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ORANGEBURG, South Carolina – South Carolina State, Wednesday, announced the signing of twenty-nine (29) football prospects to national letters. Seventeen (17) of the signees are from South Carolina, seven are from Georgia, three are from North Carolina and two are from Virginia.
Among the Palmetto State prospects are eight North/South All-Star selections –OL Malcolm Garrett of Moncks Corner, SC, LB Chad Gilchrist of Johnston, SC, FB Buss Hamilton of Newberry, SC, TE Kijana Johnson of Bennettsville, SC, OL Francios McFall of Clio, SC, OL Patrick McNeill of West Columbia, SC, TE Tyler Schadewald of Lexington, SC, OL Austin Schofield of Aiken, SC and a Shrine Bowler in OL Demarcus Gilmore of Newberry, SC.
For complete 2016 Signee List click link:Click here.
SC State head coach Buddy Pough, who is looking to replace 17 seniors, expressed his excitement at the latest Bulldog signing class and noted that his staff addressed vital needs, on the offensive and defensive line spots with the departure of All-American Javon Hargrave. The Bulldogs were also looking at help at the tight end and running back positions.
"We think we address our needs with this signing class and I am really excited about these young guys coming in here and putting together a solid football team," Pough said. Once again I think our coaches did a great job with putting together another solid class. We always try and emphasize keeping talent in-state and we signed 17 from the palmetto state."
"We are right where we were last year with signing 29 kids, but once it's all said it done we should have around the mid-twenties that will actually make it. We took a few more offensive linemen that we normally would but for the most part it takes those guys longer to develop."
SC State signed four signal callers in the previous 2015 class. Freshman quarterback Caleb York returns for his sophomore season having had a breakout rookie season, throwing for 142-of-254 for 1,723 yards and 11 TD's in replace for injured starter redshirt junior Adrian Kollock, Jr.
Seven linebackers, five defensive lineman, five offensive lineman, four tight ends, four running backs, three defensive backs, and one quarterback.
For more information on South Carolina State Athletics log onto www.scsuathletics.com or call the Office of Athletic Media Relations at (803)536-7060.
COURTESY SOUTH CAROLINA STATE UNIVERSITY SPORTS INFORMATION
GREENSBORO, North Carolina -- North Carolina A&T, the defending HBCU football national champions and two-time MEAC champions, released its Signing Day Class on Wednesday. The Aggies signed 15 players including four defensive backs, three wide receivers, two offensive linemen, two linebackers, a defensive tackle, quarterback, running back and tight end.
“I thought we got what we needed,” said N.C. A&T head coach Rod Broadway. “There are a lot of good players out there, so sometimes it is really hard to stay discipline and fill your needs instead of going out and recruiting positions you don’t have a need for at the time. I thought for the most part we were disciplined, got some really good players that can run, hit and make plays and filled in some gaps along the way.”
The Aggies will hold their Signing Day Party 7:30 p.m., Thursday at Corbett Sports Center. It is open to the public.
Tyler Beck (LB, 6-2, 235, Glenwood, Ill., Homewood Flossmoor HS): Beck transferred to Homewood Flossmoor before the start of the season. He eventually became the starter at middle linebacker for a team ranked 26th in the nation at one point during the season. His high school coaches say he has great size and potential to be an effective middle linebacker on the collegiate level. He made 52 tackles, 37 solo, five tackles for loss, four quarterback hurries, three sacks and recovered a fumble in his one season at Homewood Flossmoor.
Elijah Bell (WR, 6-2, 210, Wheeling Park, WVA., Wheeling Park HS): Bell was the recipient of the Randy Moss award, given annually to the top wide receiver in West Virginia. Led the state in receiving yards and touchdowns with 1,214 yards and 17 TD’s on 50 receptions. Set numerous single-season school records. Was named the USA Today Offensive Player of the Year for West Virginia. Helped Wheeling Park High School earn the Class AAA state championships.
Daquan Blake (OL, 6-3, 315, Leavenworth, Kan., Coffeyville CC): The Aggies got stronger upfront with the signing of Blake. He can play guard or tackle. He played two seasons at Coffeyville Community College, so he will bring majority to the offensive line. The Aggies will return all five starters from the 2015 season, so Blake will also add depth. He is good in pass protection and moves his feet well. He played 18 games at Coffeyville. As a sophomore, he helped Coffeyville have the No. 1 pass attack in the Kansas Jayhawk Community College Conference 336 passing yards per game. As a high school player, he played in the 22nd Annual Country Mart Kansas vs. Missouri All-Star Game as a defensive tackle. He also threw the shot put in high school.
Kentre’ Grier (QB, 6-2, 175, South Charleston, WVa., South Charleston HS): Grier was a four-year starter at South Charleston. As a junior he was 220-for-306 (.719) for 3,533 yards, 47 touchdowns and 11 interceptions, while rushing for another 1,061 yards and 13 touchdowns on 169 carries. For his efforts he was named the 2014 USA Today West Virginia Gatorade State Player of the Year as well as the MetroNews High School Football Player of the Year. He led South Charleston to an 11-3 mark and appearance in the Class AAA state championship game in 2014. South Charleston was 8-4 his senior season and made another playoff appearance. For his career, he threw for 9,350 yards and 111 touchdowns. His father Ken Grier was a two-year starter at West Virginia State in the early 90’s.
Ron Hunt (WR, 6-2, 175, Greensboro, N.C., Southern Guilford HS): He is a tall, speedy target who played a big role in Southern Guilford winning the Mid-Piedmont 3-A conference title. They also went 11-3 and recorded the third round of the playoffs. As a senior he caught, 34 passes for 751 yards and six touchdowns. He is Southern Guilford’s all-time leader in receiving yards with 1,662. He was second-team News-Record All-Area as a junior and first team as a senior.
