Yeah, I've thought about that," he said. "That's next on the list. I know things will come and whatever is meant to be is meant to be. I'll just be waiting and looking every ball in that comes my way and make the most of it. I'll have to say a silent prayer to myself to make sure I don't get a (celebration) penalty."

J-State's off week leads into 3-game murderers' row

Photo: JSU Head Coach Rick Comegy

By David Brandt, Clarion Ledger

Carlos Simpson is certain Jackson State's football team has retrieved its confidence, thanks to a two-game winning streak that included Saturday's emphatic 50-16 victory over rival Mississippi Valley State.

And that's great, but the Tigers' receiver is also quick to point out that it's going to take a lot more than confidence to win the next three games on the schedule.

"This is where we make or break our season," Simpson said. "We've got to stay hungry. The monkey's off the back of the offense after we scored 50 points. But we've got a lot more ahead of us."

Jackson State (2-2 overall, 2-0 Southwestern Athletic Conference) is in the midst of its off week, practicing Tuesday, Wednesday and today before giving the players the weekend to rest.

What awaits when the team returns is a brutal three-week stretch that includes games against Alabama State, Southern and Grambling. The three opponents have a combined 10-1 record this season, including a perfect 7-0 mark in the SWAC.

The Tigers still have an unblemished mark in conference, too, after beating two struggling programs in Texas Southern and Mississippi Valley. But let's be honest: JSU was supposed to win those games.

"I'm pleased because I think our guys realize we haven't accomplished anything yet," JSU coach Rick Comegy said. "Are we happy that we're playing better and winning? Sure. But these teams that are coming up will present a very stiff challenge."

And the first hurdle will be Alabama State (4-0, 3-0), a battle-tested team that's still undefeated after squeaking past Alcorn State 28-25 last week.

Under first-year coach Reggie Barlow, the Hornets have won three of their four games by less than a touchdown and faced fourth-quarter deficits every game.

The Hornets have one of the best rushing offenses in the SWAC, led by running back Jay Peck. The senior is averaging 123 rushing yards per game, a mark that's nearly 30 yards better than the nearest challenger.

"He's one of the SWAC's best," JSU defensive coordinator Darrin Hayes said. "We've got to hit him hard and hit him often - make sure he's earning every yard he gets and try to wear him down."

Jackson State was very good at punishing running backs last season, finishing tops in the conference in rush defense.

But so far this season, the Tigers have been a bit more forgiving up front.

MVSU freshman running back Ronald Brewer carved up the JSU defense for 148 yards on Saturday and seemed to get 6- or 7-yard gains whenever he wished. Hayes said part of that was because "Brewer's a darn good young running back."

But players admitted that the tackling up front hasn't been optimal. Right now, JSU ranks fifth in the SWAC in rushing defense.

"In the film room, we saw some of our mistakes in the way we were lining up and it won't happen again," JSU linebacker Marcus Jamison said. "We've got to be prepared because I'm sure Alabama State saw that film of MVSU running on us. So they'll probably try the same thing."

Other than the run defense, Comegy said he saw no glaring weaknesses to correct from the MVSU game. But after thinking about it for a minute, JSU's coach admitted that's part of what makes him worried.

After all, Comegy says it was complacency that led to Jackson State finishing with a 6-5 record last season after starting 5-1.

"Just because we played a pretty good game on Saturday (against MVSU) doesn't mean we can't get a whole lot better in every phase of the game," Comegy said. "We've got to make our players understand that they can't get comfortable. There can be no sliding backward or all our work has been lost. That's why we're working so hard this week."

Off week a drag for Jackson State Tigers offense

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)

Jackson State's offense put up 50 points in Saturday's victory for the first time under second-year coach Rick Comegy. In fact, the blowout over Mississippi Valley State was the first time JSU has scored that many points in nearly six years.

But just when the Tigers are achieving offensive continuity, the team will have to wait two weeks to play because they have an open date this weekend.

"You sort of wish you could keep things going," Comegy said. "But we've got a really tough road ahead of us. Getting to have a week off and rest those nicks and bruises should be good for us."

Comegy said the team would have a normal week of practice before giving players some time off over the weekend. The Tigers will play host to Alabama State (4-0 overall, 3-0 Southwestern Athletic Conference) on Oct. 6.

HIGH MARKS

JSU sophomore safety Malcolm Palmer continues his breakout season, earning SWAC Defensive Player of the Week honors after the Tigers' Saturday victory.

Palmer had 12 tackles, (including seven solo) one sack, a forced fumble and a blocked kick against MVSU. For the season, Palmer is second on the team with 31 tackles and also has two interceptions.

