NASHVILLE, TENN. — Maybe if Tennessee State had the kind of digs that it has now, Damien Fleming might have been the Tigers’ quarterback instead of FAMU’s.
But the Tigers continue to gain a little more edge in the recruiting battle for Florida football players as they kicked off against FAMU in the John Merritt Classic at LP Field on Saturday.
The Tigers won’t have the Tennessee Titans’ stadium to brag about as their home field much longer, though. They will play one more game at LP Field before moving back to their old digs at Hale Field to round out the season.
The Tigers athletic department is putting the finishing touches on renovations at Hale Stadium, their home field. Hale Stadium has not been used for a regular-season game since 1998 and has been undergoing a $1 million-upgrade that includes a new paint job, a renovated press box and rest rooms.
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Sunday, September 2, 2012
Tennessee State holds on to win Merritt Classic
NASHVILLE, Tennessee - Coach Rod Reed wanted Tennessee State to have the opportunity to overcome some adversity in its season-opening game Saturday night. He wanted to test the Tigers’ toughness and resolve to play as well at the end of the game as it did at the start.
Reed got his wish in the 14th annual John Merritt Classic, where TSU put up a goal-line stand in the final minute and held on to beat Florida A&M 17-14.
A crowd of 15,652 at LP Field went silent after Rattlers quarterback Damien Fleming ran a second sneak from just inches away from the goal line.
The crowd finally erupted in a roar after the referees signaled Fleming had been stopped short and gave the ball to TSU with 42 seconds remaining.
The Tigers allowed leads to slip away in three losses last year on the way to posting a 5-6 record.
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FAMU Rattlers stopped inches short
NASHVILLE, TENN. — The ending was so dramatic that it would be easy to forget how lethargic the effort was from FAMU for three quarters Saturday at LP Field.
Of all the drama that unfolded in the final six minutes, none was as stunning as the last-ditch scramble for the end zone by quarterback Damien Fleming in the closing seconds. A wild scrum formed after he dashed for the end zone with 42 seconds remaining for a touchdown that would have given the Rattlers the victory.
When it cleared the referees ruled that Fleming hadn’t crossed into the end zone, assuring the Rattlers of a 17-14 loss.
“I don’t know how you take that touchdown away,” coach Joe Taylor said, his voice choking up. “They just stole that. He was in the end zone.”
It wouldn’t have come down to that if the Rattlers didn’t make it an evening of squandered opportunities as both the offense and defense lost huge chances to a penalty plagued Tennessee State team. In the end, the Rattlers fell for the second consecutive time to the Tigers, their first time losing in Nashville since 1997.
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New Mexico routs Southern football, 66-21
ALBUQUERQUE, New Mexico - Southern’s Human Jukebox came out and dazzled during the halftime show, earning an ovation and reducing their counterparts in New Mexico’s marching band to an afterthought.
But on a toasty afternoon at University Stadium, that was the only area where SU could claim superiority over UNM.
The host Lobos laid a rout on the Jaguars, romping to a 66-21 victory that opened a new chapter in their history and renewed fears that this season will mean more disappointment for Southern.
Not much was expected from SU in a matchup against a Football Bowl Subdivision opponent — against which it is now 0-6 all time — and not much was provided. When the Jukebox began playing and dancing its way through Michael Jackson’s “Thriller,” the Jaguars were already down 45-6.
While the damage was limited from then on, the point had been made.
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Southern quarterback job still firmly Dray Joseph’s
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. — It just wouldn’t feel right if both Southern quarterbacks didn’t play.
As was the case throughout last season, Dray Joseph and J.P. Douglas took snaps for the Jaguars in a 66-21 loss at New Mexico. But unlike 2011, this isn’t a two-quarterback system.
As coach Stump Mitchell said throughout the offseason, the backup played only because of injury.
In the third quarter, both of Joseph’s calf muscles cramped up, and he had to be carried off the field.
“I couldn’t bend my feet,” Joseph said. “Both of my toes were pointing down to the ground, so I couldn’t walk.”
Joseph’s exit meant more than a quarter of playing time for Douglas.
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Turnovers catalyst for New Mexico
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. — While New Mexico was piling up a 3-33 record over the past three seasons, coughing up the ball was one of its many issues.
But in Saturday’s debut under new Lobos coach and former ESPN sportscaster Bob Davie, UNM had an about-face against Southern, creating turnovers on three consecutive second-quarter possessions and turning them all into touchdowns.
That helped New Mexico roll to a 66-21 victory over the Jaguars in Davie’s first game in more than a decade.
“The first half of football, our whole goal was no self-inflicted mistakes,” Davie said. “That’s a pretty good first half of football. I don’t care who you’re playing. Because the first game of the year, you’re really playing yourself.”
