Elmore County HS's DeJarnett headed to Alabama A&M

After being left to dangle in the air by the University of Memphis, Rashaad DeJarnett signed a national letter of intent with Alabama A&M in front of his peers at Elmore County High School on Thursday morning. As the unquestioned leader for the Panthers this past season, DeJarnett hauled in 59 passes for 927 yards and 10 touchdowns during his senior campaign. The 6-foot-1 standout also discovered the end zone on the ground with five rushing scores. The coaching staff of A&M had never seen the senior receiver play in person, but that did not stop the SWAC school from offering him an athletic scholarship.

"With my confidence and with (the players) they lost, I should be able to step in and play right away," DeJarnett said about contributing as a true freshman. "I've been traveling behind him since Little League, and now he finally gets an opportunity to excel -- not only in athletics, but in education and in life," said Mable Lawrence, DeJarnett's mother. The senior become a victim of the recruiting process when Memphis fired Tommy West on Nov. 9 after nine years of running the program and hired LSU assistant Larry Porter later that month.

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AAMU Bulldogs signee RaShaad DeJarnett, Elmore County High School, AL

Note to Fans: We are very happy to see Rashaad DeJarnett sign with a SWAC program. He doesn't realize it today, but he increased his probability of earning a Bachelors Degree by 50-75 percent in signing with AAMU. Yes, the young man is talented on the football field but as a student-athlete he will need to excel in both venues--especially education. Get in the weight room young man, hit those text books hard in preparation for college and forget all that bull---- the Memphis, Western Kentucky, UAB and USM recruiters told you to get your commitment. Recruiting is ov-er!

I certainly would love to observe his first Bulldog practice in pads in the fall, as a few junior and senior linebackers give him his first lessons in humility for his freshman-like statements: "When (Memphis) dropped out and had that coaching change, they didn't want the same guys," DeJarnett explained. "So I had to downgrade to Division I-AA -- that's another reason I know I can go in and play at that level, because of the competition" or “I knew I was a Division I player, but with the coaching change there it was frustrating,” said DeJarnett. “With my ability, I think I can see a lot of playing time as a true freshman.”

Mr. DeJarnett will soon get a memorable lesson that playing in the SWAC is not a downgrade in competition from Memphis. The difference is 63 scholarship student-athletes vs. 85 scholarship student-athletes and 20 preferred walk-on athletes at the Football Bowl Subdivision (1-A) programs. He will learn very quickly that everyone on the AAMU team was a star in high school and was recruited by some big brand FBS or FCS program at some point in their career. The MEAC and SWAC schools receive FBS and FCS transfers every year, and some never make any significant contributions on the football field, if they make the cut. Nothing is guaranteed in college football--other than competition.

We look forward to seeing Bulldog Coach Anthony Jones and staff develop this young man into a productive SWAC and FCS player. 2010 is going to be a fun season in SWAC/MEAC football.

--beepbeep



Description: Truman Franklin hook and ladder pass to Tanner Falk who pitches to Rashaad Dejarnett for a 75 yd TD vs. Alabama Christian Academy

The NFL needs to stop turning its Super Bowl half-time into a showcase for aging rock stars

Nothing against The Who, mind you. Or its surviving original members -- 65-year-old singer Roger Daltrey and 64-year-old guitarist Pete Townshend. Pretty much everyone on The Plain Dealer's editorial board loved The Who -- back in the day. But the day was a long time ago, as we were reminded again during Sunday's Super Bowl halftime. How long? The Browns were NFL defending champions when "My Generation" was released.

Alas, most vintage performers aren't well served by tight camera shots, let alone HDTV. And when Daltrey sang, "Let's get together, before we get much older," there was no arguing with the teenager on the couch who hooted, "It's too late for that."



The NFL's been obsessed with "safe" halftime acts since Janet Jackson's 2004"wardrobe malfunction." Since then, the Super Bowl's gone classic rock: Paul McCartney, Tom Petty, Prince, Bruce Springsteen, the Rolling Stones and finally The Who -- with guest drummer Zak Starkey, Ringo Starr's 44-year-old son. Enough already. Baby boomers don't need bifocaled rockers to remind them of their age. Next year, how about a nice marching band?

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MEAC/SWAC Sports Main Street is in total agreement with the comments posted (above) by The Plain Dealer Editorial Board (Cleveland, OH). Enough already! Here you have a global television audience with 106 million watching and you schedule America's Band--the "Incomparable" Florida A&M University Marching 100 for only a "pre-game" performance.

Unfortunately, only 74,059 fans at Super Bowl XLIV in Sun Life Stadium had the experience of seeing the awesome display of musicianship and precision of the FAMU Marching 100 Band. The Marching 100 has been credited for 30 innovative techniques which have become standard operating procedures for many high school and collegiate marching band programs throughout the nation.This was the FAMU Marching 100 fifth appearance in a Super Bowl, performing a medley of Michael Jackson tunes before the Saints and Colts took the field.

Too bad big business comes first--$2.5 million dollar 30 second commercials and last second football hype by sportscasters who are clueless, to the point that the 10 minute pre-game show was a total blackout. Again, America missed out on the seeing the best marching band in the land--in another electrifying and fabulous performance. Enough already with the over-the-hill rockers who can't give away free CDs.

One suggestion to the NFL....book for the next five Super Bowls the Florida A&M Marching 100, Southern University Human Jukebox, Jackson State Sonic Boom of the South, Prairie View A&M Marching Storm and the Alabama State University Marching Hornets. All of these bands are better than "nice" and will put on a memorable half-time show that will connect with the 106 million audience. FAMU Marching 100--you again made us proud!!

PHOTO GALLERY: FAMU Marching 100 at the Super Bowl
http://www.miamiherald.com/929/gallery/1468143.html

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Bombers Sign Former Delaware State Hornets Running Back Emmanuel Marc

WINNIPEG, MB - The Canadian Football League (CFL) Winnipeg Blue Bombers announce today they have agreed to terms with import running back Emmanuel Marc. Marc (5-10, 205, Delaware State '06) was in B.C.'s training camp in 2009. He played his College football at Delaware State where he notched 1,401 career rushing yards on 237 carries and added 14 touchdowns, along with 25 receptions for an additional 242 yards. He also returned 29 kickoffs for 633 yards.

In 2006, he ran for 1,230 yards, the fourth-best single-season total in team history, and 12 touchdowns to help lead the Hornets to an 8-3 record. He was an All-MEAC Second Team selection that year. Marc is a native of Spring Valley, New York.

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Bethune-Cookman comes up short vs. Morgan State Bears

Without a doubt, Coach Todd Bozeman's Morgan State Bears are the hottest program in the Mid-Majors. The 2009 MEAC Champion Bears have moved to No. 17 in the latest Mid-Major Poll.




BALTIMORE, MD -- Troy Smith made two free throws with 37 seconds left and Morgan State overcame Bethune-Cookman 48-47 on Monday night to remain perfect in the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference. The Bears trailed 42-38 with 4:34 left, before scoring five straight. Smith's 3-point play put Morgan State up 43-42 with 2:56 remaining. The Wildcats regained the lead, 47-46, on a Jarrell Thomas 3 with 1:02 left. After Smith's free throws put the Bears up, B-CU had two chances for the win. C.J. Reed missed a jumper with 6 seconds left and Albert Abrahams, who came down with the offensive rebound, missed a layup with 4 seconds left, giving the Bears their eighth-straight win. The Bears shot 34 percent (16-of-47) from the field and the nation's No. 6 scorer, Reggie Holmes (22.8 points per game), was held to six points.

