Winston Salem, North Carolina -- Even though 13th-ranked Winston-Salem State will be playing perennial loser Livingstone on Saturday, in some respects this week will be one of the toughest for coach Connell Maynor.
His task is convincing the Rams (6-0) that they still must perform at a high level to beat the Blue Bears (1-5), who have just six wins in the past seven seasons.
Maynor, however, said he senses that his team understands what's in front of it. A victory will clinch the CIAA's Southern Division title and that will get the Rams a spot in the conference-championship game on Nov. 12 in Durham.
"You have to stay focused," Maynor said. "We have bigger goals of winning the CIAA and winning playoff games and the guys understand that. We have to be prepared every week because everybody wants to beat us."
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Thursday, October 13, 2011
Gov. Robert Bentley to honor first responders at Alabama A&M football game
Huntsville, Alabama -- Gov. Robert Bentley will help Alabama A&M University honor local first responders during a "Community Night" football game Thursday at Louis Crews Stadium, the university said in a news release.
Bentley will be on hand to help honor emergency workers who responded during the April 27 tornadoes and beyond. The emergency workers are invited to come to the game against Texas Southern University free of charge. The game will be televised on ESPN-U at 6:30 p.m.(C.T.).
Emergency management staff, fire and medical personnel, National Guard, soldiers and marines stationed at Redstone Arsenal, members of the print and broadcast media, and other first responders with the proper credentials can present work ID at the "Heroes Gate" located on the visitors' side of Louis Crews Stadium. Special recognition will be made to the honorees during the half-time observance.
AAMU Band - 2011 Homecoming On Campus Parade & Pep Rally
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Bentley will be on hand to help honor emergency workers who responded during the April 27 tornadoes and beyond. The emergency workers are invited to come to the game against Texas Southern University free of charge. The game will be televised on ESPN-U at 6:30 p.m.(C.T.).
Emergency management staff, fire and medical personnel, National Guard, soldiers and marines stationed at Redstone Arsenal, members of the print and broadcast media, and other first responders with the proper credentials can present work ID at the "Heroes Gate" located on the visitors' side of Louis Crews Stadium. Special recognition will be made to the honorees during the half-time observance.
AAMU Band - 2011 Homecoming On Campus Parade & Pep Rally
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XU's Didavi, Taylor take aim at national event for small colleges
NEW ORLEANS — Xavier University of Louisiana will take another significant step in its modern era of men's tennis when Loic Didavi and Zach Taylor compete Thursday in the USTA/ITA National Small College Championships at Copeland-Cox Tennis Center in Mobile, Ala.
It's the first time that Xavier has competed in this event. Didavi will play Embry-Riddle's top-seeded Chris Freeman in the opening round of NAIA men's singles. Didavi and Taylor are seeded second in NAIA men's doubles and will play their first match against Olivet Nazarene's Sebastian Esquetini and Diego Gonsalvez.
Also competing are men's and women's regional singles and doubles winners and at-large selections from NCAA Division II and III and the junior colleges. Survivors of all the brackets will meet this weekend to determine overall champions.
"It's like a Super Bowl of small-college tennis," Xavier coach Alan Green said.
All singles players and doubles teams will play a minimum of three matches, and Green says he wouldn't be surprised if Didavi and Taylor spent all their time in the winners bracket.
"Loic has a great shot to win in singles because he's left-handed and because it's humid down here," Green said. "When left-handers hit, the ball spins in the opposite direction compared to a right-hander's hit. Right-handers have to really be careful when playing a left-hander. In doubles Loic and Zach's chemistry is not 100 percent yet, but what's making it work is that they're both talented. Both have pretty good hands around the net. The more familiar they become with each other, the more lethal they'll be."
Didavi, a junior from Cotonou, Benin, and a transfer from Auburn Montgomery, is 8-0 in singles and 5-1 in doubles through two fall tournaments. Both he and Taylor, a senior from Monroe, La., were second-team NAIA All-Americans this past season, and both had top-10 NAIA doubles rankings.
By Ed Cassiere, Sports Information Director
VISIT: XULAATHLETICS
VISIT: XAVIER UNIVERSITY OF LOUISIANA
It's the first time that Xavier has competed in this event. Didavi will play Embry-Riddle's top-seeded Chris Freeman in the opening round of NAIA men's singles. Didavi and Taylor are seeded second in NAIA men's doubles and will play their first match against Olivet Nazarene's Sebastian Esquetini and Diego Gonsalvez.
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| Zach Taylor |
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| Loic Didavi |
Also competing are men's and women's regional singles and doubles winners and at-large selections from NCAA Division II and III and the junior colleges. Survivors of all the brackets will meet this weekend to determine overall champions.