Eric Perri was the co-Specialist of the Week, converting 3 of 3 field goal attempts and 5 of 6 extra point attempts.

HAW STILL STARTING

Comegy said that while senior Cody Hull gave the team a fresh look against MVSU with 64 rushing yards, junior Erik Haw (24 rushing yards on Saturday) was still the starter.

But that doesn't mean Haw will see the majority of the carries.

"We like the competition that's been created," Comegy said. "They all really are hungry to carry the ball, and we think they can all bring different things to our offense."

Q&A with legendary W.C. Gorden--former JSU head football coach

Photo: For 15 years, W.C. Gorden headed the Jackson State football team. Gorden, here talking to defensive back Carl Tart during the 1990 JSU-Grambling game, compiled a remarkable 123 wins.

By David Brandt, Special to The Clarion-Ledger

W.C. Gorden was the most successful football coach in Jackson State history, winning 123 games over a 15-year span from 1976 to 1991. Gorden, now 77 years old, still lives in Jackson and is active in the community.

Q: What are you doing these days?

A: Well, I serve on about five different board of directors including the Make-A-Wish foundation and Pearl River Valley Water Supply District. It's something I really enjoy doing. For 40 years, I saw things as an educator and now I'm getting another perspective from a business and political side. It's all very interesting and for the most part I think everybody works together very well. Honestly, it's a lot like athletics. You win some and lose some, but you play by the rules and try not to alienate yourself because you never know when someone you're fighting against might become an ally.

Q: It's year two of JSU football coach Rick Comegy. What do you think of his program?

A: I'm fortunate enough to get to talk to coach Comegy quite a bit. I'm very impressed with the way he's jumped right into the business aspect of the community and really is working to do things for Jackson State. In these days, a head coach has to be much more than a football man - and that's exactly what coach Comegy is. This summer, he brought poor kids onto campus and had a football camp. Things like that are really strengthening the program. And I think in time his teams will be very good. It just takes a while to build a program to where there's a family aspect involved.

Q:You've been outspoken about wanting to keep Mississippi Veterans Memorial Stadium instead of building a new stadium on campus. Why?

A: Because Veterans Memorial Stadium is one of the largest Division I-AA stadiums in the country and is in a great part of our town. Jackson State is an urban university and I think our borders go beyond the four or five blocks on campus. There's not a bad seat in the place and there's plenty of parking. I wish the city would set aside the stadium as a green space. Maybe they could get rid of a parking lot and make a park. Then they could really celebrate the history of Mississippi football with some kind of exhibit around the stadium. I just think it's a great facility with a lot of history and I'd hate to see it go.

Q: The SWAC doesn't get an automatic bid to the I-AA playoffs because of the SWAC championship game, Bayou Classic and Turkey Day Classic. Do you see things changing?

A: Well, much has changed in the past 20 or so years, but you've got to understand that a lot of us were pretty disenchanted by the I-AA playoffs by the time we got out. We'd play Alcorn State the week before Thanksgiving and play in front of about 45,000 people. Then we'd make the playoffs, have to practice over Thanksgiving, and then travel somewhere like Sam Houston State and play in front of about 8,000 people. That was hard for our players to get psyched up for. But I can see the appeal of wanting to play for a national championship. Hopefully, Division I-AA can do a better job of promoting the playoffs if the SWAC does get back into it.

Q: What's the thing you miss most about coaching?

A: I'll tell you what I don't miss: That feeling on Sunday after you lost a game. After 40 years of coaching I really got my fill of football. But there is one thing I miss - it's that look on a player's face when he realizes that all that weight lifting and hard work in the off-season paid off and he made a game-saving tackle or a catch that helped us win a football game. Those were some very special moments.

Dropped passes transform Gray's JSU debut into nightmare

Photo: Johnson (left) tries to recover his fumble.

By David Brandt, Clarion Ledger

JSU AT VALLEY
When: Saturday, 4 p.m.
Where: Rice-Totten Stadium, Itta Bena
Radio: JSU Network (WOAD-1300 AM)

The football bounced from Rodney Gray's outstretched hands and splashed onto the rain-soaked turf. The groan from the crowd at Mississippi Veterans Memorial Stadium was audible.

It was the Jackson State receiver's fourth dropped pass in two games. And don't think for a minute that the home crowd wasn't counting.

So as Gray jogged off the field to a smattering of boos, fellow JSU receiver Chris Johnson couldn't help but feel sorry for his teammate.

"Man, that has to be the most lonely feeling in the world," Johnson said. "It's happened to me. It's happened to every receiver. You've just got to keep your head up. But that's a lot easier said than done."

