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GRAMBLING, Louisiana — Southern started its winning streak four weeks ago with a hard-fought 66-61 victory against Grambling.
Any notion that the streak might end or that the rematch would be as close as the first meeting was shot down by Jaguars guards Adrian Rodgers and Trelun Banks on Saturday.
Rodgers made four 3-pointers in seven attempts, eight field goals in 14 attempts and 10 free throws in 12 attempts as he scored a game-high and career-high 30 points. Banks was 5-of-7 on 3-pointers, missed his only 2-pointer, and made 3-of-4 free throws in scoring 18 points as Southern won its eighth straight game by beating the Tigers 79-66 in the Fredrick C. Hobdy Athletic Center.
The Jaguars (16-7, 8-2 Southwestern Athletic Conference) will go for nine in a row when they visit Jackson State on Monday. Jackson State lost to Alcorn State 72-64 Saturday to fall out of a second-place tie with Southern and into a third-place tie with the Braves.
Grambling (6-16, 3-7) lost for the seventh time in eight games, a stretch that began with the first meeting between theseC teams.
JACKSON, Mississippi -- Saturday's game against Alcorn State presented Jackson State with a chance to separate itself from the Braves.
The Tigers were tied with Southern for second place in the SWAC, were ahead of Alcorn State by a game and could have gone ahead by two games with a win.
The Braves had other plans, though.
JSU could never really find a rhythm and never had an answer for guard Tamarcio Wilson, who scored a career-high 31 points to lead Alcorn State to a 72-64 victory in front of 3,099 fans at the Lee E. Williams AAC.
"This is a game you definitely don't want to lose. It's a rivalry game, playing on our home court," Tigers coach Wayne Brent said. "We went down there and beat them at their place. We knew they were going to come with their best game. This is a hard game to take because we didn't want to lose and we had a great crowd. Our crowd came out and this was a game we didn't want to give up."
PRAIRIE VIEW, Texas -- Avery Lomax hit a pair of go-ahead free throws with three seconds left as Prairie View A&M held off Texas Southern 59-55 inside the Baby Dome Saturday evening.
Playing in front of an energetic crowd, the Panthers responded in the opening minutes as they stormed out to a 13-2 lead by making their first four shots while TSU only hit one shot in the first six minutes. When TSU started to make its shots, the Panthers kept on charging as their inside tandem of Admassu Williams and Karim York hit buckets inside as the lead grew to 19-7 at the 11:24 mark.
In true rivalry fashion, Texas Southern would charge back with an 11-0 run which spanned five minutes as they trailed 19-18. Jayrn Johnson would end the run with a pair of three balls to move PVAMU up by seven but TSU continued to claw back into the game from the charity stripe as Brian Carey hit four straight free throws followed by Tyree Bynum's layup for a 25-24 PVAMU lead with 4:06 left on the clock.
Jordan Giddings answered Bynum's layup to up the lead back to three points and a steal by Ja'Donta Blakely led to a Johnson layup and 29-24 margin with 2:41 left. Two huge blocks by the Panthers on the defensive end kept TSU from scoring as Giddings nailed a trey with 58 seconds left for the final score of the half as PVAMU led 32-24 at halftime.
The second half was a tug-of-war affair as the Panthers were pulled by the Tigers several times towards the brink but held on for dear life. TSU would close to within four points on three occasions in the first 10 minutes of the half but the Panthers found a formula to hold them off with timely baskets.
With 5:40 left, the Panthers jumped out to a 52-42 advantage and had TSU on the ropes. However, TSU's Orlando Coleman picked the perfect time to nail the team's first three-pointer of the game as the lead was cut to 52-45 with 4:31 left. PVAMU would miss its next shot attempt and two free throws by Carey drew TSU to within 52-47. The Panthers failed capitalize on a big turnover as they missed two more shot attempts and TSU continued to fight as Malcom Riley's bucket drew them to within 52-49 at the 1:53 mark.
With the crowd getting restless, both teams struggled to hit baskets over the final minute as Coleman's missed trey led to a huge rebound from Blakely with 27 seconds left. TSU was forced to foul as the shot clock was off and Blakely hit both free throws to up the score to 54-49.
Riley would answer Blakely's free throws with a three-pointer to pull within 54-52 at the 20-second mark and the Panthers narrowly avoided a disaster as a potential turnover was ruled a kickball. After the near-miss, the Panthers' inbound play worked to perfection as Admassu Williams was in position for a breakaway bucket but was fouled. Williams hit both free throws for a two-possession game but Chris Thomas went coast-to-coast in only three seconds to move TSU back within 56-54 with 10 seconds left. The Tigers sent PVAMU's Tevin Bellinger to the line and the SWAC's leading free throw shooter made 1-of-2 from the stripe for a 57-54 advantage.
The Panthers fouled Chris Thomas on the ensuing play to keep them from attempting a three-pointer and the move paid off as Thomas missed both free throws followed by Lomax's go-ahead baskets with three seconds left to give interim head coach Byron Smith his first win.
Jayrn Johnson had his third straight 20-point performance with 21 points and three blocks while Williams chipped in with 11. Lomax had a career night on the boards with 11 rebounds while Blakely followed with seven.
As a result of PVAMU scoring 40-plus points, all fans and PVAMU faculty and staff have an opportunity to achieve the Raising Canes Challenge. All combos are buy one get one free for 24 hours at the Raising Canes in Cypress at 26302 Northwest Freeway in Cypress.
The Panthers are back in action next weekend as they'll face Grambling State at 5 p.m. inside the Baby Dome.
WILBERFORCE, Ohio -- The Marauders of Central State University welcomed in 20 new players this week.
"We took another step towards getting better," said CSU Head Coach Cedric Pearl. "Every player in this year's class brings something to the table that can help us succeed. Our staff is looking forward to working with these young men as we strive for excellence in 2016."
The list includes 13 players from the state of Ohio. Six players from Cleveland are slated to join the CSU football family. Four players from Cincinnati will make the short trip up Interstate 71 to play in Wilberforce next season as well as three players from the Dayton region.
"Entering our third year with the program, we really put an emphasis on recruiting in the state of Ohio," said Pearl. "It is no secret that Ohio is a hotbed for talented student-athletes and that talent is strongly reflected in this year's signing class."
Pearl and his staff were also able to lure talent from the states of Alabama, Louisiana, Florida, Kentucky, Missouri and Michigan making this year's signing period the most successful in recent history.
The signees include two quarterbacks, four wide receivers, six offensive lineman, three defensive backs, four defensive linemen and two linebackers. More players are expected to choose Central State as their destination in the upcoming weeks.