"It's like a Super Bowl of small-college tennis," Xavier coach Alan Green said.
All singles players and doubles teams will play a minimum of three matches, and Green says he wouldn't be surprised if Didavi and Taylor spent all their time in the winners bracket.
"Loic has a great shot to win in singles because he's left-handed and because it's humid down here," Green said. "When left-handers hit, the ball spins in the opposite direction compared to a right-hander's hit. Right-handers have to really be careful when playing a left-hander. In doubles Loic and Zach's chemistry is not 100 percent yet, but what's making it work is that they're both talented. Both have pretty good hands around the net. The more familiar they become with each other, the more lethal they'll be."Didavi, a junior from Cotonou, Benin, and a transfer from Auburn Montgomery, is 8-0 in singles and 5-1 in doubles through two fall tournaments. Both he and Taylor, a senior from Monroe, La., were second-team NAIA All-Americans this past season, and both had top-10 NAIA doubles rankings.
By Ed Cassiere, Sports Information DirectorVISIT: XULAATHLETICS
VISIT: XAVIER UNIVERSITY OF LOUISIANA
Turnovers help Alabama State stay atop conference
Montgomery, Alabama -- As a native of Montgomery, Ala., and an Alabama State alumnus, fifth-year coach Reggie Barlow knows full well that times have rarely been higher at his alma mater.
A new field house is up and running. Steel beams are rising on a state-of-the-art on-campus football stadium, which is scheduled to open late next year.
And right now, the Hornets haven’t lost a game in Southwestern Athletic Conference play. Yet as the next game approaches, Barlow is concerned. He usually is. Such is life in the SWAC.
“I don’t think there’s one team in this league to where you can say, ￔOh, they’re so much better than everybody else,’” Barlow said. “So everybody has to play.”
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A new field house is up and running. Steel beams are rising on a state-of-the-art on-campus football stadium, which is scheduled to open late next year.
And right now, the Hornets haven’t lost a game in Southwestern Athletic Conference play. Yet as the next game approaches, Barlow is concerned. He usually is. Such is life in the SWAC.
“I don’t think there’s one team in this league to where you can say, ￔOh, they’re so much better than everybody else,’” Barlow said. “So everybody has to play.”
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Both XU teams receive vote in NAIA national polls
NEW ORLEANS — Xavier University of Louisiana received one point Wednesday in each of the NAIA Cross Country Coaches' Top 25 polls.The Gold Nuggets collected their first national vote since Sept. 18, 2008, and the Gold Rush gained its first vote since the 2010 preseason poll. It's the first time since the '08 preseason polls that both teams received votes the same week.
Both XU teams closed the regular season Saturday by winning team championships at the University of Dallas Invitational in Irving, Texas. The victories gave the Gold Rush a 35-16 record and the Gold Nuggets s 36-14-1 record entering the Gulf Coast Athletic Conference Championships at Clinton, Miss., on Oct. 22.
Xavier is the five-time defending GCAC men's and women's champion, and both teams are aiming for their third berth in four years in the NAIA National Championships. Both GCAC team champions will earn automatic berths in the national meet, and the top five men and women not on the winning teams also will qualify.LINK TO NAIA COACHES TOP 25 POLLS
By Ed Cassiere, Sports Information Director
VISIT: XAVIER UNIVERSITY OF LOUISIANA
VISIT: XULAATHLETICS
Southern University secondary a bright spot
Baton Rouge, Louisiana -- In the past four weeks, the Southern football team is 1-3, its three losses coming by four points, five points and three points. It’s been a disappointing month for the Jaguars, who at times have faltered in almost every area - passing offense, rushing offense, special-teams units, run defense and the like.One area, however, has been rock-steady: pass defense.
“Not bad at all,” second-year coach Stump Mitchell said, referring to his secondary. Last season, Southern gave up a conference-high 25 touchdown passes. Through six games this season, the Jaguars have allowed three. They rank second in the SWAC in pass defense, allowing 181.3 yards per game, and opposing quarterbacks have completed only 47 percent of their throws.
What’s made the difference?
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Wednesday, October 12, 2011
VUL Dragons torch West Virginia Tech for second win
Lynchburg, Virginia -- It took until the fourth quarter, but Virginia University of Lynchburg’s offensive line eventually wore down West Virginia Tech’s defense, Saturday afternoon at Liberty University’s Williams Stadium.
The Dragons took full advantage, as they started gashing the Golden Bears with a running attack that led to 28 unanswered points in the second half of a 34-6 victory.