And that's even true for a receiver like Gray, who's confidence has never been called into question.

A sophomore transfer from Southern Miss, Gray has a swagger that's reminiscent of NFL star receivers Terrell Owens and Chad Johnson. Last year, as a true freshman with the Golden Eagles, Gray caught 16 passes for 160 yards.

When he arrived on JSU's campus this fall, he was supposed to be the player who elevated the Tigers' already strong receiving corps to absolute dynamite.

But through three games, Gray's stat line reads like this: one catch, four yards, four dropped passes and one bruised ego.

When asked about his troubles, Gray doesn't even seem angry. Instead, he looks downright confused and struggles to explain his feelings.

"... I'm my own worst critic," Gray said. "And there's no doubt I haven't been playing well. It's so frustrating to suddenly have trouble doing something you've been doing for years. But it's a new week and a new opponent. A receiver has to have a short memory."

The good news is that at 6 feet 3, 188 pounds and with speed to burn, Gray has had no trouble getting open early in the season.

At least three of his dropped passes could have easily been turned into touchdowns had he simply secured the catch.

With that in mind, JSU receivers coach Jerry Mack says the team won't stop throwing to Gray because of a few bad games.

His game-breaking potential is too big of an asset to ignore.

"I'd almost compare Gray's trouble to a batting slump in baseball," Mack said. "He's just taking his eye off the ball. He's run some great routes and been incredibly wide open. Maybe he was almost too wide open."

"You just try to remind him that the world won't end because of a dropped pass," Johnson said. "He just has to keep his confidence and do his thing."

Photo: WR Chad Johnson

So in practice this week, Gray's been introduced to a refresher course in fundamentals.

He's getting dozens of repetitions each day and coaches say he looks great, but nothing will ease the irritation in Gray's mind until Saturday at 4 p.m. when Jackson State (1-2 overall, 1-0 Southwestern Athletic Conference) travels to Mississippi Valley State (1-2, 1-2).

"It's time to clear my mind and do what I know how to do," said Gray, who played in high school at South Panola. "We've got a whole lot to be excited about. I just have to contribute and do my part."

Gray wasn't the only Jackson State receiver struggling through the season's first two games. But in last Thursday's 28-7 victory over Texas Southern, both Jaymar Johnson and Kethonne McLaurin caught touchdown passes.

Now it's time to see if that success is contagious. Mack says he has no doubt it will be.

"There's going to be a game when Rodney breaks open for about nine catches, 200 yards and a couple touchdowns," Mack said smiling. "Then all will be right with Rodney's world. We're all looking forward to watching it."

JSU Football: Tigers reap benefits of depth on defense

By David Brandt, Clarion Ledger

THE JSU GAME
What: Jackson State (1-2, 1-0 SWAC) at Mississippi Valley (1-2, 1-2)
When: Saturday, 4 p.m.
Radio: JSU Network (WOAD-1300 AM)

Jackson State defensive tackle Corey Clark, No. 97, is hopeful that having capable backups on the defensive side this fall will help the Tigers stay fresh and aggressive late in the season.

Despite being a huge human being, Jackson State defensive tackle Corey Clark is an athlete who's in pretty decent physical shape.

But when he's flinging his 6-foot-3, 320-pound body all around the field, crashing into running backs and quarterbacks, he gets tired once in a while. During those times, it would be nice to have a break.

That was a problem last season.

Because when Clark - or any of the other defensive starters - turned to the sideline and asked for a play or two to catch his breath, the answer from the sideline was almost always this: Sorry, guys. There's nobody that can take your place. Suck it up.

JSU started 5-1 last season before losing four of its last five games and finishing with a 6-5 record. Defensive coordinator Darrin Hayes said that's not a coincidence.

"We had guys that were tired and dinged up that couldn't sit because we didn't have the talent behind them," Hayes said. "By the last few games, fresh legs were pretty hard to find. That's when you started seeing all those blown assignments and mental mistakes."

That's why it was so refreshing for Clark and most of the other starters to get the opportunity to watch from the sideline for part of last Thursday's 28-7 victory over Texas Southern.

Instead of Clark in the fourth quarter, it was Neal Pogue or Antonio Atkins plugging holes on the defensive line.

Instead of regular cornerbacks Keith Camp and Domonique Johnson, it was Jeremy Pierce and Oliver McNeil batting away passes.

And you know what? Clark admits it was hard to tell much of a difference between those guys and the first team.

"We were all talking about how good the backups looked," Clark said. "It's so much different than last season. We're really comfortable no matter who's on the field. Hopefully, it will make us a better team in the long run."

So far, Jackson State's defense has been the strength of a team with a disappointing 1-2 record (1-0 Southwestern Athletic Conference).

