MS Sports Magazine 2013 JUCO Football by Mississippi Sports Magazine

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2013 JUCO PREVIEW - 1

MEDIA CRAZE... >>>>>>>>> Freeze on how the Egg Bowl and Compass Bowl wins helped with recruiting... “No question it helped. The momentum that was created around our place from winning the Egg Bowl and the bowl game was huge. One of the recruits, Robert Nkemdiche, we talked about all year long, he wanted to see that. When that came true, he felt like he was coming with us, that helped. He carried a lot of weight and a lot of ears of recruits. There’s no question the momentum that was created at the end of the year was greatly beneficial to us in recruiting.” Photo by Greg Pevey, Mississippi Sports Magazine

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MEDIA CRAZE... >>>>>>>>> Mullen on the MSU/ Ole Miss dynamic... “I think it’s certainly sparking the rivalry even more. I think it’s going to make Thanksgiving night an even bigger game. When I got hired, the other school in our state, they’d gone to the Cotton Bowl, won the Cotton Bowl. We came up from a team that wasn’t doing very well and won a couple in a row. Now we’ve been going to the New Year’s Day bowl games the last couple years. They come up, are starting to create some stir. I think certainly when you go around the state of Mississippi, it will make Thanksgiving night this fall a pretty important day throughout the whole state. Not that it hasn’t been before, but I think it is going to draw a lot more attention to it nationally, how important and big that rivalry is for everybody in our state.” Photo by Greg Pevey, Mississippi Sports Magazine

2013 JUCO PREVIEW - 3

BE THERE For Him

www.mssportsmagazine.com Volume 6, Issue 2 2013 JUCO FOOTBALL ISSUE September/October 2013 Published by Pevey Publishing, LLC Publishers Greg & Mendy Pevey Featured Columnists Jake Adams, Rick Cleveland, Derrick Guin, Jake Wimberly Contributing Writers John Davis, Paul Jones Contributing Photographers Greg Pevey, James Pugh, Media Relations Offices at: Co-Lin, Coahoma, East Central, East MS, Hinds, Holmes, Itawamba, Jones County, MS Gulf Coast, Northeast, Northwest, Pearl River, and Southwest Community and Junior Colleges Advertising Sales Greg Pevey publisher@mssportsmagazine.com

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Mississippi Sports Magazine™ is published bimonthly by Pevey Publishing, LLC to promote Mississippi’s sportsmen and women, colleges, universities, high schools, communities and citizens in an informative and positive manner. We welcome contributions of articles and photos; however, they will be subject to editing and availability of space and subject matter. Photographs, comments, questions, subscription requests and ad placement inquiries are invited! Return envelopes and postage must accompany all labeled materials submitted if a return is requested. No portion of this publication may be reproduced without written permission of the publisher. The opinions expressed in Mississippi Sports Magazine are those of the authors or columnists and do not necessarily reflect the views of the publisher, nor do they constitute an endorsement of products or services herein. We reserve the right to refuse any advertisement. Pevey Publishing, LLC is not affiliated with any institution, college, university, or other academic or athletic organization. Subscriptions are $24 (1 year, 6 issues) or $40 (2 years - 12 issues). Make checks payable to Pevey Publishing, LLC and mail to: 405 Knights Cove West, Brandon, MS 39047 or subscribe online at www.mssportsmagazine.com.

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Co-Lin celebrates their 2012 mACJC State Football Championship. Photo courtesy Co-Lin Media Relations

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J U C O

F O O T B A L L

P R E V I E W

THE ACTION STARTS ON PAGE

CONTENTS... FEATURES

10 AROUND MS

CROSSFIT: No longer a fad – CrossFit explodes across Mississippi not only as a sport but as a lifestyle

14 ON CAMPUS

HOME IS WHERE THE HEART IS: Former Bulldog QB Tyson Lee leaves position in the NFL to return to MSU to lead FCA program.

16 ON CAMPUS

THE FAMILY PLAN: For Tom and Matt Luke, being on Hugh Freeze’s staff together at Ole Miss is a family reunion.

COMMENTARY 6 REBEL NATION:

SPECIAL SECTION

2013 JUCO FOOTBALL PREVIEW

JAKE ADAMS

The Best is Yet to Come

7 THE DAWGHOUSE:

JAKE WIMBERLY

20 THE TOUGHEST LEAGUE IN AMERICA

MSU baseball, Mississippi’s

MSM writer John Davis gives you an inside look at what makes junior college football in Mississippi so dominant.

8 TO THE TOP:

24 WHERE ARE THEY NOW? Jones County Junior College coach Ray Perkins

28 JUCO TEAM PREVIEWS

To Contact MSM > LETTERS, STORY IDEAS AND PHOTO SUBMISSIONS • Email MSM at publisher@ mssportsmagazine.com or mail to Mississippi Sports Magazine, 405 Knights Cove West, Brandon, Mississippi 39047. Letters should include writer’s full name, address and home phone number and may be edited for clarity and space.

lone sports dynasty

DERRICK GUIN

Golden Eagles Rising

“To the Top”

56 RICK CLEVELAND

The Legend of Bull Sullivan

WHAT’S NEXT... NOVEMBER/DECEMBER College Basketball Preview Will Marshall Henderson be back for the Rebels? Will MSU bounce back? Will the Golden Eagles take CUSA title? All this, a special look at the Egg Bowl series, and more coming in the next issue. 2013 JUCO PREVIEW - 5

REBEL NATION

Follow Jake Adams on Twitter® @OMRebelNation

>>>>>

The Best is Yet to Come

JAKE ADAMS

or the first time in my lifetime (that’s nearly 40 years in case you’re wondering), Ole Miss football appears to have its greatest years ahead of it instead of behind. Let me tell you why. First, by God’s sovereign, merciful grace the Ole Miss administration in 1932 had the good sense to leave the Southern Conference along with Alabama, Auburn, Georgia, LSU, Mississippi State, Tennessee and Vanderbilt, and a few other less fortunate schools who didn’t have the foresight to stick around (Tulane, Georgia Tech and Sewanee – What were y’all thinking?). Those 13 schools formed what is now the Southeastern Conference (the “SEC”). Today, the SEC is without question the pre-eminent conference in college football, having won the last seven BCS Championships. While Ole Miss hasn’t yet tasted the modern-day success of LSU, Alabama, Auburn and Florida, the school will benefit from being in the same conference as those behemoths this season and in the future like never before. Thanks to CBS, ESPN and the millions of us who live for Saturday afternoons of gridiron glory, the likes of which is unmatched by any other conference, Ole Miss is a nationally recognized name brand football program. Glancing down a schedule already bookended by ESPN flagship network games against Vanderbilt and Mississippi State, it’s easy to predict that Alabama, Texas A&M and LSU will also most likely be carried nationally by ESPN, ESPN2 or CBS. Auburn, Arkansas and Missouri are likely SEC Network games that will be carried regionally, 6 - MISSISSIPPI SPORTS MAGAZINE

but if the Rebels or any of those three teams are playing exceptionally well don’t be surprised if those games are bumped up to one of the ESPN networks. At season’s end Ole Miss will have played at least half its games in front of a national audience. That exposure will only improve a year from now when ESPN’s SEC Network is officially launched. Thanks to the SEC and its television contracts it’s safe to say that Ole Miss is on nearly equal footing with the most dominant SEC schools in terms of exposure. That means Ole Miss has the same opportunity to sell itself to the hearts and minds of elite college athletes as any other football program in the country, and those of us familiar with Ole Miss know that when all else is equal Ole Miss has plenty to sell. And then there’s the revenue. Ole Miss may not make enough money to get ahead of the Jones’, but thanks to those television contracts the Rebels can keep up like never before. Sure Alabama, Florida and Georgia have some over-the-top facilities and gigantic football stadiums, but eventually a locker room is a locker room is a locker room. It’s a place you take showers and change clothes. Ole Miss may not ever be on equal revenue footing with the heavyweights, but thanks to those television dollars the Rebels are close enough that they can sway recruits with the intangibles of Oxford’s charm, the Grove’s pageantry and the undeniable football craziness of Ole Miss fans. And then there’s Ross Bjork. In Bjork the Rebels have a young, ambitious, no-nonsense athletics director who understands the bottom line – winning – and how it runs congruent with the bank account’s bottom line. Bjork may have inherited Hugh Freeze, but the two have a great relationship. Bjork seems to understand it’s his job to enable Freeze to win and then get out of the way to let Freeze do the rest. Enabling Freeze to win includes keeping coaches financially happy, raising the money for enhancements in the facilities like the IPF and locker room upgrade that is currently finishing up, and realizing the goals on the

giant Forward Together project that includes renovating and expanding Vaught-Hemingway Stadium. And then of course there’s what early indicators suggest is the most important piece of all - Hugh Freeze. The unparalleled television exposure, astronomical income and the modern administration all converge at a time when Ole Miss has something it hasn’t possessed – perhaps ever – a football coach with a dynamic offense, personality and ability to recruit. In Freeze the Rebels may finally have the piece that will tip college football’s scales in their favor. Perhaps it’s early to make such a bold prediction, but judging by the last 12 months alone Freeze is like a David Cutcliffe who can recruit, or an Ed Orgeron who can coach. Take your pick. Except Freeze actually won seven games with a group of kids that the year before had finished 2-10 and set a record for consecutive conference losses – Cutcliffe never did that. And except that in his first full year of recruiting, Freeze signed the best class in Ole Miss history – surpassing any recruiting ranking achieved under Coach O. Regardless of comparisons with the past, it’s undeniable that Freeze is a unique personality with a charisma that assistant coaches, players and recruits love. Even better than that he’s a native of North Mississippi and spent a good portion of his coaching career in Memphis, which would seem to indicate that Freeze meant it when he said Ole Miss is the only place he aspires to coach in his introductory speech. There’s at least the possibility that Freeze isn’t going anywhere anytime soon. Of course time goes on and things change, but if Freeze does stay at Ole Miss and he keeps the Rebels on the current upward trajectory on the recruiting trail and on the playing field then the stars may finally be aligned for us to say - for the first time in my lifetime – that Ole Miss’ best years are yet to come. - MSM