"This was a big win," VUL coach Willard Bailey said. "We started out so flat, but our kids seemed to get some confidence. We are talented. It’s just spread all over the place. We just have to get synchronized, organized and better able to communicate with each other."
VUL (2-4) rushed for 290 yards on 45 attempts, despite having just 68 yards on the ground in the first half. The Dragons’ massive offensive line, consisting of junior left tackle Dion Howze (6-foot-6, 325 pounds), freshman left guard James Lewter (6-3, 345), sophomore center DeAngelo Lucas (6-7, 360), freshman right guard Mike Pearson (6-3, 315) and junior right tackle Ronnie Dixon (6-5, 360) really threw their weight around in the fourth quarter.
VUL at Coppin State Eagles, Oct. 1, 2011
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The Dragons took full advantage, as they started gashing the Golden Bears with a running attack that led to 28 unanswered points in the second half of a 34-6 victory.
"This was a big win," VUL coach Willard Bailey said. "We started out so flat, but our kids seemed to get some confidence. We are talented. It’s just spread all over the place. We just have to get synchronized, organized and better able to communicate with each other."
VUL (2-4) rushed for 290 yards on 45 attempts, despite having just 68 yards on the ground in the first half. The Dragons’ massive offensive line, consisting of junior left tackle Dion Howze (6-foot-6, 325 pounds), freshman left guard James Lewter (6-3, 345), sophomore center DeAngelo Lucas (6-7, 360), freshman right guard Mike Pearson (6-3, 315) and junior right tackle Ronnie Dixon (6-5, 360) really threw their weight around in the fourth quarter.
VUL at Coppin State Eagles, Oct. 1, 2011
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Norfolk State Volleyball vs. Howard Lady Bison -- Highlights
LADY BISON CAPTURE FIRST CONFERENCE GAME
NORFOLK, Virginia – The Howard University Lady Bison (2-17, 1-2 MEAC) defeated fourth-place, Norfolk State (5-10, 1-2 MEAC) in five sets on Sunday night.
"This was a great win for us," said head coach Dawn Barnes. "It was a group effort and well deserved. Norfolk State did a great job offensively and defensively and did not make this easy at all. You had two teams that really played hard."
Howard started the game with a 25-21 victory in set one. Sets two and three were tough for the Lady Bison coming up short 21-25 and 24-26. The Spartans put up a tough crowd and technique, but the Lady Bison put up some solid points that gained momentum. Assistant Coach Russ held down the strategy for the Lady Bison. "We watched film and studied these girls, technically we were ready, all we had to do was go out there and shut them down," says Russ.
The Lady Bison highlighted on the Spartans' weaknesses and it showed in the match taking sets four and five 26-24 and 15-12 to win the match. Freshman Stephanie Shultis had a major solo block to win the fourth set making it harder for the Spartans to capture the Lady Bison.
Set five was rolling for Howard as they kept the ball away from the Spartans the first six points. The Spartans showed signs of aggression as they tried to make a come back, but HU held on strong to their lead finishing the match with a win. Spartan fans left empty handed as the Lady Bison cheered and showed school spirit.
Outside hitter Tosin Elebute finished with a game high of 25 kills and 16 digs charting a double-double. Freshman, middle blocker Assata Conway put down seven balls for the Lady Bison. Heather Long had a game high of five kills hitting a perfect game. Both setters, Jasmine King and Stephanie Shultis had 21 assists a piece. Riana Cain picked up 20 balls.
Defensively, both teams had 66 digs, but the Spartans out blocked the Lady bison 13 to 9. On the other hand, the Lady Bison finished with better hitting percentages after each set than the Spartans. "I knew [Norfolk State] were all waiting to block me, but I wasn't having it," says Elebute, "I was going to play my game for my team because I realize I play a major role."
For NSU, Charlotte Armstead put down 17 balls. Adriana Ramos had 11 kills and 14 digs finishing with a double-double. Beatriz Ferreira had 12 kills followed by Jasmine Frazier with ten kills. Setter Kristen Burt finished with 44 assists.
The Lady Bison split the weekend and will look to carry the momentum as they head to face Coppin State on Fri. Oct. 14.
By Jasmine King, Volleyball, Public Relations 2013
VISIT: HOWARDBISON
VISIT: HOWARD UNIVERSITY
NORFOLK, Virginia – The Howard University Lady Bison (2-17, 1-2 MEAC) defeated fourth-place, Norfolk State (5-10, 1-2 MEAC) in five sets on Sunday night.
"This was a great win for us," said head coach Dawn Barnes. "It was a group effort and well deserved. Norfolk State did a great job offensively and defensively and did not make this easy at all. You had two teams that really played hard."