The Tigers rank second in the conference in passing defense (122.7 yards per game), fourth in rushing defense (99.3) and second in total defense (222).

In Thursday's game, Jackson State held Texas Southern to just 30 total yards and minus-39 on the ground. Poor field conditions because of constant rainfall certainly helped keep the Texas Southern offense under wraps, but Hayes acknowledged that added depth and intensity is turning the defense into an impressive group.

"It's always been our goal to have a defense that's two-tiered," Hayes said. "Now we've got backups who are nearly as good as the starters and that's helping everybody keep fresh."

Arguably the deepest spot is the defensive line, where coaches felt comfortable enough to move Jamile Owens, a starting defensive tackle last season, to fullback without worrying about the consequences.

"No way that happens last year. Absolutely not," Hayes said. "We just wouldn't have been able to afford it. Now we barely thought twice because it makes us a better team."

Up next for the JSU defense is a Mississippi Valley State offense that's averaged just 12 points and less than 200 total yards through three games. Add in the fact that the Tigers have beaten MVSU 12 times in a row, dating back to 1995, and it appears to be a mismatch.

JSU coach Rick Comegy couldn't disagree more. But he likes his chances with the defense that's been assembled.

"I know (MVSU has) struggled, but they've got all the ingredients of a great offense," Comegy said. "One of these weeks very soon they'll put it together. I'm just glad we've got a strong, athletic defense because I think we're going to need all of it to stop Valley on Saturday."

Ferocious JSU defense delivers plenty of punishment

Photo: The JSU defense shutdown Texas Southern for most of the first half.
(J.D. Schwalm/The Clarion-Ledger)


By David Brandt, Clarion Ledger

Some nasty weather and an even nastier Jackson State defense led to a night to forget for Texas Southern.

The Maroon Tigers had just 30 total yards and minus-39 yards on the ground. JSU had 13 tackles for a loss, three interceptions and two forced fumbles.

"Guys like (defensive end) Daniel Brooks and (linebacker) Marcellus Speaks, they'll ring your bell if you're not watching what you're doing out there," JSU coach Rick Comegy said. "We've got guys really flying to the football and making some plays."

Jackson State's defense forced Texas Southern into an abysmal 8-for-45 passing performance. On top of the three interceptions, the secondary had countless more deflections.

Cornerback Domonique Johnson, a Missouri transfer, had two interceptions, but he was angry at himself because he could have easily had two more on a night when Texas Southern's quarterbacks were more than generous.

"The rule is, if you can touch it, you should catch it," Johnson said. "A little rain isn't going to stop us from doing anything. The only thing that can stop us is lightning, and then only if the refs make us leave the field."

At 6 feet 2, Johnson has the kind of height in the secondary that Comegy sought in the off-season after watching his team get burned by long pass plays last season.

Newcomers Oliver McNeil (6 feet 2), Jeremy Pierce (6-3) and Johnson were all on the field at different times as Texas Southern rarely found an open receiver.

"Now we've got enough solid guys back there that we can rotate them and keep them fresh," Comegy said. "I think that's going to make a big difference for us."

Photo: Sam Washington attemps to recover a fumbled snap by Texas Southern's Donnie Shorts in the second quarter. TSU rectained possession.

A DIFFICULT ENCORE

Running back Erik Haw had one of his best games in a JSU uniform last Saturday with 82 yards on 17 carries against Tennessee State.

But that momentum was hard to carry through the Texas Southern game as Haw had just 59 rushing yards on 23 carries. Soggy field conditions made running for both teams very difficult.

Quarterback Jimmy Oliver added 48 yards rushing on 10 carries, while newly converted fullback Jamile Owens, who weighs in at about 280 pounds, rumbled 16 yards on a big carry midway through the second quarter.

ODDS AND ENDS

Sophomore safety Malcolm Palmer had his third interception in three games on Thursday, a mark which leads the SWAC. ... Tray Rutland played quarterback in the fourth quarter for Jackson State, completing 1 of 4 passes for minus-11 yards. ... A slick football led to nine fumbles between the two teams - five for Jackson State and four for Texas Southern. ... JSU took the brunt of the yellow flags, being penalized 15 times for 149 yards. Texas Southern had four penalties for 25 yards. ... With the win, Comegy evened his record at Jackson State to 7-7.

Oliver to start for JSU tonight

Senior Jimmy Oliver will be the starting quarterback when Jackson State hosts Texas Southern tonight at Mississippi Veterans Memorial Stadium.

Oliver and sophomore Tray Rutland have been battling for starting job, struggling while completing less than 33 percent of their passes.