Morgan remains unbeaten in MEAC

Troy Smith made two free throws with 37 seconds left and Morgan State overcame Bethune-Cookman, 48-47, to remain undefeated in the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference. The host Bears (18-7, 10-0) trailed 42-38 with 4:34 left before scoring five straight. Smith's 3-point play put Morgan State up 43-42 with 2:56 remaining. The Wildcats (15-9, 6-4) regained the lead, 47-46, on a 3-pointer by Jarrell Thomas with 1:02 left. After Smith's free throws put the Bears up, Bethune-Cookman had two chances for the win.

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North Carolina A&T women now 10-0 in MEAC

Lady Aggies Coach Patricia Cage-Bibbs has A&T rolling with a 10-0 MEAC record.











GREENSBORO, N.C. — Senior guard Tu'Wuana "Tweet" Cook scored 22 points and N.C. A&T forced 26 turnovers as the Aggies routed Maryland-Eastern Shore 76-46 on Monday night in women's basketball at the Corbett Center. It was the 10th consecutive win for the Aggies (16-7, 10-0 MEAC), who held the Hawks to 30 percent field-goal shooting. Lamona Smalley, the MEAC's player of the week, had 18 points, 13 rebounds, seven assists and two blocks. Jaleesa Sams added 11 points off the bench for A&T.

The Aggies went up 9-1 on a 3-point play by JaQuayla Berry at the 15:16 mark. Cook then hit consecutive 3-pointers to push the lead to 20-7 at 8:45. After a pair of Sams free throws, Cook knocked down her third 3 of the half to make it a 25-9 game and A&T never looked back again. April McBride led UMES (8-12, 5-5) with 22 points and 10 rebounds. Chena Parker added eight points and 13 rebounds. FINAL STATS

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Grambling State stun Alcorn State

GRAMBLING, LA — The Grambling women's basketball team took down Alcorn State 82-74 on Monday. It was GSU's second win in a row and fourth in five games. Secrett Anderson (transfer from Florida A&M) came off the bench and had a game-high 35 points for the Lady Tigers (8-12, 5-6 Southwestern Athletic Conference). The forward also had a game-high 11 rebounds. In large part to Anderson's play, GSU had 38 points in the paint. The game was tied eight times, but GSU separated itself late in the second half. GSU went on a 9-3 run with 8:56 left in the game. The Lady Tigers had a 34-30 lead at halftime and extended it to 10 — their largest of the game — with 2:02 left in the game. Alcorn State dropped to 13-7 and 7-3 in the SWAC.

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Jackson State Centers help run streak to 6

They couldn't stay on fire forever. The Jackson State Tigers had blown out their last three opponents by shooting them out of the gym early with gaudy percentages. The shots weren't falling Monday, but JSU is quick to remind you the team is built for defense and rebounding first. Oh, and there was the we're-part-of-this-team-too performance out of the trio of Jackson State centers.

JSU made it six straight victories with a 63-53 win over Southern in front of an announced 1,451 at the Athletics and Assembly Center. The first-place Tigers (12-11, 10-1) moved above .500 for the first time and hold a 2 1/2-game cushion going into the most crucial road trip of the SWAC season - Prairie View (12-9, 7-3) and Texas Southern (11-11, 7-3). "We always know we've got to be prepared to play, got to contribute," JSU center Gertavian Blake said. "We basically have to step up."

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No. 20 Morgan State bury FAMU Rattlers behind Holmes, Jackson

Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference leading scorer, Reggie Holmes, MSU Bears.

BALTIMORE, Md. – Reggie Holmes and freshman DeWayne Jackson scored 25 points apiece and Morgan State (No. 20 in Mid-Major Top 25 Poll) extended its winning streak with a lopsided victory by routing Florida A&M 94-68 on Sunday at Hill Field House. Holmes, who entered the contest ranked No. 5 among the nation’s leading scorers, poured in 17 of his game-high 25 points in the second half.

Kevin Thompson, who entered tonight’s game ranked No. 4 in the nation in rebounding, collected his 15th double-double of the season by posting 14 points and a game-high 12 rebounds to go along with two blocked shots. Sean Thomas added a career-high 11 assists. Morgan State, who improved to 17-7 overall and 9-0 Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference, shot 54.8 percent overall and 58.6 percent during the second half, using a big surge in the second half to extend their lead to as many as 33 points and claim their sixth home win of the season.

Travis Wallace had 14 points to lead Florida A&M (6-17, 2-7) who fell to the Bears for the third consecutive time. Christopher Walker chipped in 12 points and Yannick Crowder finished with 11 points for the Rattlers.

Boxscore

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DePaul head coach speculation: Morgan State's Todd Bozeman

In his thoughts today, Ken Pomeroy asks that someone give Morgan State head coach Todd Bozeman (right) a chance. And quite honestly, there is nothing on his coaching resume on the court to discourage the notion that Bozeman is an excellent basketball coach. He won at California and he's winning at Morgan State - a school that hadn't had a winning season since 1989 before he took over - and his team is now on the verge of going undefeated during the regular season in conference.

Morgan State plays in the MEAC, but that hasn't stopped them from compiling an impressive 17-7 record and a 129 ranking in Pomeroy. That record should only continue to improve as the Golden Bears beat up on other MEAC squads. This is a team that won at Arkansas and lost by 9 at Louisville. They can play.

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Prairie View Panthers to play Southern Mississippi in 2010 Football

Prairie View A&M University Panthers are scheduled to face University of Southern Mississippi on Sept. 11, 2010, is the first meeting between the 2009 SWAC champions and the C-USA Golden Eagles.

Southern Miss’ 2010 football schedule includes both 2009 Conference USA championship game participants from a year ago, the Southwestern Athletic Conference champion and a BCS automatic-qualifying conference school for the second consecutive year. Although C-USA does not release its game dates for another month for league contests, the Golden Eagles will play both East Carolina and Houston, the C-USA East and West Division champions from last season, as well as fellow league foes Marshall and UAB at Roberts Stadium.

Non-conference home dates include Prairie View A&M on Sept. 11 and Big 12 foe Kansas on Sept. 18. USM will play road games at South Carolina, Louisiana Tech, UCF, Memphis, Tulane and Tulsa. “This is another extremely challenging schedule for Coach Fedora, his staff and players,” said Southern Miss Director of Athletics Richard Giannini. “We are excited about having both teams that played in the C-USA championship game in 2009 here during the upcoming season, as well as bringing in both Prairie View A&M and Kansas for the first time. This is the second straight year we have been able to bring in a team from a BCS automatic-qualifying conference to Hattiesburg.”

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Florida A&M Rattlers Baseball: 2010 Preview

FAMU baseball went 24-29 last year, and the majority of that team is back this season and hoping to make waves in 2010.

FAMU head baseball coach Robert Lucas says, "We should be able to be a lot better this year because we have more arms. We got another year of experience, and I feel probably better about this team than any the last three years." FAMU shortstop Jarrod Jeffries adds, "Things are going great. Everyone is showing they put in the personal time to get better, we're just trying to communicate as a team."

Preseason predictions have the Orange and Green finishing tied for fourth in the MEAC. Lucas says, "Predictions don't mean anything to me because we determine what our outcome is going to be. People sitting in an office don't decide what we do on a baseball field."

Former South Carolina State standout Adams ready to shine for pros

Former South Carolina State University Bulldogs cornerback Phillip Adams is playing in Texas vs. The Nation All-Stars Game, Sunday, February 7, 2010, at Sun Bowl Stadium, El Paso, Texas, 2 PM EST.