Howard started the game with a 25-21 victory in set one. Sets two and three were tough for the Lady Bison coming up short 21-25 and 24-26. The Spartans put up a tough crowd and technique, but the Lady Bison put up some solid points that gained momentum. Assistant Coach Russ held down the strategy for the Lady Bison. "We watched film and studied these girls, technically we were ready, all we had to do was go out there and shut them down," says Russ.
The Lady Bison highlighted on the Spartans' weaknesses and it showed in the match taking sets four and five 26-24 and 15-12 to win the match. Freshman Stephanie Shultis had a major solo block to win the fourth set making it harder for the Spartans to capture the Lady Bison.
Set five was rolling for Howard as they kept the ball away from the Spartans the first six points. The Spartans showed signs of aggression as they tried to make a come back, but HU held on strong to their lead finishing the match with a win. Spartan fans left empty handed as the Lady Bison cheered and showed school spirit.
Outside hitter Tosin Elebute finished with a game high of 25 kills and 16 digs charting a double-double. Freshman, middle blocker Assata Conway put down seven balls for the Lady Bison. Heather Long had a game high of five kills hitting a perfect game. Both setters, Jasmine King and Stephanie Shultis had 21 assists a piece. Riana Cain picked up 20 balls.
Defensively, both teams had 66 digs, but the Spartans out blocked the Lady bison 13 to 9. On the other hand, the Lady Bison finished with better hitting percentages after each set than the Spartans. "I knew [Norfolk State] were all waiting to block me, but I wasn't having it," says Elebute, "I was going to play my game for my team because I realize I play a major role."
For NSU, Charlotte Armstead put down 17 balls. Adriana Ramos had 11 kills and 14 digs finishing with a double-double. Beatriz Ferreira had 12 kills followed by Jasmine Frazier with ten kills. Setter Kristen Burt finished with 44 assists.
The Lady Bison split the weekend and will look to carry the momentum as they head to face Coppin State on Fri. Oct. 14.
By Jasmine King, Volleyball, Public Relations 2013
VISIT: HOWARDBISON
VISIT: HOWARD UNIVERSITY
Refreshed Grambling Tigers ready to go
Grambling, Louisiana -- Doug Williams isn't necessarily a fan of bye weeks. The Grambling coach said this weekend off from competition came at an opportune time, and he admitted players probably need some sort of break from a long season.
But now he's ready to get back into the normal swing with Concordia coming to town in just a few days.
"We worked hard the days that we did work," Williams said. "Saturday was a day that at 2 o'clock it was amazing the way the kids came out and worked hard looking forward to today to start our season from today, today on. I think that's important that we find a way to get a 'W' under our belts."
The Tigers (1-4, 1-3) held a relatively light practice load last week as they tried to heal.
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But now he's ready to get back into the normal swing with Concordia coming to town in just a few days.
"We worked hard the days that we did work," Williams said. "Saturday was a day that at 2 o'clock it was amazing the way the kids came out and worked hard looking forward to today to start our season from today, today on. I think that's important that we find a way to get a 'W' under our belts."
The Tigers (1-4, 1-3) held a relatively light practice load last week as they tried to heal.
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Alabama State Hornets in football national polls
Montgomery, Alabama -- Alabama State's 43-29 win over Texas Southern propelled the Hornets into The Sports Network's Football Championship Subdivision rankings for the first time in the school's history.
The Hornets (5-1) are ranked 24th after running their record to 5-0 versus FCS schools, with their only loss coming in the second week to Football Bowl Subdivision member Eastern Michigan. Southwestern Athletic Conference members occasionally crack the Top 25 in The Sports Network poll, but it is the first time a SWAC team has been ranked this early in the season since Alabama A&M made the rankings on Sept. 10 and Sept. 17 in 2007.
Hornet placekicker Bobby Wenzig also earned The Sports Network national special teams player of the week honors after scoring 19 points and making all five field goals he attempted at Texas Southern.
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The Hornets (5-1) are ranked 24th after running their record to 5-0 versus FCS schools, with their only loss coming in the second week to Football Bowl Subdivision member Eastern Michigan. Southwestern Athletic Conference members occasionally crack the Top 25 in The Sports Network poll, but it is the first time a SWAC team has been ranked this early in the season since Alabama A&M made the rankings on Sept. 10 and Sept. 17 in 2007.
Hornet placekicker Bobby Wenzig also earned The Sports Network national special teams player of the week honors after scoring 19 points and making all five field goals he attempted at Texas Southern.
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Jackson State Tigers travels to winless Mississippi Valley
Itta Bena, Mississippi -- Who was the starting quarterback when Mississippi Valley State last defeated Jackson State?
