Good start goal of SU offense

By JOSEPH SCHIEFELBEIN, Advocate sportswriter

Jackson State at Southern
WHEN: 6 p.m. today.
WHERE: A.W. Mumford Stadium (25,500).
TV: CST (Tape-delayed 3:30 p.m. Sunday).
RADIO: KQXL-FM, 106.5.
RECORDS: Southern 5-1, 3-1 SWAC; Jackson State 3-2, 30.
LAST MEETING: Jackson State 31, Southern 28, 2006.
SERIES: Jackson State leads 26-22.

Once Southern gets rolling in a football game, there might not be a better team in the Southwestern Athletic Conference.

SU coach Pete Richardson has lauded his team for playing hard for 60 minutes. The impressive part of that is, this is a team that is thin on the offensive line and inexperienced all over.

The concern, though, is not in the finishes but in how Southern starts.

The Jaguars (5-1, 3-1 SWAC), who host Jackson State (3-2, 3-0) at 6 p.m. today in A.W. Mumford Stadium, have scored three first-quarter touchdowns in six games this season.

And that includes breaking a 90-yard touchdown run on their first offensive play of the year.

“We have to be ready to go from the time the ref blows the whistle,” Richardson said.

SU has been outscored 48-18 in the first quarter. SU’s best scoring quarter is the second, with 61 points.

The Jaguars have outscored the opposition a staggering 79-23 in the second half. Of those 23 points, six have come from three safeties, and one of the two touchdowns came in the final minute. They also gave up a field goal after a fumble.

“We have to pick up our intensity as far as getting off to a good start,” Richardson said. “That’s part of my responsibility, to get them ready to go and get them focused so we can get off to a good start.

“I wish I had a magic wand that I could figure it out.”

The last two home games have had the Jaguars stuck in their worst starts.

SU fell behind Alabama A&M and Tennessee State a combined 55-12. After falling back by 21 and 22 points, the Jaguars eventually outscored both teams 57-12 — rallying for a 41-34 win over TSU but losing 31-28 to A&M.

“We’ve been talking the whole season about slow starts,” wide receiver and team co-captain Gerard Landry said. “Last week, we got off to a slow start and it came back to bite us in the end.”

Slow starts haven’t been exclusively the domain of the offense. The defense’s worst quarter has been the first one — at least in two games (A&M and TSU accounting for 41 of the 48 first-quarter points against SU this season).

For its 20 first-quarter points, Tennessee State set up a 1-yard score with a 60-yard flea-flicker, scored on a 61-yard pass play on a third-and-12 and broke a 49-yard touchdown run.

For its 21 first-quarter points, Alabama A&M quarterback Kelcy Luke didn’t throw an incompletion and the Bulldogs never needed a third down. And two wide receivers teamed on a 55-yard TD pass.

“We have to stop giving up the big plays and putting ourselves in the doghouse,” SU free safety and team co-captain Jarmaul George said.

Southern scored on its second possession against A&M — after a 50-yard kickoff return to the A&M 45-yard line and a 37-yard pass to running back Darren Coates to convert a third-and-11. But Landry said he never felt the offense found its rhythm.

“We still weren’t playing with that momentum,” Landry said. “You watch film, we were like lackadaisical. We have to get it pumping from the first play.”

“What stood out more than anything last week was we had key penalties in some areas when we had a little momentum going,” SU offensive coordinator Mark Orlando said.

Playing at home could be an issue.

“Any time you have a young football team, that’s part of the learning process, especially playing at home,” Richardson said.

Then again, of the six teams Southern has played so far, A&M and TSU had the best quarterbacks and best overall offenses.

Jackson State, with elusive quarterback Jimmy Oliver and a deep running game led by Erik Haw, is on par with A&M and TSU.

Jackson State’s defense, likewise, may be better than A&M’s.

“They’re a real physical defense,” SU quarterback Bryant Lee said. “They might be one of the best defenses we’ll face all season. Basically, they all like to come after the quarterback and shut down the run.”

After losing a week ago, Southern is in a must-win situation to keep up in the Western Division with No. 25 Grambling (4-1, 4-0).

The Jaguars have lost five straight October games and are 1-7 in the month since 2005.

“We’re going to have to get out to a good start,” Richardson said. “We can’t afford to fall behind by a couple touchdowns and expect to dig our way out every game. We have to get focused and get ready to go because we’re going to play against a fine football team.”

The idea is to mate a better start to the strong finishes.

“It’ll gradually get easier and easier for us, instead of us having to play comeback all the time,” Lee said.

The idea is to not wait until the team breaks a good sweat.

“Focus. From as soon as the kickoff, we have to get on our horses, right then and there, no holding back, nothing, just let it all out,” George said. “We can’t fall behind early in the game.”

Southern University Human Jukebox Marching Band 2007

Jags' versatile QB could pose test for JSU Tigers

By Kareem Copeland, Clarion Ledger

JACKSON STATE AT SOUTHERN
When: Today, 6 p.m.
Radio: WOAD-1300 AM

Bryant Lee may wear No. 16, but there's no doubt he is the No. 1 priority when Jackson State steps on the field at A.W. Mumford Stadium in Baton Rouge tonight at 6.

The Tigers (3-2, 3-0 SWAC) have to contain the SWAC's most prolific offensive entity to have any hope of pulling out a victory against Southern University (5-1, 3-1).

"He'll take over a game," JSU defensive coordinator Darrin Hayes said about the S U quarterback. "He's got a good strong arm. Makes good decisions. He does a lot with his feet, too. He's a very formidable quarterback. Probably one of the best we've faced this year.

"He's a guy you definitely have to be aware of and leery of, make sure we keep him in that pocket."

Lee leads the conference in total offense (252.2 ypg) while passing for 1,331 yards and rushing for 182. His 14 combined touchdowns account for over half of the conference's No. 3 scoring offense (26.3 ppg, 23 touchdowns scored).

The 6-foot-2, 195-pound sophomore will line up under center or in shotgun. He'll throw or run at will out of designed option plays.

Lee leads the Jaguars with 91 rushes.
"They're using him just right; he's operating that offense like no other," JSU coach Rick Comegy said. "Like they used that young man at Texas that year (Vince Young). They try to put him in that role, where he can throw short passes and kill you with his legs."

Hayes added, "I guess they feel if they can't get the passes off, he can take it in his own hands."

Lee's ascension to stardom has been fairly smooth for a first-year starting quarterback, throwing just three interceptions. However, Southern coach Pete Richardson would like Lee to throw the ball away more instead of taking big losses. He's been dropped for minus-164 yards in 2007.

"He's an individual that's really growing as a quarterback," Richardson said. "He's built confidence in himself and our football team. They know he can make things happen."

Fortunately for the Tigers, their defense has been the most consistent unit thus far - barring the 27-15 loss to Delta State in the season opener.

JSU boasts the No. 1 total defense (221.2 ypg), No. 3 scoring defense (17.2 ppg), No. 1 pass defense (111.8 ypg) and No. 2 rush defense (109.4 ypg) in the SWAC.

"I think we're under the radar right now," Comegy said about his team, "and I kind of like being that way."

Prairie View no pushover for Alabama State University

Photo: ASU RSSr., RB Jay Peck, Columbus, OH

By A. Stacy Long, Montgomery Advertiser

Prairie View, once college football's laughingstock, isn't providing comedy relief anymore.

The Panthers, who play Alabama State today at Cramton Bowl, have a 3-2 overall record -- including a 2-2 mark in the Southwestern Athletic Conference. Those two league losses weren't exactly blowouts.

Prairie View lost by 10 at Southern and fell by three against Grambling State.

"Prairie View is the real deal now," ASU defensive lineman Chris Preer said. "They have just as good athletes as anybody. They're competing and they're no pushover team."

The Hornets (4-2, 3-2 SWAC) learned all about Prairie View's resurgence last season when they played at Prairie View and barely pulled out a 10-7 victory. A 45-yard touchdown pass from Alex Engram to Antonio James early in the fourth quarter provided the difference.

The game was scoreless at halftime.