Phillip Adams has his eyes on the future today when he plays in the Texas Vs. The Nation All-Star Football Game at Sun Bowl Stadium in El Paso, Texas. The game will be broadcast nationally for those who have a satellite dish beginning at 2 p.m. Adams, a former standout in football and basketball at Rock Hill, sees the game as an opportunity for him to be drafted by an NFL team. Scouts attended practice all week, and Adams said several have shown a strong interest in his abilities.

“I feel like I’ve showcased my talents this week and have been noticed,’’ Adams said. “At (South Carolina) State, I was known as a physical corner. I’ve had to back off some this week and show the pro scouts I can backpedal. That’s what they like to see in a player, because you have to be able to do that in the NFL.

“My agent is trying to get me an invitation to the NFL combine, which would give me more exposure. But if it doesn’t happen, I’ll get at least another chance. We have Pro Day at State on March 31. We have other seniors that deserve a shot at the NFL, so I’m hoping they get noticed.’’ Adams, 6-foot-1, 195 pounds, spent the last four years in Orangeburg playing for coach Buddy Pough’s S.C. State Bulldogs. Adams admits he’s come a long way since his freshman season and has continued to improve after being moved from safety to cornerback when he got to college.

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FAMU's Coach Taylor happy, so far, with signing class

Taylor happy, so far, with signing class

The verdict is still out as to which of the MEAC schools grabbed the most talented players on the first day of the national signing period, but FAMU's coach Joe Taylor ended the day praising his recruiters. He gave them credit for beating out Florida schools such as Division-I upstarts FIU and FAU, along with Hampton and Bethune-Cookman in his league.

"When you look at the other schools that we're recruiting the same guys, that really impressed me," Taylor said during a Wednesday afternoon press conference. "I felt like we were able to compete. Jacksonville State, FIU, FAU were recruiting some of these guys and they still decided to come here. The Bethune-Cookman's and Hampton's, we were able to win on those guys."

Roberts wants to prove himself right away at FAMU

When LeRoy Vann was making national headlines on his way to setting records for returning punts and kicks last season, Ocala Forest High School safety Devan Roberts was watching with the rest of nation. Every time he saw or heard anything about Vann, Roberts began to think how he could do the same for the Rattlers. After signing a letter of intent Wednesday to play his college football at FAMU, Roberts said he doesn't intend to take long to prove his point.

"I have a knack for the end zone," Roberts said during a telephone interview. "I know LeRoy Vann is a great return person. It's huge shoes to fill but I'm going to try." Roberts and linebacker Anthony Hamm were the two biggest names signed by FAMU on the start of the national signing period. Hamm comes with a reputation for being a ball-hound (nine career sacks), while Roberts is a speedster who had more than 700 return yards and scored 10 touchdowns during his high school career.



FAMU's Class of 2010 Football Recruits

Michael Ethridge
Ethridge a 6'3" - 245 lb tight end is regarded as an excellent run blocker with great hands. In his time at Godby, Ethridge had 25 receptions for 225 yards and 4 touchdowns. Ethridge is also a fierce and tenacious run blocker who recorded over 100 pnacakes as a tight end. A 2-star recruit on Scout.com, he was also rectuited by FAU and FIU.

Dennis Hall
Hall 5'10" - 170 lb Wide Receiver from Pahokee High School. Hall possesses incredible athleticism and speed out of football powerhouse Pahokee HS in Belle Glade, Fl. In his career at Phaokee, Hall recorded 84 receptions, 14 touchdowns and over 700 yards receiving. In their state championship game, Hall caught the game winning touchdown pass vs. nationally ranked Trinity Catholic. Hall is also 1st cousin of NFL Pro Bowler Anquan Bolden who is also from Pahokee. Also recruited by Eastern Michigan, Eastern illinois, Villanova, Appalachian State and B-CU.

Dante "Bubba" Black
Black is a 5'9" running back from (Ocala) Dunnellon HS. he was one od Dunnellon High School's all-time rushing leaders with over 5,000 rushing yards and over 50 touchdowns in his career for the Tigers. With blazing 4.3 speed and 10.8 spped in the 100-meter stretch. Black is an incredible return specialist with 18 career returns for touchdowns and kick off returns and punt returns.

Christopher White
White is a 6'4" - 225 lb defensive end from Newberry High School. he is a relentless defensive lineman with incredible athletic ability and knack for sacking the quarterback. In his senior season, White recorded 11 sacks while anchoring the defensive squad with 67 tackles and 17 for loss. He was also recruited ny North Carolina A&T, B-CU and Hampton.

Kevin House
House is a 6’3 315 Offensive Lineman from Edward White HS-1ST Team All State & All Conference Offensive Lineman out of Edward White HS in Jacksonville, FL. he was awarded Offensive Lineman of the Year and dominated at his position with 78 Pancakes in his senior campaign and 0 sacks allowed in two years at Edward White HS. Rated : 3 Star Recruit. Also Recruited by Western Carolina, Tennessee State, BCU, Western Michigan.

Lenworth Lennon
Lennon is a 5’10 180 WR Boyd Anderson HS- 3 Star recruit out of Boyd Anderson HS in Fort Lauderdale Fl. WHe was a top 5 in Broward County in Receiving Yards, receptions and touchdowns with 768 yds, 47 receptions and 8 touchdowns. He was also a starter in the Dade vs. Broward All Star Game where he recorded 2 receptions for 36 yds. He also Recruited by Buffalo, Central Michigan and West Carolina.

Shawn Brown
Brown is a 6’3 290 OL/DT from Miami Central HS- 1st Team All Miami Dade & 2nd Team All State (6A) from Nationally ranked Miami Central HS. Brown is a 3 year starter with tremendous athleticism, size and strength to go along with over 50 pancakes in his career as a Rocket. On the Defensive side of the ball Brown also recorded 6 sacks, 21 tackles for loss, and 57 total tackles at DT. Rated: 2 Star Recruit. Also recruited by FAU, FIU, Tennessee State, BCU, and Hampton.

Aaron Wynn
Wynn is a 6’5 280 OL from Lakewood HS- 2 star recruit out of Pinellas County where he was also voted 1st Team All County and Most Valuable Lineman in Pinellas county. As a Junior Wynn also made 2nd Team All Pinellas and gave up only 4 career sacks out of Lakewood HS. Also recruited by Hampton, Norfolk State, and New Mexico.

Devon Roberts
Roberts is a 6’1 180 DB from Ocala Forest HS- 1st Team All County Playmaker out of Forest HS in Ocala, Fl. In his just his senior season alone Roberts had over 72 Tackles, 7 Interceptions, 18 Pass Break Ups, and 4 sacks. Also specializing on Kick Off and Punt Return, Roberts accumulated over had 700 career return yardage and 10 touchdowns. He was also recruited by Middle Tennessee State, Troy, and FAU.

Patrick Davis
Davis is a 6’1 240 FB from Eastside HS- out of Gainesville Fl, with a nose for contact at the Fullback position. He was a dominant force at both run blocking and pass receiving and collected 23 pancakes and 6 touchdowns during his senior season. Davis also was the starting Fullback in the Florida/Georgia All Star Game this past season and also boasts a 3.0 gpa and an Honor Roll student at Eastside HS.

Rodney Johnson
Johnson is a 5’9 175 RB out of Hillsborough HS. The 4.4 speedster out of Hillsborough High School has the ability to take it the distance on any play, Johnson averaged over 10 yds per carry with 832 yds on the ground and 17 touchdowns. Johnson is also one of the strongest, bench pressing over 375 pounds and squats 485 pounds. Recruited by Bowling Green, Toledo and FIU.