Moss Point native Keith Poindexter helped lead the Delta Devils to an 18-16 victory in 1994. Jackson State has won the last 16 games in the series. Jackson State (4-1, 5-1 SWAC) looks to continue its dominance over the hapless Delta Devils (0-6, 0-5) on Saturday at 2 p.m. at Rice-Totten Stadium.
The Tigers could easily be undefeated, falling to Alabama State 28-21 last month at home.
Quarterback Casey Therriault has been up and down this season, capable of throwing for 400 yards as well as tossing five interceptions.
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Moss Point native Keith Poindexter helped lead the Delta Devils to an 18-16 victory in 1994. Jackson State has won the last 16 games in the series. Jackson State (4-1, 5-1 SWAC) looks to continue its dominance over the hapless Delta Devils (0-6, 0-5) on Saturday at 2 p.m. at Rice-Totten Stadium.
The Tigers could easily be undefeated, falling to Alabama State 28-21 last month at home.
Quarterback Casey Therriault has been up and down this season, capable of throwing for 400 yards as well as tossing five interceptions.
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XU's Jackson, Pieri chosen GCAC Runners of the Week
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| Zahri Jackson |
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| Matt Pieri |
Jackson, a freshman from Kingwood, Texas, and a graduate of Kingwood Park High School, set an XU women's record with her fourth GCAC award of the season. Pieri, a junior from New Orleans and a graduate of Brother Martin High School, also won for the fourth time this season and extended to 10 his GCAC career record of weekly awards.
Jackson ran 6,000 meters in 25 minutes, 10.63 seconds Saturday to win the University of Dallas Invitational by nearly 55 seconds and lead the Gold Nuggets to the team championship, their first in the regular season since 2008. Pieri ran 8,000 meters in 28:00.55 to place third and lead the XU men to the team championship.
"That was a difficult course we ran on — the steepest hills we've faced since I've been at Xavier," seventh-year coach Joseph Moses said. "But in spite of the tough conditions, Zahri and Matt still ran well."
Both XU teams will compete next in the GCAC Championships at Clinton, Miss., on Oct. 22. Both the Gold Nuggets and Gold Rush are five-time defending team champions, and Pieri is a defending individual champion.
By Ed Cassiere, Sports Information DirectorVISIT: XAVIER UNIVERSITY OF LOUISIANA
VISIT: XULAATHLETICS
Morgan State vs. NCCU to Kick-Off at 4 p.m. in Durham
DURHAM, North Carolina -- The Bears will face new conference member North Carolina Central when they hit the gridiron on Saturday (Oct. 15) at O'Kelly Riddick Stadium. The Eagles are coming off of a 49-38 heartbreaking loss at South Carolina State, and will attempt to snap a 3-game losing streak. MSU will try to make it two wins in a row following a 44-17 offensive explosion against Savannah State during last week's Homecoming festivities. Game time at O'Kelly Riddick Stadium is scheduled for 4 p.m. and there will be a live radio broadcast of the game on WEAA, 88.9 FM.
THE BEAR-EAGLES MATCHUP
• The Bears and Tigers will meet for the 36th time in history ... Morgan leads the series 21-12-2.
• During their last matchup, MSU RB Devan James rushed for 114 yards and touchdown and the Bears collected a school record six interceptions, three returned for touchdowns, en route to a 49-7 win over North Carolina Central on Sept, 14, 2008 at Hughes Stadium.
• The last time the two teams met in Durham was on October 10, 1981. MSU defeated the Eagles 35-27 during Thomas Morris' first and only stint as the Bears head coach. The Bears finished the season with a 4-5 record.
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THE BEAR-EAGLES MATCHUP
• The Bears and Tigers will meet for the 36th time in history ... Morgan leads the series 21-12-2.
• During their last matchup, MSU RB Devan James rushed for 114 yards and touchdown and the Bears collected a school record six interceptions, three returned for touchdowns, en route to a 49-7 win over North Carolina Central on Sept, 14, 2008 at Hughes Stadium.
• The last time the two teams met in Durham was on October 10, 1981. MSU defeated the Eagles 35-27 during Thomas Morris' first and only stint as the Bears head coach. The Bears finished the season with a 4-5 record.
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Hometown showdown between Old Dominion and Norfolk State?
Norfolk, Virginia -- Picture this: Thanksgiving weekend.
Perfect fall weather. And a playoff game between Old Dominion and Norfolk State at Foreman Field. It could be a reality. With both teams hot, ODU athletic director Wood Selig is moving forward with plans to make an official bid to host a first-round playoff game in this season's NCAA Football Championship Subdivision. Selig said he will meet with a number of school officials today to discuss the prospects. The NCAA requires a minimum bid of $30,000 to host a first- or second-round game.