Mid-Year Transfers
Tevan Ray, 6-1, 215, LB, Univ. of Akron (Akron, OH) :: Video
Lavon Meeks, 6-1, 190, QB, Arkansas Baptist (St. Louis, MO) :: Video
Tyrone Jones, 5-11, 180, WR, LA Southwest CC (Los Angeles, LA) :: Video
Transfers
Andre Pate, 6-3, 250, DL, Phoenix CC (Louisville, KY) :: Video
John Franklin, 6-1, 230, DL, Stillman College (Tampa, FL) :: Video
Mikiel Clemons, 6-0, 210, QB Stillman College (Eight Mile, AL) :: Video
High School Signees
Kendall Turner, 6-4, 280, OL, Trotwood-Madison HS (Dayton, OH) :: Video
Lawrence Mosley, 6-5, 285, OL, Trotwood-Madison HS (Dayton, OH) :: Video
Derrick Roberts, 6-1, 185, DB, Springfield HS (Springfield, OH) :: Video
Redrick Mincy, 6-6, 285, OL, Winton Woods HS (Cincinnati, OH) :: Video
Darius Thomas, 6-0, 250, OL Winton Woods HS (Cincinnati, OH) :: Video
Verquavion Robinson, 6-5, 320, OL, Princeton HS (Cincinnati, OH) :: Video
Jahlil Woods, 6-3, 205, WR, Taft HS (Cincinnati, OH) :: Video
Joey Johnson, 6-1, 185, ATH, John Adams HS (Cleveland, OH) :: Video
Torry Johnson, 6-0, 175, DB, Shaw HS (Cleveland, OH) :: Video
Christian Lassiter, 6-0, 240, DL, Shaker Heights HS (Cleveland, OH) :: Video
Kavione Stirtmire, 6-2, 190, WR, John Adams HS (Cleveland, OH) :: Video
Xavier Johnson, 6-3, 240, DL, Shaker Heights HS (Cleveland, OH) :: Video
Devin Waldon, 6-0, 225, LB, East English Village Prep HS (Detroit, MI) :: Video
Dajuan Rooker, 6-4, 300, OL, Renaissance HS (Detroit, MI) :: Video
COURTESY CENTRAL STATE UNIVERSITY SPORTS INFORMATION
WINSTON-SALEM, North Carolina - The Winston-Salem State University football program, and head coach Kienus Boulware are proud to announce the following signees on National Signing Day 2016. The new additions to the WSSU Family, are the second recruiting class under Boulware.
CHARLOTTE, North Carolina -- Johnson C. Smith University second-year head football coach Kermit Blount has announced the signing of 10 student-athletes to National Letters of Intent as part of National Signing Day.
"We are extremely pleased that these young men have decided to become part of our program," said Blount. "I think we have a solid group to start and we are looking forward to adding more to this group in the near future. We added some size and speed to our roster and to help add some much needed depth."
Of the signees, four are offensive linemen and Blount said that those additions will help with boost the JCSU offense and to improve the protection and to the running game.
A complete list of today's signees can be found below. More signees will be released as they are added.
2016 JCSU Football Signees
Name
Position
Height
Weight
Hometown
High School
Keiton Burgess
OL
6-5
330
Sumter, S.C.
Crestwood
D’Juantay Burrell
RB
6-1
215
Tuscaloosa, Ala.
Holt
Desmond Dozier
SB
5-9
180
Conway, S.C.
Loris
Braxton Gambrell
RB
5-9
180
Seneca, S.C.
Seneca
Zalair Knowles
WR
6’4
215
Aiken, S.C.
South Aiken
Tyki Lawson-Oates
DB
6-0
180
Winston-Salem, N.C.
West Forsyth
Isaiah Little
OL
6’7
330
Greensboro, N.C.
Dudley
Denzel Marshall
OL
6’4
310
Chester, S.C.
Chester
Raqwon Niles
OL
6’4
315
Columbia, S.C.
Richlands-Northeast
Lorenz Taylor
DB
6’0
180
Bluffton, S.C.
Bluffton
COURTESY JOHNSON C. SMITH UNIVERSITY SPORTS INFORMATION
RICHMOND, Virginia -- Virginia Union University's football team signed 20 high school seniors and mid-year transfers, it was announced on the National Football Signing Day on Wednesday, February 3.
Head VUU Football Coach Mark James, Recruiting Coordinator Rashaad Harris and Assistant Coach Troy Taylor addressed the media in a press conference held in the Virginia Union Athletic Department. The press conference was streamed world-wide via YouTube.
The complete list of signees on February 3:
1. Michael Huff- WR Churchland High School Portsmouth, VA 5'11 170 All conference Wide receiver in VA.
2. Darius Whitehurst- LB Bishop Sullivan Catholic HS Norfolk, VA 6'0 215 All State Linebacker in VA
3. Emmanuel Antwi- LB Hylton HS Dumfries, VA 6'2 223 All Region Defensive Linemen in VA
4. Javari Alvin- ATH Everglades HS Miami, Fl 6'0 195 All Conference All County Athlete in FL
5. Gustavious Dames- WR Booker T. Washington HS Miami, FL 5'10 175 Apart of a championship team that won it four times in a row and also apart of two national championships as well.
6. Mikal Dobbins- DL Lee HS Staunton, VA 6'2 290 All State Defensive tackle VA
7. Akia Timberlake- FB Goochland HS Columbia, VA 5'10 260 All region Defensive tackle VA
8. Daekwon Spence- WR Thomas Jefferson HS Richmond, VA 6'6 190 All Conference Wide Receiver in Richmond VA
9. Jefftey Joseph- WR Deerfield Beach HS Pompano Beach, FL 6'2 195 One of Florida's underrated Wide Receiver also led team to a third round playoff berth.
10. Marquis Decius- DB Booker T Washington HS Miami, FL 6'0 180 Apart of a championship team that won it four times in a row and also apart of two national championships as well.
11. Bradley Brown- OL Virginia Military Institute Ridgeway, VA 6'4 300. All-Conference, All-district, All-Timesland and National Society for Black Engineers.
12. Justin Cook- OL Delaware State University Salisbury, MD 6'4 320 Appeared in games at DSU and was a part of an offensive line that had a season high of rushing yards in one game at DSU.
13. Ronerick Simpson- OL Hinds Community College Jackson, MS 6'4 330 All Conference Center out of the Mississippi Junior Colleges.
14. Marquis Fairchild- LB University of Hawaii Fort Lauderdale, FL 6'4 245 Rated as one of Florida's top defensive prospects.
15. William Stanback- RB University of Central Florida Hempstead, FL 6'2 230 2 time All American at UCF
16. Aaquil Ingram- TE Monroe Community College Brooklyn, NY 6'2 215 one of the top Tight Ends in the Northeastern Conference in Junior College.
17. Lavatiae Kelly- WR Tennessee State University Fort Lauderdale, FL 6'2 200 #1 WR in Broward County also played in numerous games at TSU.
18. Keynonis Davis- LB Lackawanna College Cincinnati, Ohio 6'1 245 One of Lackawanna's top Linebackers.
19. Justin Lyles- LB Lackawanna College Hampton, VA 5'11 230 One of Lackawanna's top Linebackers. Winner of four straight VHSL Division 5 State Championships at Phoebus High School
20. Holland Fisher- DB Virginia Tech Richmond, VA 6'2 200 Under Armour All American and also played numerous games for Virginia Tech.
COURTESY VIRGINIA UNION UNIVERSITY SPORTS INFORMATION
ROCKVILLE CENTRE, New York – After suffering its first two league losses of the season back-to-back, the University of the District of Columbia women's basketball team bounced back to defeat Molloy College, 54-47 in East Coast Conference play Saturday afternoon at Quealy Gymnasium.
The Firebirds improved to 16-5 overall and 11-2 in league play while Molloy lost the 4th of its last five games to fall to 6-15 overall and 5-8 in the ECC.
In a low-scoring affair, UDC featured a balanced scoring attack with eight different players entering the scoring column, including seven with five points or more. Sophomore center Amber Bryson shined with season and team game-highs of 10 points and seven rebounds. Guards Tajruba Baldwin-Kollore and Tiara Goode both came off the bench to add eight points apiece as well.
The Lions were led offensively by Ally Leftridge (14 points, six rebounds) and Kimani Jackson (11 points), as well as point guard Ihnacinse Grady with a game-high five assists. Defensively, Alex Hampton had a game-high three steals and Brianna Perlmutter had a game-high two blocked shots.