When the first half was over, the Lobos had a 45-6 lead and had totaled more points than it had in its final seven games last season.
BOX SCORE
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2012 AT&T Nation's Football Classic: Howard "Showtime" Marching Band vs. Morehouse "House of Funk" Marching Band
WASHINGTON, D.C. - Despite the 95+ degree heat and humidity (in the shade), I had a great time at the Nation's Football Classic yesterday. These videos don't do justice to the performance of both bands ... you got to be there to appreciate the performances of both programs. It was hot!!
Videographer: rzxviper07's
Videographer: rzxviper07's
Morgan State wins, 30-27, over Sacred Heart in 4th OT
BALTIMORE, Maryland - Standing on the Morgan State sideline, running back Travis Davidson couldn't bring himself to watch Sacred Heart's Chris Rogers attempt the game-winning field goal in the third overtime of Saturday's season opener."I'm very superstitious," Davidson said. "I feel like when I watch the game, bad stuff happens, so I had my head down."
It didn't take long for the senior to snap back to attention, as teammate Lamar Bynum broke through the line to block the low kick. Minutes later, the Bears' Ervin Gonzalez lined up on the left hash mark and nailed a 20-yarder of his own, giving host Morgan State a 30-27 win in four overtimes, marking the longest game in school history.
The sequence was an appropriate end for a game that saw seven lead changes and enough emotional swings to last the better part of a season.
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Howard football looks to Cunningham, pulls out comeback win over Morehouse
WASHINGTON, D.C. - When Howard football Coach Gary Harrell arrived at RFK Stadium for Saturday’s Nation’s Football Classic against Morehouse College, he still harbored thoughts of redshirting true freshman quarterback Jamie Cunningham.When Harrell stepped up to the dais for his news conference following an improbable 30-29 victory over the Maroon Tigers, he named the youngster his starter next week against Rutgers.
With sophomore starter Greg McGhee ineligible and backup Randy Liggins Jr. struggling, Harrell trusted the last signal-caller left on the roster to lead the Bison in his first college game. Cunningham responded with a pair of fourth-quarter scoring drives, finishing his debut by connecting with junior tight end David Wilson on a 13-yard fade pass for the go-ahead touchdown with 22 seconds left.
“My coaches always tell me, ‘Stay calm, stay cool, there’s no pressure,’ ” said Cunningham, who finished 10 of 11 for 79 yards with one touchdown. “We all get first team reps, so it’s nothing new, and when the opportunity came, I was ready for it.”
BOX SCORE
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Saturday, September 1, 2012
Howard, Morehouse keep trash talk at a minimum for this year’s Nation’s Football Classic
WASHINGTON, D.C. - Howard University and Morehouse College will face off this weekend during the second annual AT&T Nation’s Football Classic, and the stakes are high. “Last year’s victory over Morehouse was a huge win for us and was a catalyst for a great season for us,” Howard head football coach Gary Harrell told NationsFootballClassic.com. “With this year’s Classic being the season opener for both teams, the energy and level of play is going to be that more intense.”
The 2011 Nation’s Football Classic – the first meeting between Morehouse and Howard in 14 years – left Morehouse’s Maroon Tigers with something to prove. Howard defeated Morehouse on the field and at the podium. They won the football game, 30-27, and crushed Morehouse in the inaugural Mordecai Wyatt Johnson – Benjamin E. Mays Student Debate, or “The Game Before the Game”
“Every win gives us a little more confidence,” said Rodney Hill, a senior defensive lineman from Reading, Pa. This is his fourth year playing for Howard.
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Morgan State looking forward to Year 2 of Seth Higgins era
September 1, 2012
Sacred Heart at Morgan State
Time: 1:00 PM
Hughes Stadium, Baltimore
Radio: WEAA, 88.9 FM
BALTIMORE, Maryland - Sophomore Seth Higgins likes to think of himself as a student of the game. This offseason, Morgan State coach Donald Hill-Eley found out first-hand just how intent his starting quarterback is on becoming a football scholar.
"Seth was always in the office. It was almost like he was employed," Hill-Eley said. "I mean, seeing the copier machine was just like seeing Seth. He was going to be there, and he was going to put the time into watching film and learning what's expected."
It's that kind of commitment that has Morgan football fans buzzing about the former Edgewood standout, who started the team's final seven games as a true freshman, throwing for 1,116 yards and nine touchdowns. Twice he was named the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference Rookie of the Week.
At 6 feet 5, 225 pounds, Higgins has all the requisite physical tools to become a star, unafraid to show off his strong, accurate arm and ability to outrun defenders. But taking the next step, he knows, is also about mastering the game mentally.