JSU coach Rick Comegy said Oliver's track record from last season, when he threw for 1,906 and 14 touchdowns, was the deciding factor.

"We just feel that Jimmy's the man to lead us because he's done it before," Comegy said.

Oliver is 10-for-30 passing this season for 121 yards, one TD and one interception. Rutland is 9-for-28 for 112 yards, no TDs and two interceptions.

After Rutland played most of last Saturday's 16-13 loss to Tennessee State, Oliver skipped a film session on Sunday. But both Comegy and Oliver have said it was an isolated incident that won't happen again.

"That was just the devil right there," Oliver said. "But now I'm back right and ready to go. It's time to get this offense going and it's time to show coach that I'm a winner."

INJURY REPORT

Jackson State offensive tackle Terrael Williams will likely miss tonight's game with a strained back muscle. Williams, a 6-foot-8, 390-pound freshman, should return within a few weeks...Fullback Edward Lee (ankle) is schedule to make his debut after missing the first two games of the season.

- David Brandt

JSU big bruiser Owens moves to fullback

Photo: JSU RB L.D. Briscoe

By David Brandt, Clarion Ledger

Seeking a bigger body to bust open some running room, Jackson State has moved Jamile Owens from defensive tackle to starting fullback.

Owens (6-foot-2, 275 pounds) switched before the Tennessee State game and was one of the biggest reasons why JSU had 198 rushing yards.

“He was running down the field and busting up some of those linebackers,” JSU coach Rick Comegy said. “I think it will be a really good move for him and it’s a great thing for our running backs.”
Owens has experience at fullback, playing the position in high school at Starkville and also at East Mississippi Community College.

Moving into Owens’ spot on the defensive line is junior Dennis Coit, a transfer from Lackawanna (Penn.) CC.

Coit (6-1, 320) has impressed in practice with his big body and tenacity.
“You don’t realize Coit’s such a big boy until you get up next to him,” Comegy said. “He’s really proven to us that he’s ready to help this defense.”

INJURY REPORT

Tight end Marcel Frost (leg) and offensive tackle Wilson Manigat (knee) will not dress for Thursday’s game against Texas Southern. ... Running back L.D. Briscoe will miss the game because of personal reasons.

SCOUTING TEXAS SOUTHERN

This short week is weird. Here's a quick look at some of the guys on Texas Southern that are pretty good.

QB Tino Edgecombe 6-2, 185: Despite the two losses, TSU has proven it can move the ball through the air. The Maroon Tigers have more than 600 passing yards through two games. The problem is, Edgecombe has thrown for one touchdown and four interceptions. With that in mind, it would seem that if JSU's line can put some pressure on Edgecombe, it could force him into some bad decisions...

WR Brian Haith 6-2, 190: Just a sophomore, he's been Edgecombe's favorite target with 15 receptions for 215 yards and a TD. From tape, JSU safety Malcolm Palmer said he expects Haith and Co. to be the fastest receivers the team has seen this season...

TSU's defense: This is something that could play right into Jackson State's hands. TSU has been the worst in the SWAC at stopping the run and right now JSU has healthy RBs Lavarius Giles and Erik Haw to unleash. TSU's defense has been much better against the pass (2nd in the SWAC). Of course, these numbers could be a bit inflated each way considering TSU has played two teams (Alabama St. and Prairie View) that make a living on running the football...

Anyway, the Maroon Tigers should be a pretty dangerous team. They've proven they can move the football, but have had too many turnovers to win. If they take care of the football against JSU, this could get interesting.

JSU safety Palmer blossoms in sophomore season

By David Brandt, Clarion Ledger

When Malcolm Palmer arrived on Jackson State's campus last year, the coaches didn't know exactly what to think.

At 6-foot-2, he was a little gangly and hadn't grown into his body. He wasn't really a safety and he wasn't really a linebacker, but the kid could play some football.

So they stuck the freshman on special teams, where he became an afterthought, recording two tackles while rarely seeing the field.

"Malcolm had some talent, but he was kind of awkward on the field," defensive coordinator Darrin Hayes said. "We gave him a year to find his place, hoping he'd develop into the kind of talent we thought he could be."

Palmer, meanwhile, didn't sit back and wait for his chance. Instead, he spent a year in the weight room bulking up to a not-so-awkward 185 pounds.

"That was all just hard work," he said. "I basically lived in the weight room, trying to get big enough to play this game at the college level."

Palmer, from Autaugaville, Ala., earned a starting spot at safety this fall. With 13 tackles and a team-high two interceptions through two games, he has established himself as one of JSU's young stars on defense.

He's not a big talker, but coaches and teammates have come to appreciate Palmer's hard-hitting ways.