THE DAWGHOUSE

Follow Jake Wimberly on Twitter® @jakewim

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MSU Baseball, Mississippi’s Lone Sports Dynasty

JAKE WIMBERLY

hroughout time, greatness in sports has been gauged by wins, championships, championship appearances and longevity. When people think of the NFL, they instantly think of the Patriots or the 49’ers of the 1980’s; the 1970 Pittsburgh Steelers. Baseball has the Yankees and the Red Sox. The Celtics, Lakers and the Michael Jordan led Chicago Bulls rule the day in the NBA. In the college ranks, much like its pro counter parts, they too have their own set of dynasties and standards for greatness. Kentucky, Duke and UCLA instantly resonate with NCAA basketball. Alabama, USC, Ohio State and more are instantly the poster children for a standard in college football. This brings us to the great State of Mississippi where our sports heritage is a long and proud one. If you don’t believe it just take a stroll through the Mississippi Sports Hall of Fame. From great players like Jerry Rice, Brett Favre, Archie Manning and so many more. The State of Mississippi is home to some of the greatest players to ever play collegiately and professionally. With such a great sports history within the state of Mississippi, it leads the question – if there was ever a sports dynasty within this state, who would it be? If you took a poll in the state, instantly Ole Miss Fan would jump up and down and proclaim – It is Rebel football of course. Ole Miss claims three national titles, but in a time where multiple outlets crowned multiple champions. Ole Miss does have six SEC Championships, their last in 1963.

The Rebels also have appeared in 34 bowl games, which is by far the most of any football team in this state. Names like Archie Manning, Patrick Willis and others have made Vaught-Hemingway home at one point in time, so there is a valid argument for Ole Miss Football. Not to take anything away from any of the Rebel’s football accomplishments, but my argument to a crowning of their program as a dynasty is, while those accomplishments are great, most were done pre-integration and not much has been accomplished post integration or during the 22 year SEC East/West format. Yes, there are some bowl games in recent time, but no success like in the 50’s or 60’s. There could be some Mississippi State basketball fans who argue their basketball program is truly “the” sports dynasty of the state. With ten SEC regular season championships, four SEC tournament championships, ten NCAA tournament berths, three sweet sixteen appearances, and a Final Four this is a no brainer. There are guys like Bailey Howell and Babe McCarthy; Dontae Jones and others but when you compare their basketball history on a national scale, it fails in comparison to a Duke or Indiana or Connecticut. Down in South Mississippi Southern Miss fan is proud of their football history and would proclaim, of course our football program is a dynasty. Southern Miss is the home of Brett Favre, Reggie Collier, Sammy Winder and others. The Golden Eagles have been to 22 bowl games and at one point had eighteen straight winning seasons; something Ole Miss and State will probably never be able to say their team accomplished in modern football. Again, these are all great accomplishments and as a sports fan in Mississippi it is amazing what USM has accomplished, but on a national scale this is hardly a splash in the pan when compared to Alabama’s National Championships, or Ohio State’s run through the Big 10. Then we turn our attention to the baseball diamond. In Mississippi, baseball is played in the heat of late spring and sum-

mer. Hot dogs are the food of choice and you haven’t been playing if your pants are not covered by infield dirt or grass stains from the outfield. That brings us to May 6, 1893 – the day that Clark Randolph “Dudy” Noble was born. Noble was born in Learned, Mississippi and was a Mississippian to the core. Noble, who attended then Mississippi A&M and earned 14 varsity letters in four sports also had coaching stints at Mississippi College in football, Ole Miss in football, basketball and baseball. Noble also coached Mississippi State’s football team for a single season. To say that most everyone within the state had a piece of Duty Noble would be an understatement, but the year was 1920, Noble’s first as head baseball coach for Mississippi State. Noble compiled 277 wins in 26 seasons and set the table for decades of excellence in Bulldog baseball. The Bulldogs continued to have success on the baseball diamond as R.P. “Doc” Patty and Paul Gregory had some success while at Mississippi State but the year was 1976 and the Bulldogs hired Ron Polk. Polk helped not only transform Mississippi State baseball into what it is today, but he along with Skip Bertman helped transform SEC Baseball. In Polk’s time on a baseball diamond he amassed 1,373 wins and only lost 702 times. When everything else was on a down cycle in Starkville, the Bulldog faithful always had baseball. Polk helped transform Dudy Noble field into what it is today. A fifteen-thousand seated baseball facility with an outfield crowd like nothing ever seen in baseball, from old campers to trailers with grills attached for grilling and cooking, to couches and lounge chairs on trucks. The possibilities of what you may see are endless. Not to mention the waiting list to get a spot in the “left field lounge” is a very long one; one that could take years. Polk helped give the Bulldog faithful a place to call home and be proud of, not to mention a home environment that has alSee DYNASTY - Page 9 2013 JUCO PREVIEW - 7

to the TOP

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Follow Derrick Guin on Twitter® @DerrickGuin

Golden Eagles Rising “To the Top”

DERRICK GUIN

re you ready for some Southern Miss Football? Are you excited that we are ready to Kick-Off at “The Rock” playing Texas State in the home opener? “Rise To The Top” is the Southern Miss Campaign for this season and of course—Winning will definitely put behind those pains of last years season with new Head Coach Todd Monken. And What a great schedule for a new head coach taking over a program that prior to last season had 18 Winning seasons in a row. You say “Great Schedule” and I say “Yes.” Not only are we going to get to welcome new members to C-USA but we will also get to introduce the new foes to Southern Miss football and again be back to winning Conference USA. Playing Nebraska, Arkansas, and Boise State all on the road and all in a row may not be the drawing card Monken and his staff wanted this early, but playing those schools will get the players ready to “Rise To The Top.” There is no doubt after meeting the staff at the Jackson Fan-Fare in July that these guys want to win and want to be the staff that turns this program around to the reputation that USM is known. Looking at the 12 games, seven games on the road and five at home, I really believe that USM can possibly have a winning season and get back to a Bowl Game. So lets take a look at the first four games on the schedule: August 31-Texas State (Home) Have you heard of Dennis Franchione? That’s right, former Texas A&M Dennis Franchione is the head coach of the Bobcats of Texas State who was just voted ‘Top New Team’ in the Sun Belt. The SBC also selected 11 players to the Sun Belt all conference teams from TSU. One player to look out for is TCU transfer Defensive Linemen DJ Yendrey who was red-

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shirted last season and will make his debut against the Eagles. The Bobcats also play Texas Tech and will host Wyoming along with their Sun Belt schedule. Franchione will have the players ready for this game and pumped up to beat Southern Miss. I cannot stress how important this game is for the Golden Eagles to come out and WIN. I know that coach Monken will have the troops ready to welcome Texas State to Hattiesburg, but send them back to San Marcos with a lot of Black and Gold bruises. My prediction: USM-35 Texas State-10 September 7th at Nebraska (Lincoln) 2012 results (10-4, 7-1) Lost to Georgia in Capital One Bowl. This game was originally scheduled for Hattiesburg, but in the world of college football, USM had to sale this game back to Nebraska to be played in Lincoln for a second year in a row. I was personally excited to host Nebraska in Hattiesburg and I know some of their fans from Big Red Country are also disappointed not to be making the trip to the Deep South. In 2012, there was so much confusion in what Southern Miss wanted to do on the field at Lincoln. Somehow USM was still in the game until just before the half when the Huskers went down the field throwing crossing routes that the defense could not stop scoring an easy touchdown. It was 28-17 at the Half and Nebraska won 49-20. Nebraska is returning just about everyone from the QB to the receivers to the defense. Head Coach Bo Pelini is now in his fifth year at Nebraska. Names that you will hear a lot of not only from the USM game but through out College football for the Huskers include senior QB Taylor Martinez and junior running back Ameer Abdullah. Both were named to the Walter Camp Player of the Year watch-list. Nebraska was so much fun before the game and they have some great fans. It’s a treat if you can go. However, Nebraska has so much talent that it will be too much for USM. My prediction: Cornhuskers-45 USM27 September 14 at Arkansas (4-8, 2-6 SEC)