Terry Johnson
Johnson is a 5’11 180 Ath/CB out of Rickards high School in Tallahassee. Johnson was a 1ST Team All Big Bend athlete with ability to excel on both sides of the ball. On offense Johnson passed for over 1200 yards and 20 touchdown passes. While on defense, Johnson dominated with 7 Interceptions, 16 Pass Break Ups and 45 tackles. He was also recruited by Middle Tennessee State, Northern Iowa and Colorado State.

Anthony Hamm
Hamm is a 6'2"-220lb, LB from Mainland High School. He was a 3-star outside linebacker that can also play defensive end. He totaled over 200 tackles in his career at Mainland, which included 18 tackles for loss and 9 sacks. He was also recruited by north Carolina A&T, B-CU, hampton and UT Chattanooga. He started every game at Mainland since a freshman.

Shelley Anthony
Anthony is a 6’3 295 OL from Sandy Creek HS/WKU- The transfer from Western Kentucky Anthony is expected to compete for the starting position at the center this upcoming Spring. He lettered all four years at Sandy Creek High School, helping the Patriots to a 35-10 record during that span . He was a three-year starter. SCHS reached the state playoffs in each of those seasons, winning the regional title in both 2003 and ’04 . Earned first-team all-area and all-county honors as a senior after grading out at 87 percent with 32 knockdowns.

Saf Ahmad
Ahmad is a 6’3 270 OL from Miami Norland HS/FIU- He is a transfer from FIU. Ahmad is expected to compete for starting Guard position this upcoming spring. He was a three-year starter and team captain as a senior. He didn’t allow a sack as a prep senior .2006 Second team All Dade County selection by the Miami Herald.

James Poe
Poe is a 6’4 240 HB/TE UCF/Freedom HS- 3 star transfer from UCF. Poe is expected to compete for a starting position this upcoming spring. He attended Georgia Military College before coming to UCF. He played for Freedom High School in Orlando. He was selected as the team MVP his final two years after being ranked as the fifth-best running back in the state with 1,500 rushing yards as a senior, and 700 yards as a junior. He was also recruited by West Virginia, Louisville, Florida, East Carolina and Iowa.

Eric Watts
Watts is a 6’2 215 LB Wolfson HS- 3 star transfer linebacker from the University of Illinois. He is expected to come in and compete for starting LB position this spring. In High School: Ranked on the Florida Times Union's Top-24 Jacksonville Prep players ... A member of the Florida Times- Union Super-24 team ...Ranked as the No. 79 strong side linebacker nationally by Scout.com ... Earned first-team All- Conference honors as a junior and senior ... Rated the No. 85 outside linebacker in the country by ESPNU ... Totaled 91 tackles, 16 behind the line of scrimmage as a senior ... Averaged over 10 tackles per game in 2008 ... Posted 110 tackles, 12 sacks and two forced fumbles as a junior ... Three-time All-First Coast (city) honoree ... Recruited by Illinois, Ole Miss and South Florida.

Joshua Newkirk
Newkirk is a 6’3 240 LB WSSU- is a transfer from WSSU. Newkirk is expected to come in and compete for a starting linebacker position this spring. A native of Richmond, Va., he is a 2006 graduate of Meadowbrook High School where he was an All-District and Academic-All District selection as a senior.

Steven Robinson
Robinson is a 6’3 300 OL Lincoln HS/UCF- He is a transfer offensive lineman who is expected to come in and compete for a starting position this summer. He earned four letters in football for head coach Kyle Rice at Lincoln High School . He was named first-team Class 4A All-State by the Florida Sports Writers Association following his senior season. He earned All-Big Bend first-team honors by the Tallahassee Democrat as a junior and senior. He is a four-year starter on the offensive line. He earned third-team All-State honors as a junior and also lettered in wrestling, track and field and played the tuba in the school band. Ranked as the No. 25 offensive guard prospect in the country by ESPN.com. Ranked as the No. 24 offensive guard prospect in the country and the No. 69 overall prospect in the state of Florida by Scout.com. Ranked No. 90 on the top 100 high school football prospects 2007 list by the Orlando Sentinel. He was also recruited by Clemson, Georgia, Minnesota, South Carolina and USF.

Jarien Moreland
Moreland is a 6’5 320 OL Glades Central HS/UCF- He is a transfer offensive lineman who is expected to come in and compete for starting position this summer. He earned four letters for head coach Willie Snead at Glades Central High School. He helped lead his team to the 2006 Class 3A state championship as a junior and Class 3A Region 4 titles as a sophomore, junior and senior. He Ranked No. 36 nationally among offensive guards by Rivals.com and the 90th best prospect in the state of Florida. He ranked No. 95 nationally among offensive tackles by Scout.com. He also received recruiting interest from Florida State, LSU, Miami (Fla.), Pitt and USF.

Willie Ferrell
Ferrell is a 6'2" - 235 lb LB from FAMU High. He is a transfer from OLE MISS. He is a 4-star linebacker. He was rated the No.33 linebacker in the nation and No.75 player in Florida as ranked by Rivals.com. he was a PrepStar and SuperPrep all-Region selection. Scout.com ranked him the No.13 linebacker in the nation. he earned first team Class 2B All-State honors from the Florida Sports Writers Association as a senior at FAMU DRS. He is a two-time Tallahassee Democrat All-Big bend selection. he totaled over 300 tackles as a junior and Senior and was a 2009 Nike All-American under FAMU-DRS coach Ira Reynolds.

Brandon Green
Green is a 2009 Tampa Catholic H.S. grad who played a season at prep school, at Hargrave Military Academy in Virginia, which is considered to be one of the country’s elite prep schools for football. FAMU signed the 6-foot-3, 245-pounder to play LB and DE. Brandon is the older brother of Tampa Catholic H.S. QB Christian Green, who signed to play at FSU on National Signing Day.

Jordan Stanley
Stanley is a 5-11/185 Running Back out of Florida A&M University H.S., Tallahassee, who is signed on an academic scholarship. Jordan is clocked at 4.42 forty and is a shifty runner with the power to go inside or outside. Jordan had over 1200 yards and 17 Touchdowns for the 2009 season.



Note: The Orlando Sentinel reports OL Davonnie Coard (Evans HS) signing w/FAMU. Tampa Tribune reports WR/DB Chaise Dunn (Pasco HS) signing w/FAMU. The South Florida Sun-Sentinel (Ft. Lauderdale) reports DL/TE Linval Williams (Boyd Anderson HS) signing w/FAMU. MEAC/SWAC Sports Main Street will verify this new info, if time permits.

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Walk-ons don't get the glory, but they're still important

Alabama A&M University Bulldog coach Anthony Jones: "Walk-ons are a huge part of our program with the scout teams," he wrote. "They also add depth to our team and help on special teams until they develop into quality players, once they learn the game at the college level."

Wednesday was National Signing Day, when recruited athletes commit to football programs and receive scholarships. Throughout my coaching career, I felt winning recruiting battles was as important as winning games, and I'm sure coaches today feel the same. However, there is another aspect of building a successful team that most college fans overlook: the importance of acquiring walk-ons. The NCAA clearly defines the role of a walk-on. Walk-ons cannot receive institutional financial aid.

Alabama's legendary coach, Bear Bryant, was responsible for that rule being instituted in the 1960s. To override the NCAA's scholarship limit at that time, Bear provided football players with baseball, track, tennis and even golf scholarships to create a deep roster that is essential in building a competitive team. Walk-ons may not be important to fans, but to coaches they are often vital to a program -- especially since the NCAA capped Division I football scholarships at 85 (Division I-AA limit is 63 scholarships).