UDC, which two days ago was out-rebounded, 47-29 at Queens during its worst loss in over three years, came out with a vengeance, as the Firebirds won today's rebounding battle, 46-32. This rebounding advantage led to eight more field goal attempts and two more free-throw attempts. UDC also shot slightly better than its opponent from the field (32-percent to 31-percent), three-point range (25-percent to 20-percent) and the foul line (72-percent to 69-percent).
The Firebirds missed their first 12 field goal attempts and turned the ball over four times as they failed to get on the scoreboard for the first 8:18 of play. Fortunately for the Firebirds, all the Lions could muster in that span was a layup by Jackson at the 7:39 mark, as Molloy was just 1-for-15 from the field and 0-for-2 at the free-throw line. A layup by Bryson knotted the score at 2-all at the 1:42 mark as both offenses began to pick up steam near the first quarter's end. Molloy's Hampton and UDC's Jenka Stiasna traded three-point field goals at 1:24 and 1:09, respectively, and Bryson and Leftridge traded baskets within the final minute as the first quarter came to a close with a 7-7 tie.
Bryson scored UDC's first four points in the 2nd quarter, twice putting the Firebirds up by two only to have Molloy answer at the other end to tie. But following a jump shot by Perlmutter at the 6:37 mark which tied the score at 11, UDC went on a 10-0 march to take a 21-11 lead with 3:15 remaining in the half. The Firebirds would lead 23-14 at intermission.
The third quarter saw Brandi Henton score four straight points to extend the Firebirds' lead to 27-14 1:30 into the action. UDC still led 33-21 at the 4:44 mark after a layup by Goode, but a 9-4 Lions charge to end the quarter allowed Molloy to close to seven, 37-30.
Again, UDC used a strong start to the quarter to extend its lead as the Firebirds opened the final stanza on a 9-1 run, kicked off by a Goode three-pointer at 9:39 and finished off with a Baldwin-Kollore layup at 7:29. Molloy twice pulled within seven, but never any closer than that as UDC cruised to a seven-point victory.
Next up, the Firebirds will battle with the top team in the ECC standings, undefeated NYIT (13-0 ECC), at home on Monday, February 8th at 5 p.m.
PRINCESS ANNE, Maryland -- Inside the William P. Hytche Athletic Center in Princess Anne on Saturday evening, the University of Maryland Eastern Shore did something that it had not done since 2008.
UMES beat Hampton University in a game of basketball played by men.
Four Hawks scored in double-digits as UMES hosted and beat Hampton on Feb. 6 by a score of 73-70. It was the first time that Hawks’ head coach Bobby Collins had bested the Pirates, where he coached from 1995 through 2006.
“It feels great because it was the next game,” Collins said. “It had a little bit more weighing on it because (Hampton) was the no. 1 team in the conference. I’m just proud of how our guys competed. You have to come to play every night and the team that has the most will and the most belief is the team that’s going to overcome and win.”
Prior to this game, Hampton had won 10 straight against UMES, including 23 out of their last 24 meetings. To be blunt, the Pirates have owned the Hawks for some time.
TUSKEGEE, Alabama -- The Tuskegee University football program welcomed in 31 new Golden Tigers on National Signing Day, with four of those included as early signees (mid-year transfers).
The list includes 23 high school seniors, including 11 from the state of Alabama. The list includes schools such as Spain Park, Hoover, Demopolis, Spanish Fort, Auburn, Huffman, Austin and Park Crossing. It also includes three players who played in state championship games over the last two years.
The Golden Tigers also welcomed in four defensive backs, three quarterbacks, two defensive linemen, two offensive linemen, six running backs, five receivers, one punter and one punter/kicker.
For more information on Tuskegee University athletics, follow us on Twitter @MyTUAthletics and like us on Facebook.
Mid-year transfers
Jeffrey Bowens, 6-2, 195, Jr., WR, Mercer University/Baylor High School (Chattanooga, Tenn.) :: Video Bowens played 18 games during two years at Mercer, mostly used as a back-up receiver and on special teams. He finished with three receptions for 22 yards during his freshman year, and also tallied five total tackles (three solo, two assisted) on special teams. Bowens recorded his first career catch in a win over Reinhardt (August 28, 2014). A three-sport standout at Baylor High School, Bowens was an All-Region and All-State performer during his senior season.
Kenny Gant, 6-0, 205, R-Fr., RB, Bethune-Cookman College/Houston County High School (Tampa, Fla.) :: Video Gant was redshirted at Bethune-Cookman after coming into the school as the 44th-ranked senior in the state of Georgia by MaxPreps. During his senior season, ran for 1,371 yards and scored 32 touchdowns. He averaged 7.5 yards per carry and 137.1 yards per game during senior season, while earning All-Middle Georgia selection.
Eric Bright, Jr., 5-10, 223, R-Fr., FB, Bethune-Cookman College/Madison County HS (Madison, Fla.) :: Video Bright rushed for 1,772 yards, averaging 5.7 yards per carry on 310 attempts at Madison County High School. He averaged 136.3 yards per game and scored 16 touchdowns.
Shane Ward, Jr., 5-9, 185, WR Pima Community College/Cedar Grove High School (Decatur, Ga.) :: Video Caught 13 passes for 159 yards, averaging 15.9 yards per game as he saw playing time at different skill positions for Pima Community College. He averaged 12.2 yards per reception.
High School Signees
Darrian Anthony, 5-10, 175, DB, Memphis East High School (Memphis, Tenn.) :: Video A great man-to-man cover corner, very smart player with good feet.
Treyvon Brinson, 6-1, 175, WR, Miami Central High School (Miami, Fla.) :: Video A three-time state champion in Florida and knows how to win. He knows how to run good routes, and knows how to use his hands. A very coachable young man.
Marquez Burdette, 5-7, 150, RB, Westlake High School (Atlanta, Ga.) :: Video Rushed for 918 total yards on 112 carries, averaging 8.2 yards per carry. Averaged 70.6 yards per game on the ground, scoring eight rushing touchdowns and nine total touchdowns.
Quincy Cox, 6-3, 210, TE, Hoover High School (Hoover, Ala.) :: Video Very athletic with a big upside, he is tall and has broad shoulders. Will need to work in the weight room to get ready to block and he comes from a great program in Hoover.
Jayjerein Craig, 6-0, 255, RB, Demopolis High School (Demopolis, Ala.) :: Video A power kid, strong physical in-between the tackles. He runs good routes, and can be involved in the passing game. A downhill runner with great vision that will fit the system.
Ahmad Deramus, 5-11, 185, QB, Gadsden City High School (Gadsden, Ala.) :: Video He is a tough-nosed quarterback. He is athletic and can run, and he can make the throws you ask him. He plays at a good program at Gadsden City. Deramus gives us an opportunity to do what we want to do at quarterback.
Jamarcus Ezell, 6-1, 185, QB, Demopolis High School (Demopolis, Ala.) :: Video Helped lead team to the region title during senior season, falling in the first round of the playoffs to Saint Paul's. A very smart kid, and ran the same type of offense we ran. He is good with his legs and his arm.
Christopher Faulkner, 6-0, 285, DL, Baldwin County High School (Bay Minette, Ala.) :: Video A tough kid that early on had a couple of Division I offers. He uses his hands pretty good and great in the running game on defense. He is one of those guys for the future.
Kalil Gray, 6-0, 235, LB, Georgia Military CC (Union City, Ga.):: Video Pound-for-pound probably the best athlete that we are going to have on the board. Great in the running game, great in the passing game. Coming out of high school he had a lot of Division I offers and had to go to junior college. He is a steal and he can run.
Dalton Hall, 6-2, 250, K/P, Redwood Community College (Hartsville, S.C.) :: Video Big leg and consistent. He is a very intimidating kicker with his size, and he wants to be here.