Arkansas definitely had an interesting year in 2012 and a disappointing season very similar to the Eagles. The Razorbacks lost to La. Monroe 35-34 in overtime in Little Rock. This is one game that if USM gets out of Lincoln healthy, they will have a chance to beat the Hogs on an SEC TV Game of the Week 11:21 am kickoff in Fayetteville. Arkansas does return to the backfield the duo of Kiero Small and Jonathan Williams, both who are on the Doak Walker Award Watch-List. The Razorbacks have 18 Seniors returning for first year head coach Bret Bielema. Arkansas opens with Louisiana and Samford before entertaining the Eagles. I am going with the one game USM gets back doing the Nasty Bunch and Beating the SEC. My prediction: USM-38 Hogs-32 September 21 at Boise State (11-2, 7-1 MWC) Beat Washington in MAACO Bowl Mountain West Conference Champions Boise State who made a visit to Hattiesburg in 2012, winning easily 40-14, went on to beat Washington in the MAACO Bowl game 28-26 will open their 2013 season against Washington. What a crazy first game for the Broncos. USM will be making the trip to the ‘Smurf Turf ’ to try to win for the first time against Boise State. Boise State is the preseason favorite to win the MWC again in 2013 (what a shocker). Eight members of the 2013 Bronco team were named to the Athlons’ Preseason All-MWC team with offensive tackle Charles Leno Jr. and defensive end Demarcus Lawrence leading the way. It’s hard to say in this game, but I feel like this is going to be a close one. The Eagles first three games of the season will predict how USM will handle the Broncos. The last trip the Eagles made to Boise did not turn out very well. The Eagles were struggling at the quarterback position. My prediction: Boise State-24 USM-12 There’s a look at the first four games and in the next issue I will talk more about the new C-USA members and hopefully USM will be at worst 2-2 after the first four games. See RISING - Continued on next page

August 29 September 5 September 12 September 19 September 26 October 3 October 12 October 19 October 24

2013 Schedule

@ Itawamba @ East MS Co-Lin @ Southwest @ Hinds Jones MS Delta (HC) @ Pearl River MS Gulf Coast

7:00 p.m. 7:00 p.m. 6:30 p.m. 7:00 p.m. 6:30 p.m. 6:30 p.m. 2:30 p.m. 2:00 p.m. 6:30 p.m.

P.O. Box 129 • Decatur, MS 39327 • 1-877-462-3222 • www.eccc.edu East Central Community College is an equal educational and employment opportunity provider.

RISING - Continued from previous page

DYNASTY - Continued from Page 7

My season prediction for Southern Miss is 7-5 with the schools up north also having good seasons too, MSU 7-5 and Ole Miss at 8-4 respectively. Another new chapter for USM athletics has begun recently with the hiring of Bill McGillis from South Florida as the new Athletic Director. Southern Miss needed someone to really come in and take USM to that next level through fund-raising and competitive play on the field. McGillis replaces General Jeff Hammond who was the AD for over a year. I wish McGillis all the luck in the world to get USM to the next level and “Rise To The Top.” McGillis raised a lot of money for secondary sports at USF and comes in at USM with some great ideas. Wrapping up this article is a plea for every USM fan to come and watch the Golden Eagles play August 31 at The Rock versus Texas State. I am hoping to get at least 30,000 in attendance for our new head coach Todd Monken and for the USM student-athletes. Wear your Gold on Fridays to support Southern Miss and then I’ll see you all on Saturdays at the Rock! “Rise To The Top.” - MSM

ways been fun yet intimidating to opposing teams and fans. Today many other colleges and universities have stepped up their game when it comes to baseball facilities and amenities and a lot of that can be attributed to what has happened in Starkville over the years. Let’s also remember when we are talking about dynasties it’s about on field production as well. The Bulldogs have won 16 SEC Championships, seven conference tournament championships, made 33 appearances in NCAA post season and now appeared in nine, College World Series. The College World Series is baseball’s equivalent to the Final Four or the Super Bowl. It is the mountain top and for the Bulldogs to have nine stops their including their most recent, a National Championship appearance, that is special. There have been great sports teams and players to come through this great state, but none have seen the success of Mississippi State baseball. The Diamond Dawgs have set the standard for winning and consistency regardless of sport or program within the State of Mississippi. The Bulldogs are also recognized nationally as the “one” program the National Title has eluded in baseball and maybe in time, John Cohen can capture that coveted crown. As ESPN broadcaster Orel Hershiser said while calling Mississippi State’s games in the College World Series this year, “when you think of college baseball, you think of Starkville, Mississippi.” I’m almost sure that’s what Dudy Noble thought too when this all began in little ole Starkville, MS on a hot summer day back in 1920. - MSM

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2013 JUCO PREVIEW - 9

AROUNDMS

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Getting Stronger Every Day No longer a fad – CrossFit explodes as a sport and a lifestyle By JAKE WIMBERLY Contributing Writer

rom the time you walk in the door you instantly smell the rubber mats and plates, the music blares from the back of the room and off in the distance weights are being thrown on the floor by someone doing a workout. The white board in the back of the room is filled with the work-out of the day known as the WOD, along with people’s workout times. A crossfit “box” or gym is filled with barbells, rubber bumper plates, kettle bells, wooden boxes, pull bars and ropes hanging from the ceiling. In short, it is truly an adult playground. Unlike its counterpart, the traditional gym or fitness club – crossfit has no mirrors, no big open floor space filled with compound machinery or dumbbell racks. Never will you see in a crossfit gym anyone posing in a mirror taking photos of their abs or flexing. You will also never see anyone sitting around machines conversing. CrossFit programming concentrates on constantly varied functional movements performed at high intensity to achieve overall physical fitness, so people are prepared for any physical challenge. In short, as most crossfitter’s will tell you, “we lift weights, and then lift weights fast for cardio.” In the grand scale of fitness, crossfit is still relatively in its infancy. There are still a lot of people that are skeptical and have their doubts. However, thousands of traditional gym buffs and former athletes have made the transition to crossfit. Mississippi Crossfit in conjunction with Performance 360, located in Ridgeland, MS

10 - MISSISSIPPI SPORTS MAGAZINE

“I didn’t want to be the skinny guy that could run or the big guy who could just lift,” Hopkins said. “I found it all encompassing and by my senior year at Delta State I was a big, strong, tightened 250 lbs., crossfit totally changed my game.” is home to arguably Mississippi’s biggest crossfit gym and head trainer Dex Hopkins was one of those people years ago that made the transition to crossfit and did it while still playing college football. “I didn’t want to be the skinny guy that could run or the big guy who could just lift,”

Hopkins said. “I found it all encompassing and by my senior year at Delta State I was a big, strong, tightened 250 lbs., crossfit totally changed my game.” Since his time as a head trainer, Hopkins has heard it all and seen it all when it comes to criticism of the system of crossfit. Many

still say it is a fad or another fly by night fitness system. “You can only go through P90X and Insanity for so long. You can’t run with P90X and you can’t lift with Insanity, but in here we can have you doing both fairly quickly. This type of workout is all encompassing. We are not going to shrivel you up or make you a big guy like some programs or traditional weight training regimens, we are going to get you to a little bit of both,” Hopkins said. Hopkins continued, “Crossfit is about

general fitness preparedness. It is about getting you prepared for everyday life. You are going to get tired of doing bicep curls, and chest exercises then getting on the elliptical machine for thirty minutes. I don’t know many things that work as fast as this does and that is as consistent. The skill set is so broad and I think that is what keeps people coming back. People tend to never get bored because what we do is so broad.” Not only has crossfit grown in communities around the world, it has also taken off as a worldwide sport now broadcast every

summer on ESPN and this doesn’t surprise Hopkins or any of the other local competitors. “Proofs in the pudding; guys and girls that get out of competitive sports, then don’t have eligibility and still have that fire to compete, that fire to continue to advance and this gives those people like me another way to feel a void from a competition stand point.” I, like many was at one time skeptical of crossfit, loved my traditional gym and my elliptical machine, but after years of that I tried this new workout fad and honestly, I can never see myself going back to a traditional gym. As Hopkins describes, it’s not only about the workouts but the community and the people. “Crossfit is a community. We are friends with everyone in the area and they are friends with us. That is the part I love the most. We are not a cut throat business; in crossfit, our communities support each other and that’s a cool thing. “ Hopkins is spot on, as I have never seen a tighter nit group than the crossfit community and I have never done anything that is so challenging yet so rewarding. Try it one time and I promise you will be hooked. That’s all it took for me; I bought it hook, line and sinker and can’t imagine doing anything else when it comes to staying fit. - MSM

2013 JUCO PREVIEW - 11

2012 MACJC STATE CHAMPIONS

www.colinathletics.com

Copiah-Lincoln Community College does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, disability, or other factors prohibited by law in any of its educational programs, activities, admissions, or employment practices.