"I always heard people say that Prairie View was pretty sorry back in the day," ASU linebacker Michael Figgers said. "Last year they were pretty good. We were in some trouble down there last year. They're looking real good this year, too. We're going to come out fighting."

Prairie View lost an NCAA-record 80 straight games from 1989 to 1998 -- the second-longest streak is a paltry 44-gamer. That went a long way toward cementing its reputation as a SWAC patsy. But the reborn Panthers opened this season with two straight victories, including a season-opening 34-14 drubbing of Texas Southern.

"Just from playing them last year, I can see the difference from what I've heard," Preer said. "It's going to be a tough game, but if we prepare well and play our game, I think we'll come out on top."

Preer believes last year's close call had as much to do with ASU's bad attitude as with Prairie View's good play.

"A lot of guys had the mentality last year that Prairie View is sorry and that's an easy win," he said. "Not anymore."

And anyway, Alabama State has its own losing streak to deal with.

The Hornets won their first four games, rallying in the fourth quarter for each victory. But they stumbled two weeks ago and fell 21-2 to Southern University. Last week, they lost 32-20 at Jackson State.

"As a head coach, the thing I was most disappointed in was our sense of urgency as a team," ASU coach Reggie Barlow said. "I didn't think we had the sense of urgency that I was looking for. That's on me.

"I have to do a better job of selling that to our assistant coaches, our players, everybody in our program, even the secretary. I need her to step it up. We'll get it."

Jackson State scored on two of its first three possessions and improved on that in the second half. The Tigers had four scores the first five times they touched the ball.

Erik Haw rolled through the Hornets for 159 yards and three touchdowns, including a 66-yarder in the fourth quarter that sealed the win.

"The last couple of weeks, we've been starting off a little slow," Figgers said. "Before, we always come up with a big play and someone lights that match to get us going, but we haven't had that the last two weeks.

"I'm sure we'll get things back together. It hasn't been a big problem, just a play here and there and we're back in the ballgame."

Jackson State totaled 285 yards rushing on Alabama State, which allowed an average of less than 110 yards rushing its first five games.

"It hurts, especially when a team isn't supposed to do that," Preer said. "Taking nothing from Jackson State, but we're a lot better than what the score showed and the stats. We have to get back to what we do best, playing Hornet ball."

The Hornets don't feel they were that far away in either loss.

"We could easily be 6-0," Figgers said. "There's no team that has been better than us. We've just had a couple of slipups. We'll be back to normal.

"We're going to get everything back this week."

Praire View A&M University Marching Storm and the Black Foxes

Today's SWAC football games

Photo: AAMU Marching Maroon and White Band

Huntsville Times

Today's games

Prairie View (3-2, 2-2 SWAC) at Alabama State (4-2, 3-2 SWAC); Cramton Bowl, Montgomery, 1 p.m.

The Panthers need three wins in their last five games to post their first winning season in decades. Prairie View's two losses have been at Southern (12-2) and against Grambling (17-14) at Dallas. The Panthers are among the best defensive teams in the league and have been among the top rushing teams.

Alabama State has dropped its last two games since opening the season with four straight wins. QB Chris Mitchell and Alex Engram have struggled the last two weeks. Combined, they have completed just 13-of-51 passes for 176 yards, three TD and three INT. Last week, ASU's defense allowed 285 yards rushing in a loss at Jackson State.

Prediction: Alabama State 17, Prairie View 14

Alcorn State (0-5, 0-4 SWAC) at Texas Southern (0-5, 0-4 SWAC); Durley Field, Houston, Texas, 2 p.m.

The Braves or Tigers will get their first win of the season today. Alcorn State coach Johnny Thomas has been able to get his team off the deck in recent years, but it doesn't appear that will happen this season. Thomas, who has managed to hang on, might not be able to keep his job if he doesn't get the Braves turned around.

The same can be said of Texas Southern coach Steve Wilson. The Tigers are 4-34 in Wilson's four seasons.

Prediction: Texas Southern 17, Alcorn State 14

No. 3 North Dakota State (5-0) at Mississippi Valley State (1-4); Rice-Totten Stadium, Itta Bena, Miss., 2 p.m.

The Delta Devils, who have been outscored 70-3 in their last six quarters, have allowed 135 points the last three games. WR/return specialist Clarence Cotton has two fractured vetebrae and has not played in the last two games. MVSU coach Willie Totten said Cotton's season is likely over and the team will apply for a medical redshirt. QB Paul Roberts has a concussion and likely won't play, while QB Semaj Williams, who started in place of Roberts against Grambling, has bruised rubs.

North Dakota State crushed MVSU 45-0 last season in Fargo, N.D.

Prediction: North Dakota State 52, Mississippi Valley State 10

Grambling (4-1, 4-0 SWAC) at Arkansas-Pine Bluff (1-4, 1-2 SWAC); Golden Lions Stadium, Pine Bluff, Ark., 4 p.m.

The Tigers have been the most dominant team in league play. Grambling, which has allowed just two offensive TDs in SWAC play, disposed of Alcorn State, Alabama A&M, Prairie View and Mississippi Valley State by a combined score of 119-30. QB Brandon Landers has been very efficient, along with freshman RB Frank Warren and Cornelius Walker. WR Clyde Edwards and Reginald Jackson are ranked among the league's best.

The Golden Lions, who started 1-3 last season before running off seven straight wins to claim the West Division title and reach the championship game, are 1-4. Duplicating last year's run won't be easy. QB Chris Wallace, the preseason Offensie Player of the Year, was benched weeks ago and running backs Martell Mallet and Mickey Dean have been ineffective behind a revamped offensive line.

Prediction: Grambling 31, Arkansas-Pine Bluff 10

Jackson State (3-2, 3-0 SWAC) at Southern (5-1, 3-1 SWAC); A.W. Mumford Stadium, Baton Rouge, La., 6 p.m.

Tigers coach Rick Comegy upset many folks earlier this week with comments about how hostile the environment was at Southern even though he has never coached a game there. JSU has won three straight games since dropping its first two but has arguably the most difficult schedule in the East Division. After today's game, the Tigers host Grambling and Arkansas-Pine Bluff, visit Alabama A&M and Prairie View and host Alcorn State.

Southern suffered its first setback last week with a home loss to Alabama A&M. The Jaguars, trying to keep up with Grambling, are in a must-win situation. Southern's defense, which had been dominant until last week, needs to return to form against Jackson State, which has hit its stride over the last three weeks.

Prediction: Southern 24, Jackson State 20

Last week: 3-1

Season total: 24-8

Reggie Benson

Photo: Alcorn State University Sounds of Dyn-O-mite Marching Band.

Football: Howard University at Morgan State

Records: Bison 2-3, 0-2 MEAC; Bears 3-3, 1-2
When: Hughes Stadium, Baltimore
Where:1 p.m.
Radio: 88.9 FM

HANG ON TIGHT: Howard leads the MEAC in time of possession and pass-efficiency defense. Part of that ability to hang onto the ball can be attributed to third-down efficiency, in which the Bison rank second in the league. Individually, quarterback Brian Johnson is second in the conference in total offense with 258.6 yards per game and third in passing with 194.4 yards per game.

BEARING DOWN: Morgan State leads division I-AA in takeaways with 18 and ranks second in tackles for losses and sacks (3.67 per game). Bryan Wilson is tied for first nationally in forced fumbles, and Jerrell Guyton leads the country in tackles for losses (2.42 per game).

SLOW STARTS: The Bison have a chance to jump out to an early lead. The Bears have outscored their opponents in every quarter but the first, in which they have been outscored by a combined 35-7 this season.

OUTLOOK: The overall play of the Morgan State defense and the improved consistency of the two-quarterback offense have been the primary reasons the team has put together back-to-back wins. Can the Bears extend that streak to three straight victories at homecoming? QBs Byron Selby and Mario Melton didn't have eye-popping stats (13-for-23 for 130 yards) last week, but they didn't throw any interceptions.

The Bears are getting too many penalties (111 yards), a fact that will eventually hurt them in key situations. However, nothing seems to halt senior All-Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference RB Chad Simpson, who runs for high yardage game after game. Simpson had 181 yards, including a 46-yard TD last week. LB Jarrell Guyton keeps on making key stops on defense, with 10 tackles last week.