D'Marcus Harris, 6-0, 175, DB, Huffman High School (Birmingham, Ala.) :: Video He has great instincts. He is tough, and is a safety that will get involved in the running game. Tough kid that could compete for significant playing time
Mercury Hayes, 6-1, 175, WR, Langham Creek High School (Cypress, Texas) :: Video Very athletic, has good bloodlines and played across from the top receiver who signed with Texas A&M. His potential level is uncharted.
Steven Hodges, 6-1, 175, WR, Park Crossing High School (Montgomery, Ala.) :: Video One of the best players on their team. He has great hands and runs good routes. He is a physical receiver and will make the tough catches.
Dashae Hubbard, 5-10, 175, DB, Spencer High School (Columbus, Ga.) :: Video Has good feet and good awareness. Has a knack for the ball and is not shy to come up and get physical in the running game. He has great instincts in the passing game.
Chester Hutcherson, 6-1, 200, LB, Spain Park High School (Hoover, Ala.) :: Video Made great strides from his junior year to his senior year. He is an athletic kid that helped lead his team to the state championship game. He runs well and plays fast, he is good with his hands and has a great upside.
Kali James, 5-11, 275, DT, Jonesboro High School (Stockbridge, Ga.) :: Video Clayton County co-defensive player of the year, who finished his senior season with 44 tackles, including 14 sacks; a verbal commit to Campbell University over the summer.
Justin Johnson, 6-3, 310, OL, Antelope Community College (Lancaster, Calif.) :: Video A kid that can play multiple positions, can play all three. Athletic offensive lineman, can fit in a lot of different schemes. He has good feet and hips, does a good job in the passing game.
Dante Ogburn, 6-2, 295, OL, Grossmont Community College (Springfield, Ohio) :: Video He is a multiple position guy, plays center and guard. He is tough and does a good job in the running game. He will come in and push for playing time just with his experience.
Quintarius Neely, 5-11, 165, QB, Roswell High School (Roswell, Ga.) :: Video Helped lead team to a state runner-up finish with 2,164 passing yards and 30 touchdowns. Completed 169-of-281 passing with only five interceptions, averaging 166.5 yards passing through the air. He is extremely athletic, can make plays with arm as well as his legs. Neely rated as a two-star athlete.
Oscar Patterson, 6-3, 270, TE, Westminister High School (Miami, Fla.) :: Video Played offensive line in high school, will convert over in college. Very aggressive and physical. He comes off the ball very well, it is what we have been looking for at that position.
John Pecaro, 5-9, 175, P, Atlantic High School (Boynton Beach, Fla.) :: Video He is efficient, and can punt the football.
Jocobi Smith, 5-10, 235, FB, Auburn High School (Auburn, Ala.) :: Video Rushed for 632 yards on 91 attempts during senior season after missing spring practice. Rushed for 11 touchdowns.
Rorrick Steward, 6-2, 185, S, Austin High School (Decatur, Ala.) :: Video Long, rangy safety. He is not afraid to stick his helmet in there and can cover some ground. He knows the game and is willing to learn.
Davoris Thomas, 5-10, 195, LB, Spanish Fort High School (Mobile, Ala.) :: Video He is athletic, a kid that is going to be great in the passing game. A kid that comes from a championship program, so he knows how to win. He comes from a football family and is tough.
Ja'tavien Weems, 5-10, 200, LB, Dutchtown High School (Stockbridge, Ga.) :: Video Athletic, and has great instincts. Has a nose for the ball.
Daymeonta White, 5-11, 180, DB, Spencer High School (Columbus, Ga.) :: Video A rangy safety, has good hips and good feet. He will be to compete for significant playing time.
Foster Williams, 5-11, 186, RB, Simeon High School (Chicago, Ill.) :: Video
TALLAHASSEE, Florida -- The Rontarius Robinson era at Florida A&M DRS began on Friday, as the Baby Rattlers announced the 33 year old as the new head coach of the football program.
The process in finding a new coach began in January after longtime head coach Ira Reynolds was let go. The Baby Rattlers were winless this season, and Athletic Director Terrance Milton felt it was time to move in another direction.
Robinson hopes to provide that direction. He's a Baby Rattler alum, and played college football at Howard University, and went on to win a Grey Cup in the Canadian Football League.
While he doesn't have head coaching experience, Robinson has helped with the DRS program the past two seasons, and said Friday he's ready to get the Baby Rattlers back to their winning ways.
"You have to wake up every day and you have to challenge yourself," he said of taking on what he knows will be a rebuilding job. "I look forward to passing that on to my players. Everyday, we will compete. It won't be a day where we're just lackadaisical."
DOVER, Delaware --- Delaware State University head football coach Kenny Carterhas announced that a total of 16 high school seniors have signed the National Letter of Intent today to attend DSU and join the Hornets for the 2016 season.
Also announced are three former junior college players who enrolled at DSU this semester and will participate in the Hornets’ upcoming spring camp.
The newest Hornets include two quarterbacks, four offensive linemen, five defensive linemen, five linebackers, two running backs, one receiver, tight end and cornerback; and one player signed as an athlete.
“I believe we addressed several of our most critical needs with this group,” said Carter, who is in his second year as head coach of the Hornets. “We needed more depth at the quarterback position, in addition to strengthening our offensive and defensive lines. We also needed to boost our overall size and speed, and I feel we have succeeded in those goals.”
The Hornet head coach also cited the off-the-field qualities of his 2016 newcomers.
“I was equally impressed with the character and academic credentials of these young men. Each should be a good fit for the team and the university.”
The 2016 Hornet newcomers include two of Delaware’s top high school players from last season.
Smyrna High School defensive tackle Jeff Campbell has accepted a scholarship offer from the Hornets. Campbell, a 2015 All-State and All-Henlopen Conference First Team selection, helped lead Smyrna to the 2015 state Division I championship, the first in team history.
The Hornets have also inked Cape Henlopen High School linebacker Mike Williams for the 2016 season. Williams was an All-Henlopen Conference First Team and All-State Second Team selection as a two-way star for the Vikings, where he played for former Delaware State Head Football Coach and Director of Athletics Bill Collick.
Delaware State’s 2016 newcomers also include two Hawai’i high school standouts and a another of Hawaiian descent from California. Offensive lineman Cade Pedro and wide receiver Fatu Sua-Godinet were teammates at Hawaii’s Kamahameha High School.
Joshua Fala will join the Hornets after a standout career at California’s Sierra High School.
Delaware State will also welcome star Pennsylvania running backs Nyfease West (North Penn HS) and Mike Waters (Imhotep Charter) to its ranks next season,
Quarterback Daniel Epperson (San Bernadino CC), linebacker Ted Noble (Contra Costa CC) and offensive lineman Peter Borum (Lackawanna CC) took the junior college route to DSU.
Nine states are represented in the Hornets’ 2016 newcomer class.
Delaware State is expected to sign additional players in the coming weeks.
“We still have offers on the table to other players we believe will help us next season,” Carter said. “We are off to a good start to the signing period, but always on the lookout for talented players to help rebuild our program.”
The Hornets will open the 2016 season at the University of Delaware on Thursday Sep. 1 in the renewal of the First State Rivalry .The home opener is Sep. 10 against Monmouth.