12 - MISSISSIPPI SPORTS MAGAZINE

2011 NJCAA NATIONAL CHAMPIONS

Quinton Dial, University of Alabama, San Francisco 49ers

Bo Wallace, Ole Miss

Denico Autry, Mississippi State

START HERE. GO ANYWHERE. www.eastms.edu

www.emccathletics.com

EMCC does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, disability, or age in its programs and activities. Contact Dr. Andrea Scott Mayfield with inquiries regarding this policy, 662-476-5000 or ascott@eastms.edu.

2013 JUCO PREVIEW - 13

ONCAMPUS

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Home is where the Heart is

Former Bulldog QB Tyson Lee returns to MSU to lead school’s FCA program By PAUL JONES Contributing Writer

yson Lee has always been one to follow his heart and pursue his dreams. More important to him is following God’s plan and that direction has led the Columbus, Miss., native back to his roots and near his hometown. The former MSU quarterback is now back on the Bulldogs’ campus serving as the school’s director of Fellowship of Christian Athletes. In high school, Lee played at Columbus High School and had a successful career for the Falcons that led to offers to continue at the next level. Lee eventually produced an All-American career at Itawamba Community College and set several school records from the quarterback position. And after dreaming of playing at nearby Mississippi State, he got that opportunity when former MSU head coach Sylvester Croom extended a walk-on invitation. Lee quickly turned that walk-on opportunity into a scholarship after one semester on campus. “I know I said it a lot but it was really a dream come true,” said Lee. “You dream it and would love for it to happen but when it finally did, it was so surreal. It is still kind of surreal thinking about it today. It was great to play the game I love and play it at a university I love. Being close to home was a plus and it was just a blessing to play ball at Mississippi State.” During his two-year career for the Bulldogs, Lee didn’t get to experience the bowl games or winning seasons that MSU is accustomed to these days. But Lee and his class did set for a major impact for the program in other ways. In his senior year and in Dan Mullen’s first season, the Bulldogs finished 5-7 and ended the season with a dominating performance in the Egg Bowl. Once Lee graduated and his se14 - MISSISSIPPI SPORTS MAGAZINE

Photo courtesy MSU Media Relations

“You dream it and would love for it to happen but when it finally did, it was so surreal. It is still kind of surreal thinking about it today. It was great to play the game I love and play it at a university I love. Being close to home was a plus and it was just a blessing to play ball at Mississippi State.”

nior class moved on, what they left behind was built on by future Bulldogs. “It was a humbling experience to know our group played a part in what we see today,” said Lee. “Coach Mullen talked that season about how critical setting the foundation was. At the time we knew how important it was. We were not so worried about the results as we were about the foundation and giving it all we had. “It reaped benefits later for guys that came after us. It was good to know we had a part of that success. And personally, I feel I reaped the benefits, too, and feel a part of what they are doing now. Seeing them winning games now and going to bowl games, it is great to see that success and I feel a part of that.” Lee remained on MSU’s campus after his college playing days were over with and earned a master’s degree in sports admin-

Photo courtesy MSU Media Relations

“It is a work environment (the NFL) and isn’t really family-oriented. It is a job where players make a lot of money and if you are not getting the job done, then they will find somebody else that will.” istration. Unsure of his career path, an opportunity to be around the game again came Lee’s way. “I really wasn’t sure what I wanted to do,” said Lee. “Then in my second year of grad school, I was working with Mississippi State’s pro day and I met a guy from the NFL and we exchanged phone numbers and I gave him my resume. Later on I was offered scouting position with the St. Louis Rams. I was working in their scouting department and learned a lot and met a lot of people.” During his time with the Rams, Lee described working in the NFL as an “unreal feeling”. But yes, it was different than college football. While kids try to earn scholarships and get their education for free in college, at the highest level it is about doing a job and keeping that job for as long as possible. “It was a humbling experience in the NFL,” said Lee. “You always hear about it is but to work there and actually do it was an unreal feeling. It is serious business. There

is a lot of brotherhood in college and to a degree, there is some of that brotherhood in the NFL. But at the end of the day it is a job and for the players, it is about maintaining that job. “It is a work environment and isn’t really family-oriented. It is a job where players make a lot of money and if you are not getting the job done, then they will find somebody else that will.” Despite working with the best athletes in the game and at the highest level, Lee admitted he didn’t feel that “passion” with his NFL job. “Towards the end of my first year, I felt it just wasn’t my passion,” said Lee. “Despite it being a wonderful opportunity and knowing people would love to do what I did, my passion wasn’t in my job. My passion is to impact the lives of young people, particularly the lives of young men, and my job in the NFL didn’t allow me to follow that passion.” This past spring, Lee followed that pas-

sion ‘back home’ to Mississippi State’s campus to work with the FCA program on campus. “I tell people it was the hardest but easiest decision I had to make,” said Lee. “You ask yourself what motivates you each morning and I knew the Lord was calling me to do this. You see so many guys that make it to the NFL but struggle off the field due to issues they had growing up. At the end of the day I knew where God wanted me to be and I knew where my heart was.” Lee has followed that passion and hit the ground running in his new role. Naturally, his job requires him to be around and talk with MSU athletes every day. So yes, football is a normal topic of conversation but Lee’s top priority is helping Bulldogs off the field. “When I left Mississippi State before, my mind-set was to work my way up and be a general manager one day,” said Lee. “But the Lord changed all of that and brought me back to Mississippi State. He brought me back to where I played to be around the players and the coaching staff. “I just explain to guys that they can expect to have ups and downs and to experience the mountains and valleys of life. I hope, for them, that they can avoid the valleys as much as possible and to build good relations and to trust people in their lives.” Of course, Lee is around many familiar faces on the coaching staff and guys that were coaching at MSU during his tenure as well. To witness the growth of the program whether gauging bowl games or new facilities, Lee said it amazing to see. “I talked to some coaches when I left and stayed in touch now and then,” said Lee. “Now being back, it is great to see how well they have done since I played. The coaching staff and conditioning staff put in so much work those first couple of years and they are now seeing the rewards of the program. It is neat for me to see that on the flip side now as a staff guy.” Now back involved with the program, Lee is hoping for more success on the field for the Bulldogs in 2013. But more important to him is to see Bulldogs have success off the field. “I love seeing progression in a young man’s life,” said Lee. “Sure I love to see them score touchdowns and make big plays. But there is no bigger joy to me than seeing a young man realizing his purpose in life. That means becoming a good father and husband and to have a plan outside of football. It is such a good feeling for me to see a player realize that outside of football. That is what motivates me and what drives me. That is why the Lord brought me back here and what He wants me to help with.” - MSM

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Matt & Tom Luke

For Matt and Tom Luke Ole Miss is a family reunion BY JOHN DAVIS Contributing Writer

wo of the most beloved Ole Miss Rebels were re-united in Oxford back in May when former Rebel quarterback Tom Luke was hired by head coach Hugh Freeze to be the Assistant AD for Player Development. Tom joined his brother, Matt, on the staff. It was the first time that the two had been together in the same town since 2005 when they both worked under Ed Orgeron. Matt, who serves as Freeze’s offensive line coach, said it was very special to have his brother back on staff and his overall family so close. “My parents are just an hour away. My wife’s parents live here, she’s from here, and she has two brothers that are close. My sister is just two hours away in Madison so everyone is very close now that Tom is here,” Matt Luke said. “Coming back to Ole Miss has been special. I think that’s the right word to use. I think anytime you can come back to somewhere you consider home and grew up as a huge fan, it’s special. My dad and brother played here and anytime you can come back and work and be happy, I think that’s really special. The longer you go in life coaching you realize that quality of life is the most important and the way Coach Freeze does things with him putting an emphasis on family just makes it better.” Matt had already been back in Oxford for a season before Tom was hired. Tom, who spent 12 years coaching at Jackson Academy, said coming on board with Freeze was a “no brainer” of a decision. “To be a part of what they have going, to be back at Ole Miss and to be a part of the Ole Miss family again, it’s just a dream come true,” said 16 - MISSISSIPPI SPORTS MAGAZINE

Photo Courtesy Ole Miss Athletics

Tom Luke, before taking time out to point out some fond memories. “When you grow up an Ole Miss Rebel from the time you’re born and your dad played there and you drive up to all the Homecoming games from Gulfport back when it used to be 55 miles-per-hour all the way up to Oxford. It was a long, tough drive but we seemed to make every Homecom-

ing and we made most every game that they played in Jackson back then.” “Wearing the Buford McGee jersey and then to have the opportunity to play there and have the opportunity to work under three different staffs. Not many people get that opportunity.” Now that Tom has come back to Oxford, he’s looking forward to building an even