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Sacred Heart at Morgan State
Time: 1:00 PM
Hughes Stadium, Baltimore
Radio: WEAA, 88.9 FM
BALTIMORE, Maryland - Sophomore Seth Higgins likes to think of himself as a student of the game. This offseason, Morgan State coach Donald Hill-Eley found out first-hand just how intent his starting quarterback is on becoming a football scholar."Seth was always in the office. It was almost like he was employed," Hill-Eley said. "I mean, seeing the copier machine was just like seeing Seth. He was going to be there, and he was going to put the time into watching film and learning what's expected."
It's that kind of commitment that has Morgan football fans buzzing about the former Edgewood standout, who started the team's final seven games as a true freshman, throwing for 1,116 yards and nine touchdowns. Twice he was named the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference Rookie of the Week.
At 6 feet 5, 225 pounds, Higgins has all the requisite physical tools to become a star, unafraid to show off his strong, accurate arm and ability to outrun defenders. But taking the next step, he knows, is also about mastering the game mentally.
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The skinny on the CIAA
RICHMOND, Virigina - The skinnyWhat's new: Founded in 1912, the CIAA will celebrate its 100th anniversary this year, maintaining its claim as the oldest predominantly black conference in the nation. On Aug. 1, Saint Augustine's College officially became Saint Augustine's University, right on time to commemorate the school's 145th anniversary.
Who's new: Just two seasons removed from winning the CIAA championship, Shaw will have a new head coach in Robert Massey. Massey was promoted from the defensive coordinator post he served the past two seasons under former Bears head coach Darrell Asberry, who is now the head man at Texas Southern.
Top five players: Elizabeth City State RB Daronte McNeil, Elizabeth City State DE Brad Davis, Lincoln DE Tim Green, Saint Augustine's WR Tyrone Laughinghouse, Winston-Salem State QB Kameron Smith.
Preseason offensive player of the year: Elizabeth City State RB Daronte McNeil
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Clark Atlanta University marching band suspended for possibility of hazing
ATLANTA, Georgia - Clark Atlanta University has suspended performances of the "Mighty Marching Panthers" to investigate a hazing allegation. University leaders made the decision on Friday.
The University's Official Statement is as follows:
“Mighty Marching Panthers” Band Performances Temporarily Suspended
August 30, 2012--Clark Atlanta University today suspended performances of its “Mighty Marching Panthers” Marching Band in light of an allegation regarding the possibility of hazing within its ranks. While there is no immediate evidence of hazing or any other foul play, the University of its own volition chooses to takea thorough, comprehensive look into this serious matter.
Even the possibility of hazing is unacceptable under any circumstance. Therefore, an investigation will commence immediately. The University aims to be thorough, comprehensive and aggressive in its review.
Ideally, the allegations will prove untrue and the band can return to its planned schedule of performances as quickly as possible. However, regardless of the findings, Clark Atlanta is prepared to take whatever actions are necessary to ensure a safe, healthy, non-threatening experience for our student musicians. The integrity of our University, our band program and the honor of the musicians therein warrants no less.!
The Mighty Panthers Marching Band was a participant in the 2011 Honda Battle of the Bands Showcase at the Georgia Dome.
The Mays High School band will substitute during CAU's first football game of the season on Saturday. CAU will play the University of West Alabama at Panther Stadium in Atlanta.
CAU Press Release, August 30, 2012
The University's Official Statement is as follows:
“Mighty Marching Panthers” Band Performances Temporarily SuspendedAugust 30, 2012--Clark Atlanta University today suspended performances of its “Mighty Marching Panthers” Marching Band in light of an allegation regarding the possibility of hazing within its ranks. While there is no immediate evidence of hazing or any other foul play, the University of its own volition chooses to takea thorough, comprehensive look into this serious matter.
Even the possibility of hazing is unacceptable under any circumstance. Therefore, an investigation will commence immediately. The University aims to be thorough, comprehensive and aggressive in its review.
Ideally, the allegations will prove untrue and the band can return to its planned schedule of performances as quickly as possible. However, regardless of the findings, Clark Atlanta is prepared to take whatever actions are necessary to ensure a safe, healthy, non-threatening experience for our student musicians. The integrity of our University, our band program and the honor of the musicians therein warrants no less.!
The Mighty Panthers Marching Band was a participant in the 2011 Honda Battle of the Bands Showcase at the Georgia Dome.
The Mays High School band will substitute during CAU's first football game of the season on Saturday. CAU will play the University of West Alabama at Panther Stadium in Atlanta.