DELAWARE STATE FOOTBALL 2016 NEWCOMER BIOS
KEENAN BLACK FRESHMAN ATH 6-1/175 CONCORD, NC/CONCORD HS
High School: Earned four varsity letters at Concord HS, competing primarily at quarterback … SPC Conference Offensive Player-of-the Year after completing 174-of-290 passes (60.%) for 2,570 yards and 23 touchdowns, and rushing for 483 yards and 10 TDs on 123 carries as a senior in 2015 … helped lead team to state 3AA tournament semi-final appearances … All-SPC First Team as a junior … completed 109-of-193 passes (56.5%) for 1,530 yards during junior season … member of state 3A runner-up team as a sophomore in 2013 … All-SPC selection as a 10th grader … connected on 89-of-154 passes during sophomore campaign … member of state 3A runner-up team as a freshman. Personal: Son of Trica and Endra Black … has one brother Dra, 22, and one sister, Erica, 21. … born 1/19/97 … plans to major in Physical Education at DSU … hopes to become a college coach … full name is Keenan Dieondra Black. Coach Carter’s comments: “Keenan was North Carolina’s top quarterback in his division. He’s a smart player with a strong arm and the ability to make plays in and outside the pocket.” PETE BORUM JUNIOR OT 6-7/350 SHAVER TOWN, PA./LACKAWANNA CC/LAKE-LEHMAN HIGH SCHOOL
Junior College: Attended Lackawanna College in Scranton, Pa. … helped lead team to a district championship … earned associate’s degree from the school. High School: Three-sport standout at Lake-Lehman High School (football, basketball, baseball) … helped lead football team to Wyoming Valley Conference and District 2 championships as a senior … All-WVC selection during senior season … four-year varsity football letterman … also earned four varsity basketball letters … only male in school history with more than 1000 career points and 1000 rebounds .. basketball scoring and rebound leader as a sophomore and junior … team rebound leader as a freshman … four-year baseball letterman. Club/AAU: Competed in AAU basketball. Personal: Son of Peter and Ruthann Borum … has two brothers, Shane 23, and Chase, 10; and two sisters, Kende, 18, and Maddi, 15 … born 10/31/95 in Wilkes-Barre, Pa. … mother is former Misericordia College basketball player … plans to major in Sports Management at DSU … hopes to become a college athletic director … full name is Peter Thomas Borum. Coach Carter’s comments: “Pete is an extremely athletic big man who’s technically sound with good feet. He’s an outstanding pass blocker, but equally impressive in the run game.”
JEFF CAMPBELL FRESHMAN DL 6-1/280 SMYRNA, DEL./SMYRNA HS
High School: Four-year varsity letterman at Smyrna High School … helped lead Eagles to 2015 Delaware Division I State Championship, the first in team history, as a senior … 2015 All-State Second Team and All-Henlopen Conference First Team selection during senior season … also led team to 2015 Henlopen Conference North championship with 6-0 record as a senior … his senior-year team posted 12-1 overall record .. senior season statistics included 40 total tackles and four sacks … All-Henlopen Conference Honorable Mention as a sophomore. Personal: Son of Debbie Steller and Jeff Campbell … has two sisters, Christine, 34, and Sheri, 23 … born 1/22/98 in Dover, Del. .. given name is Jeffery Campbell … plans to major in Wildlife Conservation at DSU … career plans include working to control population and wildlife practices ... member of Future Farmers of America …volunteer youth wrestling coach. Coach Carter’s comments: “We are extremely excited to have Jeff from the state championship Smyrna Eagles. He will give good size and a physical presence in the middle of the line.” MARLONE CARTER FRESHMAN DB 5-11/170 HAMPTON, VA./PHOEBUS HS
High School: Attended Hampton HS as a freshman and sophomore, and attended Phoebus HS as a junior and senior … First Team All-Conference selection as a senior … recorded 41 tackles, four interceptions, two sacks and seven pass break-ups during senior season … helped lead Phoebus to 11-2 overall record and state playoff berth in senior campaign … named to All-757 Team as a junior … had 32 tackles, six break-ups and two forced fumbles to help lead team to 8-4 overall record and state playoff appearance during 11th grade season. Personal: Son of Keena Holloman and Marlone Carter, Sr. … has two brothers and one sister … born 7/13/98 in Philadelphia, Pa. … plans to major in Sport Management at DSU … hopes to be a college coach.
Coach Carter’s comments: “Very athletic corner with good cover and ball skills.” BRIAN CAVICANTE FRESHMAN LB 5-11/225 PORTSMOUTH, VA/NORCOM HS
2015: Enrolled at Milford Academy Prep … season stats included 80 tackles, 11 tackles for loss, 10 sacks, three interceptions and two fumble recoveries. High School: 2014 All-Conference linebacker and utility player as a senior … competed in All-State Shootout … senior season defensive stats included 101 tackles, eight sacks, 10 tackles-for-loss and five forced fumbles … also rushed for 678 yards and eight touchdowns as a senior … ran for 878 yards and 11 touchdowns during junior year … sophomore year defensive stats included 40 tackles, six sacks and four other backfield stops … also a member of Norcum’s track and field team … helped lead track and field squads to indoor and outdoor state championships in the same school year for the first time in its history as a senior .. two-time state shotput champion. Personal: Son of Michelle and Michael Cavicante … has one sister, Briana, 20 …plans to major in Movement Science at DSU … hopes to work in physical therapy … last name is pronounced KY-VIH-CONT-TAY Coach Carter comments: “Brian is already on campus and will participate in spring drills. He has the skills to play inside and outside linebacker. Very athletic with a good head for the game.” KAIDEN CRAWFORD FRESHMAN OL 6-4/285 PHILA., PA/SIMON GRATZ HS
High School: Played two varsity seasons at Simon Gratz ..helped lead Bulldogs to 2015 4A District 12 championship … team posted 12-4 overall record and 8-0 conference mark during the 2015 season ... also saw action at defensive end and tight end during high school career. Personal: Son of Monique Atherton (mother), Johnnie Crawford (father) and Bruce Thomas (Step-father) … has two brothers, Malik, 18, and Azir, 14; and one sister, Trinity (11) … full name is Kaiden Joshua Crawford … nicknamed “Big Kai” … plans to major in Chemistry and minor in Physics at DSU … hopes to become a college professor … born 6/24/98 in Philadelphia. Coach Carter’s comments: Kaiden is tall, rangy and athletic. He’s part of a very talented group of offensive linemen we’ve added to the team.” ULISES DE LOS SANTOS FRESHMAN DT 6-4/290 UNION, NJ/UNION HS
High School: 2015 New Jersey All-State Third Team and All-Bergen County First Team selection as a senior … senior-year stats included 60 total tackles, 12 tackles-for-loss and three sacks … tallied 19 tackles, including seven behind the line-of-scrimmage, in five games as a junior … had 19 tackles, including two sacks, in five contests during sophomore year …had 19 career tackles-for-loss … also saw action with varsity as a freshman. Personal: Son of Sandy Rijo and Ulises De Los Santos, Sr. … born 4/18/98 in North Bergen, NJ … prefers to go by Uli De Los Santos …plans to major in Physical Education and minor in Communications at DSU. Coach Carter’s comments: “Ulises is a real steal for us. He drew the attention of some major programs because of skill on the defensive line. I’ll be surprised if he’s not in our starting line-up on opening day tis coming season.” JUWAN DeVONE FRESHMAN DL 6-3/230 BRONX, NY/CARDINAL HAYES HS
High School: Helped lead Cardinal Hayes to 9-3 record and state championship, first in team history, as a senior in 2015 … All-League and All-State Honorable Mention… two-time team Defensive Lineman of the Year as a senior … also member of school’s track and field team … ranked No. 2 in the city and a Top 10 state shot putter. Personal: Son of Alicia DeVone … grandmother Arie DeVone … has one brother, Andrew … born 4/16/98 … plans to major in Nursing at DSU ….member of school’s Presidents’ Men and Student Advisory Council … active in volunteer programs to assist needy families and the disabled. Coach Carter’s comments: “Has impressed coaching staff with his pass rush skills. Good size, speed and athleticism from the end position.” DANIEL EPPERSON JUNIOR QB 6-1/200 WRIGHTWOOD, CAL./SAN BERNADINO JC/SERRANO HS
Junior College: Played two seasons at San Bernadino JC … Second Team All-Mountain League selection as a sophomore … passed for 2,767 yards and 27 touchdowns (six INTs) and rushed for 254 yards and four scores in two seasons … helped lead team to 2015 Mountain League Championship. High School: Member of four Mojave River League championship teams, posting undefeated conference records each season … CIF championship runner-up during senior season … school’s all-time leader in quarterback career wins, passing yards and passing touchdowns … threw for 2,535 yards and 27 touchdowns (seven INTs), and rushed for 595 yards and eight scores as a senior … Mojave River League and Victory Valley Daily Press Offensive Player-of-the-Year as a senior … also All-CIF and All-Area First Team during senior season … tallied 1,473 passing yards and 14 touchdowns, and rushed for 393 yards and four scores as a junior … All-Mojave River League and All-Area First Team selection during junior season …junior year team also reached CIF Tournament semi-finals … passed for 142 yards, rushed for 21 and had 68 receiving yards as a sophomore … team also reached CIF championship game during his sophomore campaign. Personal: Son of Misti Latham and Richard Epperson … has five brothers and four sisters … plans to major in Political Science and minor in Law Studies at DSU …hopes to become a sports agent … volunteers with Bestday Foundation … also attracted interest from UNLV.