Eighty-five scholarship players sounds like a lot, but those numbers are often reduced by 5 to 10 percent due to injuries, eligibility problems, disciplinary suspensions and players quitting or transferring. Also, factor in one or two place-kickers, one or two punters and a long snapper who rarely are involved in rough, tough drills and scrimmages. That reduction in numbers can have a negative impact on a critical part of building a successful team: practice.

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University of Arkansas Pine Bluff signs 17 student-athletes

The University of Arkansas-Pine Bluff football program has announced the addition of 17 student-athletes (PDF) who have signed National Letters of Intent to play for UAPB. The list of signees consists of 11 high school prepsters and six junior college transfers. "We're pleased with the young men we were able to bring into our football program," said Arkansas-Pine Bluff Head Football Coach Monte Coleman."

"We feel like we did a great job of addressing our needs both offensively and defensively. Boosting our core of linebackers and defensive backs was one of our top priorities on defense. Offensively we wanted to add depth at wide receiver and our other skill positions." Coleman believes this year's recruiting class will bolster the Golden Lions attack on both sides of the ball next season and during the years to follow. Last season Arkansas-Pine Bluff concluded their 2009 campaign with a 5-5 overall record while going 3-4 in Southwestern Athletic Conference play.

2010 UAPB Football Signees

1. Benjamin Anderson QB 6-3 183 Little Rock, AR (Parkview HS)
2, Dezmond Beverly WR 6-2 190 Alexandria, LA (Alexandria HS)
3. C.J. Branch QB 6-2 225 Pine Bluff, AR (Watson Chapel HS)
4. Joe Dalton SS 6-1 195 Athens, TX (Trinity Valley CC)
5. Contrell Dix FS 6-1 195 Newman, GA (Newman HS)
6. De’Arius Fountain DL 6-0 340 N. Little Rock, AR (North Little Rock HS)
7. Antonio Harding LB 6-1 215 Warren, AR (Warren HS)
8. Roy Harvison LB 6-2 230 Fort Scott, KS (Fort Scott CC)
9. Greg Massey OL 6-2 280 Star City, AR (Star City HS)
10. Davonta Rich WR 6-0 180 N. Little Rock, AR (North Little Rock HS)
11. Sean Robison DL 6-2 275 Fort Smith, AR (Southside HS)
12. Elijah Tanksley FS 6-4 210 Decatur, MS (East Central CC)
13. Jamarean Buchanan RB 5-10 185 Dumas, AR (Dumas HS)
14. Emile Senghor WR 6-2 185 Quincy, CA (Feather River CC)
15. Chris Ewald K 5-10 180 Reno, NV (Butte CC)
16. Daniel King LB 6-2 235 Gulfport, MS (Mississippi Gulf CC)
17. Jeff Lambert RB 5-11 175 Little Rock, AR (Robinson HS)

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Morgan State Announces 23-Member Signing Class

BALTIMORE, Md. — Morgan State football coach Donald Hill-Eley announced Wednesday the signing of 23 players to national letters of intent to play for the Bears beginning next fall. The list released Wednesday consists of 15 high school signees and seven junior-college recruits and a Division I transfer.

Overall, the twenty-three (23) signees included eight (8) offensive linemen, five (5) linebackers, four (wide receivers), one (1) defensive linemen, one (1) running back, one (1) free safety, one (1) quarterback and one (1) athlete. The Bears signed eight (8) from high school and two (2) JUCO transfers and one Division I transfer. Following is a player-by-player breakdown of the class, with statistics and honors.

Morgan State University Football 2010 National Letter of Intent Signees

Nicholas Harris, OT, 6-6, 300, Eden Prairie, Minn./Eden Prairie HS
Notes: A first-team All-Conference selection…Selected to the All-Metro Team … All-Metro Star Tribune

Jerome June, DE, 6-3, 240, Waldorf, Md./Gwynn Park HS
Notes: First-team All-PG County…2nd Team All-Metro … Maryland Crab Bowl 2009… Led the county with 18 sacks

Jordan Brooks, RB, 6-2, 220, Germantown, Md./Rutgers
Notes: First-team … Arrived as a fullback at Rutgers before being converted to running back his freshman year, rushed for 346 yards and five touchdowns this past season

Charles Sanderson, OG, 6-3, 310, Birmingham, Ala./Clay-Chalkville HS
Notes: First-team All-District … Honorable Mention All-Metro.

Robert Hayes, OT, 6-3, 330, Memphis, Tenn./Kirby HS

Tyrone Hendrix, WR, 6-1, 190, Tampa Bay, Fla./New Mexico Military Institute
Notes: 40 rec. for 800 yards …1400 all-purpose yards … 7 TDs

Robert Preston, WR, 5-11, 175, Brandywine, Md./Gwynn Park HS
Notes: NCC Honorable Mention in 2008 … NCC All-Conference 2009 … 47 rec. for 500 yds and 8 TDs

Andre Nelson, ATH, 5-9, 180, Mortow, Pa./Valley Forge Military Academy
Notes: All-East/West Pennsylvania Team … 1st Team All-Conference … All-Purpose Player 2008 and 2009…Fastest Man in Pennsylvania Award

Tavarus Dantzler, LB, 6-3, 210, Homestead, Fla./Homestead Senior HS
Notes: First-Team All District

Mike Dozier, DT, 6-3, 310, Homestead, Fla./Homestead Senior HS
Notes: North-South Dade All-Star team … All-Conference first team

Mike Bogdanovich, LB, 6-2, 220, Santa Rosa JC/Windsor HS
Notes: Defensive Player of the Year on his team …2nd Team All-Metro … 2007 Redwood Empire Defensive Player of the Year

Jerel Coles, WR, 6-0, 190, Upper Marlboro, Md./Gwynn Park HS
Notes: 2007 All State … 2008 Preseason All-American … 2008 First Team All-PG County

Dominick Bryan, LB, 6-0, 210, Marimar, Fla./Marimar HS
Notes: First Team All Broward County … Dade-Broward All-Star Game … Three Year starter …Led team in tackles with 153 and 3 INTts…2009 6A State Champions

Stephen Blissett, LB, 6-0, 210, Pembroke Pines, Fla./Marimar HS
Notes: Second Team All-Broward County…Dade-Broward All-Star game…Two year starter…2009 6A State Champs

Yusef Dosu, WR, 6-1, 190, Oroville, Calif./College of Sequoias JC
Notes: 41 rec. for 510 yards … 6 TDs

Taylor Pass, OG, 6-3, 335, Athens, Ga./Georgia Military College
Notes: Two time All-Region …Two-Time All-First team All-Georgia Team … Two time First Team All-Northeast Georgia … selected to Terrific 10 in 2007 and 2008

Eddie Turner, OL, 6-2, 355, Memphis. Tenn/Wooddale HS
Notes: Three year captain…All-District and All-Metro in 2009 … member of DECA and FBLA…Volunteer for St. Jude Can Food Drive

Devonte Lindsey, QB, 6-4, 220, Bowie, Md./Suitland HS
Notes: NewChannel 8 2009 Player of the Year … All-PG County …PG County All-Star team

Michael Dallas, LB, 6-0, 205, Miami, Fla./Miami-Palmetto HS
Notes: First team All-Dade 2008 and 2009 …

Darren Pinnock, OG, 6-4, 330, Miami, Fla./Miami-Palmetto HS
Notes: South Dade All-Star … Honorable All-County 2009

Chris Jones, OL, 6-4, 320, Jacksonville, N.C./Hargrave Military Academy

Reshaude Miller, FS, 6-5, 205, Florence, S.C./Feather River JC
Notes: Led conference with 7 INTs

Clarence Swain, OL, 6-2, 275, Fayetteville, Ga./Fayetteville, Ga.
Notes: First team All-District .