CAU Press Release, August 30, 2012
FAMU's Joe Taylor climbs higher in record books
TALLAHASSEE, Florida - Joe Taylor was attending a press conference in Nashville a few weeks ago to promote Saturday’s game between FAMU and Tennessee State when John Merritt’s name came up in a conversation that Taylor wasn’t expecting.The game is a classic named in Merritt’s honor, but until he was informed, Taylor didn’t know that he could surpass the legendary black college coach with just six victories this season. Such a milestone would make Taylor the second-winningest HBCU coach.
“I didn’t start this thing off by saying let’s see how many championships I could win or how many records I could set,” Taylor said. “I went with the idea of how much I can give back because somebody helped me.
“You can’t lose sight. You have to be concerned about these young men because when they grow the program grows.”
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FAMU will overcome its challenges
MIAMI, Florida - Before Florida A&M University accepted me in 2006, I’d heard rumors and stories about FAMU — that it was nothing but a party school, that it did not offer a serious education and that the bar for success was set pretty low.
When I enrolled, I planned on tolerating the school for two years, getting my associate’s degree and transferring to the more well-regarded Florida State University.
Over the next four years, however, my perspective was turned completely on its head, and I couldn’t be happier with my choice to remain a Rattler.
Now as the school is stuck in a difficult moment, I can’t help but think back to the tough stories I once heard about the college from those who did not really know it — and about how wrong they were.
Yes, students party and some of the friends I met freshman year didn’t make it to graduation, but those who base reputations on rumors rarely think of the thousands of other students each year, and the hundreds of thousands throughout the years, who have become successful adults because of their education and experiences at FAMU.
Bits of negativity sometimes create an aura that envelops an institution, and it simply isn’t fair.
In no way am I ignoring reckless acts of some members of our beloved Marching 100 band, but they made up only a small fraction of our student body, faculty, staff and other organizations who are passionate and loyal Rattlers. Their acts, which are undeniably unfortunate, do not reflect the ideals of the university as a whole. We are so much more than that ugly fragment.
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TSU faces rival in John Merritt Classic
NASHVILLE, Tennessee - The Tennessee State-Florida A&M rivalry dates to 1944, but tonight marks the first time the two have met in the John Merritt Classic. Coach Rod Reed makes all his players aware of the significance of the rivalry by putting them through a required class — History of TSU Football.
“We’re young and not as battle-tested as we have been some of the last few years,” Reed said. “That’s why the first thing we do when these guys get on campus is have them take that class. We show them the Richard Dents, the Ed “Too Tall” Joneses, the Leon Moores and then we get into the rivalries. After it’s over they get it. They know this is a really, really big game. Plus, we have more than 20 guys on our team who are from Florida, and that helps them to understand the rivalry.”
TSU tied the series 25-25 by winning the last game in 2010, Reed’s first season as coach, 29-18.
Last season marked the first time since 1982 that TSU and FAMU didn’t play. They had met in the Atlanta Football Classic 13 consecutive years, but organizers did not invite TSU back after 2010.
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“We’re young and not as battle-tested as we have been some of the last few years,” Reed said. “That’s why the first thing we do when these guys get on campus is have them take that class. We show them the Richard Dents, the Ed “Too Tall” Joneses, the Leon Moores and then we get into the rivalries. After it’s over they get it. They know this is a really, really big game. Plus, we have more than 20 guys on our team who are from Florida, and that helps them to understand the rivalry.”
TSU tied the series 25-25 by winning the last game in 2010, Reed’s first season as coach, 29-18.
Last season marked the first time since 1982 that TSU and FAMU didn’t play. They had met in the Atlanta Football Classic 13 consecutive years, but organizers did not invite TSU back after 2010.
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Prairie View, TSU eye trophy, bragging rights
HOUSTON, Texas - Prairie View A&M coach Heishma Northern was taking his son, Adam, to his first day of kindergarten Monday when Adam noticed the Labor Day Classic trophy nestled in the back of the truck.
Adam, who is used to seeing the trophy in his father's office, inquired why it wasn't in its usual location.
Northern explained that he had to take the trophy to a joint Prairie View-Texas Southern news conference that afternoon and that the winner of Saturday night's game at Reliant Stadium would get to keep it.
"Well, you might as well as leave it in the office," Adam said.
Given recent history, Adam's intuition could prove to be true.
The Durley-Nicks Traveling Trophy, as it is officially named, has been in Prairie View's possession for the last five years and seven of the previous eight. TSU last retained the trophy in 2006 when it slipped away with a 17-14 victory at Reliant Stadium.
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Alabama A&M football: Mason craves one step more
HUNTSVILLE, Alabama - Faith. Fire. Focus. Those three words are printed on a wrist band that Alabama A&M football players wore last season when they reached the Southwestern Athletic Conference championship game.
Quarterback Deaunte Mason wants to add one more word to the band before Saturday's season opener against Tuskegee. Finish.