Photo Courtesy Ole Miss Athletics

“I’m somebody they can go to because their parents aren’t here with them. That’s kind of how I perceive player development. There is a lot of things that go on with these kids and their life and the pressure for an 18-year-old is so much greater than when I played.” - Tom Luke deeper relationship with his brother, who is seven years younger. “It’s a special time now for me to be around my brother and that we can have an actual conversation. If you could imagine somebody who was seven years younger, there wasn’t a lot in common when you’re growing up,” Tom Luke said. “I didn’t get a chance to see him play in junior high football. I occasionally got a chance to see him play high school football. Very rarely did I get a chance to see him play

college football because I was coaching on the high school level Friday nights and with him playing on Saturdays and sometimes being on the road and stuff like that. I never was able to watch him play that often and it was always special when I did. He was hard-nosed.” Matt, who played center for the Rebels from 1995-1998, got his toughness from his brother, who was known as a tough-nut quarterback when he played for the Rebels in 1989-1991. “He was my hero and when I went to games, I was wearing his jersey. He played the game the way it was supposed to be played,” Matt recalled. “I think growing up that my dad and my brother were my two biggest role models. I wasn’t able to see my dad play so really what I was taking was the way my brother played on the field and the way he carried himself on and off the field. He’s a tremendous person and I was able to learn a lot by just watching him. It starts with my mom and dad but obviously getting to see my brother living that just reinforced it.” While Matt Luke’s job as offensive line coach is much more explanatory, Tom’s position has more challenges, at least from a daily

experience standpoint. “It’s different every time I walk in the office. Something new always comes up. The title is player development but it’s really like player support. I’m there for them and it’s anything that doesn’t have to do with x’s and o’s. If something comes across the table, either (Asst. AD for Football Operations) John Miller or (Assistant Recruiting Director) Branden Wenzel or myself work hand in hand on that kind of stuff. Not so much academics but housing and food, just everyday life and their troubles,” Tom Luke said. “I’m somebody they can go to because their parents aren’t here with them. That’s kind of how I perceive player development. There is a lot of things that go on with these kids and their life and the pressure for an 18-year-old is so much greater than when I played. They get a lot more credit but they get a lot more blame too. It’s an awful lot of pressure that comes along with being an Ole Miss Rebel and being in the SEC even more.” The attention and the pressure that comes from playing on TV all the time is something Tom noticed compared to when he played. “It was just a big deal back then to get on TV when I was playing. To get on three or four times in a year meant you were on a roll. Now everybody is on every time you strap it on,” Tom Luke said. “It’s a situation now to where TV has taken off and the money has escalated and the more people see you, the more pressure, the more credit, the more criticism you have.” While Tom wasn’t always able to see his brother play in person, he will never forget watching Matt’s 1997 Rebels defeat Mississippi State in Starkville, 15-14. He also remembers when David Cutcliffe came in to take over for Tommy Tuberville how Matt’s ability to design a play and blocking scheme was appreciated. “The Mississippi State game going for 2, that put an exclamation on his career as a player and when Tuberville left after that Mississippi State game, he had a chance to get on the chalkboard. The story that I love to tell was Coach Cutcliffe came in and he had Matt explain things. Romaro (Miller) drew up what he knew on the board and all the skill positions and things like that. Then they gave Matt the marker and he drew up what he knew and afterwards Coach Cutcliffe said when his career was over that he was going to come back and be a student assistant,” Tom Luke said. “He probably had no desire to be college football coach at that point but he was given that opportunity and he just fell in love with it. He’s just so great with the kids. He’s an unbelievable relationship guy. He’s just relentless about doing the right things. There’s no gray area. This is the way we do it. We’re going to play as hard as we can or you’re not going to play. There is no comprise.” - MSM 2013 JUCO PREVIEW - 17

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MISSISSIPPI SPORTS MAGAZINE

2013 JUCO FOOTBALL PREVIEW Photo by James Pugh, Laurel

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MISSISSIPPI JUNIOR COLLEGE FOOTBALL

The TOUGHEST League in America Story By JOHN DAVIS Photos Courtesy EMCC, NECC, CO-LIN, NWCC

uarterback Bo Wallace had a tremendous first season at Ole Miss in 2012. He threw for 2,994 yards and 22 touchdowns and went on to win the annual Conerly Trophy, given to the state’s best collegiate player. His success in Oxford, in large part, can be traced back to his fine freshman season at East Mississippi Community College in 2011 when he led the Lions to a undefeated 12-0 season. Wallace credited the year he spent in Scooba as a key to him landing with the Rebels where he ultimately helped them garner a spot in the BBVA Compass Bowl. “My coaches at East Mississippi really developed me hard. I had a quarterbacks coach who is the offensive coordinator at Akron now. He’s 25-years-old and he changed my whole throwing motion. I think that’s really the biggest thing that helped me in recruiting. I heard coaches say how much I developed from high school. They liked how much I developed and that they could develop me because I used to be way up top with the ball,” Wallace said. “I’m obviously having the best time of my life getting to play in the SEC but I couldn’t have asked for anything more to play in junior college and play in that league and go to see these little small community colleges and play there. You really have to love football and go play JUCO. It’s not easy. There is nothing to do there, you are there to play football.” Wallace wasn’t the only top-ranked player in the state nor on his team. He was surrounded by great talent on offense and defense and when it came time to play the NJCAA Championship game against Arizona

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Former EMCC QB Bo Wallace led the Lions to the 2011 JUCO National Title and is currently the starting QB for Ole Miss. In 2012 Wallace took home the C-Spire Conerly Trophy as the State’s best player.

In 2012, Co-Lin celebrated their first State Championship since 1985.

Western College, there wasn’t a doubt that the Lions would come out on top. “When we were picked to play Arizona Western and we looked at their roster ... in Mississippi we have a limit on who we can bring in and they don’t have that limit. We looked at their roster and we looked at ours and we still felt like we had more speed than anybody,” Wallace said. “We had kids from Florida. We have kids from all over the South and that are SEC talents or maybe just made a bad decision or bad grades and had to come back. We felt like they should be more talented than us but they’re not. Every week you’re playing against four d-tackles that are probably going to the SEC.” Out-of-state players is one of the big reasons football in the MACJC is so exciting and why the league is so highly regarded year in and year out. Andy Greening, who coached 14 years in the league and was head coach for five of those at Northeast, talked about having topnotch out-of-state players as a reason fans flock to the games on a Thursday night. “The out of state players have a lot to do with it. The teams that great out of state players, they set the league apart because we get them. Plus there are so many good players in Mississippi,” said Greening, who most recently was defensive coordinator at NWCC under the legendary Ricky Woods. “That’s the one thing that the junior college system does that everybody overlooks or takes for

“It’s a competitive league from the standpoint that I don’t see anybody in the league running over anybody. I think you can say that on any given Thursday night or Saturday or whenever we’re playing, I think you can truly say that it’s a toss up. Anybody can win on a given gameday.” - Jones JC Coach Ray Perkins granted is the development of the kids that put on one or two inches or the gain 15, 20 pounds and you look up and they’re playing on TV on Saturday. I think people like to watch that.” Greening also felt like the battle to garner a playoff spot against other teams from the state also made the league interesting for fans to keep up with.

“The uniqueness of it is that we play each other. We’ve got our own league and that’s the thing that sets it apart from Kansas or Georgia. The teams in Georgia have to travel 23 hours on a bus to play games,” Greening said. “The people in the state of Mississippi are used to it. They know what Coahoma’s got or East Central or Southwest. People that keep up with football and go to the games keep up with who has the players and all that kind of stuff.” Ray Perkins, a veteran coach of the NFL and college, is preparing for his second season at Jones. He looked at the league as a great proving ground for players. “I like the league, I like the coaches in the league and I really like the league from a great opportunity for young men,” Perkins said. “It’s a competitive league from the standpoint that I don’t see anybody in the league running over anybody. I think you can say that on any given Thursday night or Saturday or whenever we’re playing, I think you can truly say that it’s a toss up. Anybody can win on a given gameday.” In many cases, the junior college head coach and his assistants act as surrogate fathers, Greening said. “I coached high school ball for 18 years. The difference between high school and junior college is you’re with them 24 hours a day. You make sure they go eat breakfast. You make sure they go to bed at night. You make sure they’re going to class. Practice is 2013 JUCO PREVIEW - 21

Northwest won the 2012 Brazzos Valley Bowl played at Kyle Field in College Station, TX.

“Yes it is the best and toughest league in America. Fourteen schools compete each year for the state crown. The league is littered with former D-I coaches both as head coaches and assistants. The talent is deep in this league at many positions and look at the players that come into this league and move onto senior colleges and universities,” Mike Frazer, JUCO Weekly not a problem because that’s what they’re there for,” Greening said. “All the things you take for granted in high school where they go home and you don’t see them until the next morning. “At this level you’re with them 24 hours a day. If they needed something, you’re the person they called. They don’t have anybody else. You’re the one that recruited them there so in turn they look at you as their father figure.” Perkins added that the difference between a two-year college and a four-year school like Alabama is very different. “It’s like daylight and dark in what I’ve been used to coaching at the Division I school level and coaching in the NFL. This level here at the junior college level is really a great place for a young man to carry himself and prepare himself to go on to a Division I school level and 22 - MISSISSIPPI SPORTS MAGAZINE

play,” Perkins said. “Whether it’s to play professionally or to move on and get his degree whatever that might be. I think it’s a great training ground if you will for these young people.” EMCC was the latest national champion from the state in 2011. Gulf Coast, the preseason No. 1 ranked team in the nation this year, won a national title in 2007. Pearl River won the NJCAA title in 2004 while Delta and NWCC won it all in 1993 and 1992 respectively. “The league continues to be a major player in the country as evidenced by four MACJC colleges being preseason ranked by JCGridiron including MGCCC as a preseason No. 1 followed by East Mississippi at No. 6, Itawamba at 19 and NWCC at 21. Once again

Former NECC Coach Andy Greening

multiple teams are preseason ranked which happens in most seasons. There are plenty of teams in this league that can beat each other — 14 teams play football — and each team in each division is littered with talent at many positions,” said Mike Frazer, the Executive Director of JUCO Weekly. “Then factor in the rivalries and you have upsets such as ICC beating EMCC in the last game of the year bursting East’s chance at potentially playing for another national title. In the south MGCCC rolls into JCJC as the No. 1 team and loses by a touchdown last September and their bumped from title contention.