Savion Johnson (RB, 5-11, 220, Wheeling Park, WVa., Wheeling Park HS): He finished second as a sophomore and fourth as a senior for the coveted Harry H. Kennedy Award given to the top football player in West Virginia. As a senior he rushed for 1,884 yards and 26 touchdowns on 276 carries to earn USA Today second-team all-state honors. He was first-team All-West Virginia. Led Wheeling Park to a 12-1-1 mark and the Class AAA state title with a 23-15 win over Capital. All this came a year after tearing his ACL as a junior. As a sophomore, he ran for 1,484 yards and 20 touchdowns, while helping Wheeling Park to an 11-2 mark while being named All-Valley, All-West Virginia and The Intelligencer’s 29th annual Sophomore of the Year.
Randy Leak (WR, 6-2, 180, Laurinburg, N.C., Scotland County HS): The Aggies added another standout from Scotland County High School. He is a speedy target who helped the Scots go 10-0 in the regular season before losing to North Davidson in the second round of the 4-A playoffs. Over the past two seasons, he recorded 55 receptions for 1,001 yards and 12 touchdowns. He had 137 yards and a touchdown on 12 receptions in a 35-31 win over Pinecrest. He is a two-time Southeastern 4-A all-conference performer.
Franklin McCain III (DB, 6-1, 170, Greensboro, N.C., Dudley HS): His name will sound familiar to N.C. A&T Aggies. He is the grandson of Franklin McCain, a member of the Greensboro Four who famously sparked the modern day civil rights movement with their lunch-counter sit-in at local Woolworth on Feb. 1, 1960. McCain III has compiled 96 tackles over the past two seasons at Dudley. He has also caused two fumbles and deflected 14 passes in 24 games. He earned News-Record All-Area honorable mention honors as a senior.
Justin Philip (DB, 6-0, 190, Brooklyn, N.Y., Grand Street Campus HS): Philip played a major role in Grand Street Campus’ 2015 PSAL championship. Grand Street went 12-0 last season. Philip made 12 tackles against Midwood. As a senior, he had 43 tackles (21 solo) and three interceptions. He can play cornerback or safety. He also had a pick-6 on the season.
Jarvis Reid (6-3, 230, Albany, Ga., Westover HS): He was a standout on the offensive and defensive at Westover. He also got many looks from colleges as a defensive end. As a tight end, he made eight receptions for 114 yards and a touchdown. He also garnered consideration from Kennesaw State, FAMU, Georgia Southern, Kent State, Middle Tennessee State, Southern Miss, Troy and Western Kentucky.
Leon “Tre” Smalls (LB, 6-1, 217, Hanahan, S.C., Hanahan HS): He is a linebacker with tremendous speed. He has been clocked at 4.52 in the 40-yard dash. On Dec. 19, Small played in the Shrine Bowl, a game where the best seniors in South Carolina play against the best seniors in North Carolina. During his senior season, he made 129 tackles, caused three fumbles, recovered two and deflected four passes. Named second-team all-state by USA Today. He was named to the Post and Courier’s All-Lowcountry first team as a linebacker. As a track and field athlete, he finished second at the Class AAA state meet in the shot put with a throw of 51-feet, 11-inches.
DeMarcus Tinsley (OL, 6-4, 295, Newnan, Ga., Newnan HS): He is another in a long line of offensive lineman Broadway has signed he brings the combination of speed, agility and power upfront. He could play tackle or guard at the NCAA FCS level. He is a good run blocker and has the type of frame where he can play effectively at 310-315 pounds. He helped the Cougars earn a 9-3 record as they advanced to the second round of the playoffs. Thanks Tinsley’s protections, the Cougars had a 1,000-yard passer and rusher. Tinsely was among 12 players to earn All-Region 3-AAAAAA honors.
Ashton Tolliver (DB, 6-0, 175, Bronx, N.Y., Cardinal Hayes): Tolliver played two varsity seasons for Cardinal Hayes. Over that span, he made 95 tackles, eight interceptions and 21 pass deflections. He also forced six fumbles and recovered four. He also returned punts and kickoffs, averaging 34 yards per kick return and 21 yards per punt return. In 2014, he was named all-conference and runner-up for the defensive player of the year award. He runs a 4.38 in the 40-yard dash
Shomari Wallace (DT, 6-3, 260, Hope Mills, N.C., South View HS): Wallace played varsity for South View for four seasons. He is a two-time All Mid-South 4A first-team all-conference performer. He had 24 tackles and a sack as a freshman. He was a second-team all-conference selection as a sophomore after compiling 67 tackles, six tackles for loss. As a junior, he made 79 tackles and 14 tackles for loss.
Derrek Williams II (5-10, 177, Winston-Salem, N.C., North Forsyth HS): He played both offense and defense for the Vikings. He comes to N.C. A&T with the reputation of being a good student in the classroom. He runs a 4.44 in the 40-yard dash and closes in all the ball well.
COURTESY NORTH CAROLINA A&T STATE UNIVERSITY SPORTS INFORMATION
DURHAM, North Carolina – North Carolina Central University head football coach Jerry Mack announced 19 new Eagles on Wednesday as part of a 2016 signing class that will bolster NCCU's run at a third consecutive Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference championship.
"This is a very solid signing class," said Mack, entering his third season at NCCU. "We managed to build depth and add transfers and some freshmen that we feel can help us immediately to make that push for a third championship."
NCCU's signing class consists of 11 incoming freshmen and eight transfers. The Eagles added four defensive backs, more than any other position, to fill a void in the backfield. The newcomers also include three wide receivers, two offensive linemen, two defensive linemen and two tight ends, along with a linebacker, running back, quarterback, long snapper, kicker and an athlete.
"We lost some quality defensive backs in C.J. Moore, Ryan Smith and Theo Livingston, so we had to replace them with some solid players in the secondary," said Mack.
Mack and his staff continue to make the state of North Carolina a priority in their recruiting efforts. In each of the three signing classes under Mack, at least 42 percent of the signees are Tar Heels, including eight of the 19 this year.
NCCU opens the 2016 football season on Sept. 3 at Duke University in the Bull City Gridiron Classic inside Wallace Wade Stadium in Durham.