"One of the main things we focused on this summer is finishing," Mason said. "We've got all the elements together."
While the entire team would like to finish and win a championship, the onus is likely on Mason, who has led the Bulldogs to the SWAC championship game two of the last three years, but hasn't come away with a title. A&M blew a 15-3 halftime lead to Grambling last year before falling 16-15.
"I put a lot of pressure on myself," said Mason, a 6-foot-3, 233-pound redshirt senior from Nashville. "I feel like it's my duty to the team to win it. It's that simple."
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Quarterback Deaunte Mason wants to add one more word to the band before Saturday's season opener against Tuskegee. Finish.
"One of the main things we focused on this summer is finishing," Mason said. "We've got all the elements together."
While the entire team would like to finish and win a championship, the onus is likely on Mason, who has led the Bulldogs to the SWAC championship game two of the last three years, but hasn't come away with a title. A&M blew a 15-3 halftime lead to Grambling last year before falling 16-15.
"I put a lot of pressure on myself," said Mason, a 6-foot-3, 233-pound redshirt senior from Nashville. "I feel like it's my duty to the team to win it. It's that simple."
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A&T Aggies Looking For Win Against Coastal Carolina
NORTH CAROLINA A&T (0-0, 0-0) at COASTAL CAROLINA (0-0, 0-0)
Date: September 1, 2012
Time: 6 p.m.
Stadium: Brooks Stadium
Series: Coastal leads, 3-0
Radio: WNAA 90.1 FM; Campus Radio Station: Spencer Gwynn (play-by-play), Al Swann (color); Billy Covington (color), Mel Swann (halftime host).
CHIT CHATTER: North Carolina A&T is looking for its first win over a non-HBCU since beating Elon 19-17 on Sept. 25, 2004. The Aggies have lost their last seven games against non-HBCU's, including three straight losses to Coastal Carolina. The Aggies will also be looking for just their second road win in nine tries. Their last road win came against Morgan State on Oct. 1, 2011. A&T is making its second trip to Conway, S.C., in four years. Their last trip occurred on Sept. 26, 2009 during Mike Mayhew's freshman season. The rookie rushed for 84 yards on 11 carries in the 28-7 loss.
From the other coach:
Coastal Carolina head coach Joe Moglia on the Coastal offense
"Our Offense is coming along, not as much depth in offensive line. We've had inconsistency in regards to our specialists."
Moglia on A&T
"North Carolina A&T has an outstanding tailback and they put a big full back in front of him. At the end of the last football season, they really became a powerful team. They really have a lot of skilled athletes offensively and defensively."
It's A "Lock": Junior linebacker D'Vonte Grant still has a lot to prove. He is mainly out to prove that last season was no fluke. At first glance, Grant doesn't look like a big, bad scary linebacker. But once he is in his pads, he is as fearless as any linebacker in the FCS. Grant (5-11, 205, Charlotte, N.C.) led the Aggies in tackles and was considered one of the best newcomers in the FCS after being a finalist for the Jerry Rice award. No one will be surprised by his success this season after he earned a spot on the MEAC's defensive preseason team. Another solid season even though there will be more attention paid to him, will show despite his size, he can still be an effective linebacker.
Potential Gameday Star power: North Carolina A&T: Junior safety Travis Crosby lives around the football. He is accustomed to making big plays whether the ball is in the air or on the ground. He will play a big part in trying to slow down the Chanticleers offense. Coastal Carolina: Senior quarterback Aramis Hillary threw for 255 yards and three touchdowns in the Chanticleers 31-14 win over the Aggies in 2011 at Aggie Stadium. No other opponent threw for that many yards against the Aggies throughout last season. Hillary, who was 18-for-24 in the game, has many of his weapons back including junior receiver Matt Hazel, who caught two of Hillary's touchdown passes.
The Magic Number For A&T: 0: In the Aggies previous three meetings against Coastal Carolina, they have failed to score a single point in the first half. If the Aggies are able to strike early against the Chanticleers, it could go a long way in helping the Aggies earn their win in three tries against the Chanticleers.
Fantasy League Pick: If this were a fantasy league ballgame, a solid guy to play would be senior receiver Larry Raper. Raper runs a 4.34 in the 40-yard dash, making him one of the fastest players on the team. For Aggie fans, Raper's speed is no surprise. What will make him an offensive threat this season are two other added elements to his game - size and leadership. Raper has put in the work to replace Wallace Miles as the Aggies No. 1 receiver by adding muscle and determination during the offseason. All that hard work may pay off Saturday night in Conway, S.C.