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Morgan State's class features six from Fla., five from Md.

Savannah State Signs 13 In-State Recruits

Bradwell's and Darvean Herron and Sheldon Barnes...
These two Tigers will remain Tigers at Savannah State.

SAVANNAH, GA - Savannah State University interim football coach Julius Dixon announces the signing of 13 players to National letters of Intent to play football for the Orange and Blue. Dixon and his assistants focused on in-state recruits this year. “Until we get the program up and running we have to sign kids from the state of Georgia. We tried to concentrate our efforts to make the dollar go as far as it can. In getting in-state players, there is more opportunity for family and friends to come see them play.”

The 42-year-old interim coach is pleased with his first signing class. “I am very pleased with these young men. Not only what they bring athletically but academically. We made it a point to get kids who have been academically sound,” said Dixon. Dixon feels all of the recruits bring a lot to the table for SSU. „I consider all 13 of these kids jewels. They picked Savannah State because they thought SSU gave them the best opportunity.”

Lifelong friends sign with SSU even after coach leaves school

HINESVILLE, GA - Darvean Herron and Sheldon Barnes seemingly have been attached at the hip since they met in the fourth grade. They attended Taylors Creek Elementary School and Lewis Frasier Middle School. Wednesday, National Signing Day, the Bradwell Institute football players signed letters of intent to attend Savannah State University together. "My best friend my whole life," Herron said of Barnes. "It's a wonderful experience to sign with him."

Herron, a 5-foot-11, 202-pound linebacker, and Barnes, a 5-foot-10, 217-pound running back, accepted SSU scholarship offers during an 11 a.m. ceremony inside Bradwell Institute's cafeteria. They were among 13 players, all from Georgia, who signed with SSU despite Robby Wells' unexpected resignation as head coach last Thursday.

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SSU 2010 Recruits

Sheldon Barnes (RB, 5-11, 215, Bradwell Institute/Hinesville, Ga.) -- In his senior season, Barnes had 200 carries for 1,252 yards with 15 touchdowns. He was named the Region 3-AAAAA Offensive Player of the Year.

Bryce Bell (OL, 6-2, 350, Martin Luther King/Lithonia, Ga.) -- He was named to the All Region Team three times and All State Team three times.

Josh Coleman (WR 5-9 170, Brunswick/Brunswick, Ga.) -- He finished his senior season
with 2,017 all purpose yards and 11 touchdowns. He averaged 23.6 yards in kick returns and 11.6 yards in punt returns. He was also named to the All Region First Team.

Dylan Cook (WR, 6-2, 185, Hiram/Hiram, Ga.) -- He holds the season and career reception records at Hiram High with 41 and 78. He also holds the school receiving yards record with 142 yards in a game, 639 yards in a season and 1,213 yards in his career. For his accomplishments, in his senior year, he participates in the GACA North-South All Star game and was named to the First Team All-Region.

Trent Demeritte (WR/DB, 6-0, 160, Winder Barrow/Winder, Ga.) -- He led the team with 60 receptions for 1078 yards along with 11 touchdowns. He was named to the All Region Team and All-State team Honorable Mention.

Darvean Herron (LB, 5-11, 185, Bradwell Institute/Hinesville, Ga.) -- He finished his career with 158 tackles, nine sacks, five fumble recoveries and two forced fumbles. He was also named to the All Region First-Team.

Dimitri Holmes (WR, 5-9, 165, Clark Central/Athens, Ga.) In his senior year, he had 36 receptions for 500 yards. During his career, he had over 100 receptions for 1500 yards and 13 touchdowns. He also had 528 career kick return yards.

Brian Lackey (WR, 6-4, 195, East Paulding, Dallas, Ga.) -- He finished his senior season with 29 receptions for 405 yards along with three touchdowns, five tackles and three pass break ups.

Patrick McCrary (TE, 6-4, 210, Madison County/Danielsville, Ga.) -- In his senior year, he recorded 21 receptions for 430 yards and three touchdowns. He was named to the All Region First Team and All Northeast, Ga. Second Team.

Malcolm Poindexter (DB/RB, 6-0, 190, Northgate/Newnan, Ga.) -- He finished his senior season with 43 tackles, seven breakups, three interceptions, and two tackles for loss. As a receiver, he had 16 receptions for 352 yards and four touchdowns.

Anthony Prophet (QB, 5-11, 205, Johnson/Gainesville, Ga.) -- In his senior season, he completed 67 passes for 900 yards with nine touchdowns. He also rushed for 950 yards and nine touchdowns. He was named to the All County, All Region and All Area teams.

Broderick Sellers (LB, 6-0, 215, South Paulding/Douglasville, Ga.) -- Named to the All District First Team and the All Region Team.

Quan Trammell (DB/WR, 6-3, 190, Stephens County/Toccoa, Ga.) -- A four-year starter, he finished his high school career with 93 receptions for 1,397 yards. He also had five interceptions.

Grambling State Selects 15 New Tigers for Football

Grambling addressed some key areas

Grambling signed 15 recruits on Wednesday, plugging several holes on its roster — some current, and some that will open up down the road. The signing class included four linebackers, two defensive backs, two offensive lineman, and some potential successors to quarterback Greg Dillon, who will be a senior in the upcoming season. It addressed some key areas of need for fourth-year head coach Rod Broadway. The playmakers that might someday replace Dillon bring the most intrigue. Anthony Carrothers, a 5-foot-8, 175-pound quarterback from Independence High in Charlotte, N.C., has an eye-popping resume. He finished his prep career with 13,000 yards of total offense, 100 passing touchdowns, and 56 rushing touchdowns.

Tigers Close Day One of National Signing Day With 15

Grambling, LA--- Grambling State head football coach Rod Broadway was very pleased with the results at the end of the day on day one of the football national signing period. With 15 freshman and transfers inked, Broadway feels the Tigers have addressed some needed issues. “We went after needs. We didn’t get a lot of numbers but we are happy with what we received”, Broadway said. We didn’t go after a lot just what we needed in spots and so hopefully we have put some pieces of the puzzle together and it will show up down the road.”

GSU Tigers 2010 Football Signees

NAME SCHOOL HOMETOWN POS. HT. WT. NOTES

1. Quinton Crowe, Ruston H.S. Ruston LA LB 6-2 225 Honorable Mention 4A All-State; first-team All-District 3-4A, 63 tackles last year, including 17 for a loss.

2. Frank Rivers, Fairfield Central H.S. Fairfield, AL QB 6-5 205 2,500 yards, 18 TD’s, as a baseball player recorded 22 strikeouts as a pitcher.

3. Hakeem Lassiter, Lakawanna C.C. Scranton, P.A. OL 6-3 300.

4. Barry James, Williamson H.S. Mobile, AL LB 6-2 245

5. Gaither Madison, Williamson H.S. Mobile, AL DB 6-0 190

6. Lucktes Estiverne, Oak Ridge H.S. Orlando, FL LB 5-11 215 162 Tackles, Orange Co. 1st team, Honorable Mention All-State.

7, Thomas Bridgewater, Evangel Christian Shreveport, LA WR 6-0 200 56 rec., 1126 yds, 14 TD’s, 20.1 yds/c avg., All-District, All-City.

8. D’Mario Turner, Mays H.S. Atlanta, GA LB 6-0 255.

9. Devon Carter, N. Clayton H.S. College Park, GA OL 6-3 260.

10. Malcolm Robinson, Garland H.S. Garland, TX DB 5-10 185.

11. Anthony Garrison, John Ehret H.S. New Orleans, LA Ath 5-11 185.

12. Greg Allen, Carver H.S. Birmingham, AL DE 6-5 240.

13. Jeremy Runner, Neville H.S. Monroe, LA ATH 5-11 195 All NE-Louisiana, All-State, KNOE TV-4 Offensive Player of the Year.