2016 North Carolina Central University Football Signing Class
By State
North Carolina: 8
Florida: 2
Virginia: 2
Delaware: 1
Georgia: 1
Kansas: 1
Maryland: 1
Ohio: 1
Pennsylvania: 1
South Carolina: 1
Shoalin McGuire, QB, 6-3, 205, Ridgeway, Va./Magna Vista HS- Led Magna Vista High School to back-to-back Virginia 3-A state championships with a combined record of 27-3 (14-1 in 2014, 13-2 in 2015). As a junior in 2014, named All-Group 3-A West Offensive Player of the Year and 3-A All-State Second Team. As a dual-threat quarterback, accounted for 3,247 total yards and 41 total touchdowns as a senior in 2015. In 2015 state title game, passed for 192 yards and four touchdowns, while also rushing for a touchdown. Against Halifax County (Oct. 1, 2015), completed all 17 passes for 330 yards and five touchdowns… in the first half.
Donte Edwards, DT, 6-3, 250, Durham, N.C./Hillside HS - Two-time Pac-6 All-Conference First Team selection. Recorded 55 tackles with 22 tackles for a loss and 10.5 sacks as a senior in 2015. Invited to 2015 Shrine Bowl of the Carolina Invite Combine.
Bruce Davis, TE, 6-3, 205, Greensboro, N.C./Grimsley HS - As a senior at Grimsley High School in 2015, recorded 998 receiving yards, seven receiving touchdowns, four punt return touchdowns, one rushing touchdown. Also plays basketball at Grimsley.
Maleek Henderson, TE/DE, 6-3, 240, Danville, Va./George Washington HS - As a senior at George Washington High School in 2015, named First Team All-Conference, First Team All-District and Second Team All-Region. Collected 14 receptions with three touchdowns.
Xavier McKoy, WR, 6-3, 188, Charlotte, N.C./West Charlotte HS - As a senior at West Charlotte High School in 2015, named to MECKA 4A All-Conference First team. Collected six receptions for 120 yards and two touchdowns against South Point (Sept. 14, 2015). Grabbed four passes for 114 yards and a touchdown versus West Mecklenburg (Aug. 28, 2015). Finalist for South Charlotte Sports Report 2015 Charlotte Football Scholar-Athlete of the Year Award.
Tavon Lofties, ATH, 6-5, 245, Baltimore, Md./Catonsville HS/Fork Union MA - In 2015 at Fork Union Military Academy, collected four tackles for a loss, two sacks, a forced fumble, a pass break-up and two touchdowns. Named Fork Union 2015 Football MVP. As a senior at Catonsville High School, recorded five sacks in a game against Woodlawn (Oct. 16, 2014). Also ran high school track as a sprinter.
De'Mario Evans, CB, 6-0, 175, Columbia, S.C./Ridge View HS/Eastern Arizona College - In 2015 season at Eastern Arizona College, posted 32 tackles (28 solo) with two interceptions and a fumble recovery. As a senior at Ridge View High School in 2012, recorded 87 tackles, three hits for a loss, one sack, seven pass break-ups, four interceptions, three recovered fumbles, one forced fumble and four touchdowns.
Chavalyea Alexander, OL, 6-3, 275, Charlotte, N.C./West Charlotte HS - As a senior at West Charlotte High School in 2015, named to MECKA All-Conference First Team as an offensive lineman.
Erik Schlecker, LS, 6-0, 230, Sunrise, Fla./Piper HS/ASA College - Boasts 97 consecutive snaps without a blocked kick or punt (62 short snaps, 35 long snaps). As a senior at Piper High School in 2013, selected All-Broward County 8A-6A Honorable Mention. Also played baseball at Piper High School.
Blayke Lindenman, K, 6-0, 210, Shawnee, Kan./Fort Scott CC - In 2015 during second season at Fort Scott (Kan.) Community College, accounted for 47 points without missing a kick, making all eight field goal attempts and all 23 extra-point kicks. Named 2015 KJCCC All-Conference Honorable Mention. Tallied 40 points with six field goals and 22 extra-point kicks in 2014 season.
Jalen Dampier, CB, 6-0, 165, Kennesaw, Ga./North Cobb Christian HS - As a senior at North Cobb Christian School in 2015, amassed 1,231 passing yards, 357 rushing yards, 18 touchdowns, 10 pass break-ups and three interceptions to earn Team MVP award. Broke NCCS school records in passing yards, total touchdowns and interceptions. Team Captain for both football and basketball. Selected to play on the Cobb County team in the 2015 Senior Bowl.
Ruben Saunders, CB, 6-1, 185, Wilmington, Del./Hodgson HS/Dean College - As a sophomore at Dean College in 2015, tallied 31 tackles (23 solo) with four tackles for a loss, three interceptions with a touchdown, and seven pass break-ups. Selected to 2015 All-Northeast Conference First Team. As a senior at Hodgson High School in 2013, selected to DIFCA All-State First Team. Picked to play in 59th annual Blue-Gold All-Star Game.
Josh Varona, OL, 6-5, 288, Pompano Beach, Fla./Coconut Creek HS - Named to 2015 All-Broward County (Class 5A-Ind.) Second Team. Selected to play in Dade vs. Broward All-Star Game.
Jacen Murphy, WR, 5-10, 190, Wilmington, N.C./New Hanover HS/ECU/Copiah Lincoln CC - In 2015 at Copiah Lincoln Community College (Wesson, Miss.), collected 13 receptions for 147 yards. While at East Carolina in 2014, appeared in two games (NCCU and North Carolina). As a senior at New Hanover High School in 2012, played receiver, running back and defensive back. In final game of high school career, recorded six receptions for 95 yards and an 88-yard kickoff return against New Bern.
Jeff Taylor, LB/DE, 6-4, 230, Boothwyn, Pa./Chichester HS/Lackawanna JC - In May 2014, named East MVP in 38th annual Hero Bowl. At Chichester High School, selected 2013 All-Delco Honorable Mention as a defensive lineman.