"I think it would be an interesting game in the fact that we just signed a six-year contract to play Norfolk State" beginning in 2013, Selig said. "It would be a great preview for what's coming down the road."
Selig received the NCAA's 40-page prechampionship manual Monday and believes the site selection criteria play to ODU's strengths.
Perfect fall weather. And a playoff game between Old Dominion and Norfolk State at Foreman Field. It could be a reality. With both teams hot, ODU athletic director Wood Selig is moving forward with plans to make an official bid to host a first-round playoff game in this season's NCAA Football Championship Subdivision. Selig said he will meet with a number of school officials today to discuss the prospects. The NCAA requires a minimum bid of $30,000 to host a first- or second-round game.
"I think it would be an interesting game in the fact that we just signed a six-year contract to play Norfolk State" beginning in 2013, Selig said. "It would be a great preview for what's coming down the road."
Selig received the NCAA's 40-page prechampionship manual Monday and believes the site selection criteria play to ODU's strengths.
Blount enjoying life at Delaware State
Dover, Delaware - Kermit Blount had no plans to give up on coaching. Relieved of his job in 2009 after a 1-10 finish in his 16th season at Winston-Salem State, Blount remained positive about his future.He completed the obligations of his contract in 2010, spending the final year helping new athletics director Bill Hayes raise money, then landed the head-coaching job at Delaware State. His 2-4 Hornets will play Saturday at N.C. A&T.
"I'm doing what I love," Blount said recently. "You know my passion is coaching." Blount, WSSU's career leader in victories (91-87-3) and a 30-year veteran, said finding the right situation for him and his wife, Ava, was a key to his taking the job at Delaware State.
He has surrounded himself with assistants he can trust ...
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SSU NOTEBOOK: Tigers trying to regroup, get ready for FAMU
FLORIDA A&M (3-3, 1-2 MEAC) AT SAVANNAH STATE (1-5, 1-2 MEAC)
Savannah, Georgia -- It’s just past the midpoint of Savannah State’s football season. The Tigers have lost five of their six games, including the last two against teams expected to be in the lower half of the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference standings.
First-year coach Steve Davenport said it was time for his players to regroup when they called a team meeting Monday. “Obviously, we’re disappointed, collectively,” Davenport said. “We had higher ideals than we’re meeting right now.”
There was some excitement after SSU defeated North Carolina Central in its first conference game two weeks ago. But the Tigers struggled in a 34-14 loss to Howard, snapping the Bison’s 29-game conference losing streak.
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Savannah, Georgia -- It’s just past the midpoint of Savannah State’s football season. The Tigers have lost five of their six games, including the last two against teams expected to be in the lower half of the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference standings.
First-year coach Steve Davenport said it was time for his players to regroup when they called a team meeting Monday. “Obviously, we’re disappointed, collectively,” Davenport said. “We had higher ideals than we’re meeting right now.”
There was some excitement after SSU defeated North Carolina Central in its first conference game two weeks ago. But the Tigers struggled in a 34-14 loss to Howard, snapping the Bison’s 29-game conference losing streak.
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Pough happy with performance, looks forward to Georgia State
Orangeburg, South Carolina -- Saturday's victory over North Carolina Central did not just save South Carolina State's season.
For South Carolina State head football coach Buddy Pough, it was another eye-opener into the team's quality young depth and ability to respond to adversity.
"It was a struggle, but it was a good struggle," said Pough at Monday's weekly press conference. "When you get a situation where you're faced with adversity and you find a way to overcome it, it makes you feel good about ourselves. We've got work to do. Don't think in the smallest form that we don't understand what our issues are. But at the same time, I am proud of our guys that we got through it and I like our team and I hope I can get them back healthy."
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For South Carolina State head football coach Buddy Pough, it was another eye-opener into the team's quality young depth and ability to respond to adversity.
"It was a struggle, but it was a good struggle," said Pough at Monday's weekly press conference. "When you get a situation where you're faced with adversity and you find a way to overcome it, it makes you feel good about ourselves. We've got work to do. Don't think in the smallest form that we don't understand what our issues are. But at the same time, I am proud of our guys that we got through it and I like our team and I hope I can get them back healthy."
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FAMU welcomes new head baseball coach Willie Brown
Tallahassee, Florida -- In front of a conference room full of people Tuesday evening, Willie Brown vowed to take the Florida A&M baseball program where it was when he played for the Rattlers during an era when repeat MEAC titles were the norm.
"If I don't get a MEAC ring it's a failure and your coach isn't a failure at anything," Brown said, addressing his players in the room. "I know that I'm going to win. I know we are going to compete. I know that we are going to return to the glory of the past."