"Some people from the outside might be surprised Malcolm's this good, but I think most of the players knew about him," said senior safety LaBrose Hedgemon. "He was caught behind (former JSU star Vince Dancy) last season, but now it's his turn to be on the field and he's playing well."

Palmer has helped the defense become JSU's strength. Despite an 0-2 record, the Tigers are second in the Southwestern Athletic Conference in pass defense (149.5 yards per game).

That's a big difference from a Tigers' secondary that was routinely torched last season - especially down the stretch when JSU lost four of its last five games.

Says Hayes: "Palmer's got the best instincts on the team. When there's a play being made, chances are you'll see his number (26) right in the mix."

During coach Rick Comegy's two years at Jackson State, much of the focus has been to quickly build a winning team through Division I-A and junior college transfers.

Out of the team's 22 starters, only seven began their college career at Jackson State.

But Palmer is one of a growing core of players - including linebacker Marcus Jamison (Noxubee County) and safety Kerry Hoskins (South Panola) - who are contributing to the defense after coming to Jackson State last season as freshmen.

"Malcolm's a young man that's really stepped up to the challenge," Comegy said. "It's always crucial to have a group of players that come in to the system as freshmen and work their way up."

Palmer and the rest of the secondary will likely face their toughest task of the season when JSU faces Texas Southern at 6:30 p.m. on Thursday at Mississippi Veterans Memorial Stadium.

Texas Southern (0-2) is tops in the Southwestern Athletic Conference with 305 passing yards per game.

The Maroon Tigers' problem has been that quarterback Tino Edgecombe has thrown just one touchdown pass and four interceptions.

"We know they're going to come after us," Palmer said. "It's gonna be a fight and we'll be tested every down. But after playing well these first few games, this defense has got a lot of confidence."

Jackson State Unversity Sonic Boom of the South: Party Don't Stop

JSU Comegy: Show me the money

The JSU Game
What: Jackson State vs. Texas Southern
When: Thursday, 6:30 p.m.
TV: ESPNU

When making future football schedules, Jackson State coach Rick Comegy has made one thing crystal clear: Money matters.

Comegy said on Monday that he hopes to schedule a game against a Division I-A opponent as soon as possible to help bring in some extra cash. Often times, I-AA schools can earn several hundred thousand dollars for traveling to play a major conference school.

Last winter, the Tigers briefly talked with Southern Miss about setting up a season opener, but instead decided to host Delta State. USM hosted Tennessee-Martin in its opener.

"We've got our coaches looking every day to try to set up something (with a Division I-A team)," Comegy said. "... It takes money to build a football program."

Several Southwestern Athletic Conference schools are venturing to Division I-A schools this season. Grambling lost to Pittsburgh 31-10 last weekend while Alcorn State will travel to UAB on Saturday.

LOVING IMPROVEMENT

When cornerback Keith Camp came to Jackson State more than a year ago, he didn't envision that it would take nearly 13 full games before he got his first interception.

But on Saturday night, Camp finally broke through when he picked off a pass in the end zone during Jackson State's 16-13 loss to Tennessee State.

And now that he's finally broken through, Camp said he expects a bevy of interceptions to follow.

"The first one is always the most difficult," he said. "Now they should start coming my way."

INJURY REPORT

JSU offensive tackle Wilson Manigat (knee) could return earlier than expected after being injured in the season opener against Delta State. The 6-foot-4, 300-pound senior could play against Texas Southern even though he was originally thought to be out until late September... Marcel Frost's (leg) is questionable for Thursday's game.

- David Brandt

Little time to lick wounds for Jackson State Tigers

Photo: Daniel Brooks, 6-4/235 Sr. DE

By David Brandt, Clarion Ledger

The JSU Game
Who: Texas Southern (0-2, 0-2 SWAC) at Jackson State (0-2, 0-0)
When: Thursday, 6:30 p.m.
TV: ESPNU
Radio: JSU Network (WOAD-1300 AM and 105.9 FM, Jackson)

Listed at 6-foot-4 and 235 pounds, Jackson State defensive end Daniel Brooks can be funny and gregarious - almost a larger than life comic influence on the Tigers' locker room.

But in the rare moments when he's angry - when his eyes cloud over and his expression turns grim, he can also be downright intimidating.

And the half hour following JSU's 16-13 loss to Tennessee State on Saturday would certainly qualify as one of those extended moments.

But after a little time to cool down, Brooks' face softens and the senior sighs for a second before scratching his head, trying to find a bit of good news despite the Tigers' 0-2 start to the season.