LeGrande Harley, LB, 6-1, 230, Durham, N.C./Southern HS/Georgia Military College/USF - In 2014 at South Florida, recorded 23 tackles (14 solo) in 10 games at middle linebacker. Played two seasons (2012, 2013) at Georgia Military College. In 2013, collected 36 tackles, three sacks, three fumble recoveries and a forced fumble. Rated a three-star recruit by Rivals.com. Team posted 11 wins and was ranked No. 3 in the final NJCAA poll after falling in the NJCAA national championship game. While at Southern High School (Durham, N.C.), played for head coach Adrian Jones, an NCCU alum and former football student-athlete who is currently running backs coach at NCCU. Earned honorable mention all-conference honors as a senior in 2011.
Chance Kennedy, WR, 5-8, 160, Charlotte, N.C./South Mecklenburg HS - Two-time First-Team All-South Meck 8 Conference. As a senior at South Mecklenburg High School in 2015, accounted for 43 receptions for 553 yards and five touchdowns, along with 998 all-purpose yards.
Charles Hicks, Jr., DB, 6-1, 195, Akron, Ohio/Copley HS/Feather River JC - In two seasons at Feather River College (Quincy, Calif.), amassed 114 tackles, 7.5 tackles for a loss, 7 pass break-ups, two interceptions and two fumble recoveries. As a sophomore in 2015 at Feather River, collected 69 tackles (52 solo), 5.0 tackles for a loss, four pass break-ups, an interception and a fumble recovery. Named to 2015 All-Conference Team (CCCAA National-Norcal Division).
Isaiah Totten, RB, 5-9, 175, Apex, N.C./Apex HS - Three-time All-Conference selection in Southwest Wake Athletic Conference (First Team in 2015 and 2014, Second Team in 2013). As a senior at Apex High School in 2015, rushed for 264 yards and four touchdowns on 27 carries during a win over Panther Creek. As a junior at Apex in 2014, rushed for 1,813 yards and 23 touchdowns, averaging 164.8 yards per game and 6.8 yards per carry. Named 2014 First Team All-Conference. Invited to 2015 Shrine Bowl of the Carolina Invite Combine.
COURTESY NORTH CAROLINA CENTRAL UNIVERSITY SPORTS INFORMATION
PRINE BLUFF, Arkansas -- The University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff Football team announced its 2016 football signees today, a roster of 15 signees that includes five defensive lineman, two kickers, one linebacker, two offensive lineman, three wide receivers, one tight end, and one athlete.
"This year's recruiting class was online on to what we were looking for," said Head Coach Monte Coleman.
"We were able to sign a group of young men that will make a big impact on this upcoming football season as we signed linebackers, tight ends, skills position player, athletes and wide receivers," Coleman added.
University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff2016 Football Signees
Name
Pos.
Ht.
Wt.
Hometown
Previous School
Michael Addison
OL
6-5
315
Baker, La.
ASA Miami
Samuel Beavers
P
5-11
185
Pine Bluff, Ark.
Watson Chapel HS
Justin Booker-Brown
LB
6-1
235
Houston, Texas
Spring Dekaney HS
Boston Brice, IV
DL
6-1
306
Columbia, S.C.
Grays Academy Collegiate
Jeremy Brown
WR
6-3
205
Ruston, La.
Ruston HS
Jaelen Collins
TE
6-3
220
Vallejo, Calif.
Contra Costa CC
Terrell Cloud
DT
6-0
290
Palmdale, Calif.
LA Valley
Michael Green
C
6-2
295
Chino, Calif.
Caffey CC
Kolby McNeal
WR
5-11
180
Little Rock, Ark.
Parkview HS
Matthew Perry
OL
6-6
330
New York, N.Y.
LA Pierce
Lionell Scott, III
DT
6-2
300
Tickfaw, La.
Loranger HS
Jalen Steward
DE
6-4
250
Memphis, Tenn.
Overton HS
Janson Smith
DT
6-3
320
Tulsa, Okla.
NEO College
Tyrin Ralph
Ath.
5-9
170
New Orleans, La.
Enda Karr HS
Chris Robinson, II
WR
6-3
175
Batesville, Ark.
Batesville HS
Joshua Wallace
DT
6-2
280
Amite City, La.
Loranger HS
Diamante Woolridge
WR
5-8
165
New Orleans, La
Enda Karr HS
Justin Williams
K
5-11
170
Pine Bluff, Ark.
Pine Bluff HS
COURTESY UNIVERSITY OF ARKANSAS PINE BLUFF SPORTS INFORMATION
NEW ORLEANS — The energy, enthusiasm and competitiveness synonymous with New Orleans' longest-running college basketball rivalry will return Saturday (Feb. 6) when Xavier University of Louisiana and Dillard University meet in the Crosstown Classic at the XU Convocation Center. Tickets are on sale now.
The women's game will start at 3 p.m., followed by the men's game at 5 p.m.
Ticket prices:
• $10 — general admission.
• $5 — general admission advance purchase, ages 5-12 and XU student guests. Contact the XU
Alumni Office at (504) 520-7575 for a special discounted rate for advance ticket purchases.
• Free — in advance to students, faculty and staff with a valid XU identification card and children younger than 5.
Advance tickets for XU faculty and staff are available through Friday at the Office of Student Services (room 305E, third floor of the University Center) or the Convocation Center Annex (3775 Fern St., New Orleans LA 70125). Students can pick up tickets at Student Services and receive one free ticket with an ID card swipe.
Discounted advance purchase tickets for XU alumni and donors are available online at xualumni.com. Major credit cards will be accepted online.
Tickets may be purchased weekdays in room 322 (third floor) of the Convocation Center Annex (3775 Fern St., New Orleans LA 70125). Only cash and checks will be accepted there.
Tickets can be purchased at the Convocation Center box office beginning at 2 p.m. the day of the games.