FROM THE NOTES
The Monster Mash
North Carolina A&T had one of the best run defenses in the country last season. The Aggies ranked seventh in rush defense and eighth in overall defense. A big part of the Aggies success came behind the leadership of senior defensive end Tony Mashburn. Mashburn made 12.5 tackles behind the line of scrimmage in 2011. As a team, the Aggies held five of their opponents to under 50 yards rushing last season. In three of those games, the Aggies held their opponents to under 10 yards rushing.
Broadway Openers
North Carolina A&T head coach Rod Broadway is entering his 10th season as a head coach. He spent four seasons apiece at N.C. Central and Grambling. He is 5-4 in season openers as a head coach. He was 1-3 at Grambling when playing a season opener with two of those losses coming to Division I FBS teams. At N.C. Central, he was 3-1 in games that opened the season with his only loss coming to North Carolina A&T in 2003. Last season the Aggies opened with a 38-7 win over Virginia University of Lynchburg.
Mayhew Carries The Load
Mike Mayhew native is just 10 carries shy of becoming the school's all-time leader in rush attempts as well. He was only one of 25 backs with at least 150 carries in the Football Championship Subdivision to rush for more than 100 yards per game. In 2010, Mayhew carried the ball a school record 221 times. The following year, he outdid himself by breaking his own record with 231 rushing attempts. Mayhew has recorded 25 or rushing attempts eight times in his career. He is averaging 131.8 yards in those games.
COURTESY NORTH CAROLINA A&T STATE UNIVERSITY SPORTS INFORMATION
Date: September 1, 2012
Time: 6 p.m.
Stadium: Brooks Stadium
Series: Coastal leads, 3-0
Radio: WNAA 90.1 FM; Campus Radio Station: Spencer Gwynn (play-by-play), Al Swann (color); Billy Covington (color), Mel Swann (halftime host).
From the other coach:
Coastal Carolina head coach Joe Moglia on the Coastal offense
"Our Offense is coming along, not as much depth in offensive line. We've had inconsistency in regards to our specialists."
Moglia on A&T
"North Carolina A&T has an outstanding tailback and they put a big full back in front of him. At the end of the last football season, they really became a powerful team. They really have a lot of skilled athletes offensively and defensively."
It's A "Lock": Junior linebacker D'Vonte Grant still has a lot to prove. He is mainly out to prove that last season was no fluke. At first glance, Grant doesn't look like a big, bad scary linebacker. But once he is in his pads, he is as fearless as any linebacker in the FCS. Grant (5-11, 205, Charlotte, N.C.) led the Aggies in tackles and was considered one of the best newcomers in the FCS after being a finalist for the Jerry Rice award. No one will be surprised by his success this season after he earned a spot on the MEAC's defensive preseason team. Another solid season even though there will be more attention paid to him, will show despite his size, he can still be an effective linebacker.
Potential Gameday Star power: North Carolina A&T: Junior safety Travis Crosby lives around the football. He is accustomed to making big plays whether the ball is in the air or on the ground. He will play a big part in trying to slow down the Chanticleers offense. Coastal Carolina: Senior quarterback Aramis Hillary threw for 255 yards and three touchdowns in the Chanticleers 31-14 win over the Aggies in 2011 at Aggie Stadium. No other opponent threw for that many yards against the Aggies throughout last season. Hillary, who was 18-for-24 in the game, has many of his weapons back including junior receiver Matt Hazel, who caught two of Hillary's touchdown passes.
The Magic Number For A&T: 0: In the Aggies previous three meetings against Coastal Carolina, they have failed to score a single point in the first half. If the Aggies are able to strike early against the Chanticleers, it could go a long way in helping the Aggies earn their win in three tries against the Chanticleers.
Fantasy League Pick: If this were a fantasy league ballgame, a solid guy to play would be senior receiver Larry Raper. Raper runs a 4.34 in the 40-yard dash, making him one of the fastest players on the team. For Aggie fans, Raper's speed is no surprise. What will make him an offensive threat this season are two other added elements to his game - size and leadership. Raper has put in the work to replace Wallace Miles as the Aggies No. 1 receiver by adding muscle and determination during the offseason. All that hard work may pay off Saturday night in Conway, S.C.
FROM THE NOTES
The Monster Mash
North Carolina A&T had one of the best run defenses in the country last season. The Aggies ranked seventh in rush defense and eighth in overall defense. A big part of the Aggies success came behind the leadership of senior defensive end Tony Mashburn. Mashburn made 12.5 tackles behind the line of scrimmage in 2011. As a team, the Aggies held five of their opponents to under 50 yards rushing last season. In three of those games, the Aggies held their opponents to under 10 yards rushing.