Howard Bison always plays some of its best football against Morgan State, and is hoping some of the momentum from last week's 41-14 romp over Cheyney University will carry over to this game. The Bison are 0-2 in league play but have two potent offensive weapons in QB Brian Johnson and RB Terry Perry.

SCSU versus FAMU

Times and Democrat

FLORIDA A&M (2-3, 1-1) at SOUTH CAROLINA STATE (2-3, 1-1) 2 p.m.

AT STAKE: It's a "must-win" game for both teams as another defeat would drop the loser out of contention for the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference championship. SCSU head football coach Oliver "Buddy" Pough is looking to remain perfect against the Rattlers (4-0) during his tenure and remain undefeated (12-0) in nationally-televised games.

LAST OUTING: SCSU def. by Norfolk State 20-13 (double overtime); FAMU def. by Winston-Salem State 27-23

LAST YEAR'S RECORDS: SCSU (7-4, 6-2 in the MEAC); FAMU (7-4, 5-3 in the MEAC)

THE LAST TIME THEY MET: (Oct. 7, 2006) won by SCSU 28-21. "Thunder and Lighting" carried the day for the Bulldogs as DeShawn Baker and Will Ford combined for 285 of the team's 315 rushing yards and three touchdowns. Travance Jackson accounted for SCSU's opening score by recovering a punt blocked by Phillip Adams and returning it 4 yards for a touchdown. The Bulldogs led by as many as 21 points before FAMU closed the gap with two, fourth-quarter touchdowns. SCSU would hold on to extend its longest winning streak in the series.

SERIES RECORD: FAMU leads 30-14-2

FIRST MEETING: 1930

ALL-TIME RECORDS: SCSU (372-242-28); FAMU (531-263-23)

FIRST SEASONS OF FOOTBALL: SCSU (1907); FAMU (1906)

Photo: SCSU Head Football Coach Oliver "Buddy" Pough

HEAD COACHES & RECORDS: SCSU's Oliver "Buddy" Pough (42-20 overall, 30-11 MEAC) 6th season; FAMU's Rubin Carter (15-12 overall, 11-8 in the MEAC) 3rd season

DID YOU KNOW: SCSU head football coach Oliver "Buddy" Pough led Fairfield-Central to a Class 3-A title in 1996...FAMU head football coach Rubin Carter played 12 seasons with the NFL's Denver Broncos, where he was an "Orange Crush" teammate of former Bulldog Barney Chavous...SCSU has three former players (Deacon Jones, Marion Motley and Harry Carson) inducted in the Pro Football Hall of Fame, more than all the Palmetto State's Football Bowl Subdivision, Football Championship Division and Division II programs combined. FAMU does have four entries in the College Football Pro Football Hall of Fame, with former head coach Billy Joe receiving induction this year, joining fellow former Rattlers' coach Jake Gaither, and former players guard Tyrone McGriff and halfback Willie "Galloping Gal" Galimore....FAMU is the only historically black college to win the Division I-AA (now the Football Championship Subdivision) national championship, taking it in 1978..Both SCSU and FAMU had four players make the preseason All-MEAC first-team. The Rattlers' First-team selection at quarterback Albert Chester, however, quit the team last week...FAMU is playing its third straight game away from Tallahassee, while SCSU is playing just its second home game...SCSU has won seven straight games at Oliver C. Dawson Stadium dating back to the 2005 season...Pough is 4-0 against Florida A&M...Under Pough, the Bulldogs are 38-5 when leading or tied at halftime and 4-15 when trailing.

Lights, Camera, Action - SCSU enjoys playing on TV

By THOMAS GRANT JR., T&D Senior Sports Writer

"I guess it's somewhat of a good thing that we play on TV a bunch because our guys do seem to play well, and I guess it's somewhat of a...feather in our cap a little bit that the conference and the TV stations think enough about us to bring us on TV. I just hope we can go on and continue to play well because when you play well, folks know it."

- SCSU head football coach Oliver "Buddy" Pough in 2005 about his team's perfect record in nationally-televised games on cable.

Recent history shows just one other group the South Carolina State football teams looks forward to playing in front of more than the home fans at Oliver C. Dawson Stadium.

That group -- the national cable television audience that will watch the Bulldogs' contest against Florida A&M today. During the Oliver "Buddy" Pough era, SCSU is 12-0 when playing before the roving cameras providing a live feed of the action for viewers of ESPNU, ESPN2, BET and the now-defunct Black Family Channel.

Coming off a disappointing double-overtime loss to Norfolk State and mired in a season-long offensive slump, the Bulldogs are hoping the bright lights and playing in a venue where they've won seven straight will help spark a reversal of fortune.

"Hopefully, anything that we can use at this point that gives us the possibility that we'll play good, I'm happy about," Pough said on Monday. "So I'm glad we're on TV. I look forward to us playing well in front of not only our homecrowd, but a nationally-televised audience."

Over the years, viewers both nationally and regionally have witnessed a slew of Bulldogs put forth career-defining performances in winning efforts. Some of those big performances included:

-- In his first game at Williams-Brice Stadium, former University of South Carolina running back Derek Watson scored a season-high two touchdowns for SCSU in a 52-7 win over Benedict College in the 2002 Palmetto Capital City Classic.

-- Running back Coty Martin rushed for 113 yards and two touchdowns to earn MVP honors at the 2003 Palmetto Capitol City Classic won by SCSU 41-7.

-- Wide receiver Tavarus Morgan broke both the school single-season reception record in a 27-15 win over Florida A&M in 2003 and the career receptions mark against Tennessee State last season.

-- Defensive back Dewitt Ellerbe scored two touchdowns on a 75-yard interception return and a 90-yard blocked field goal return in SCSU's 49-9 trouncing of North Carolina A&T in 2003.

-- The SCSU defense held Tennessee State running back Charles Anthony, at the time the NCAA Division I-AA's leading rusher, to a season-low 51 yards in a 30-13 win at the 2004 Circle City Classic.

-- Defensive back Ryan Hemby, formerly of Orangeburg-Wilkinson and Clemson, intercepted two passes which helped rally SCSU to a 28-14 victory over Bethune-Cookman in 2004.

-- Running back DeShawn Baker becomes the first Bulldog since Chad Eaddy in 2000 to surpass 1,000 yards in a season after rushing for 121 yards and two TDs in a 34-28 win over North Carolina A&T. The victory also clinched a share of the lone Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference regular-season title won so far under Pough.

Most recently, quarterback Cleveland McCoy has shined on the small screen. In 2005, he earned MVP honors at the inaugural MEAC/SWAC Challenge with 243 yards and a touchdown and had a career-best 277 passing yards and two touchdowns in a 65-15 rout of Morgan State.

Photo: Cleveland McCoy, Sr. QB, 6-2/213

Last season, McCoy overcame an arm gash and a poor effort the previous week against Florida A&M by rushing for 114 yards and a touchdown and completing 8 of 14 passes for 81 yards in a 13-6 win over nationally-ranked and defending MEAC champion Hampton.

SCSU's offense, ranked last in scoring and passing efficiency, could use a similar performance against the Rattlers. At the same time, Pough insists the players are oblivious to the television cameras save for the constant interruptions.

"To be perfectly honest with you, television games for us, we've had enough of them where it's pretty much just a regular game for us," he said. "We don't really actually recognize the fact that we're on TV while we're playing except for the fact that you get some extra timeouts. You've got a guy out there with a red hat on that won't let you play most of the time."

With the "meat" of the schedule coming up with Hampton, Delaware State, Howard and Morgan, today's game is all about picking up momentun for the Bulldogs.

"The only thing we promise is that we're going to play the very best that we can," Pough said. "Winning and losing happens because you do things good. The best thing I can tell them is that this team is still an exciting, fun football team to watch. I think you should come out and enjoy and support in that way. We've only been at time one time and that time, we did win at home. Hopefully, with a few more home games, we'll get a foundation of winning good enough that we can spring forward to the rest of the season."