The Xavier-Dillard men's series dates to January 1948, and the women's series began during the 1977-78 season. XU Athletics encourages its fans to wear white to the games.
NEW ORLEANS — Lacee Ancar of Harvey, La., and John Curtis Christian School signed a women's tennis scholarship Wednesday with Xavier University of Louisiana.
Ancar is a 3-star recruit rated No. 1 in Louisiana, No. 36 in the Gulf States region and No. 289 nationally by tennisrecruiting.net. She has won approximately 20 singles and doubles championships combined during her career in juniors. At Curtis she was a Division III state singles semifinalist in 2015 and the runner-up in 2014.
"I have known Lacee since she was 12 years old and have followed her career," XU coach Alan Green said. "Lacee will be a big boost to our team, not only because she's a very good player, but also because she's a great leader. I look for her to come in and lead as soon as she gets on campus."
Ancar will graduate from Curtis in the spring and be an XU freshman in August. She will be a biology/pre-medical major, and she hopes to become an anesthesiologist.
"Xavier was the best all-around fit for me," Ancar said. "It has a great record of placing African-Americans into medical school. Xavier has a great tennis program. I'm honored to be a part of it."
Xavier is a long-time power in women's tennis, qualifying for the NAIA National Championship each of the last four years and nine times in the past 11 seasons. The Gold Nuggets were ranked No. 1 in the NAIA coaches poll for three weeks in 2013 and two weeks in 2014, and both teams were national semifinalists. Xavier is ranked 11th this season.
ITTA BENA, Mississippi – The Mississippi Valley State football staff is excited to welcome the newest members of the Delta Devils' football program. This year Head Coach Rick Comegy and staff have focused on several key areas to increase the strength, speed and endurance of the team.
NASHVILLE, Tennessee -- Tennessee State football has announced the schedule for the 2016 season. The slate will consist of four home games, including the 18th annual John Merritt Classic, six road games and a trip to Memphis for the 27th Southern Heritage Classic.
The season kicks off with the Tigers hosting Arkansas-Pine Bluff at Nissan Stadium for the John Merritt Classic on Sept. 3. The Lions last visited TSU in 2012, a 40-13 homecoming win for the Big Blue.
The annual meeting with Jackson State in Memphis on Sept. 10 follows the season opener. TSU is currently on a four game win streak against the Tigers.
The Big Blue continues its nonconference portion of the season with a trip to Daytona Beach, Fla., to take on Bethune-Cookman on Sept. 17.
TSU will host three Ohio Valley Conference games at home, including UT Martin (Oct. 1), Eastern Kentucky (Oct. 15 – Homecoming) and Tennessee Tech (Nov. 12).
Road Conference games consist of Eastern Illinois (Oct. 8), Murray State (Oct. 29), Austin Peay (Nov. 5) and Southeast Missouri (Nov. 19).
On Oct. 22, the Tigers will step out of conference play to head across town to take on Vanderbilt. It is the first of two scheduled games against the Commodores over the next three seasons.
Locations are still being confirmed and game details are subject to change. Game times will be announced at a later date.
2016 Schedule
Sept. 3 – Arkansas-Pine Bluff (John Merritt Classic)
Sept. 10 – Jackson State (Southern Heritage Classic)
Sept. 17 – at Bethune-Cookman
Sept. 24 – Off Week
Oct. 1 – UT Martin
Oct. 8 – at Eastern Illinois
Oct. 15 – Eastern Kentucky (Homecoming)
Oct. 22 – at Vanderbilt
Oct. 29 – at Murray State
Nov. 5 – at Austin Peay
Nov. 12 – Tennessee Tech
Nov. 19 – at Southeast Missouri
COURTESY TENNESSEE STATE UNIVERSITY SPORTS INFORMATION
HAMPTON, Virginia -- Hampton University head football coach Connell Maynor, who is heading into his third season, announced the Pirates' 2016 signing class, 21 players in all, on Wednesday as part of National Signing Day.
"I thought it was a great recruiting class, our biggest so far. We're looking for a lot of great things out of these guys, we've got a lot of quality players," Maynor said. " We think they can help us out a lot if not next year, then certainly in 2017 and beyond."
Matt Ahearn(6-3, 320, OL, Jacksonville, Fla./Trinity HS): Was on Trinity Christian's undefeated and state championship team this past season, was All-American and All-State.
Noah Boone(6-3, 195, WR, Virginia Beach, Va./Landstown HS): Caught 38 passes for 583 yards and five touchdowns this past season and was a First Team All-Conference 1 (Coastal) selection.
Albert (Ryan) Carlisle III(6-1, 280, C, Opelika, Ala./Opelika HS): Helped Opelika go 11-2 this past season, advancing to the state playoffs. Switched to center as a senior.
Terry Chisley(5-9, 180, CB, Hampton, Va., Bethel HS): Played both wide receiver and defensive back for the Bruins, and he was a Second Team All-Conference 10 selection this past season.
Tarus Dameron (5-10, 220, RB, Lincolnton, N.C./Lincolnton HS): Rushed for 2,304 yards and 27 touchdowns as a senior, leading Lincoln County.
Jordan Edwards(6-1, 220, LB, Forestville, Md./Bishop McNamara HS): Played both linebacker and running back for Bishop McNamara, racking up 75 total tackles as a senior, averaging 7.5 per game.
Myles Ferrell (6-3, 300, OL, Atlanta, Ga./Woodward Academy): Helped Woodward go 13-1 and advance to the state semifinals in his senior season, scoring 30 points in all but two games.
Brendan Greene (6-1, 195, QB, Columbia, S.C./AC Flora HS): Dual-threat quarterback who was one of the best at his position in South Carolina.
Bailey Herring(6-1, 285, OL, Merritt Island, Fla./Merritt Island HS): Played mostly in the tackle position for a Merritt Island team that went 8-4 this past season, and was named First Team All-State.