Broadway Openers
North Carolina A&T head coach Rod Broadway is entering his 10th season as a head coach. He spent four seasons apiece at N.C. Central and Grambling. He is 5-4 in season openers as a head coach. He was 1-3 at Grambling when playing a season opener with two of those losses coming to Division I FBS teams. At N.C. Central, he was 3-1 in games that opened the season with his only loss coming to North Carolina A&T in 2003. Last season the Aggies opened with a 38-7 win over Virginia University of Lynchburg.
Mayhew Carries The Load
Mike Mayhew native is just 10 carries shy of becoming the school's all-time leader in rush attempts as well. He was only one of 25 backs with at least 150 carries in the Football Championship Subdivision to rush for more than 100 yards per game. In 2010, Mayhew carried the ball a school record 221 times. The following year, he outdid himself by breaking his own record with 231 rushing attempts. Mayhew has recorded 25 or rushing attempts eight times in his career. He is averaging 131.8 yards in those games.
COURTESY NORTH CAROLINA A&T STATE UNIVERSITY SPORTS INFORMATION
Delaware State Hornets eager to get ball rolling
DOVER, Delaware - Delaware State University has won five out of its last seven football openers. But considering the Hornets haven’t had a winning season since 2007, that kickoff momentum has not been carrying through the rest of the campaign.
Delaware State hopes to change that trend starting today when it kicks off the 2012 season at Alumni Stadium against Virginia Military Institute in a nonconference tilt at 2 p.m.
“This is why we do what we do,” said Kermit Blount, beginning his second season as the Hornets’ head coach. “This is what we’ve been waiting for. It gives the kids the opportunity to play somebody with different-colored jerseys and gives a chance to match wits with a good staff from VMI.”
Delaware State defeated VMI 24-21 in Lexington, Va., in the first game between the teams last season. Nick Elko threw for 230 yards and three touchdowns and Justin Wilson had a pair of TD catches to lead the Hornets’ 346-yard offensive attack.
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Delaware State hopes to change that trend starting today when it kicks off the 2012 season at Alumni Stadium against Virginia Military Institute in a nonconference tilt at 2 p.m.
“This is why we do what we do,” said Kermit Blount, beginning his second season as the Hornets’ head coach. “This is what we’ve been waiting for. It gives the kids the opportunity to play somebody with different-colored jerseys and gives a chance to match wits with a good staff from VMI.”
Delaware State defeated VMI 24-21 in Lexington, Va., in the first game between the teams last season. Nick Elko threw for 230 yards and three touchdowns and Justin Wilson had a pair of TD catches to lead the Hornets’ 346-yard offensive attack.
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Stillman hopes maturity leads to improvement
TUSCALOOSA, Alabama | After going 7-4 last season, Stillman coach Teddy Keaton is looking for this year’s squad to compete for the SIAC title. However, Keaton refuses to let his team rest on the successes of the 2011 season.
“Last year is last year. I’ll put that in the scrapbook. Every year, a team has a different identity. As far as camp goes right now, they’ve done a great job in the offseason of getting better, getting stronger, understanding execution, doing it the right way.”
This year’s team plans on using the experience built up by last year’s freshmen and some talented newcomers to achieve their goals.
“Right now, they’ve demonstrated the maturity level. A lot of the kids who played last year were freshman, now they’re sophomores, and there’s a mixture of juniors in there. They’ve matured into their role, they’re understanding the offense and understanding the defensive schemes.
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“Last year is last year. I’ll put that in the scrapbook. Every year, a team has a different identity. As far as camp goes right now, they’ve done a great job in the offseason of getting better, getting stronger, understanding execution, doing it the right way.”
This year’s team plans on using the experience built up by last year’s freshmen and some talented newcomers to achieve their goals.
“Right now, they’ve demonstrated the maturity level. A lot of the kids who played last year were freshman, now they’re sophomores, and there’s a mixture of juniors in there. They’ve matured into their role, they’re understanding the offense and understanding the defensive schemes.
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Expectations high as WSSU Rams hit field
WINSTON-SALEM, North Carolina - One of the most highly anticipated seasons in recent Winston-Salem State football history will start at 6 p.m. today when WSSU plays UNC Pembroke at Bowman Gray Stadium.
The Rams are coming off a program-best 13-1 season and are No. 9 in the American Football Coaches Association's preseason rankings.
"We've got a veteran team coming back, and we've replaced the guys we lost with some quality players, and right now they are performing well," coach Connell Maynor said. "I think because our offense and defense are both so experienced, it's really hard to make plays in practice. I think they are ready to play outside competition."
Maynor predicted a two-touchdown victory earlier this week against a UNCP team that has lost two straight to WSSU — 34-7 in 2011 and 21-7 in 2010, both at Pembroke.