Breakout: LISTING OF SCSU's NATIONALLY-TELEVISED CABLE WINS UNDER POUGH

2002

SCSU 52, BENEDICT 7 (MBC/BLACK FAMILY CHANNEL)

SCSU 26, NORTH CAROLINA A&T 9 (BET)

2003

SCSU 41, BENEDICT 7 (MBC/BLACK FAMILY CHANNEL)

SCSU 27, FLORIDA A&M 15 (MBC/BLACK FAMILY CHANNEL)

SCSU 49, NORTH CAROLINA A&T 9 (MBC/BLACK FAMILY CHANNEL)

2004

SCSU 30, TENNESSEE STATE 13 (BET)

2005

SCSU 27, ALABAMA STATE 14 (ESPN2)

SCSU 35, NORFOLK STATE 21 (ESPNU)

SCSU 23, HOWARD 9 (ESPNU)

SCSU 65, MORGAN STATE 15 (ESPNU)

2006

SCSU 13, HAMPTON 6 (ESPNU)

SCSU 28, HOWARD 10 (ESPNU)

Preview: Hampton University vs. Norfolk State University

Marty O'Brien, Daily Press

No. 18 Hampton (4-1, 3-1 MEAC) at Norfolk State (4-1, 3-0)
WHEN: 2 p.m. today. WHERE: Dick Price Stadium in Norfolk. RADIO: WHOV/88.1FM, WNSB/91.1FM.

Why is this game important?

The Battle of the Bay appears to be a true rivalry again. Hampton has dominated the series of late, winning the past four games by an average of 52-9. But the Spartans enter this contest tied for first in the MEAC and with a win over preseason conference favorite South Carolina State. This game usually generates high interest because of the proximity of the schools and the fierce halftime battle between the two fine marching bands. The hype surrounding this game makes it a possibility all 30,000 seats at Dick Price Stadium will be occupied today.

What are Norfolk State's strengths on offense?

Photo: NSU Senior QB Casey Hansen, 6-5/235

The Spartans have controlled the clock for about 32 minutes per game behind a solid short passing game. They don't stretch the field often with the pass, but QB Casey Hansen (204 passing yards per game) is a much better decision-maker than he was a year ago, and he does a nice job of putting the ball where his talented receiver corps can get to it. Sturdy tailback Daryl Jones has powered for 92.4 rushing yards per game, but is not a real breakaway threat. The offensive line is good, and the ball-control attack is a good way to deal with Hampton.

How will the Norfolk State defense deal with Hampton's offense?

A lot depends on how the Spartans' front deals with the Pirates' running attack. The Pirates are averaging just 134.4 yards on the ground. But starting tailback Kevin Beverly returned last week after missing three games and scored three touchdowns in the 48-27 win at Princeton. The Spartans boast physical and talented linebackers and defensive backs, but holding the Pirates below their average of 253 passing yards will be difficult. If the Pirates run wild on the ground, it will be another long day for NSU.

What must Hampton do to win?

Photo: HU Soph. QB T.J. Mitchell, 6-3/

A big key will be whether the defensive line can keep Hansen in the pocket. Hansen does a nice job passing when he gets the time to roll out and find his secondary receivers. If pressured often, he'll occasionally come unglued. You can bet the Spartans' defense will key on MEAC leading receiver Jeremy Gilchrist (31 receptions, 575 yards), so Pirates QB T.J. Mitchell must spread the ball to the other receivers. The best thing the Pirates can do is score some points early, because it's unlikely NSU has the ammo to win a shootout. The guess here is that HU wins 31-21.

Delaware State Lavan won't get complacent with good start

Photo: Head Coach Al Lavan, Delaware State University.

By KRISTIAN POPE, The News Journal

Coach says No. 17-ranked Hornets have areas needing improvement

DOVER -- Tyron Hurst avoided the heat. He simply stayed inside. Meanwhile, his coach at Delaware State, Al Lavan, ventured outside to answer questions about his football team while at a local restaurant this week.

Lavan pulled off his suit jacket and sat down.

"Are you sure you want to sit in the sun?" Lavan said with a grin. "I'm getting too old for that. At this age, I need shade."

Whether he likes it or not, Lavan is stuck in the sun these days. Today, the 61-year-old reaches the midpoint of his team's season against North Carolina A&T with his program in its best shape since the late 1980s.

The Hornets are tied for the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference lead with Norfolk State at 3-0 and are 4-1 overall and ranked No. 17 in the NCAA Division I-AA poll, their highest ranking since 1993. They are trying to go 4-0 to start the MEAC schedule for the first time since 1989, when they reached 5-0.

What's behind the early success? Several things, according to Lavan.

Pass protection. Line coach Jeff Braxton arguably has the best group in recent DSU history. Adrian Brown, Jeremy Breath and Nick Richmond anchor a front line that has allowed just three sacks of quarterback Vashon Winton this season.

Photo: #2 Vashon Winton, QB 6-2 195 Jr., Chicago, IL (Simeon HS) and #77 Adrian Brown, OL, 6-6/327Jr. ,
Baltimore, MD (Hudson Valley CC) (Randallsstown HS)

Pressuring the opposing QB. The Hornets defensive line has been equally successful, recording 12 sacks in a new scheme under new coordinator Ray Petty. The defense has placed less emphasis on blitzing than in previous seasons, but has gotten more pressure on opposing quarterbacks.

Still, Hurst, a sophomore defensive lineman, and Lavan believe that improvements must be made if Delaware State is to win its first MEAC title since 1991 and make the I-AA playoffs for the first time in school history.

"There are some little things we need to tweak," Hurst said.

Even with his team in the race for the MEAC title, Lavan pointed to several areas on which the team has begun to focus. Among them:

Sustaining long offensive drives. Lavan said he's discouraged by the lack of long drives, which he considers to be possessions lasting at least six plays.

Under Lavan, the Hornets have been known as a team that can score quickly when needed. But to have true success, Lavan said, an offense needs to have quick-strike ability and be able to grind out long drives.

"In the end, it shows you're controlling the football," Lavan said. "It's still about real estate."

One statistical indication of DSU's lack of sustained drives is its league-low 64 first downs. Morgan State is first with 118. DSU has had fair success on first-down plays and is dependable on second down with its running game. Beyond that, drives often sputter.

Third-down conversions. Through five games, DSU is 12-of-59 on converting third downs. Lavan said that if not for the punt team's 35.5 net yards per attempt, the defense would feel much more pressure from opponents. Punter Josh Brite has averaged 38.9 yards per kick.

The Hornets' time of possession, a byproduct of their failure on third downs, ranks fourth in the MEAC at 31:26 per game.

"This speaks more to execution," Lavan said. "When you do sustain drives, that shows you've executed well."

A&T foe goes from bottom to top in MEAC

By Rob Daniels, Greensboro News-Record

DELAWARE STATE AT N.C. A&T
When: 1:30 p.m. today
Where: Aggie Stadium, Greensboro
Records: Delaware State 4-1 overall, 3-0 MEAC; N.C. A&T 0-6, 0-3
Tickets: General admission tickets on Fan Appreciation Day are $5 online at http://www.ncataggies.com or call 334-7749

GREENSBORO -- Follow the money, a furtive figure once said. To discover why Delaware State has upended the MEAC and become what N.C. A&T would like to be again one day, it's instructive to study the Hornets' commitment to scholarships and facilities and other obvious elements. Just make sure you go beyond that trail.

"I think what we're seeing now is the beginning of a journey of hard work and energy so we can be a leader regionally and nationally," said Rick Costello, who took over as athletics director in August after a tenure at another place now famous for development, South Florida.

The context of today's football game at Aggie Stadium surely confounds longtime MEAC observers. Delaware State owned the longest losing streak in conference history, 19 games in 1997-99, until last month, when A&T absorbed its 20th straight defeat. The Aggies' string now is at 22, and the Hornets are tied for the league lead after an eye-catching victory at Hampton, the class of the MEAC the past few years.

Delaware State is the No. 1 team in black college football, according to two polls.

"That's good, but I did not know that," said Al Lavan, who became the Hornets' coach in 2004.