Auldon Knight (5-10, 165, WR, Akron, Ohio/Copley HS): Was an All-Conference performer who also made several All-State squads, has been clocked at 4.3 in the 40-meter dash. Already enrolled in school.
Yahkee Johnson (5-8, 175, RB, Richmond, Va./Nassau CC/L.C. Bird HS): Rushed for 790 yards and seven touchdowns for Nassau CC in 2013. Already enrolled in school.
Keenan Marr (6-3, 260, DL, Atlanta, Ga./Grady HS): Has a blend of size and athleticism that caught the attention of a few FBS programs.
Keon Marsh (6-3, 190, QB, Springfield Gardens, N.Y./Monterey Peninsula CC): Already enrolled in school.
Derrick Moreland(6-4, 290, DL, Mt. Ulla, N.C./West Rowan HS): Had 53 tackles in 2015 to go along with 17.0 tackles for loss and four sacks, while also playing basketball at West Rowan.
Elijah Nelson (6-2, 205, S, Hampton, Va./Phoebus HS): Played for a Phantoms squad that went 13-2 this past season, advancing to the state semifinals.
Tylon Patterson (6-5, 190, WR, Covington, Ga./Lithonia HS): Was a two-sport athlete at Lithonia and will add size to the Pirates' receiving corps.
Mehran Roshanaei(5-10, 170, K/P, Arlington, Va./Yorktown HS): Former soccer player who made seven of his nine field goals in 2015, including a season-long of 47 yards, while also averaging almost 50 yards a punt.
Donald Smith(6-2, 190, CB, Danville, Va./George Washington HS): Two-spot star (football and basketball) in high school, helped the football team go 12-2 this past season.
Steven Smith (6-2, 235, LB, Virginia Beach, Va./San Jose City College/Salem HS): Was an All-Conference performer at San Jose City College, showcasing the ability to both rush the passer and drop into coverage.
Keldrick (K.J.) Wilson(6-5, 285, OL, Mt. Ulla, N.C./West Rowan HS): Has seen most of his playing time at tackle, and was an All-Conference performer. Also played basketball.
"We're pleased," Maynor said. "We covered all the areas we needed to cover with more than 20 seniors last year."
For more information on Hampton University football, please call the Office of Sports Information at (757) 727-5811, or visit the official Pirates website at www.hamptonpirates.com.
COURTESY HAMPTON UNIVERSITY ATHLETIC MEDIA RELATIONS
NORFOLK, Va. - Norfolk State University head football coach Latrell Scott announced the bulk of his 2016 recruiting class on Wednesday, a 15-player group which addresses Scott's goals to improve the Spartans' athleticism, size and versatility.
Three members of the recruiting class are already enrolled at NSU and are taking spring-semester classes: quarterback Tyre-Givers Wilson of Indian River High in Chesapeake, and offensive linemen Jordan Crockett and Kenneth Kirby of Fork Union Military Academy in Fork Union, Va. The other 12 players signed national letters of intent on Wednesday.
Of the 15 players, Scott inked five offensive linemen, two quarterbacks, two wide receivers, two defensive backs, one running back, one defensive lineman and two multi-position athletes. Twelve of the 15 are from the state of Virginia, and 10 are from the immediate seven-city Hampton Roads area. The Spartans also welcome players from the Richmond, Va. area and Washington, D.C., in addition to one prospect each from North Carolina and New Jersey.
"We're thrilled about the 2016 recruiting class," Scott said. "Our aim was to identify and address our areas of need to enhance our roster moving forward. We also achieved our recruiting goal of starting locally, then moving out on a regional and national basis. With the addition of these players, we feel we have laid the foundation for success down the road."
Following are the members of the 2016 signing day class, with notes and quotes on each further down the page.
2016 NSU Recruiting Class
Name Pos. Ht. Wt. Hometown / Previous School
Malik Butts RB 5-9 180 Virginia Beach, Va. / Salem HS
Jordan Crockett* OL 6-5 325 Max Meadows, Va. / Fork Union / Ft. Chiswell
Josh Culberson DL 6-5 285 Chesapeake, Va. / Fork Union / Western Branch
Marcque Ellington WR 6-5 190 West Long Branch, N.J. / St. John Vianney HS
Tyre Givers-Wilson* QB 6-3 210 Chesapeake, Va. / Indian River HS
Tripp Harrington QB 6-2 175 Wendell, N.C. / East Wake HS
Dominic Jordan OL 6-2 280 Chesapeake, Va. / Oscar Smith HS
Kenneth Kirby* OL 6-5 275 Newport News, Va. / Fork Union / Menchville
Taro Lipscomb OL 6-3 290 Washington, D.C. / Friendship Collegiate HS
Bobby Price DB 6-3 180 Virginia Beach, Va. / Bishop Sullivan HS
Justin Smith WR 6-1 170 Richmond, Va. / Benedictine Preparatory
Kevin Staton OL 6-6 320 Chesapeake, Va. / Indian River HS
J.T. Wahee DB 5-11 170 Norfolk, Va. / Lake Taylor HS
Devon Watford Ath. 5-10 180 Norfolk, Va. / Norview HS
Anthony Williams Ath. 6-3 210 Norfolk, Va. / Maury HS
* Already enrolled at NSU in spring-semester classes
Malik Butts
RB
5-9, 180
Virginia Beach, Va./Salem HS
High School: A first-team all-conference and All-5A South Region performer ... Also named to the VHSL 5A all-state second team and the All-Tidewater second team by The Virginian-Pilot ... Rushed for 1,066 yards and 19 touchdowns as a senior ... Shared Conference 9 Co-Offensive Player of the Year honors with fellow NSU signee Devon Watford ... Also a first-team all-conference selection as a junior, when he rushed for over 1,300 yards ... Rated the No. 16 recruit in the Hampton Roads area class of 2016 by The Virginian-Pilot.
Scott Says: "Malik is a talented player who had a great career at Salem. His skill as a running back and kick returner should pay dividends in the near future."
