TSU has offense for title run

Healthy Heffner holds hopes for Tigers

Tennessee State Coach James Webster drew laughter from the crowd and a bit of fear from opposing coaches while fielding questions at the Ohio Valley Conference Football Media Day at LP Field on Tuesday. Webster made a bold prediction when the subject turned toward the health of senior quarterback Antonio Heffner, who suffered a broken ankle against Eastern Kentucky in the seventh game of the season last year.

"A healthy Antonio?" Webster pondered. "Well, that's an OVC championship." Webster might not be too far off about the potential of his talented dual threat quarterback. Prior to his injury, Heffner led the conference in passing (212.3 yards per game) and total offense (260.4 yards per game). In his seven games in 2007, Heffner managed to complete 96 of 171 passes for 1,486 yards and 10 touchdowns. He also rushed for 337 yards and three touchdowns on just 94 carries.

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TSU, Southern renew rivalry at Merritt Classic

Tennessee State fans and alumni are finally getting the game they want to see. The Tigers will take on old rival Southern University in the John Merritt Classic on Sept. 6 at LP Field. And make no mistake, it will be a battle — during the game and at halftime.

The schools’ competition between the football teams and the marching bands was a point of emphasis on Thursday at the annual news conference promoting the John Merritt Classic. “I don’t know who’s going to win the game, but I know who’s going to have the best halftime show,” said Southern athletic director Greg LaFleur to the good-natured jeers of the TSU fans and alums in attendance.

TSU athletic director Teresa Phillips then grabbed the microphone, saying, “We’re going to have to get a police escort for him.” This is the 10th year of the game that honors the legendary TSU coach, but it is the first game the Tigers will take on the Jaguars in the classic. The game will also be the teams’ first meeting since 1991.



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