14. Anthony Carrothers, Independence H.S. Charlotte, NC QB 5-8 175 Second in State, fifth in nations history with over 13, 000 yards total offense. 100 passing TD’s, 56 Rushing TD’s.

15. Kameron Thurmond, Saddleback C.C. Mission Vallejo, CA WR 6-4 Washington State signee out of high school. Big WR that can play TE with 4.5 speed.

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Quarterback struggles at Tennessee State appeal to signee

Michael German followed new Tennessee State Coach Rod Reed's advice and did his "homework" when it came to studying the Tigers' offense. German, a quarterback at Blanche Ely High School in Pompano Beach, Fla., saw TSU was unable to find a quarterback who could consistently lead the offense in 2009 and it swayed his decision when it came time to sign. Reed called German (6-2, 210) the "shining star" of his first signing class, which included 20 prospects. German passed for 2,653 yards, 27 touchdowns and 12 interceptions as a senior while leading his team to the third round of the Class 5A playoffs.

"The biggest role in my decision was the trouble they had at quarterback,'' German said. "That gives me more opportunity to come in and play as a freshman or as a sophomore." TSU finished eighth in the OVC in total offense (273.4 yards) and last in passing offense (123.6). When asked if he believes German can compete for playing time as a freshman with junior Calvin McNairl and senior Dominic Grooms, Reed said: "That's what we're hoping for."

Tigers Ink 20 Players in Early Hours of Signing Day

The Tennessee State University Tigers have inked twenty football signees in the first hours (as of 12 noon) of National Signing day.Coach Rod Reed’s first recruiting class include eleven defensive players and nine offensive players. Eight players hail from the state of Tennessee, six players from Florida, three players from Georgia, two from Alabama and one player from Delaware.Offensively, TSU signed four linemen, two quarterbacks, two wide receivers and one tight end.

TSU Tigers 2010 Football Signees

Name Pos. Ht. Wt. School
Ayobami Ayoola DB 5-10 170 N. Broward Prep (Fla.)
Stephen Brooks LB 6-0 230 Liberty Tech
Romario Cathey DL 6-3 300 Texas Tech
Chris Deloney WR 6-2 185 Howard
Francis Drummond QB 6-2 215 Red Lion (Del.)
Michael German QB 6-2 210 Blanche Ely (Fla.)
Stephen Godbolt DB 6-0 175 Dixie Co. (Fla.)
Jimmie Kitchen LB 6-2 265 Lithonia (Ga.)
Ishmael Lewis OL 6-2 260 Brentwood Acad.
DeMarco McNeal DB 6-2 180 Banneker (Ga.)
Anthony Morris DL 6-7 275 Cordova
Robert Myers OL 6-6 303 La Vergne
Lawrence Peterson DE 6-2 230 Melrose
Kenneth Pettiford DB 6-3 200 Whites Creek
Wilson Robinson LB 6-4 210 Spain Park (Ala.)
Brandon Rogers OL 6-4 300 Trinity (Fla.)
Wesley Samuels WR 6-4 205 Minor (Ala.)
Je-Marc Sears TE 6-3 235 New Smyrna (Fla.)
Derek Sibley OL 6-6 303 Stone Mountain (Ga.)
Bryce Wilson DB 6-0 190 Canterbury (Fla.)

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Alcorn State Goes Offensive With 23 New Signees

The Alcorn State University football program has announced the signing of 23 new Braves for the 2010 recruiting class. Coach Earnest Collins Jr., and his staff focused on the offensive side of the ball by signing seven offensive linemen, three quarterbacks and three wide receivers. The offensive linemen average 6-3/305 in size. The gem of the group is all-state selectee, Derrick Henderson, (6-4/310) Brookhaven High School (Mississippi).

On paper, quarterback Jeremy Collins appears to be a potential star with over 4,000 career passing yards and 20 touchdowns. In his junior year at Greenwood High School (M.S.), the All-Region quarterback had only six interceptions the entire season.

On the defensive side of the ball, the Braves signed Ricky Joseph from Miami Northwestern H.S. (Florida), who comes from a great program with a winning tradition. ESPN has this to say about the 6-2/275 defensive tackle: "Joseph comes from a program that produces many good prospects so you know he is used to competing against good competition. He has solid size for the defensive tackle position and displays the frame to be able to add more good bulk."

Joining Joseph from South Florida is Fort Lauderdale Stranahan H.S. safety/DB Derwin Brown, a 6-1/180 athlete that can play running back or wide receiver. Brown played on both sides of the ball for the 9-3 Stranahan Dragons.

At this time of the year, every coach will tell you that they have fulfilled their needs with the incoming recruiting class. And Coach Earnest Collins, Jr. is no difference in that regard. The "undefeated" and new Alcorn University Braves are:

Derrick Henderson- OL 6’4” 310 Brookhaven High School (MS)
Brandon Bridge- QB 6’5” 195 St. Marcellinus Secondary School (ONT)
Jacody Rose- OL 6’3” 309 O.P. Walker High School (LA)
Rodney Whitmore- WR 6’1” 175 Mansfield High School (TX)
LaRon Trigg- LS 6’2” 205 Hinds Community College (MS)
Michael Young- QB 6’2” 207 McLaurin High School (MS)
Chris Perkins- WR 6’6” 205 Hazlehurst High School (MS)
Ricky Joseph- DL 6’2” 275 Miami Northwestern High School (FL)
Jamison Knox- DB 5’9” 185 East High School (TN)
Maurice Redick- OL 6’3” 298 East High School (TN)
Fred Avery- DL 6’1” 278 Mobile Christian School (AL)
Jeremy Collins- QB 6’2” 210 Greenwood High School (MS)
Joshua Dupre- OL 6’4” 285 Captain Shreveport High School (LA)
Thomas Lacy- OL 6’2” 305 Robert Lee High School (TX)
Orlando Stringer- LB 6’0” 195 Carver High School (AL)
Derwin Brown- DB 6’1” 180 Stranahan High School (FL)
Terrence Barnes- DT 6’0” 295 Mize Attendance Center (MS)
Josh Dotson- ATH 5’10”175 Port Gibson High School (MS)
Stephen Fields- DB 5’11”175 Cedar Hill High School (TX)
Brian Malone- OL 6’5” 310 Hinds Community College (MS)
Avis Shelton- OL 6’3” 320 E. Mississippi Community College (MS)
Kenny Roby- LB 6’1” 220 E. Mississippi Community College (MS)
Ramon Brown- DB 6’2” 195 College of Dupage (IL)

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Alcorn State University head football coach Earnest Collins, Jr. finished his first season with a 3-6, 3-4 SWAC record.

Alcorn fills needs with signing class

LORMAN, MS — Having a full year to get to know players makes a huge difference in recruiting, especially compared to only a few months. Now that Alcorn State head football coach Earnest Collins has been on the job for about a year, his hard work convincing athletes to sign with the Braves is much more evident. This past Wednesday, the Braves landed signatures from 23 high school and junior college athletes who will be joining the Braves in the fall.

“We had some needs we needed to fill, and the biggest one was on the offensive line,” Collins said. “We signed six total on Wednesday, so that was a big need we got filled.” In addition, Collins said he needed more athletes in the secondary, and competition at quarterback.

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Delaware State Strikes "Lucky 13" with Football Recruits

Delaware State University Head Football Coach Al Lavan (R) on the sidelines at Michigan.