He finally has to settle for this:

"What doesn't kill us will make us stronger," Brooks said. "You've got to go through rough times to enjoy the success. This is our rough time. But it won't last forever."

And Jackson State would probably prefer that the troubles end immediately, especially considering the Tigers have just three days to prepare for a Thursday night game at 6:30 p.m. against Texas Southern.

It is JSU's first Southwestern Athletic Conference game of the season and is also nationally televised on ESPNU.

Comegy's mantra during the preseason has been winning a SWAC championship. And if that's the case, the only thing lost so far is a little shine off the second-year coaching staff who could seemingly do no wrong in last season's 6-5 rejuvenation.

And even though it's undeniable that JSU has struggled through the first two games, there were a few more positives against Tennessee State than in the season-opening debacle against Delta State. Among them:

Kicker Eric Perri's school-record 50-yard field goal and earlier 44-yard field goal.

Running back Erik Haw, who returned from injury to rush for 82 yards on 17 carries. It was the junior's best game since midway through last season.

A defense that has consistently been stingy, allowing Tennessee State only 16 points on Saturday.

"I think we're playing good enough defense to win ballgames," Comegy said. "I'm just concerned with our offense. We need to be moving the ball better and generating a little more offense."

Texas Southern (0-2 overall, 0-2 SWAC) has also lost twice to open the season. The Maroon Tigers were blown out by Prairie View A&M 34-14 in their opener before falling 21-10 to Alabama State on Saturday.

Haw said the shorter week to prepare for Texas Southern could be a positive, forcing JSU to immediately focus on the upcoming game instead of dwelling on the Tennessee State loss.

"It's the ups and downs of football and you've got to deal with adversity," Haw said. "There's no time to sit and feel sorry for ourselves. We've got to get back to work."

Jackson State University Sonic Boom of the South Marching Band

Field goal on final play knocks off careless JSU Tigers

By David Brandt, Clarion Ledger

MEMPHIS — The one-two punch of carelessness and miscommunication came at the absolute worst time for Jackson State on Saturday night.

And be-cause of that, JSU stood and watched helplessly as Tennessee State's Eric Benson kicked a 35-yard field goal as time expired to steal a 16-13 victory at the Southern Heritage Classic in front of an announced crowd of 50,987.

Photo: The Jackson State University Sonic Boom of the South Band performs at the Southern Heritage Classic in Memphis, TN

A sullen JSU coach Rick Comegy offered little in the way of an explanation of the team's Liberty Bowl troubles.

"We're all a little tired of excuses on this football team right now," Comegy said. "What we need instead are results."

The loss is the fifth in a row for JSU against Tennessee State, dating back to 2002. It's also JSU's sixth loss overall in seven games dating back to last season.

What was even more heart-wrenching about Saturday's final result was that the game was tied at 13 and appeared destined for overtime before two JSU (0-2) mistakes gave Tennessee State (1-1) new life.

First was the carelessness: Tennessee State was set to punt the ball away with 46 seconds remaining in the game before JSU was whistled for an illegal substitution to give TSU a new set of downs.

And on the very next play was the miscommunication: Tennessee State quarterback Antonio Heffner found Antonio Graham down the middle of the field on a wide-open 30-yard pass play, eventually setting up the game-winning field goal and a raucous TSU celebration.

"I'm not even sure what happened," said JSU linebacker Daniel Brooks of the 30-yard pass. "I was playing off adrenaline and trying to win the game. We'll have to look at the tape to see where we messed up because I truly have no idea."

Once again, Jackson State mixed and matched quarterbacks Tray Rutland and Jimmy Oliver with limited success. Rutland saw the majority of time and was 5-of-14 passing and 54 yards. He also rushed for 14 yards and a touchdown.

Oliver played briefly in the third quarter and finished 3-of-10 for 28 yards. He rushed for 25 yards.

Running back Erik Haw played in his first game of the season and rushed for 82 yards on 17 carries. JSU S was outgained 385-280 in total yards.

"We've got some problems offensively right now," Comegy said. "We've got to get this thing right soon, because (TSU) was beatable and we just didn't get it done."

Jackson State jumped to a 7-0 lead early in the first quarter partly thanks to a botched TSU punt attempt. With a short field, JSU drove 25 yards for the touchdown in five plays, capped by Rutland's 1-yard sneak.

Eric Perri stretched the Tigers' lead to 13-6 by midway through the third quarter with a pair of field goals.

The first was a 44-yarder that gave JSU a 10-6 lead going into halftime. The second was even more impressive, a 50-yard blast that set a school record and gave JSU a 13-6 advantage midway through the third quarter.

But that's about the time Jackson State's previously stingy defense started breaking down.