Look at Co-Lin’s run of the table to win the state title with giant wins at Scooba and then at MGCCC to claim its first state crown since 1985.” Like Greening, Frazer felt like the because the league played each other and because of all the talent in the MACJC, it’s the best top to bottom. “Yes it is the best and toughest league in America. Fourteen schools compete each year for the state crown. The league is littered with former D-I coaches both as head coaches and assistants. The talent is deep in this league at many positions and look at the players that come into this league and move onto senior colleges and universities,” Frazer

“The reason I got out of the league is because it’s open. It is just not what it used to be. That’s my personal opinion of course. The amount of work that is having to be done by the coaches ... it’s not fair that some teams have eight coaches and some teams have four coaches. Some people have an open budget and some can get in a car and drive 100 miles to see a player,” said Greening, who coached linebackers at EMCC through the spring before taking a new job in Tennessee in July. “To me the league is as one sided as it has been in the whole time I was there. It doesn’t take a very smart football fan to figure out why Gulf Coast and East Mississippi are at the top. There are some others that are

hurt but he also pointed to Holmes as benefiting from being able to get players from another part of the state. “I think its too early to tell if open recruiting has hurt or helped the league overall. It certainly is helping colleges such as Holmes, who were boxed into a district that didn’t have a whole lot of talent to select from and yet others were reaping steady success in their districts,” Frazer said. “MACJC colleges want to win games — from the administrators on down to the coaching staffs — so you have to respect that desire and drive in wanting what they feel is a level platform to recruit from. “Look at Holmes and head coach Jeff

spending some money but not like East Mississippi and Gulf Coast. “It’s like anything else, you’re going to get out what you put into it. Facilities are a big thing that these kids love, helmets, jerseys. If you look at East Mississippi and Gulf Coast, they all have two or three helmets and two or three jerseys. That’s what those kids want to hear when they’re getting recruited and if you’re not doing that,” Greening continued. “Within three or four years some of the teams will not be playing football. I’m going to stick to my guns on that. This is really the second year of the open state recruitment and I think you are going to see some unbelievable football scores. It’s not as competitive as it was before.” Frazer thought the state being open could

Koonz, who has worked tirelessly and has been very effective in his first two seasons at rebuilding a winner in Goodman. And, in fact, in 2012 posted the Bulldogs first winning season in a very long time,” Frazer added. “Could it hurt some colleges? Sure. But only time will tell if this worked out as planned. Each of the college presidents understand the importance of the success of it’s football team for it’s fan base and alumni and you must applaud their efforts at exploring avenues that provide their program the best chance to win games.” Time will tell if the current recruiting platform hurts teams but right now, the MACJC is still the best it appears and 2013 could be another great year nationally. - MSM

EMCC celebrating their 2011 Championship.

said. “The MACJC has nearly 100 percent placement of its players to the next level. Now, they all may not be going to Alabama or LSU, but they’re moving on somewhere from the SEC, Big Ten, PAC 12, to West Alabama, Delta State, Mississippi College. The speed, the passion, the coaching, the respect given to this league across the nation is unbridled.” As good as the league is currently, there is a possible factor that may hurt the league in time, Greening said. There was a time when schools could protect the best players in their area but that changed in 2011 and now, schools with resources can recruit the state, plucking away the best players because of a better facility or chance to win a championship.

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WHERE ARE THEY NOW?

Ray Perkins 2013

juco

football

p re v iew

Story By JOHN DAVIS Photos Courtesy Jones JC Sports Information / The University of Alabama / Paul W. Bryant Museum

ith a career as successful and fulfilling as the one Ray Perkins has had in football, it’s hard to pinpoint one moment that stands out above the rest. When you take into account the amount of standout players he has been around — Perkins caught passes from Joe Namath at Alabama — and great coaches he has worked with — Bill Parcells and Bill Belichick are two of his former assistants — the great moments far exceed anything

else. For Perkins, who at 71, is back in coaching at Jones Junior College in Ellisville, reflecting on a career that includes head coaching stints at Alabama and with the New York Giants, always comes back to his players, coaches and the administrators he’s worked for. “I’m just grateful to have been around so many great coaches. I tell my players I was the luckiest guy in the world to be around so many great players, great coaches and great administrators over the years to have the success that all of them did have. I was along for the

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The Perkins File Born: December 6, 1941 Hometown: Petal Alma Mater: Alabama Playing Career: 1964-66: University of Alabama 1967-71: Baltimore Colts Position: Wide Receiver Coaching Career: 1973: Mississippi State (Assistant) 1974-77: New England Patriots (Assistant) 1978: San Diego Chargers (OC) 1979-82: New York Giants (HC) 1983-86: Alabama (HC) 1987-90: Tampa Bay Buccaneers (HC) 1992: Arkansas State (HC) 1993-96: New England Patriots (OC) 1997: Oakland Raiders (OC) 1999: Cleveland Browns (TE Coach) 2000: Cleveland Browns (RB Coach) 2012- Jones County Junior College (HC) Awards: Alabama Sports Hall of Fame (1990)

>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> “I still have very warm feelings for Mississippi State University and Bob Tyler. He and the school there gave me my first break to get into coaching and I enjoyed the year there.”

>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>

ride and it was great to get a taste of that myself. I’m honored,” said Perkins, who remembers wanting to be a coach as early as ninth grade. “When I was a sophomore at Alabama, I went to Coach (Bear) Bryant’s office and asked him for some advice because I wanted to get into coaching. At that time I had it in my mind to be a coach in high school. He told me that he had a couple of things he could recommend for me. The first thing was you get good players and the second thing was to get some coaches that can teach them what to do. And third was to make sure they felt like doing it on gameday. To make sure you got them to do it on gameday, he said make sure you don’t coach them too much and don’t work them too hard that they’re gave out on gameday and can’t quite do it on gameday. That was about it.” Following a successful career at Alabama in which he helped lead the Crimson Tide to national championships in 1964 and 1965, Perkins played for the Baltimore Colts from 1967-1971. The legendary Don Shula was the coach of the Colts at that point and Per-

kins played in Super Bowl V, catching passes from another legend in Johnny Unitas along the way. He retired from the Colts and then set off to be a coach, getting his first opportunity at Mississippi State in 1973 under the direction of Water Valley native Bob Tyler. “I never dreamed that my career would be as good as it was. Not that I was all-world or anything but I played four years in college and then played five years in the pros with Baltimore. In ‘72 when I retired from playing, the first thing when I got home to Alabama was make phone calls to everybody I knew in coaching. Then I sat around for a few months, played a little golf and I started my coaching career at Mississippi State University,” Perkins recalled. “I still have very warm feelings for Mississippi State University and Bob Tyler. He and the school there gave me my first break to get into coaching and I enjoyed the year there.” Tyler thinks fondly of Perkins to this day as well and he remembers thinking that the former NFL standout could really help the Bulldog receivers as well the team overall.

“I was just taking over as head coach and I thought he could be good for all aspects, for recruiting, on-the-field coaching and our motivation, to have someone with a real NFL name and he was that. There were some others that made contact with me but I really thought he was the best big name as a member of our staff I could bring in,” Tyler said. “That was a major part but I also knew him and he was the one I wanted out of that NFL group. I had seen him play at Alabama and he was just an all-out, reckless abandon as a receiver. He hustled every step and besides that initial lick of getting that NFL, strong name to help us, we were really getting a good man who would hustle just like he played. He was serving a good purpose for us.” Perkins only stayed in Starkville one season before moving on to the New England Patriots, but Tyler loved his energy and thought Perkins would do well as a coach because of his work ethic and his teaching ability. “A lot of guys who were always great, AllAmericans or great pros, they would come 2013 JUCO PREVIEW - 25

Perkins (left) and Alabama legendary QB Joe Namath.