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ECSU Vikings do extra prep for opener
The Wolves play on artificial turf and Tillar was concerned that the ECSU players, who practice and play on natural grass, might get distracted by the different surface, so he took the team to East Carolina last Sunday to work out on a similar field.
“We’ve got a bunch of new guys and I wanted to get those turf jitters out of them so they would feel more comfortable,” Tillar said. “The game is much faster on turf. You have to give them a chance to get accustomed to it.
“Playing faster than normal, guys can ...
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Livingstone College band ready for football season
SALISBURY, North Carolina - When the Livingstone College Marching Blue Bears take the field tonight at Alumni Memorial Stadium, their size alone will impress you. When they start playing "In the Stone," one of Earth, Wind & Fire's biggest hits, you're probably going to be blown away. In fact, you might think members from the Grammy-winning group's horn section have donned Livingstone uniforms and are out there on the field, too.Marching bands have long been the essence and ethos of the black college experience. More than a century ago, Alabama A&M's chancellor recruited W.C. Handy to join the faculty and direct the band, orchestra and vocal music programs. Over time, the tunes played by HBCU marching bands have evolved from classical music to more popular music - notably soul and R&B.
It's not uncommon for halftime shows to include songs by Michael Jackson, Stevie Wonder, Aretha Franklin, Average White Band, Frankie Beverly & Maze, The Gap Band and other popular artists. Sometimes, even musical show tunes wind their way into the performances.
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NCCU Eagles look to cut turnovers, penalties
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| COACH HENRY FRAZIER III |
The Eagles start the season today (6 p.m., WNCU 90.7-FM) at home against Fayetteville State, a Division-II school from the Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association, in which NCCU competed before rejoining the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference.
NCCU coach Henry Frazier III admitted that there is some added pressure for hosting a Division II squad in Game 1. NCCU doesn’t have the upper hand just because it’s on a higher level, Frazier said.
“Man, we went 2-9 (in 2011) — ain’t no upper hands,” Frazier said. “When you’re coming off 2-9 (and) you’re 0-5 at home, you can’t look a that. I don’t think no one should be around here talking about upper hands.”
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NSU player with NFL sibling is on his own path
NORFOLK, Virginia - After their freshman year at Norfolk State, DeMarta' Johnson was hanging out at teammate Keenan Lambert's house. They talked. They relaxed. Then a rookie safety with the NFL's Seattle Seahawks strolled into the room.
"He was just walking around the house," Johnson said. "I was kinda startled. I was like, 'Yo, that's Kam Chancellor.' I recognized him from Virginia Tech. He's like, 'Yeah that's my brother.' "
Johnson wasn't the only one surprised. Most people, including some teammates, still don't know Lambert and Chancellor are half-brothers who grew up sharing a bedroom.
The different last names are part of the reason. Lambert does the rest, downplaying the connection.
THE GAME
Norfolk State vs. Virginia State at Dick Price Stadium,6 p.m.
Radio 102.1 FM, 1490 AM
GAME WATCH
Virginia State at Norfolk State
Time 6 p.m.
No TV
Radio 102.1 FM, 1490 AM
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"He was just walking around the house," Johnson said. "I was kinda startled. I was like, 'Yo, that's Kam Chancellor.' I recognized him from Virginia Tech. He's like, 'Yeah that's my brother.' "
Johnson wasn't the only one surprised. Most people, including some teammates, still don't know Lambert and Chancellor are half-brothers who grew up sharing a bedroom.
The different last names are part of the reason. Lambert does the rest, downplaying the connection.
THE GAME
Norfolk State vs. Virginia State at Dick Price Stadium,6 p.m.
Radio 102.1 FM, 1490 AM
GAME WATCH
Virginia State at Norfolk State
Time 6 p.m.
No TV
Radio 102.1 FM, 1490 AM
READ MORE
What to watch for in Sunday's MEAC/SWAC Challenge
MONTGOMERY,. Alabama - Watch what Alabama State coach Reggie Barlow and company had to say after their last practice in Montgomery before heading to Orlando for the big game. Kickoff is scheduled for 11 a.m. Sunday and the game will be aired live on ESPN. Video is courtesy of http:www.bamastatesports.com.
Interviews with HC Reggie Barlow, CB Saeed Lee, FS Kejuan Riley and QB Greg Jenkins on this week's game vs. Bethune-Cookman in the MEAC-SWAC Chalenge Sunday, Sept. 2 at 11 a.m. CST in Orlando, Fla.
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Interviews with HC Reggie Barlow, CB Saeed Lee, FS Kejuan Riley and QB Greg Jenkins on this week's game vs. Bethune-Cookman in the MEAC-SWAC Chalenge Sunday, Sept. 2 at 11 a.m. CST in Orlando, Fla.
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