TSU's Terrence Wright scored his second touchdown of the game on an 11-yard pass from Antonio Heffner to tie the score at 13 with 8:03 left in the game.

The teams traded scoreless possessions throughout the rest of the fourth quarter until Benson nailed the field goal to win.

"This is our most important game all season," TSU coach James Webster said. "I know it's not a conference game, but we put a lot into it. That's why winning it is such a big thrill each year."

Heffner finished 18-of-31 passing for 232 yards, one touchdown and two interceptions.

Jackson State Perri's record-setting night - a 50-yarder - spoiled.

Perri's record-setting night - a 50-yarder - spoiled by late block

In a lot of ways, Jackson State sophomore kicker Eric Perri had a career night.

He set the school record with a 50-yard field goal in the third quarter that gave JSU a 13-6 lead. In the first half, he knocked down a 44-yarder - the fourth longest in school history.

But what will stick in his head is the 22-yard attempt that was blocked by Tennessee State. It would have given JSU a three-point lead in the fourth quarter.

"(TSU) was already on top of me by the time I kicked the ball," Perri said. "I don't really know what else I could have done, but it still hurts to not be able to help the team late."

JSU coach Rick Comegy agreed that the blocked field goal had nothing to do with Perri.

"We had a breakdown in our line," Comegy said. "Eric did a nice job of keeping us in the game early."

With his two kicks on Saturday, Perri solidified his ability to kick long field goals. His 50-yarder easily cleared the uprights and suggested the sophomore's range is pushing 55 to 60 yards.

Perri kicked a 52-yard field goal in Jackson State's spring game last year, but this is his first 50-plus make in a real game.

"It certainly gives me a lot of confidence," Perri said. "I know coach (Comegy) feels I can make a difference."

Even with the record-setting performance, Perri's night ended sourly as he watched Tennessee State kicker Eric Benson hit the 35-yard, game-winning field goal in the rain.

"It's a really helpless feeling sitting there and knowing there's nothing you can do," Perri said. "But give credit to (Benson). He did what he's supposed to do."

-David Brandt

Last-gasp field goal lifts TSU

Photo: TSU's Javarris Williams (28) breaks free on a first-half run. He finished with 94 yards on 21 carries.

By MIKE ORGAN, the Tennessean

MEMPHIS — Tennessee State's Eric Benson had to be reminded afterward that his game-winning field goal had come in a torrential downpour.

Benson waded onto the field at the Liberty Bowl and booted a 35-yarder with no time left that lifted TSU to a 16-13 victory over Jackson State in the Southern Heritage Classic.

"At first the rain bothered me — while I was standing on the sideline, I was a little worried," Benson said.

"But once you get out there, you can't think about anything but the kick. That's what I did. The rain didn't affect me at all. I forgot all about it."

Most of the 50,987 fans missed the thrilling finish. They had been chased away by the rain that started in the fourth quarter.

Benson had made another critical, pressure-packed kick earlier in the fourth quarter. After Terrence Wright raced 11 yards for a touchdown, which cut the deficit to 13-12, TSU was penalized for excessive celebration.

That moved the extra point attempt back 15 yards, but Benson still was able to connect.

"Benson is a warrior,'' TSU Coach James Webster said. "Maybe people don't think about kickers being warriors, but he is a warrior. He kicked that long extra point and then came back with the field goal in the rain."

Benson's winning boot helped TSU avoid a third consecutive overtime in the Southern Heritage Classic.

The Tigers needed a two-point conversion in overtime last year to beat Jackson State 31-30, and they edged JSU 20-14 in overtime the year before.

It was TSU's fifth consecutive win over Jackson State and helped the Tigers (1-1) bounce back after losing last week to Alabama A&M 49-23. JSU fell to 0-2 after falling last week to Delta State 27-15.

TSU never led before Benson's end-game field goal.

In fact, Jackson State kicker Eric Perri had been the star of the game up to that point.

Perri kicked a school-record 50-yard field goal early in the second half, which followed a 44-yarder at the end of the first half. His second field goal gave Jackson State a 13-6 lead.

TSU's offense, which moved the ball well at times as it did last week — but also failed to capitalize, just like last week — took advantage of a huge Jackson State blunder on the final drive. TSU punted from its own 40, but JSU was penalized for having too many men on the field.

That gave TSU a first down, and quarterback Antonio Heffner took advantage on the next play by tossing a 30-yard strike to Antonio Graham, who was down at Jackson State's 25.

Even with the rain, Webster said he was confident in Benson and planned to rely on a field goal to win the game.

"I wasn't thinking about overtime; I was thinking about winning the game on Benson's kick," Webster said.