back and it would seem like they thought their presence would make them an effective coach. In Ray’s case, I really felt like he was trying to be a coach and a teacher kind of aside of any notoriety he was bringing along with him,” Tyler said. “I really felt like he was trying to train himself to coach and I think I saw that and sensed he would be a good coach.” After spending four years with the Patriots and a season with the San Diego Chargers as the offensive coordinator, Perkins became the head coach of the Giants in 1979. Parcells, Belichick and Romeo Crennel were assistants on that team and has kept up with their careers as well ever since. “I texted Parcells the other day and told him how proud I was of him and for him to be inducted into the NFL Hall of Fame. It gives me a good feeling to have been associated with those people and all those people had a lot of the same things in common. They were all winners and they were winners because they all believed in a lot of the same stuff,” Perkins said. “Bill Belichick came down (to Ellisville) in March and did a great job speaking. He was 26 - MISSISSIPPI SPORTS MAGAZINE

just wonderful. He came in and said a few words to the baseball team here at JC and milled around about an hour with our football team and they just enjoyed that. You don’t got through a lot of the wars that we did together and not keep in touch.” A memory of the first game or single big play in his first game as the Giants’ head coach escapes Perkins but he does remember getting chill bumps up his spine when he walked out on the field for the first time as the man in charge. “I’m not sure if I felt any different than I had when I was an assistant coach other than this is my opportunity and let’s make the best of it type thing. It sends chill bumps up and down your spin regardless of whether I remember it or not. I’m sure I felt it,” Perkins said. “I have so many games that stick out over the years. I had so many great players and great coaches and that put me in a situation to have great moments but I don’t if there was one that outweighed the other.” The past glory of leading the Giants, Crimson Tide or the Buccaneers to wins

has been replaced with leading the JCJC Bobcats to victories in the MACJC. Perkins, who hadn’t coached since 2000 before taking over last season in Ellisville, remembers getting a call from president, Dr. Jesse Smith when he was driving from Petal, his hometown, to Hattiesburg one day. “I didn’t even know they were without a coach and I was riding down the road and Jesse Smith happened to call me. He said ‘coach, this is Jesse Smith.’ I said how you doing and he said ‘I was wondering if you had a little time to talk football.’ I stopped and thought for a second and said I would love to talk a little football,” Perkins said. “So we talked a little football and he asked me during the conversation how I was doing and what I was doing. I said I was doing great and I didn’t know if I could be doing any better unless I was coaching some football and low and behold, that’s what started talking about.” The conversation led to him being hired in December, 2011 and his first year resulted in a 6-3 record and the Bobcats tying for

Perkins as head coach at Alabama (top) and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers (below).

third in the MACJC South Division. “This time last year I didn’t know if I was coming our going. I had to learn the lay of the land so to speak in junior college. I think we’ve made some headway but I don’t know you manage the headway at a twoyear school. I feel much more comfortable going into the second year than I did all of last year. I really do,” Perkins said. “I feel like we’ve got a good group and I feel like we’re going to be stronger, bigger and faster than we were last year. It’s going to be up to us as coaches to get them coached up. You win ball games with players and it’s like I told them, I’ve never met a coach that’s won a game. It’s exciting and an exciting time and it will just a little more exciting and a little more challenging as we go along. The challenge is going to rely more on the players than it will ever on the coaches. “So far it’s been a very rewarding experience for me personally. I fully recognize that it’s not about me, it’s about these kids, these players. I’m so grateful I got the opportunity to work with these players again. It’s been really a great time, a great experience. I’m still enjoying it.” - MSM 2013 JUCO PREVIEW - 27

copiah-lincoln WOLVES 2012 RESULTS: 7-2 Overall; 5-1 Division

SCHEDULE Aug. 29...............Northeast MS Sept. 5........... @Northwest MS Sept. 12..............@East Central Sept. 19.............................Hinds Sept. 28........... @Jones County Oct. 3......................... Itawamba Oct. 12..................... Pearl River Oct. 19............@MS Gulf Coast Oct. 24...............Southwest MS

defensive backs and linebackers, the Wolfpack will have to replace the pass rush and pass coverage skills supplied by All-Region 23 defensive end Jerrell Jordan and defensive back Jeremy Davis.

By NATALIE DAVIS CO-LIN Sports Information

he Copiah-Lincoln Wolfpack finished the 2012 season atop the Mississippi Community College podium and will look to defend their first State Championship since 1985, this season. Head Coach Glenn Davis guided he Wolfpack to a 9-3 record in his ninth season at the helm, a team that boasted the nation’s fifth ranked passing offense in total yards, and a fourteenth place standing in the NJCAA postseason poll. Of the 27 graduating sophomores on the 2012, squad 14 signed scholarships to four-year universities, including 11 players who signed with Division 1 schools. 28 - MISSISSIPPI SPORTS MAGAZINE

The Wolfpack lose over 3,000 yards of offense from last year’s quarterback Chandler Rogers. Rogers, an Arkansas State signee, finished the season leading the MACJC in both passing yardage and touchdown passes. Also gone is Rogers’ favorite target, Joe Craig (University of Memphis signee), who led the Wolfpack in all receiving categories after a slow start to his season, and NJCAA All-Region 23 center Stone Underwood (University of West Virginia signee), who anchored the Wolfpack offensive line throughout 2012. The Co-Lin defense led the nation in interceptions for six straight weeks and finished fourth overall, snagging 23 passes. They will return most of their ball-hawking

OFFENSE Co-Lin will spend most of the 2013 offseason trying to find a way to replace Rogers at quarterback. The two-year starter finished 2012 with 3,190 passing yards and 30 touchdowns, both numbers good enough for tops in the conference. Battling to replace Rogers will be Northwest Mississippi Community College transfer Luke Hobson and incoming out-of-state signee, Daniel Fitzwater. Hobson (6-0, 190) spent last year at Northwest Mississippi Community College as a back-up, while Fitzwater (6-6, 235) lead his Calvary Baptist Academy team to a 9-4 record and a Louisiana state quarter-finals appearance. In addition to Craig, the Wolfpack will look to replace receivers Mayes Hayes, a Southeastern Louisiana University signee; Darren Anderson and DeVonte Scott. The group accounted for 152 receptions, 21

touchdowns, and over 1,600 yards. Coach Glenn Davis is looking to returning wide receivers Casey Gladney (6’2, 185), Christian “Bubba” Keene (6’4, 195), Ross Hill (6’2, 195), and DeVante Nichols (5’8, 170). Gladney will use his athleticism and pass catching ability to continue right where he left off last season. The Columbia, SC, native caught 32 passes for 431 yards and four touchdowns in 2012. Keene, a Brookhaven Academy product, saw more playing time late in the season due to injuries and was able to show some raw ability, snagging 25 passes for 290 yards and three touchdowns, including a late score in the Mississippi Bowl versus Garden City (KS) Community College. Hill of Brookhaven High School and Nichols of Pearl High School, saw limited action, combining for 3 catches and 22 yards. Incoming freshman Germie Martin (6’0, 175) of Bogue Chitto High School, will try to work his way in with this talented group of sophomores. While the Wolfpack lose the 861 rushing yards and nine touchdowns supplied on the ground by Southeastern Louisiana University signee Darius Guy, they will turn to sophomore Van Lee (6’0, 195) to continue to grow as a player and take the bulk of the carries in 2013. Lee, a Mendenhall High School product, showcased great vision last year, running for 422 yards and two scores on 104 carries. Pushing Lee for carries of their own will be sophomore Kelton Smith (5’11, 200), freshmen DeLance Turner (6’0, 205), and freshman DiQuan Davis (6’0, 170). Smith, a Copiah Academy product, did not see much playing last season due to injury. Turner is a Perry Central High School graduate whose physical physic has earned him the nickname Tarzan by his teammates, and Davis has shown off the speed that drew the coaching staff ’s attention while he was competing at Greenville-Weston High School. At tight end the Wolfpack will turn to a trio of sophomores who spent all of last season at either another position or backing up sure-handed sophomore Jamie McCardle, who moved on to Mississippi College. Tyson McDonald (6’3, 255) has the most experience of the three. The Magee High School product averaged 8-10 snaps a game as a freshman. Jervarus Banks (6’2, 230) saw 1015 snaps in his first year out of Hazlehurst. Darrien Hutcherson (6’7, 265) of Dadeville, AL, will be making the move to tight end after spending all of 2012 as a defensive end. The offensive line unit is expected to be one of most experience units in the state this year. Co-Lin returns four starters across the offensive front, while also expecting a group of five incoming freshmen to push for play-

2012 STATE CHAMPS

ing time. With the loss of Underwood at center, the Wolfpack are looking for sophomores Jacquel Johnson (6’5, 315), David Adams (6’4, 305), and Ryan Proctor (6’5, 325) to take control of the reigns of this very large group. Johnson started all 12 games last year at right tackle and is a Mississippi State commitment. Adams, a South Delta High School product, was moved from defensive end to left tackle last summer and started the first two games of the year before an injury ended his season. Proctor supplied solid relief for Adams the rest of the year at the left tackle after being highly recruited out of Brandon High School. Added to the offensive line this year is former defensive tackle Xavier Dampeer (6’2, 310) who could see time at both guard and center. Dampeer of Mendenhall, is an extremely athletic player who adds more bulk to an already large group, he is also arguably the strongest player on the 2013 squad. Pushing for time across the front are incoming freshmen Jacob Flemming (6’5, 300) of North Pike; Nick Luckey (6’3, 275) of Magee; Zechariah Ray (6’7, 305) of Yazoo County; Garrett Keating (6’4, 280) of Adams County Christian School; Cullen Greer