Coach Carter’s comments: “Another talented player who was highly sought after by other schools. He has a great arm and the ability to extend plays. He’s already enrolled so we’ll get a good look at hime during spring camp.” JOSHUA “SUA” FALA FRESHMAN OL 6-7/350 MANTECA, CAL./SIERRA HS
High School: Four-year varsity football letterman … listed among Top 10 Central Valley Athletes … First Team All-League, All-Area and All-Conference; and Second Team All-CIF as a senior … helped lead Timberwolves to State, Regional, Division and Section Championships during senior season … All-League and All-Area First Team selection as a junior … member of league championship team during junior year … named to All-League Second Team Second Team as a ninth grader ... also saw action along the defensive line. Personal: Son of Joshua and Denise Fala … has two sisters, Tariana, 15, and Talia, 9; and one brother Kaleo, 10 … full name is Joshua Steven Fala … father and grandfather are church pastors … prefers to go by name Sua Fala … born 3/31/98 in Salinas, Cal. … plans to major in Business Administration and minor in Communications to DSU … dedicated volunteer at his church. Coach Carter’s Comments: “Another one of the big, physical offensive linemen we recruited. He was good enough to play in the Poly (Polynesian) Bowl in California last year. Our coaching staff is impressed with his technique.” RAYMIE FERREIRA FRESHMAN TIGHT END 6-3/225 LEBANON, PA/CEDAR CREST HS
High School: Football and basketball standout at Cedar Crest High School. Club/AAU: Competed for Central Penn Ballers, Wildcats and PA Rens Personal: Son of Glenni Ortega … has two sisters, Jamilah, 14, and Jiahnny, 12; and one brother, Luis, 17 … born 9/29/97 in Manhattan, NY … full name is Raymie Abraham Ferreira … plans to major in Physical Therapy and minor in Microbiology at DSU … also considered New Hampshire GARFIELD HESLOP FRESHMAN DE 6-4/220 YONKERS, NY/MONROE COLLEGE/ARCHBISHOP STEPINAC HS
Junior College: Played two seasons for the Monroe (NY) College Mustangs.
High School: Played three varsity football seasons at Archbishop Stepinac … helped lead team to 31-4 overall record during his three seasons … team was 12-0 during his junior year, 10-1 during sophomore season and 9-3 in his season campaign … member of conference and state championship team as a junior. Club/AAU: Competed for North Yonkers Nights, Eastchester Blue Devils and Yonkers Gladiators club teams. Personal: Son of Lannzie Hogue-Heslop and Garfield Heslop … has two brothers, Gavin and Garrison …Gavin Heslop is a member of Stony Brook University football team … cousin of former NFL (Detroit Lions, Carolina Panthers) and Syracuse University player Doug Hogue … born 3/12/94 in Yonkers, N.Y. … plans to major in Engineering and minor in Engineering Physics at DSU … earned associates degree in Criminal Justice from Monroe (NY) College…. volunteers as youth football coach … also considered Syracuse, Maine, Stony Brook, Rhode Island and Central Connecticut. Coach Carter’s comments: “He will bring good speed and athleticism to our defensive line. High energy guy with a nose for the ball.” TED NOBLE JUNIOR LB 6-1/235 ROCHESTER, NY/CONTRA COSTA (CAL.)
Junior College: Attended Contra Costa JC in San Pablo, Cal. … earned associates degree in Social Behavior and Development … two-year football letterman … helped lead the school to two conference championship and one bowl game victory. High School: Attended Olympic High School in Charlotte, NC … earned North Carolina All-4A First Team honors in each of his two varsity seasons. Personal: Son of Shazette Allison and Ted Noble … born 6/6/93 … full name is Ted Keemar Jalonte Noble, Jr. … plans to major in Integrated Studies at DSU and minor in Business … hopes to operate his own recreation center one day … founder of non-profit organization “The Bigger Picture.”
Coach Carter’s comments: “Physical, physical, physical. He plays hard and fast. Well suited for the Mike linebacker position, but can excel at the other LB spots as well. Another recruit whose already on campus so we’re eager to see him in action this spring.” CADE PEDRO FRESHMAN OL 6-5/285 OAHU, HI/KAMEHAMEHA HS
High School: Two-year varsity letterman at Kamahameha High School … All-Honolulu Star-Advertiser Honorable Mention as a senior … also earned two varsity basketball letters … 3.0 grade point average. Club/AAU: Competed for OTB Basketball for three years … helped lead team to Las Vegas Silver Championships in 2012 and ’13.
Personal: Son of James and Leianne (“Lay-Anne”) Pedro … has two sisters, Kylee, 24, and Halee (“Hal-Lee”) ,15; and one brother, Wyatt, 22 … full name is Cade Mahikoa Pedro … great-great grandfather Chick Daniels was a famous Waikiki beachboy who gave surf instruction and outrigger canoe rides along with Olympic great Duke Kahanamoku … Chick Daniels entertained celebrities on Waikiki Beach, including Shirley Temple, Doris Duke and Elvis Presley with his ukulele and song … great grandfather Joseph ”Sonny” Nicolas was a famous Hawaiian musician who entertained many on famous “Hawaii Calls” radio program … Nicholas recorded with many greats, including Don Ho and Kui Lee … plans to major in Sports Management at DSU … career plans include owning a sports marketing company … Special Olympics volunteer … member of Fellowship of Christian Athletes … also considered offers from Southern Oregon and Western New Mexico … born 3/2/98 in Honolulu, HI. Coach Carter’s comments: “Cade is another one of our talented offensive line recruits who impressed our staff with his size, feet and work ethic.” FATU SUA-GODINET FRESHMAN WR 6-0/180 KAILUA, HI/KAMEHAMEHA HS
High School: Three-sport standout at Kamehameha HS (football, basketball, track and field) … First Team All-Conference and Honorable Mention All-State football selection as a senior in 2015 … All-State Honorable Mention as a sophomore … helped lead team to 9-2 record during sophomore season … earned three varsity football letters … Second Team All-Conference basketball selection as a junior … member of four state championship track and field teams … also member of record-setting 4x100 meters relay team.