Dover, DE -- Delaware State University has announced that 13 football recruits have accepted offers to attend the university and compete for the Hornets next season. DSU head coach Al Lavan has also announced the addition of two major college transfers who are enrolled at the university, and expect to participate in the upcoming spring camp. The signees include six defensive linemen, two linebackers, two defensive backs, a wide receiver, offensive lineman and tight end.

"I am pleased with the quality athletes we have signed so far," said Delaware State head coach Al Lavan, who is 38-28 in six seasons as head coach of the Hornets. "We graduated some top players on our defense, so our focus was filling needs on that side of the ball, in addition to improving our overall strength and speed. We are off to a good start, and expect to announce more signings in the days ahead."

The Delaware State defensive line will be bolstered the addition of Josh Alaeze (fr. 6-1/240), Darian Scott (fr. 6-4, 210), Lafeit Frierson (fr. 6-2/240), Craig Woodus (fr. 6-5/265), Darrel Brown (jr. 6-2/285), and Rodney Gunter (fr. 6-4, 240). Alaeze and Scott were teammates at Dunbar High School in Baltimore. They helped lead the Poets to an 11-2 record and state playoff berth in 2009. Alaeze was a Maryland All-State First Team and All-Baltimore Metro First Team selection. He ranked 24th among Maryland high school prospects, according to 3-Star Rivals. Scott was a 2009 Maryland All-State Second Team and All-Baltimore Metro selection. He ranked in the top five in the state in sacks last season.

Frierson was a two-time All-Passaic County defensive end at John F. Kennedy High School in Paterson, N.J. He recorded 50 tackles, including 10 sacks as a senior year in 2009. Woodus was an All-Southeastern Virginia and All-Tidewater First Team selection as a defensive lineman and offensive lineman at Lakeland High School in Suffolk, Va. Brown joins the Hornets after two seasons at Hudson Valley Community College, where he helped lead the team to a 7-3 record last season. Prior to attending Hudson Valley, he was a standout at Pennwood High School in Philadelphia.

The Hornets have also inked offensive lineman Trevor Sales (fr. 6-2/285) of La Porte, Indiana. Sales was an All-Indiana First Team and all-conference selection at La Porte High School. In addition, he was a "National Underclassman Strong Man" award recipient. According to ESPN.com, Sales "is a fundamentally sound offensive lineman." Delaware State has added helped in the defensive backfield with the signing of Jermond Colston (fr. 5-11/175) of Norfolk, Va., and Joe Boyd from Fort Washington, Md. Colston was a 2009 All-Tidewater (Va.) selection, and is the school record holder in the 55-meter dash.

Bo Cerravolo (fr. 6-1/190), a standout wide receiver from Venice, Fla., will join the Hornets this year. Last season, the Florida high school all-star had 48 catches and helped lead Venice High to a No. 48 USA Today ranking. Tight end Nick Brackett (fr. 6-4/235) of Lawrenceville, N.J. has also signed to attend DSU. The Hornets have also welcomed University of Maryland transfer Dominique Herald (DB) and former Rutgers defensive lineman Wayne Thomas to the team. Herald competed in 14 games at Maryland. As a senior at Pennington School in New Jersey, he was one of the top defensive backs in the nation, ranking No. 6 nationally among safeties by Scouts, Inc. In addition, he was the 16th-ranked prospect in the state of New Jersey by Rivals.com. Thomas signed with Rutgers as the No. 11 prospect in New Jersey as a senior at Nottingham High School.

Delaware State Football 2010 newcomers

Josh Alaeze FR DE 6-1/240 Baltimore, Md./Dunbar HS
Joe Boyd FR DB 6-0/180 Ft. Washington, Md./Friendly HS
Nick Brackett FR TE 6-4/235 Lawrenceville, N.J./Lawrenceville HS
Bo Cerravolo FR WR 6-1/190 Venice, Fla./Venice HS
Jermond Colston FR DB 5-11/175 Norfolk, Va./Booker T. Washington
Lafeit Frierson FR DE 6-2/240 Paterson, N.J./John F. Kennedy
Rodney Gunter FR DL 6-4/240 Haines City, Fla./Haines City HS
Kennedy Ogbonna FR LB 6-1/215 Wash., D.C./Friendship Academy
Trevor Sales FR OL 6-3/285 La Porte, Ind./La Porte HS
Darian Scott FR DE 6-4/210 Baltimore, Md./Dunbar HS
Dominic Shepard FR LB 6-1/200 Hyattsville, Md./Eleanor Roosevelt
Craig Woodus FR DL 6-5/265 Suffolk, Va./Lakeland HS

Transfers
Darrel Brown JR DL 6-2/285 Phila., Pa./Hudson Valley CC/Pennwood
Dominique Herald JR DB 5-11/195 Newark, N.J./Maryland/Pennington
Wayne Thomas SO DL 6-5/285 Nottingham, N.J./Rutgers/Nottingham HS

Courtesy: DSU Athletic Media Relations, Release: 2/4/2010

Alabama A&M Bulldogs Signs Top Playmakers

Alabama A&M head football coach Anthony Jones and his staff signed 24 future Bulldogs on National Signing Day. The 2010 recruting class represents six states ranging from California to Florida, and includes 13 players from the state of Alabama. The class is expected to grow over the coming days as more recruits finalize their college choices.

Alabama A&M University head football coach Anthony Jones

Alabama A&M Bulldog 2010 Recruiting Class

Frederick Barnes - DT, 6-1, 300, Memphis, TN, Westwood HS
Christopher Boykin - OL, 6-4, 270, Birmingham, AL, Parker HS
A.J. Clark - QB, 6-2, 185, Pensacola, FL, Pine Forest HS
Alan Cruz - OL, 6-2, 270, Huntsville, AL, Buckhorn HS
Giba Goba - OL, 6-5, 265, Philadelphia, PA, Overbrook HS
Justin Goodrich - OL, 6-1, 325, Huntsville, AL, Buckhorn HS
Derrick Harris - DB, 5-10, 170, Stone Mountain, GA, Stone Mountain
Kierri Issac - DB, 6-0, 180, Stone Mountain, GA, Stone Mountain HS
Vandrick Jackson - DB, 5-11, 185, Birmingham, AL, Jackson-Olin HS
Brendan Johnson - RB, 5-7, 180, Atlanta, GA, Carver HS
Brandon Knight - RB, 5-8, 205, Dothan, AL, Dothan HS
Chris Leachman - QB, 6-3, 180, Long Beach, CA, Long Beach HS
Ricky Morton - DE, 6-2, 215, Memphis, TN, Oak Haven HS
Joseph Porter - FB, 5-8, 220, Phenix City, AL, Central HS
Terrance Pride - WR, 5-10, 170, Harvest, AL, Sparkman HS
Jordan Roman - LS, 5-11, 200, Lithonia, GA, Lithonia HS
Brandon Savage - DE, 6-1, 225, Bay Minette, AL, Baldwin County HS
Montarius Smith - WR, 6-0, 170, Birmingham, AL, Jackson-Olin HS
Terrance Spinks - TE, 6-1, 215, Opelika, AL, Opelika HS
Derrick Square - WR, 6-2, 170, Birmingham, AL, Parker HS
Jonathan Sullivan - OL, 6-2, 310, Holly Pond, AL, Fairview HS
Jawanza Vickers - DT, 6-0, 280, Enterprise, AL, Enterprise HS
Nathan Woodard - OL, 6-1, 260, Mobile, AL, Theodore HS
Dominique Wright - DE, 6-2, 220, Hallandale, FL, Hallandale HS