Jordan Crockett
OL
6-5, 325
Max Meadows, Va./Fork Union Military Academy/Ft. Chiswell HS
High School/Prep: Started five games at right tackle for FUMA's prep team in 2015 ... Was a two-time first-team all-state Group A selection at Fort Chiswell, where he lettered three years and played on both sides of the line.
Scott Says: "Jordan is a big, athletic and physical offensive lineman who will have the opportunity to make an immediate impact on an improved offensive line. He is another quality in-state student-athlete who has a bright future as a Spartan."
High School/Prep: Played a year of prep school football, where he teamed with fellow NSU signees Jordan Crockett and Kenneth Kirby at Fork Union ... At Western Branch, Culberson was named to the All-757 junior team on defense ... Was a two-time all-state track performer in the shot put and discus.
Scott Says: "Josh is another promising local product. He played both offensive and defensive line in high school, so we know he is versatile. He also continues our recent success in landing talented players from Fork Union."
Marcque Ellington
WR
6-5, 190
West Long Branch, N.J./St. John-Vianney HS
High School: A three-year starter at St. John Vianney ... As a senior, led his team to an 11-1 record and a berth in the state championship game ... Caught 16 passes for 400 yards and scored 11 touchdowns ... Also had 40 tackles and three interceptions on defense ... Notched 85 tackles and two interceptions as a junior, when he was an All-Shore division nominee ... Also a basketball standout.
Scott Says: "Marcque is a tall wide receiver with big-play ability. His size and athleticism create matchup problems for defenders. He was also an excellent high school basketball player, which should help translate to his becoming a big-play receiver for us."
Tyre Givers-Wilson
QB
6-3, 210
Chesapeake, Va./Indian River HS
High School: A three-star recruit by 247 Sports ... Rated two stars by Scout.com ... Passed for 1,805 yards and 24 touchdowns as a senior, leading the Braves to the Group 5A state semifinals ... A first-team All-Conference 9 selection.
Scott Says: "We identified Tyre as a priority recruit back in the spring and we have followed him every step of the way. Keeping a highly sought-after player like Tyre home is a big accomplishment for our program."
Tripp Harrington
QB
6-2, 175
Wendell, N.C./East Wake HS
High School: Led all Triangle-area (N.C.) quarterbacks with 1,187 rushing yards and 16 touchdowns while passing for 2,507 yards and 24 more scores as a senior ... Named the Greater Neuse River Conference 4A Player of the Year ... Also was a Raleigh News & Observer All-Metro selection ... Threw for 2,639 yards and 30 TDs as a junior.
Scott Says: "Tripp is an athletic quarterback who possesses a big arm and the ability to run the football. He was heavily depended on by his coach to manage games and be a leader, and we look forward to him doing the same for us."
Dominic Jordan
OL/LS
6-2, 280
Chesapeake, Va./Oscar Smith HS
High School: Named to the All-Conference 2 (Monitor-Merrimac Conference) first team as a senior and sophomore ... Named to the Virginian-Pilot's All-Tidewater first team ... Selected to the All-6A South Region second team as a senior ... Rated a two-star recruit by Rivals.com ... No. 20 senior recruit in the Hampton Roads area by the Virginian-Pilot ... Helped Oscar Smith reach the 6A state championship game as a sophomore and senior ... Also wrestles for Oscar Smith.
Scott Says: "Dominic comes from a great local program and he had a great career for coach Rich Morgan at Oscar Smith. He has played all three offensive line positions and doubles as a long snapper, so he adds even more versatility to this class."
Kenneth Kirby
OL
6-5, 275
Newport News, Va./Fork Union Military Academy/Menchville HS
High School/Prep: Spent a post-graduate year at Fork Union in 2015, where he teamed with fellow NSU enrollee Jordan Crockett on the offensive line ... At Menchville, was a first-team All-Conference 10 offensive lineman as a senior in 2014 ... Also named to the all-conference second team at defensive line, as well ... Honorable mention all-conference performer as a junior in 2013.
Scott Says: "Kenneth is a big, athletic offensive lineman who we think will be able to compete for time immediately after spending last fall at Fork Union. He continues what is becoming a strong pipeline of talented Fork Union players to play at NSU."
Taro Lipscomb
OL
6-3, 290
Washington, D.C./Friendship Collegiate Charter
High School: Named to the All-USA Today Washington, D.C. second team ... Also played in the District of Columbia State Athletic Association (DCSAA) all-star game.
Scott Says: "We really like Taro's athleticism as an offensive lineman. He comes from a great program in Washington, D.C. and we feel like he is a great fit for our line at NSU."
Bobby Price
DB
6-3, 180
Virginia Beach, Va./Bishop Sullivan Catholic HS
High School: All-State (VISAA) first-team defensive back ... Named to the all-state second team as an offensive athlete ... Played quarterback, receiver and defensive back at various points for Bishop Sullivan, averaging 120 yards of total offense per game ... Passed for 524 yards and seven touchdowns and rushed for another 462 yards ... Had 50 tackles on defense and also returned a punt for a touchdown on special teams ... First-team all-conference (TCIS) at defensive back and second team at quarterback.
Scott Says: "Bobby gives us the ability to do multiple things from a schematic standpoint. The fact that he is a 6-6 high jumper speaks to his athleticism. He has loads of potential."
Justin Smith
WR
6-1, 170
Richmond, Va./Benedictine Preparatory
High School: A first-team All-State (VISAA) Division I selection ... Also an honorable mention All-Metro pick by the Richmond Times Dispatch ... Caught 24 passes for 650 yards and nine touchdowns as a senior ... Helped Benedictine win the VISAA state Division I title his junior and senior seasons.
Scott Says: "Justin is a late bloomer who had a great year for the state championship team at Benedictine Prep. He played with lots of talented players in Greg Lilly's program. He has the possibility to see immediate time for us."