Every successful reconstruction project starts at the top. When he took over the 3,700-student university as president in 2003, Dr. Allen L. Sessoms sought to use athletics as a prominent vehicle in a long-term growth initiative. That's not uncommon in American higher education, but it seemed odd at Delaware State, a school with inherent roadblocks to success in sports.

Simply put, there aren't many football players in Delaware, which ranks 45th in population. The database at http://www.scout.com Thursday listed only 13 prospects for college football's highest division in the state.

Photo: DSU Head Coach Al Lavan

To field a competitive roster, the Hornets must rely disproportionately on athletes from elsewhere, and that means out-of-state tuition and fees ($13,100 as opposed to $6,146). Only nine of Lavan's 86 players are from Delaware; the rest come from as far away as Berlin, Germany, and Gresham, Ore.

To make it happen, the university's governors did something extraordinary: They increased football scholarships from 41 in 2003 to the division maximum of 63 a year later. That was appealing to Lavan, an 18-year NFL assistant with a Super Bowl ring (1990 San Francisco 49ers) and references such as Tom Landry and George Seifert on his resume.

"When we came in, the talent level was very, very low, and you've got to recruit some better players," Lavan said. "There was and is a tremendous economic commitment to the program."

That included a recruiting budget that allows the coaching staff the latitude to travel in search of talent.

"That was at best very modest when I got here, and not even good enough for the scholarships they had had," Lavan said. "Right now, we've got enough money to do the recruiting we need."

The infrastructure also was been improved. Last week, a 17,000-square-foot strength and conditioning facility -- the second-largest in the MEAC behind A&T's 25,000-square-foot Bryan Fitness and Wellness Center -- was opened. An academic enrichment center also is planned.

Beyond the dollars, outsiders frequently cite Lavan and his staff for their work. Among Lavan's NFL pupils were Roger Craig, Priest Holmes, Tom Rathman, Earnest Byner, Robert Newhouse and Bam Morris.

"This is not his first time at the barbecue," Costello said. "He has really revitalized the program."

The staff includes Rayford Petty, an Elon and A&T graduate who served as Howard's coach in 2002-06; and Douglas Sams, a head coach for 15 years at smaller colleges and a former offensive coordinator in the Canadian Football League.

"You get good people on board and keep going after it," Costello said, "and you can get it done."

-------------------------------------
SBN Sports Black College Football Poll
(As of 10/08/2007)
Rank School W-L Points Prev
1 Delaware State (23) 4-1 268 1
2 Tuskegee (7) 5-0 229 2
3 Hampton 4-1 186 4
4 Alabama A&M 5-1 165 6
5 Albany State 5-1 132 7
6 Southern 5-1 102 3
7 North Carolina Central 4-2 83 8
8 Norfolk State 4-1 54 NR
9 Grambling State 4-1 42 NR
10 Virginia Union 6-0 31 10

OTHERS RECEIVING VOTES: Norfolk State 27, Bethune- Cookman 23, Prairie View A&M 19, Grambling State 16, Tennessee State 13.

DROPPED OUT:

Ranking includes number of first-place votes and record in parentheses, total points and previous ranking

FAMU is back

Prairie View A&M at Alabama State

Alabama State Sports Information

The Match-up

Teams: Alabama State (4-2, 3-2 SWAC) vs. Prairie View A & M (3-2, 2-2 SWAC)
Series: ASU leads 20-1
Kickoff: 1 p.m. at Montgomery's Cramton Bowl
Tickets: $15 in advance; $18 on day of the game

After two tough losses, the Alabama State Hornets return home for a Saturday afternoon match-up with the Prairie View A & M Panthers. The Hornets fell to Jackson State 32-20 on Saturday. ASU seem poised for another magical 4th quarter comeback when Alex Engram hit Fred Ragsdale hit for a touchdown to pull within 23-20. However, JSU tailback Eric Haw answered with a 66-yard touchdown run to seal the game.

For ASU, Jay Peck continues to lead the SWAC in rushing. He has 600 yards on 132 attempts, and averages 100 yards per game. Redshirt-sophomore linebacker Rechard Johnson is also making a name for himself. After spending the 2006 season as an understudy to All-American Chris Dupuy, Johnson is now 4th in the SWAC in tackles with 56.

In the 1990s, Prairie View lost a record 80 games in a row. To quote ASU head coach Reggie Barlow, "this isn't your father's Prairie View team." Henry Frazier II has the Panthers as 3-2 overall, and 2-2 in the SWAC--good enough for 3rd in the western division race. The two PVAMU losses were by 3 to Grambling and 10 to Southern.

PVAMU quarterback Chris Gibson accounts for just over 100 yards of offense per game, but has made several big plays for his team. Linebacker Zach East is leads the SWAC and the NCAA in tackles. After two tough losses, the Alabama State Hornets return home for a Saturday afternoon match-up with the Prairie View A & M Panthers.

ASU is 20-1 versus Prairie View all-time. The Panthers sole win came back in the teams' first match-up in 1931.

QUICKSLANTS: Grambling vs. Arkansas-Pine Bluff

By Nick Deriso, The News Star

ON THE UP AND UP
Grambling coach Rod Broadway praised his team for not playing down to the competition against one-win Mississippi Valley last week. The team will need a similar mindset this week against Arkansas-Pine Bluff, which sports a 1-4 overall mark.

"Nobody's going to give it to you," Broadway told the team after a recent practice. "It's about desire. Let's piece together a good season. Stay focused and maybe we can win a championship."
SCORELESS LESSONS

Grambling has held opponents out of the end zone in two of its four league games — first allowing Alabama A&M just two field goals and then shutting out Mississippi Valley.

Both games were played at home, where GSU has won by an aggregate 71-6 this season.

Maurice "Mo" Forte — head coach of GSU's next opponent, UAPB — has taken notice.

"They have a very strong defense," Forte said. First-year Grambling defensive coordinator Cliff Yoshida "has them playing very well down there. We're going to have to find a way to move the ball."

In all, Grambling has surrendered just three touchdowns, a score a piece on the ground, in the air and on an interception return.

WINNING IS EVERYTHING

Junior Grambling quarterback Brandon Landers hasn't been able to find his favorite target, Clyde Edwards, as much as he would like this season.

"Opposing teams are dictating their defense toward him," Landers said. "They know he can make the big catch."

The result, so far, has been Edwards' lowest statistical average per game since he and Landers were both true freshmen in 2004.

Landers sees those numbers going up. Either way, though, he and Edwards are focused on the bigger picture.

"He's the type of guy, and so am I, that as long as we're winning," Landers said, "we're fine."

ENEMY LINES: ARKANSAS-PINE BLUFF

For Arkansas-Pine Bluff, mired in a three-game losing streak, the bye week was a welcome respite.

Fresh off a SWAC Western Division title, the Golden Lions (1-4 overall; 1-2 in the Southwestern Athletic Conference) needed to take stock.

After all, this team nearly sunk itself last season, only to reel off six straight wins to advance to the league championship game. That run began against this week's opponent, when UAPB beat Grambling 33-28 at War Memorial Stadium at Little Rock in 2006.

"We know we have dug ourselves a hole," said Pine Bluff coach Maurice "Mo" Forte. "Our kids welcome the challenge. The harder the challenge, the more we like it."

There have been plenty, with tough out-of-conference games against Southern Illinois and New Mexico State coming back to back in Weeks 4-5.

While UAPB fell 58-3 to the Salukis, in the worst whipping of Forte's tenure, the Golden Lions held their own against the high-powered NMSU — which came in ranked No. 16 nationally in total offense, yet needed a 37-yard field goal with seconds left on the clock to steal a victory.

"We feel that they are getting better each week," Forte said. "When we came in there, we had an entirely new (offensive) line and it takes time to learn a system. It takes time to do the things that coaches expect you to do. They are getting better each week. Whether that's good enough, well, it really hasn't been so far."

UAPB's struggling offense, which has put up 69 fewer points than Grambling so far this season, also showed signs of life against New Mexico State.