Brown made his prediction in his first public appearance as the Rattlers' new baseball coach. Both athletic director Derek Horne and FAMU president James Ammons told the audience they hired Brown because of his understanding of FAMU tradition and his commitment to turning the program around.
"He knows how to win here," Horne said. "He knows what it takes to wear that uniform and be successful. That's half of the battle."
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VISIT: FLORIDA A&M UNIVERSITY
VISIT: FAMUATHLETICS
"If I don't get a MEAC ring it's a failure and your coach isn't a failure at anything," Brown said, addressing his players in the room. "I know that I'm going to win. I know we are going to compete. I know that we are going to return to the glory of the past."
Brown made his prediction in his first public appearance as the Rattlers' new baseball coach. Both athletic director Derek Horne and FAMU president James Ammons told the audience they hired Brown because of his understanding of FAMU tradition and his commitment to turning the program around.
"He knows how to win here," Horne said. "He knows what it takes to wear that uniform and be successful. That's half of the battle."
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VISIT: FLORIDA A&M UNIVERSITY
VISIT: FAMUATHLETICS
GSU Panthers look to get back on track at South Carolina State
Orangeburg, South Carolina -- After a poor showing against Murray state, the Panthers will travel to South Carolina State University.The Bulldogs are coming off of their homecoming game, and will look to dismantle the Panther defense in their pursuit of a fourth straight Mid- Eastern Athletic Conference title. With redshirt junior quarterback Derrick Wiley leading the way, the Panthers will be up against another prolific offense.
In a 69-0 victory over Delaware State on Sept. 24, Wiley threw for 250 yards and four touchdowns through the air. The 6'1 200 pound Wiley completed 12 of his 20 attempted passes. Along with torching Delaware State through the air Wiley rushed for 2 touchdowns on the ground. With his monster offensive show out, Wiley tied 2 school single game records.
These included the four passing touchdowns, and total touchdowns posted in a game with six.
Luckily for the Panthers, they won't have to face Wiley, who is out with a torn knee meniscus. Due to this injury Wiley could potentially miss the remainder of the season.
Richard Cue will be starting at quarterback in place of the injured Wiley.
In his first start last weekend, Cue completed 15 of his 22 passes for 171 yards and two touchdowns. Although Wiley will be out due to injury, they still have freshman running back Jalen Simmons empowering the Bulldogs offense. In the 69 – 0 route of Delaware State Simmons set up two touchdowns for his team. Simmons rushed for 92 yards on 11 carries, averaging a stellar 8.36 yards per carry.
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XU climbs to fourth on Champions of Character Scorecard
NEW ORLEANS — Xavier University of Louisiana is in the top 10 for the second straight year on the NAIA Champions of Character Scorecard released last week by the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics.Xavier scored 91 points in 2010-11 to tie for fourth nationally with Biola University of La Mirada, Calif. Xavier climbed three places and four points from the previous year. NAIA members earned the Champions of Character Five Star Award by scoring at least 60 points.
Schools earned points in each of the following categories: character training, conduct in competition, academic focus, character recognition and character promotion. Institutions earned points based on exceptional student-athlete grade-point averages and by obtaining zero ejections during competition throughout the academic year. The scorecard process is based on the NAIA's flagship program Champions of Character, which emphasizes the five core values of integrity, respect, responsibility, sportsmanship and servant leadership.
Cornerstone University of Grand Rapids, Mich., repeated as the NAIA leader with 103 points. Xavier's point total ranked first in Louisiana, first among Catholic universities, first in the Gulf Coast Athletic Conference, first among HBCUs (historically black colleges and universities) and first in the South. A year ago Xavier was second in the South but first in the other categories.
The GCAC was the only conference with three of the top 10 schools and four of the top 22. The GCAC's Tougaloo College of Tougaloo, Miss., placed eighth with 88 points, Talladega College of Talladega, Ala., tied for ninth with 87 points, and Edward Waters College of Jacksonville, Fla., tied for 18th with 85 points.
More than 80 percent of NAIA members — 220 in all — will receive the Champions of Character Five Star Award for 2010-11.
By Ed Cassiere, Sports Information Director
VISIT: XAVIER UNIVERSITY OF LOUISIANA
VISIT: XULAATHLETICS
FAMU's Taylor takes blame for loss
Tallahassee, Florida -- Coach Joe Taylor took responsibility Monday for the stunning loss that his Florida A&M football team suffered during homecoming on Saturday, while saying that his players have to recommit themselves if they want to finish the season with a winning record.