Kevin Staton
OL
6-6, 320
Chesapeake, Va./Indian River HS
High School: Rated a top 100 guard in the nation and a three-star prospect by ESPN.com ... Rated a two-star recruit by both Rivals and 247 Sports ... Selected to the All-PenSouth Conference second team as a junior ... Helped Indian River reach the state Group 5A state semifinals as a senior.
Scott Says: "Kevin is a welcomed late addition to our group. He is a nationally-recruited offensive lineman from the powerhouse Indian River program. He also continues a tradition of Spartans in his family - both his father and brother are former NSU players."
J.T. Wahee
DB
5-11, 170
Norfolk, Va./Lake Taylor HS
High School: Finished his senior season with 32 tackles and seven interceptions as the Titans advanced to the state 4A championship game ... A first-team All-Conference 17 selection ... Named to the all-state 4A second team ... Second-team all-conference defensive back as a junior, when he helped Lake Taylor go 15-0 and win the state title ... Younger brother of George Wahee, who is a redshirt freshman receiver at NSU.
Scott Says: "J.T. got one of the first offers in this year's recruiting class and we've been following his progress for some time. He's a shut-down corner with tremendous upside. He had a great career for a top program at Lake Taylor and also is an excellent basketball player."
High School: First-team all-conference, All-5A South Region and All-Tidewater ... Also a second-team all-state 5A selection and the conference Co-Offensive Player of the Year ... Caught 36 passes for 820 yards and 13 touchdowns as a senior ... Scored 15 total touchdowns and amassed over 1,000 all-purpose yards ... Selected to play in the VHSCA state all-star game ... Also had 63 tackles, four sacks and three interceptions on defense ... Played running back as a junior, running for 742 yards while helping the Pilots win their first playoff game in nearly 30 years.
Scott Says: "Simply put, Devon is just a quality football player. He showed in high school he could excel at any number of positions so we are looking forward to see what he can provide our team."
Anthony Williams
Ath.
6-3, 210
Norfolk, Va./Maury HS
High School: Did not play football until his senior season ... Earned second-team All-Conference 9 honors at receiver ... Caught 21 passes for 262 yards and two touchdowns ... Added 38 tackles, 15 for loss, and nine sacks as an outside linebacker ... Also a basketball standout, Williams averaged 15 points and seven rebounds per game as a junior ... Is averaging 13 points and nine rebounds so far as a senior.
Scott Says: "Anthony is a big, versatile athlete who has immense potential. He's only played one year of football, so his best days are definitely ahead of him."
HOUSTON, Texas -- A look at TSU's 2016 recruiting class:
Class ranking: N/A
Analysis: New head coach Mike Haywood essentially had a few weeks to put together his first recruiting class at TSU since being hired in December. Considering the circumstances, he got everything he needed. The Tigers signed 16 players for 2016. Haywood said restocking the trenches was of high priority and he addressed that with three offensive linemen, a tight end, two defensive tackles and a defensive end.
Top prospect: Cameron Davis, QB, Arkansas Baptist/Madison HS. The Madison product is coming back home as a transfer for a chance to help Texas Southern immediately in 2016. Davis stands at 6-3 and 210 pounds. Haywood said this is one he was especially proud to sign.
Best of the rest: Jeremiah Credit, ATH, Brazosport. He's one of the shortest players in this class for TSU, but Haywood believes this speedster can be used in a number of different ways for the Tigers. Expect to see him at receiver. Credit's elusiveness will be useful, too.
Late addition: Julian Marcantel, LB, Hamilton Christian (Lake Charles, La.). It's not just Houston that Haywood wants to lock down. He wants to strengthen recruiting ties to Louisiana, too. Enter Marcantel, who committed four days ago. He is joined along with defensive tackle Micah Minter from Byrd High School in Lake Charles, La. Marcantel played quarterback in high school, too.
One who got away: Davis is into the fold, but Hightower quarterback Neiko Hollins would've been a great get for the Tigers. He instead committed and signed to Prairie View A&M. TSU was hoping to flip him down the stretch.
What coach Mike Haywood had to say: "I think it's an outstanding class. I think the assistant coaches did a tremendous job leading the pathway making sure that we were going on the right course to recruit the right student-athletes to make us a better football team."
PRAIRIE VIEW, Texas -- Four home games inside the brand new Panther Stadium, two Football Bowl Subdivision opponents and seven games inside the state of Texas highlights Prairie View A&M's history-making 2016 football schedule.
The 2016 season kicks off on Sept. 3 as history will be made with the opening of the university's brand new football stadium. SWAC rival Texas Southern will be the first opponent in the venue as the Labor Day Classic will be played on the PVAMU campus for the first time ever while TSU will also play on campus for the first time.
One week later on Sept. 10, the Panthers will make history once again as they'll make the short trek up Highway 6 to College Station to face Texas A&M at Kyle Field. The contest marks the first time ever both teams will meet on the gridiron and the first against an opponent from the SEC. Following the contest at Texas A&M, the Panthers will remain on the road for the next two weekends as they'll travel to Alabama A&M (Sept. 17) and Mississippi Valley State (Sept. 24).
The Panthers return to the state of Texas for three of their next four contests as they'll face Grambling State in the annual State Fair Classic in Dallas on Saturday, Oct. 1 inside the historic Cotton Bowl. One week later, the team returns to the friendly confines of Panther Stadium as Alabama State will be its opponent for Homecoming 2016 on Oct. 8. After a bye weekend, the Panthers will make the trip to Houston on Oct. 22 for their second FBS match-up of the season at Rice University as PVAMU has not played inside Rice Stadium since the 1995 season. After the contest at Rice, the Panthers will close out the month of October on the road at Jackson State on Oct. 29.
The month of November features consecutive home games back on campus as Alcorn State travels to Prairie View on Nov. 5 followed by a showdown versus Southern on Nov. 12. The 2016 regular season will conclude on Nov. 19 in Pine Bluff, Ark. as the Panthers will travel to Arkansas-Pine Bluff.
Season tickets for the historic 2016 season are on sale as packages start at $80 for five games. Contact (936) 261-9141 for more information regeading season tickets.