Junior quarterback Jonathan Moore was 16-of-34 for a career-best 234 yards, while junior running back Martell Mallett got back on track with a season-high 84 yards.

Moore now has 554 yards and two touchdowns over three starts this season. Mallett upped his average to 42 yards a game, after a slow start. Tim Turner leads all Golden Lions tacklers with 55 on the year.

Unfortunately that hole Forte was talking about is a deep one.

UAPB enters Saturday's contest two games back from unbeaten Grambling, and one behind second-place Southern. Its only victory on the year is against winless Alcorn State.

History isn't on Pine Bluff's side either. Since winning three straight over Grambling in 1938-40, the Golden Lions have only strung together consecutive wins over GSU twice -- and the last time was a decade ago.

"Do the math," Forte said, "and you could say we are out of it. But we are not thinking about that. What we're thinking about is the next game."

SWAC ATTACK

TELEPHONE LINES
The Southwestern Athletic Conference's coaches teleconference turned into a free-for-all this week.

When it was over, comments made by two league coaches, Jackson State's Rick Comegy and Prairie View's Henry Frazier, were both under review.

First, Comegy questioned the security of Southern's stadium, where he will coach his first game this week — calling the conditions "hostile," and adding that many JSU fans "are not taking their families" out of fear.

Frazier then questioned the competence of the league's officials: "Either they're cheating or they're incompetent," he said.

The SWAC reprimanded Comegy on Wednesday, though it stopped short of suspension. His school president hastily issued an upbeat news release stating that JSU had sold out its allotment of tickets.

Meanwhile, interim league commissioner Duer Sharp rebuked Frazier on Monday, saying: "It's disappointing he used this forum to make those comments; it goes against the code of conduct."

Prairie View was flagged nine times for 79 penalty yards last week against Alcorn State, but won 17-7.

UAPB report

By Beck Cross, Arkansas Democrat-Gazette

Can Lions pull repeat of 2006 ?

Arkansas-Pine Bluff will have fresh legs and an optimistic attitude when it resumes Southwestern Athletic Conference play Saturday against West Division leader Grambling State in the Delta Classic 4 Literacy at War Memorial Stadium.

UAPB (1-4, 1-2 in SWAC ), is coming off a confidence-boosting performance on Sept. 29, losing to New Mexico State of the Football Bowl Subdivision 20-17 at Las Cruces, N. M.

The Golden Lions took last week off, giving them a chance to correct mistakes.

“ For a team that hasn’t had a lot of success, [the off week ] really did come at a good time, ’’ UAPB Coach Mo Forte said. “ This team is making strides and it gave us some needed time to work on things. ’’

The Golden Lions were 1-2 in conference at this point last year before rallying to beat Grambling 33-28 in what was the first of six consecutive conference victories and the school’s first West Division title.

Plenty to do The UAPB-Grambling game is the centerpiece, but is just one of a number of activities for the AT&T Delta Classic 4 Literacy, the second of an annual series of football games between historically black colleges and universities to raise awareness and funds for literacy improvements in the Delta regions of the South. At 10 a. m. Saturday, a parade will begin at Central High School and end at Daisy Bates & Chester Street and will be followed by a tailgate party at 11 a. m. at War Memorial Stadium.

Children will be admitted free all day free Saturday at the Little Rock Zoo with a paying adult. All those with a football ticket stub will be admitted free at the Arkansas State Fair. A 30-minute battle of the bands between UAPB and Grambling will be held at halftime while a drumline competition between the two schools will take place immediately after the game. Off the field, Mo’Nique will be the headliner at the “ Laughing 4 Literacy ’’ concert at Robinson Auditorium at 8: 30 p. m. while the “ Jammin 4 Literacy ’’ afterparty begins at the Statehouse Convention Center at 9: 30 p. m. Mo’Nique is a comedian who has a recurring role on the hit television series Ugly Betty, A gospel jazz brunch will be held Sunday between 10 a. m.-3 p. m. at 1620 restaurant.

Different view

UAPB Coach Mo Forte said he would be coaching his second consecutive game from the press box rather than the sidelines. “ It really has nothing to do with any health issues, ’’ Forte said.

“ It’s just a different vantage point, and I can see things better.’’ UAPB is 7-3 when Forte coaches from the press box. Grambling ranked Grambling State is back in the national rankings under first-year Coach Rod Broadway after going 3-8 last season.

The Tigers (4-1, 4-0 in SWAC ) moved to No. 25 in both the Sports Network and Football Championship Subdivision polls.

Grambling lost to Pittsburgh on Sept. 8 but has beaten its four conference opponents by an average margin of 22. 3 points. The Tigers, the first SWAC team to be ranked in the FCS poll this season, are coming off a 40-0 victory against Mississippi Valley State. Loving their Lions

The Rolling Lions, an RV club that follows UAPB both home and away, will be out in full force for this weekend’s game against Grambling State.

A caravan of about 60 motor homes will motor from the Clinton Library today at 3 p. m. to their assigned spots near the main entrance at War Memorial Stadium.

“ We don’t have the numbers that the Road Hogs do, but there’s not a group that loves their team more than the Rolling Lions, ’’ said Mary Rogers, who has been an active member of the club since 2000.

The Rolling Lions also give approximately $ 1, 500 annually to the school in scholarship funds.

Texas Southern brings back Moreland as interim coach

By Brandon C. Williams, Houston Chronicle

TSU names Moreland as interim basketball coach

Texas Southern University's search for a men's basketball coach led the Tigers to a trusted and familiar face of past glories.

Robert Moreland, who coached TSU for 26 seasons, was named the interim head coach, ending for now a lengthy search that concluded just eight days before the start of fall practice.

"This is just for this season,'' said Moreland on Friday morning. "TSU had a need, and I felt I had to answer the call.''

Moreland coached the Tigers from 1974-2001, leading the school to 399 wins, 10 Southwestern Athletic Conference championships and three appearances in the NCAA Tournament (1990, 1994, 1995). He will be named to the SWAC Hall of Fame in Birmingham, Ala. on Dec. 13.

He will be replacing Ronnie Courtney, who was fired after four seasons in July. Courtney's departure began the process of finding a permanent coach, one that will continue throughout the season.

"We felt it was important to have a coach on board as expeditiously as possible,'' said TSU interim president J. Timothy Boddie, Jr. "At the same time, we felt it was too important a decision to rush. Having coach Moreland assume the interim role allows us time to make a more thougthful search for a permanent coach.''

Boddie approached Moreland - who has served as a professor at the school for the last six years - about the role earlier this week. It was a decision that didn't take the coach long to make.

"I was satisfied with what I was doing,'' he said. "My love of coaching never left me, but the idea of doing it wasn't, which is why I never seriously considered any coaching offers.''

Moreland will begin practice on Oct. 13 with just eight scholarship players and will likely have to fill out the roster with walk-ons before the Tigers' Nov. 10 season opener at Texas A&M-Corpus Christi.

"Right now, my biggest challenge will be finding out who these players are on a personal level,'' said Moreland, who plans to spend the weekend meeting with them. "I want to let them know we are a team and talk to them about my philosophy and my expectations for this season.

"I think we can be competitive with eight players, but we do want enough players to have practice and have depth in case of injuries.''

Despite the challenges in front of him, Moreland is excited about the upcoming season.

"I haven't quite kicked into coaching mode yet,'' he said. "I'm just going to take this one step at a time.''

Edwards unknown, but may soon set Grambling records

Photo: Grambling Head Coach Rod Broadway

by Monroe News Star

GRAMBLING, La. — With six games left, Clyde Edwards is nearing several Grambling State records. Coach Rod Broadway says he's better than many receiving superstars of the past, but for some reason just isn't as well known.

"I think Clyde represents everything that is good about college football," Broadway said. "He's a model person, a 4.0 student, and an outstanding football player."

He has 163 receptions for 2,720 yards — more career receiving yards than Trumaine Johnson, who was the Southwestern Athletic Conference offensive player of the year in 1980 and '82.

His 31 touchdowns already have outstripped those of all-conference receiver Tramon Douglas, who set the school's career reception mark in 2003 with 193, and one behind the record set by Johnson and Henry Tolbert in 2005-06.