Personal: Son of Pio and Carol Sua-Godinet … has two sisters, Fran, 24, and Noelle, 14; and one brother Kekoa, 28 … born 9/11/97 in Hawaii … father Pio played football at Long Beach State … uncle Tony Godinet played at University of Hawaii; uncle Moe Tauilo played at Portland State; and uncle Kose Godinet played at UC Davis ... given first name is Fatulototele Coach Carter’s comments: “Very versatile player who competed at quarterback while in high school. Was the best athlete on his team. An exciting runner who will pose problems for opposing defenses.” MIKE WATERS FRESHMAN RB 5-8/195 PHILA., PA/IMHOTEP CHARTER
High School: Helped lead Imhotep to 15-0 season and first PIAA Class 3 State Championship in school history as a senior in 2015 … rushed for 201 yards and three touchdowns in 40-3 win over Erie Cathedral in state title game … also rushed for 220 yards and five scores in earlier playoff win … rushed for 981 yards and 20 TDs during senior year … helped lead team to 53-6 record in his four varsity seasons … rushed for nearly 3,000 yards and 51 touchdowns during his scholastic career. Personal: Son of Nyema Munford … has two brothers, Maurice ,5, and Lamar, 10 Coach Carter’s comments: “Mike’s a do-everything back who was a major contributor to a state championship team. He’s has the size, speed and vision to excel at this level.” NYFEASE WEST FRESHMAN RB 5-11/195 LANSDALE, PA/NORTH PENN HS
High School: Three-year varsity letterman at North Penn HS … No. 2 in school history with 4,098 rushing yards and 45 touchdowns … All-League First Team and Second Team All-State, All-Eastern Pennsylvania and All-Southeastern PA selection as a senior in 2015 … also 2015 Reporters Athlete-of-the-Year … rushed for 1,399 yards and 17 touchdowns during senior season … helped lead Knights to National League championship and district championship runner-up as a senior in 2015 … All-League Second Team after rushing for 1,056 yards and a 15 touchdowns as a junior in 2014 … ran for school sophomore record 1,643 yards and 13 touchdowns in 2013 … helped lead team to Continental League title and district championship runner-up during sophomore year … All-League Second Team and Third Team All-Southeastern Pennsylvania as a sophomore. Personal: Son of Godparents Michael and Corla West … born 3/6/97 in Philadelphia … plans to major in Business Administration at DSU … also attracted interest from Temple, Villanova and Rhode Island. Coach Carter’s comments: “One of the top runners in his division in Pennsylvania, which is home to some great high school football. Another back with all the tools to succeed at this level.” ISIAH WILLIAMS FRESHMAN TIGHT END 6-2/255 BRONX(NY)/CARDINAL HAYES HS/JIREH PREP (NC)
High School: All-CHSFL 4A Defense First Team as a senior … Turkey Bowl MVP and Team Spirit Award recipient during senior year … team captain … helped lead Cardinal Hayes to CHSFL 4A championship as a junior … earned three varsity letters … freshman team Offensive Lineman of the Year … also competed in basketball. Club/AAU: Competed for NY Patriots Personal: Son of Eric Yvette Williams … has one brother, Travon, 21 … born 3/7/97 in Bronx, NY … plans to major in Sports Management at DSU … hopes to become a coach or sports agent .. also considered Old Dominion, Bryant, Maine and Western Illinois. Coach Carter’s comments: “Physically gifted tight end. Good pass catcher and run blocker. Very impressive at the point of attack.” MIKE WILLIAMS FRESHMAN LB 6-3/225 MILLSBORO, DEL./CAPE HENLOPEN HS
High School: 2015 All-Henlopen Conference First Team and Delaware All-State Second Team selection as a senior … recorded 31 tackles, seven tackles for loss and four sacks on defense during senior season … All-Henlopen Conference and All-State Third Team during junior season … had 85 tackles, including 1 for loss and four sacks as a junior … also rushed 538 yards and six touchdowns during 11th grade year … for helped lead Vikings to 8-2 record as a junior in 2014 … played for Bill Collick, former Delaware State head coach and Director of Athletics, at Cape Henlopen HS… also standout member of track and field team. Personal: Son of Nicole Hollins and Marcus Green … has one sister, Miquaine, 19; and one brother Marcus, 6 … born 1/14/98 in Metairie, LA ...also considered Maine … earned high school’s Community Service Award.
Coach Carter’s comments: “Mike’s a tall, rangy athlete who plays well in space. Plays well against the run, but performs well enough against the pass to stay in the game in all situations.”
COURTESY DELAWARE STATE UNIVERSITY SPORTS INFORMATION
MONTGOMERY – "Being able to bat a hundred is a good thing," Alabama State Head Football Coach Brian Jenkins said in describing the Hornets signing day class.
Jenkins and the Voice of the Hornets, Duane Lewis, announced the signing class in a live three-hour broadcast which was shown on bamastatesports.com.
It was Jenkins' and his coaching staff's second recruiting class, but this class could be considered their first signing class since they arrived so late in the process last season.
"From last year to this has been a tremendous difference," Jenkins added. "When we came in, we just tried to get what we could get our hands on to fill a football team, but this year we actually had time to evaluate and see what we needed, set a plan and go after guys that could help us be the type of football team that we want."
The coaching staff was able to not only pick up some top talent from other states, but they added five top in-state players to the 2016 class.
"My coaches did a phenomenal job in recruiting," Jenkins said. They scoured the country and found the best talent that could come and help our team and make an immediate impact. They traveled all over; from Cleveland, Ohio to Philadelphia to California and we were able to land some top players out of those areas as well as some top players here in the state. So I couldn't be more proud of our coaching staff and the wonderful job they have done to secure this recruiting class."
The Hornets had the second ranked scoring defense in the Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC) last season and added 12 players on that side of that ball.
Headlining that group from the state is Jamerson Pasteur from Greensboro High School. The 6'-4", 286 pound lineman will join another in-state recruit Kevin Nunn (6-4, 290) from Calera and Randall Smith (6-4, 265) who is from Dawsonville, Ga., along the Hornets defensive front.
The Hornets also went after several defensive backs. Aaron Pope, Cleveland, Ohio (6-0, 180) is one of three players from Glenville High School and will play in the defensive backfield. Other defensive backs that have signed with ASU are Ezekiel Smith, (6-0, 185) Covington, Ga., Joshua Hill (5-10, 165), Prichard, Ala., Darius King (6-0, 200) Phenix City, Ala., and O'Shea Grant (6-0, 180), Sarasota, Fla. Ezra Gray (5-9, 170) is listed as a defensive back and running back coming out of Lynn Haven, Fla., but could find himself in the defensive backfield once the season begins.
The coaching staff is high on the lone linebacker signee this season, Darron Johnson (6-1, 225), Memphis, Tenn. The Ridgeway high school talent is not only one of the top linebackers in Memphis, but in the state of Tennessee.
The Hornets have seven new players added to the roster that will line up on the offensive side of the ball, and three of those signees are quarterbacks.
Jimmy Ferrell (6-2, 190), Nashville, Tenn., had been a leader for Pearl-Cohn High School and was the 33rd ranked player in the state of Tennessee.
ASU was able to out recruit several schools for Ocala, Fla., native Kobie Jones (5-11, 168). Another quarterback joining the ASU ranks will be in-state product Kha' Darrius Davis (6-2, 170) from Bessemer, Ala.