"I'm taking full blame because once they're on the field, I'm saying that they are the right ones," Taylor said. "I put them out there because through evaluation, written test, practice they're showing us that they can do it."
Taylor also responded to criticism of his coaching, which has become a social network talking point. Some even called for his termination in the face of the fact that FAMU (3-3, 2-2) is teetering with the possibility of not having a shot at the MEAC title.
He seemed unfazed Monday, though ...
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"I'm taking full blame because once they're on the field, I'm saying that they are the right ones," Taylor said. "I put them out there because through evaluation, written test, practice they're showing us that they can do it."
Taylor also responded to criticism of his coaching, which has become a social network talking point. Some even called for his termination in the face of the fact that FAMU (3-3, 2-2) is teetering with the possibility of not having a shot at the MEAC title.
He seemed unfazed Monday, though ...
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Tuesday, October 11, 2011
TSU snaps OVC losing streak, pounds SEMO 55-3
Nashville, Tennessee -- Tennessee State released a bunch of pent-up frustration Saturday night by pounding Southeast Missouri from the opening kickoff in a 55-3 victory. The Tigers snapped a nine-game OVC losing streak by beating the Redhawks 55-3.
TSU scored on seven of its eight possessions in the first half and claimed its most lopsided win since beating Tennessee Martin 76-0 in 1998. The 52-point loss matched Southeast Missouri’s worst since joining the OVC in 1991.
The Tigers snapped a four-game losing streak. They hadn’t won since the last time they played at LP Field, beating Southern 33-7 in the season opener. Last week TSU (2-4, 1-2) blew a 21-point first-half lead in a 37-34 loss at Austin Peay.
“I think we started something last week,” said second-year Coach Rod Reed, who earned his first OVC win. “We had an opportunity to win that game, but we let it slip away. We talked about finishing all week. We came in at halftime with that (41-0) lead, and it was still all business.”
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TSU scored on seven of its eight possessions in the first half and claimed its most lopsided win since beating Tennessee Martin 76-0 in 1998. The 52-point loss matched Southeast Missouri’s worst since joining the OVC in 1991.
The Tigers snapped a four-game losing streak. They hadn’t won since the last time they played at LP Field, beating Southern 33-7 in the season opener. Last week TSU (2-4, 1-2) blew a 21-point first-half lead in a 37-34 loss at Austin Peay.
“I think we started something last week,” said second-year Coach Rod Reed, who earned his first OVC win. “We had an opportunity to win that game, but we let it slip away. We talked about finishing all week. We came in at halftime with that (41-0) lead, and it was still all business.”
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Vote will decide if TSU returns to Hale Stadium
Nashville, Tennessee -- The next election in Nashville won’t choose any political leaders, but it will decide if a treasured but dilapidated football stadium comes roaring back to life for its owner’s 100th birthday next fall.
Tennessee State University announced Thursday that students and alumni — and anyone else who cares enough to pay $10 — can vote on whether to bring football back to Hale Stadium for three games in 2012. Results will be announced at TSU’s homecoming game against the University of Tennessee-Martin on Nov. 12 at LP Field.
“We will abide by what you say,” interim President Portia Holmes-Shields said during a news conference at the stadium often known as “The Hole.”
“It’s going to be contingent on what you guys say: ‘Hale yes’ or ‘Hale no.’ Vote early, vote often.”
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Fayetteville State wins big over Virginia State
Fayetteville, North Carolina -- Even after a colossal 49-21 win over Virginia State, Fayetteville State coach Kenny Phillips was left scratching his head. The question isn't one of how the Broncos won the game. The fact that the Broncos forced six Trojan turnovers accounts for a lot of that.
No, instead, Phillips is wondering how his team, once again, fell behind 14-0 to start the game.
"We're trying to figure this out every week," the coach said. "We've been trying to work on getting out of the hole quicker. Sooner or later, we're going to have to go up 14-to-something."
It was the fifth straight game that Fayetteville State (2-4, 2-1 CIAA) had fallen behind by at least a two-score margin at the start of play. The Trojans (3-3, 2-2) put two rushing touchdowns on the board in the opening quarter.
But the Broncos rebounded, scoring 49 consecutive points to the win.
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No, instead, Phillips is wondering how his team, once again, fell behind 14-0 to start the game.
"We're trying to figure this out every week," the coach said. "We've been trying to work on getting out of the hole quicker. Sooner or later, we're going to have to go up 14-to-something."
It was the fifth straight game that Fayetteville State (2-4, 2-1 CIAA) had fallen behind by at least a two-score margin at the start of play. The Trojans (3-3, 2-2) put two rushing touchdowns on the board in the opening quarter.
But the Broncos rebounded, scoring 49 consecutive points to the win.
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