"I'm not real flashy," Edwards said, "so people tend to overlook me, I guess."

Sammy White, a former Grambling receiver who has coached Southern University's receivers for 10 seasons, said, "When you sit down and compare them, he's going to rank above all of them. He never stopped working, and now he's quietly passed them all. But his demeanor is one where he won't boast. Quiet people can get left behind the scenes sometimes."

Broadway says he's been an assistant at Florida, North Carolina, Duke and East Carolina, and Edwards could have played on any of those teams. "He's an exceptional talent," he said.

Though Edwards was part of 2005's league title team, Grambling was 6-5 his freshman season, and 3-8 last year.

Yet Edwards never wavered. His career mark for catches already ranks him at No. 13 all-time among SWAC receivers, a list that includes Jerry Rice (Mississippi Valley State, 1981-84), Sylvester Morris (Jackson State, 1996-99) and Michael Hayes (Southern, 1999-2002).

White, 1975's SWAC offensive player of the year, said his own mentor, Eddie Robinson, would have loved Edwards' devotion to craft. "Clyde could have played in any era at Grambling," White said.

But opponents have been focusing on Edwards, who is averaging just five receptions, 62 yards and one touchdown a game in 2007.

"I'm getting off to a slow start," Edwards said. "I feel like I've got a lot to improve on right now. The offense has changed, but at the same time, I think I can do some things better."

If he chugs on at his current pace, he would finish with 193 career catches for 3,092 yards and 37 scores for Grambling — better than Scotty Anderson for scores, tying Douglas for receptions and finishing second to Anderson in yardage.

Those numbers also would put Edwards at No. 5 all-time in the SWAC, behind only Rice, Texas Southern's Darrell Colbert (1983-86), Hayes and Texas Southern's Donald Narcisse (also 1983-86).

"I can celebrate and think about all of the records later," Edwards said. "What you want out of your season is to have consistency. Over my career I've been able to do that, and I take pride in the fact that my team and my coaches know every Saturday what they are going to get out of me.

"The rest — hopefully another championship — comes on its own."

Harris inherits FAMU, little time to prep for season

By Andy Glockner

You'll have to believe Eugene Harris when he says taking over at Florida A&M is the right opportunity for him.

The former Florida State standout is friendly with some former Rattlers, so he understands the nature of life in the MEAC. He is passionate enough about coaching to have spent almost two decades as an assistant before getting his own program but had enough perspective to walk away for several years to spend more time with his ailing parents before they died. He's OK with taking over a team that made the NCAA Tournament last season but now needs to rebuild -- and heal in the wake of former coach Mike Gillespie's dismissal after he was arrested for stalking a former girlfriend.

Right now, we're already two months behind everyone else.
--Eugene Harris

Now, if only Harris could officially bring his assistant coaches on board, or have time to work with his players, or at least have them cleared for supervised workouts. Such is life for a coach hired on Sept. 20.

"It's been kind of tough because I haven't hired some staff yet because you have to advertise the positions," Harris said, whose staff has yet to be hired because of the public university's job-posting requirements. "I've not been able to do a lot of breakdown drills with the guys, and some guys haven't been able to take their physicals because some things at this school run a little bit slower.

"With basketball players, you know they're going to find pickup games. What we missed on here is breakdown drills, fundamental drills, technique stuff. … Right now, we're already two months behind everyone else."

Instead, Harris has spent his time on the recruiting trail. His Rattlers only have 11 scholarship players this season, so he needs to land a good-sized class for next season. A long-time talent evaluator in the Southeast who helped build championship programs at Clemson and Auburn, Harris is in his element delivering a sales pitch. His biggest issue is that he can't clone himself.

"I don't have a problem, because I'm pretty good in the homes and I am the head coach, but you can't cover a lot of ground," Harris said. "You're only getting maybe one or two [visits] a day when a lot of coaches are doing maybe four a day, so that puts you behind in recruiting."

Photo: FAMU Men's Basketball Coach Eugene Harris

That's all for next year, though. Harris still needs to ready himself for this season and the trials and tribulations of a first season at a new program. UTEP's Tony Barbee knows what that's like. He actually had to rerecruit his entire roster when he first landed the job in August 2006 and understands the numerous issues Harris, who wants to install a similar up-tempo system at FAMU, will face.

"Probably the biggest challenge [after salvaging his roster] was instituting the philosophy of the program," Barbee said. "Not just style of play, but the philosophy in how we're going to do things from a discipline standpoint, class attendance being mandatory, everything from A to Z. You become comfortable in your routine as an assistant and you've been around it for awhile, you know things are going to work. Now you're the head coach. … Now all of a sudden you have to institute a whole philosophy on a program, and you had no grace period."

It's only been a couple of weeks, but Harris said that he hasn't had to deal with any possible defections or discipline issues … yet.

Mike Gillespie Sr. led Florida A&M to two NCAA Tournament appearances during his six-season tenure but was fired in the offseason after being charged with stalking his former girlfriend.

"We might run into it when we get to the court," he said. "Guys want to do things their way and my style is going to be my way. I'm a man-to-man guy. They played a lot of zone defense [under Gillespie]. I like to get after people. I'm also big on being on time and stuff like that."

If you can judge by the initial response from a team captain, though, it sounds like the Rattlers are ready to buy in.

Photo: Larmar Twitty, 6-4/200, Guard, Junior, Ft. Lauderdale, FL, Boyd Anderson HS

"Coach Harris coming in, I know we have to learn his system. We'll adjust, but the résumé speaks for itself," said senior forward Akini Adkins. "He's coached in the SEC and the ACC, and I think we should be ready to head in a new direction.

"The first thing he said to the team was that we're going to be in shape. It wasn't an option. We're going to run, play up-tempo and play man-to-man defense. He doesn't believe in zone defense, so it's going to be a big adjustment. Most of the guys are excited about it because they like to play man-to-man. We're going to work on it, get better at it and everything's possible."

A return trip to the NCAA Tournament -- last season's run ended unceremoniously in an opening-round game loss to Niagara -- might not be possible this season; the Rattlers return only one starter from that team. There's also the issue of getting over Gillespie's legal troubles (he pleaded no contest to the stalking charge and was sentenced to probation) and subsequent firing, a development Adkins said he first heard about when it ran on ESPN.

Despite his predecessor's awkward end, Harris is not downplaying what Gillespie accomplished at the school and said the incident hasn't hindered the new coach's efforts on the road.

"The man did a good job here, and I'm going to build on that," Harris said. "He went to the NCAA Tournament and he graduated players. Those are two of the most important things you can do in a program. Now, what happened to him is unfortunate, but I'm not going to have to fight that in recruiting. The man just made a mistake."

Harris points to a forthcoming new arena and the ongoing efforts of the university's president as evidence he made the right decision in taking this job. He said he sees a future built around the plentiful talent in the Southeast and other urban centers where A&M has alumni presence.

"Florida A&M has a name where I think we can go get a player," Harris said. "You're not always going to get the All-American … but I'm going to at least talk to them and they're going to have to turn me down."

Given all that he has experienced just to get to this point, a little rejection is nothing to fear.

A WINNER: TV, Movie Trumpet Ballou Senior High School Band's Feats

Article by Timothy Wilson, Washington Post

S.E. Washington, D.C. - When Darrell Watson returned to his alma mater and became director of Frank W. Ballou Senior High School's Majestic Marching Knights, the former band member fulfilled a lifelong dream.

Although he has developed a nationally acclaimed band with limited resources, Watson was not fully aware of what people thought of his work until he saw Michael Patrei's "Ballou," a documentary on the Southeast school's marching band.

"When I saw the movie, I didn't realize that was me," said Watson, 37. "I was just doing what I thought was right."

The film highlights Watson's dedication to his students and has placed him in the national spotlight with an appearance on "The Ellen DeGeneres Show" last Thursday. Students Lewis Franklin and Kenneth Horne appeared on the set with Watson while the 90-piece band performed via satellite from the school's gymnasium.