Taliesin Farmer (6-0, 200), Garfield Heights, Ohio, was the lone running back signee this season. He will join high school teammates Aaron Pope and Christian Clark on the Hornets roster.
Clark (6-1, 300), Euclid, Ohio will join the Hornets on the offensive line. Another offensive lineman is Caleb Kinnikin (6-4, 305) the lone junior college signee in the 2016 class. The Silver City, New Mexico native will transfer to ASU from Grossman Junior College located in El Cajan, Calif.
The final offensive signee is wide receiver Palmer Graham (5-9, 165), Schaumburg, Ill. He is small in stature, but may be one of the fastest recruits bringing with him 4.48 speed in the 40.
Now that signing day is over the coaching staff can turn its attention to spring practice, which the Hornets will be able to participate in this year after missing out on those days last year.
"We have spring ball back," Jenkins said. "That's always exciting to have those days back and get a chance to get your team out for those days and see what they can do and get them acclimated to some things you want to do defensively and offensively, philosophies and schemes. So I'm excited about the direction the program is going and the support we're getting."
The first of 10 spring practice sessions will begin April 2 and will conclude with the Black and Gold Game on April 23.
COURTESY ALABAMA STATE UNIVERSITY SPORTS INFORMATION
MONTGOMERY, Alabama -- He had led the Southwestern Athletic Conference in rushing in 2014, but there were no calls coming from National Football League general managers.
Nearly a year later, Malcolm Cyrus was working toward his bachelor's degree in criminal justice at Alabama State University, almost resigned to the fact that he would have to search for a job when he graduated in May.
"I always said I wanted to be a probation officer on the federal level," Cyrus said. "That's the main thing I was thinking about. But I was thinking about going back to school, too, and getting my master's degree. I really wanted to get a criminal justice degree because the job field is so open. I could always get a job."
Cyrus had a secret that even his mother didn't know, however. On weekends, when he could locate a tryout within driving distance, he would work out for Canadian Football League scouts in hopes of landing an offer to play professional football.
"Actually, I told my mother this year was going to be my last year trying out," he said. "I graduate in May. I'll get my degree and go to work. But I didn't give up on it. She thought I gave up on it, but I didn't. I really don't talk about the things I've got going on. A lot of folks didn't know I went to this tryout or the other tryouts. I just do that on my own."
The workout Cyrus attended on Jan. 23 at Faulkner University's John Mark Stallings Field for the Saskatchewan Roughriders wasn't even on his schedule. He had circled the Jan. 30 workout in Atlanta with Winnepeg.
But his performance was better than any he had before, exceeding the workout he had for professional scouts on Alabama State's "Pro Day" in the spring of 2015.
"There were a lot of 'oohs' and 'ahs' when I was working out," Cyrus said. "I did better on my vertical (jump) and my 40 (yard dash time). I did better on everything. I did everything extremely well."
When they broke into smaller groups for one-on-one work – pitting the elusive Cyrus on receiving routes and short running bursts versus linebackers, he did even better.
"I had people falling all over the place," Cyrus said. "The next morning, when I woke up, I had a text message. I want to say it was less than seven hours and they wanted to offer me a contract. I guess I did pretty good. I wasn't expecting to get a call the next day. That shocked me."
Cyrus worked out a two-year deal to play for the Roughriders in 2016-17, more than 15 months after he hung up his cleats for the last time at Alabama State, completing a remarkable story for the Autaugaville native who will soon become the first person from his high school to ever play sports at the professional level.
Cyrus had set a national record for touchdowns on punt returns during a successful career at Autaugaville High, but struggled to adjust to college football as a freshman and played behind Cleveland Browns tailback Isaiah Crowell as a sophomore and junior.
As a senior, he led the SWAC with 1,662 rushing yards to earn co-offensive player of the year honors and was known throughout the conference for his durability but at 5-foot-10, 185 pounds, no one making decisions at the NFL level wanted to draft him.
"I didn't get a tryout with any NFL teams," he said. "I thought I should have gotten a lot of them, rookie mini-camps or something. I don't know what it was. I wasn't getting a lot of feedback from my agent."
He spent 2015 in the classroom, trying to finish up the requirements for his degree but still harboring dreams of playing professional football.
"I work out at the (athletic) complex every now and then and I did a little working out on my own," Cyrus said. "I always stay in shape. I didn't work out as hard as I used to work out, but I still worked out, just in case something did happen."
And while he had an agent, Cyrus continued to do everything on his own, from working out to lining up tryouts to ironing out the details of his first professional contract.
"I did most of that on my own," he said. "It was stuff I set up or people referred to me. The workout with Saskatchewan, I found out three or four days before. I just went and tried out."
He tried out for Edmonton in the fall, "but I didn't get a call from them," he said. He worked out for another CFL team in December. Still no luck. But his perseverance was finally rewarded a month later and now Cyrus will be preparing for the Roughriders' mini-camp at IMG Academy in Bradenton, Fla., on April 9-12 for a sport that differs in some aspects from the National Football League.
"You get a running start toward the line of scrimmage," Cyrus said, when asked what he knew about Canadian Football League rules. "Besides that, I'll learn it. It's not hard to learn it."
It will be the first of several obstacles he's eager to overcome. For a guy from a small rural community, it's an ideal fit to play in Regina, Saskatchewan, the second smallest market in professional sports behind Green Bay. If he can only find it on a map.
"If you were to drive it, I want to say it's about 29, 30 hours," Cyrus said. "I'm not driving it. It's a long way."
COURTESY ALABAMA STATE UNIVERSITY SPORTS INFORMATION
MONTGOMERY, Alabama -- Alabama State head football coach Brian Jenkins was noticeably jovial as national signing day came to a close.
Jenkins took over just weeks before signing day last season and said his most important recruits were the players he inherited.
Jenkins said he and his staff had more time to work this time around, making a big difference in 2016.
“Last year, we had to get in where we fit in,” Jenkins said. “This year, we were about to sit back and really evaluate the players that we needed to upgrade this team and set a plan of action of going after those guys.”
Alabama State’s festivities began with a live three-hour broadcast announcing the signees on the school’s athletic website, followed by a news conference and ending with a gathering of fans and alumni at the Club Lounge at ASU Stadium.
The Hornets signed 17 players on Wednesday, including a trio of players from Glenville High School near Cleveland.
SAN FRANCISCO, California -- NFL Hall of Famer and former Mississippi Valley State and San Francisco 49ers wide receiver Jerry Rice went undercover as a Lyft driver for a day in the San Francisco area -- and he was unrecognized.
The SWAC legend did a nice job of covering up, as well as a good job of steering people the wrong way. The superstar told one passenger "I'm not really into sports" and another that "I like to think of myself as a method dancer or something like that ... If I'm doing the Worm, I think like a worm."
DeSOTO, Texas -- On the heels of National Signing Day for high school football players Wednesday, DeSoto Central senior Jalah Carter chose the following day, Thursday, to commit to play at the next level in another type of football, which we know as soccer.
Carter, a forward on the Lady Jags’ girls soccer team, signed a letter of intent to play at Jackson State University. Coach Amber Denfip said she was the first girls’ soccer player from DeSoto County to sign with a Division I school this season.
However, it’s believed Carter may also be the first girls’ soccer player from the county ever to move into the Division I ranks.
Carter provided an offensive punch for a Lady Jag team that finished 15-4 and 6-0 in MHSAA 6A-1 play this winter. She led the Lady Jags with 20 goals scored and she assisted on five others for a team that reached the first round of the playoffs before falling in penalty kicks to Northwest Rankin in Southaven.
GRAMBLING, Louisiana — Southern started its winning streak four weeks ago with a hard-fought 66-61 victory against Grambling.