The 90-minute film, which began shooting in August 2006 and is in the final stages of editing, chronicles the efforts of Watson and several volunteers who try to teach their students life lessons through music and provide them with support, discipline and encouragement despite the adversity they might encounter.

Although the documentary has yet to be shown publicly, it has received praise through private screenings and generated notable publicity. "Good Morning America" aired a segment on the film last month.

Watson along with several band members, the filmmakers and District government officials have been invited to the White House for a private screening of the film today with first lady Laura Bush.

The filmmakers have submitted their project to the 2008 Sundance Film Festival, where it could debut in January. The film will be shown to the public after it debuts at a festival.

"We haven't gotten into the big festivals yet, but we're hoping to," said Casey Callister, who served as the film's executive producer with his wife, Maiko Callister, a teacher at Ballou, and childhood friend Patrei. "We feel it's been a success whether it gets into [them] or not."

DeGeneres stunned Watson during his interview on the daytime talk show by presenting two checks from online payment company PayPal totaling $100,000. The first check, for $25,000, went to the band; the school received a check for $75,000.

"PayPal's donation was our way of helping the students of Ballou Senior High School to continue to achieve their dreams," said Dana Stalder, senior vice president of marketing and business operations for PayPal.

Photo: Ellen DeGeneres interviews Ballou Senior High School students, from left, Kenneth Horne and Lewis Franklin and Majestic Marching Knights director Darrell Watson on her show. She stunned them with checks totaling $100,000.

"Mr. Watson and the Ballou High marching band are truly an inspiration," Stalder said.

Despite the influx of congratulations from colleagues, friends and family, Watson said he will rely on the guidance from his parents to remain "rooted and grounded" and hopes the spotlight will compel community leaders to increase their support for music and art programs in all public schools.

"I want [my students] to appreciate this," Watson said. "We still have to put the work in. There's nothing worse than having new uniforms or new instruments and looking a mess."

http://www.balloumovie.com/index.html

Ballou Senior High School Majestic Marching Knights Band, Washington, D.C.





Washington Times...

The White House celebrated the Ballou Senior High School marching band yesterday with a tribute from first lady Laura Bush and a private screening of a documentary about the struggles of the Southeast school's musicians as they worked for national success.

“Ballou: A Documentary” chronicles the efforts of director Darrell Watson and several volunteers who try to teach their students lessons through music and provide them with support, discipline and encouragement, despite adversity.

Mr. Watson along with several band members, filmmakers and city government officials were invited to join Mrs. Bush for the screening of the 90-minute film.

“Mr. Watson loves his job, and he does it well. He also loves the young people in his band, and it shows,” Mrs. Bush said.

Although the documentary has not been shown publicly, it has received praise through private screenings and generated notable publicity.

Photo:First lady Laura Bush yesterday greeted Ballou Senior High School marching band director Darrell Watson in the East Room of the White House. The band is featured in a documentary (above).

The filmmakers have submitted their project to the 2008 Sundance Film Festival, where it could debut in January. The film will be shown to the public after it debuts at a festival.

“We haven't gotten into the big festivals yet, but we're hoping to,” said Casey Callister, who served as the film's executive producer with his wife, Maiko Callister, a teacher at Ballou, and childhood friend Michael Patrei. “We feel it's been a success whether it gets into [them] or not.”

For years, Ballou has been beset by problems, including a 2004 shooting in which a student was fatally shot in a hallway. But the band has been a source of pride — even performing in President Bush's 2005 inaugural parade.

Mr. Watson said he hopes all the attention will compel community leaders to increase their support for music and art programs in all public schools.

“I want [my students] to appreciate this,” Mr. Watson said. “We still have to put the work in. There's nothing worse than having new uniforms or new instruments and looking a mess.”

HU Bison Face Stiff Test In Road Game at Morgan State

by Howard University Sports Information

WASHINGTON, D.C. - The Howard University football team, fresh off a two-game win streak that included a 41-14 win over Cheyney University last week, faces one of its biggest challenges during the midway point in the season.

The Bison (2-3 overall, 0-2 in the MEAC) travel to Baltimore, MD on Saturday to take on the Bears of Morgan State University at 1 pm for their homecoming. Howard, which is looking for its first conference win of the season, takes on a Morgan State team that is having one of its best seasons in recent history. The Bears are still in contention for the MEAC title and should actually be undefeated in league play. Morgan State lost in overtime to Hampton early in the season in a game which they dominated.

Like the Bison, Morgan State is currently riding a two-game win streak, its latest a 22-17 home win over North Carolina A&T. The Bears feature a running game that ranks among the best in the country. Chad Simpson, the senior tailback has rushed for 979 yards and 9 TDs and will arguably be the best back Howard will face this season.

"They are very impressive," said Howard first year coach Carey Bailey. "They lead the MEAC in rushing, rushing defense and several other categories. We have a serious challenge going against Simpson. Our defensive line will have to play its best game of the season for us to have a chance."

That responsibility falls on the shoulders of All-American candidate Rudy Hardie and his comrades along the front line. After a slow start, Hardie, a 6-1, 270-pound senior defensive end, has come on strong. He ranks among the leaders in 1-AA and in the MEAC in both tackles for losses (10) and sacks (4).

Hardie has gotten plenty help from Jarrett Burgess (18 tackles, 2.5 tackles for losses) and tackles James Robinson (17 tackles, 2 for losses) and James Carter (13 tackles, 3.5 tackles for losses). The front line, along with linebackers Robert Dowdy (42 tackles) and Endor Cooper (44 tackles, 4.5 for losses), have combined to limit opposing runners to 3.3 yard per carry. Only one runner has rushed for 100 yards against the Bison.

Offensively, the Bison will be tested by a Morgan State defense that has made a dramatic improvement under defensive coordinator, Alonza Lee. Two years ago when the Bison lost, 7-0 to Morgan State, the Bears were next to last in defense in the country. That has all changed. Morgan State leads the nation in turnovers gained (18) and ranks in the Top 10 nationally in sacks, total defense and in rushing defense.

Photo: Bison QB Brian Johnson

Under the leadership of senior quarterback Brian Johnson have shown the ability to move the ball and sustain drives. Johnson has passed for almost 1,000 yards and rushed for almost 400 yards on the ground. He has taken care of the ball, having thrown 11 TD passes and only 3 interceptions.

Johnson will needed continued support from junior running back Terry Perry, who has had back-to-back good performances with 87 and 79 yards rushing, respectively. It has allowed Johnson to hook up with his favorite receiver Jarahn Williams, who ranks among the conference leaders with 26 receptions, seven of which have gone for TDs.

Morgan State and Howard have a rivalry that dates back to 1889. The Bears hold a 36-33-1 advantage in the series. In last year's game, Morgan State literally "stole" the game from the Bison. Howard quarterback Will Blanden appeared to score the game-winning TD on a QB sneak in overtime, only to have the Bears pull the ball away and take it 99 yards the other way for the dramatic win. Incidently, it was the Bison's homecoming.

Jackson State University Sonic Boom Band suspension lifted

Photo: JSU Sonic Boom of the South Band member does fire routine during half-time performance.

By LaRaye Brown, Clarion Ledger

Alleged hazing amounts to sit ups

The JSU Sonic Boom marching band will be allowed to perform at the university's Saturday football game against Southern after university officials lifted a suspension prompted by hazing allegations.

Two days after suspending the Sonic Boom of the South, Jackson State University announced it has reversed the decision and will allow the band to perform at Saturday's game against rival Southern University.

The 280-member band was suspended Tuesday after parents and non-members raised hazing allegations.

"Some students were required to do sit ups and crunches if they did not perform their musical parts or marching routine correctly," Velvelyn Foster, vice president of academic affairs and student life, said in a news release. "We also found that some members of the band might have felt pressure because of the high expectation of excellence required of band members."

Lee Shields, a senior trombone player, said he and other members have done 25 to 50 push ups for being late to practice and other things. He said it’s not hazing.

“It’s the honor system,” Shields said. “You know you messed up. There really isn’t any other consequence for it other than you messed up the show.”

The band, which draws high school musicians from across the country, competes at football games with other university show bands. It has performed internationally and on national television, including the NAACP Image Awards.