(6’0, 270) of Wesson Attendance Center; and Quintarius Willis (6’3, 285) of Greenville-Weston. DEFENSE The Co-Lin defense will look to return back to their pass picking ways they displayed early in the 2012 season while breaking in a new defensive coordinator and linebackers coach. Otis Yelverton takes over the Wolfpack defense after spending the past few seasons as the defensive signal caller for the Contra Costa Comets of the California Community College Athletics Association. Coach Yelverton helped the Comets lead the Bay Valley Conference in overall defense while finishing the year as state runner-ups. Also joining the Wolfpack defensive staff is former Co-Lin All-American Maurice Johnson who will work with the linebackers. Across the defensive front, the Wolfpack will have to replace three Division 1 signees, including Terrell Hartsfield and All-Region 23 defensive end Jerrell Jordan, both University of Cincinnati signees. Tackles Anthony Cunningham (6’2, 285) and Philanteus Jarrett (6’3, 285) are Co-Lin’s SEE CO-LIN continued on Page 54 2013 JUCO PREVIEW - 29

COAHOMA CC TIGERS 2012 RESULTS: 1-8 Overall; 0-6 Division

SCHEDULE Aug. 29...........@MS Gulf Coast Sept. 5...............................Hinds Sept. 12.............Northwest MS Sept. 19................... Pearl River Sept. 28.......@East Mississippi Oct. 5............. @NE Mississippi Oct. 12....................... Itawamba Oct. 19.....................@MS Delta Oct. 24......................Holmes CC

practice before the first game vs. Gulf Coast August 29.

Photo Courtesy JUCOWeekly.org

By panny mayfield Coahoma Sports Information

oahoma has a killer schedule the toughest in Mississippi JUCO football, believes Coach Freeman Horton. And Mississippi JUCO football has been labeled “The toughest league in America.” “We are challenged early in the season,” says the competitive, veteran coach who took the Tigers to the playoffs in 2009 after winning four consecutive uphill battles. “In three out of five games, we are facing pre-season Top 25 teams,” says Horton naming Gulf Coast, Number one; Itawamba, No. 19; Northwest, No. 21; and East Mississippi, No. 6. 30 - MISSISSIPPI SPORTS MAGAZINE

Reviewing the 2012 season, Horton praises his players for their tenacious play and upset victory (34-24) over Pearl River that helped deaden the sting of several close and heart-breaking losses. “Against Hinds, we were down only 0-7 at halftime but ran out of gas because of conditioning problems,” he says. He explained how players usually get in shape for the grueling season during summer school, and CCC’s lack of a summer session for athletes contributed to the opening loss to Gulf Coast . “We lost to Northeast in the last 20 seconds (21-17) and to Itawamba after blowing a two-touchdown lead (31-28). With players arriving on campus Aug. 4 there is limited time for conditioning and

OFFENSE Looking ahead and assessing his assets, Coach Horton says three top offensive linemen are returning including, “one of the best in the state: Sylvester Townes at 6’6/290’;” Terrance Williams from West Bolivar at 6’3/330; and Dannick Artis 6’3/360 from Aggie who was injured most of last year. “We’re also expecting great things from Jacorey Lee, who is transferring from Jones County Junior College, he continued Both 2012 quarterbacks: Quantavious (long arm) Peterson and Roderick McKee will be back sharing the position along with Anthony Mitchell Jr., a freshman from Moss Point, says Horton. “Running back Daveonn Porter, who was ranked first or second in the state, will be hard to replace,” says Horton who will be evaluating freshmen speedsters. DEFENSE If the Tigers are short on offensive experience, their defensive backs and defensive

The Coahoma defense swarms a Northwest RB. Photo Courtesy JUCOWeekly.org

linemen are strong. Defensive coordinator William Kirksey will be leaning on the experience of sophomores Keeland McElrath, 6’5/295, of Ripley, Tenn; Dezmond Bedford, 6’3/292 of Mound Bayou; Isiah Anderson, 6’2/242, of Port Gibson; linebackers Rykeem Cook, 6’1/205, of Madison Palmer; Terrence Thigpen, 6’1/240, of Ruleville; defensive backs Jamal Ezekiel, Jerry Lyons, and Arsenio Correll, all of Greenville O’Bannon and James Harmon of Lexington. PLAYERS TO WATCH According to Horton, include wide receivers Tiberias Lampkin of West Helena and James Hill of New Hope; defensive back Calvin Summers of Olive Branch; running back Dominick Smith of Fairly High School, Memphis; linebacker Jerome Glass of Memphis; and defensive lineman Tamaris Harris of Leland Horton continues to lament the dissolution of recruiting districts when players in each district were protected from out-ofdistrict raiding. Now, all colleges can recruit players anywhere in the state, and large colleges in the South (Hinds, Jones, Co-Lin and Gulf

Coast) have signed players from Clarksdale, Charleston, West Bolivar, and other north Mississippi hometowns. Adding additional insult to CCC was outlawing Tiger recruiting in Memphis schools – a rich source of talent- especially offensive linemen. However, Horton is proud of his 2012 players who have transferred or graduated and are playing this year at 4-year colleges and universities. The 16 players include Tyshunn Alston (West Alabama), Monte Bass, Timothy Buckley, Isiah Colbert, Jibri Cole (Tuskegee University), Cezar Coleman-Lane, LaKendrick Conley (Texas Southern), Jamal Cooper (Belhaven College), Steven Horton (West Alabama), Daveonn Porter (Texas Southern), Ryan Self (Delta State), Damien Samuel, Hason Smith (Georgia), Shannon Tyler (Lane), DeKoven Ware (Delta State), Elias Wells (Jackson State), Ned Gallagher (Jackson State), Paul Medders, and Justin Thomas (Mississippi Valley State University). Dr. Valmadge Towner became Coahoma’s fifth president July l. Athletic Director and Head Football Coach Freeman Horton has been coaching at CCC since 2001. Assistant

CCC coaches include Offensive Coordinator Kendrick Travis; Defensive Coordinator William Kirksey; Kenneth Strong who coaches linebackers, Sean Norris, wide receivers and quarterbacks; Billy Fields, running backs. Carol Brooks is Athletic Secretary. Although Coahoma opens on the road at Gulf Coast, the next three Thursday night games are at home: Hinds on Sept. 5; Northwest, Sept. 12; and Pearl River, Sept. 19. Thursday night home games begin at 6:30 p.m. Homecoming is 2 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 12 vs. Itawamba. - MSM

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EAST CENTRAL WARRIORS 2012 RESULTS: 3-6 Overall; 2-4 Division

SCHEDULE Aug. 29...................@Itawamba Sept. 5.........@East Mississippi Sept. 12............................Co-Lin Sept. 19......... @Southwest MS Sept. 26......................... @Hinds Oct. 3...................Jones County Oct. 12.......... Mississippi Delta Oct. 19..................@Pearl River Oct. 24............... MS Gulf Coast

MARTIN JOHNSON

By BUBBY JOHNSON ECCC Sports Information

new coaching staff and a mostly freshman squad will take the field when East Central Community College’s Warriors begin the 2013 campaign at 7 p.m. Thursday, August 29 on the Itawamba Community College campus in Fulton. Despite the challenges, first-year head coach Ken Karcher said the “new look” Warriors “hope to build a first-class program that will be competitive on a weekly basis.” “We are very young but I am pleased with the first Warrior football team our staff has assembled,” said Coach Karcher. “We have a

32 - MISSISSIPPI SPORTS MAGAZINE

talented and very dedicated group of young men who will well represent East Central Community College and its many alumni. We look forward to competing in the always tough MS JUCO League.” Karcher, a 22-year coaching veteran and former NFL quarterback, spent the previous four seasons at Eastern Michigan University, serving as offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach. Although East Central represents his first stint in the JUCO ranks, Karcher said he looks forward to the opportunity. “No matter what level, coaching is a lifechanging business, and we look forward to helping these young men be the best football player they can be, and to help them further their career at a four-year institution or be-

yond,” said Coach Karcher. “That’s what coaching is: changing lives.” Serving on Coach Karcher’s staff are Mickey Mays, offensive coordinator/offensive line; Scott Brock, defensive coordinator/linebackers; Todd Bates, defensive line/ strength coach; Charlie Jones, safeties; Eric Gray, corners/assistant strength coach; and Cody Wilson, tight ends/running backs. “I am very excited about what each coach brings to the table,” said Coach Karcher. “Our players will be well prepared to compete to the best of their ability at every game.” Top returnees on the offensive side include Martin Johnson, a 6-1, 200-pound running back and former first-team AllState selection at Nanih Waiya High School; Wesley Smith, a 6-2, 215-pound tight end/ long snapper at Morton High School, where he received All-State and All-District honors; James Clark, a 6’, 192-pound wide receiver from Laurel High School, who garnered All-District accolades; and Kyron Samuels, a 6-2, 315-pound center from Fairhope (Ala.) High School, where he was an All-American, a three-time All-State selection and served as captain in the MS/AL All-Star Football Game. Johnson saw limited action during the

first half of the 2013 campaign but finished the season with impressive numbers. His 67-yard touchdown run helped lead EC to a 26-21 homecoming victory over Hinds. Johnson’s best performance came in the home finale with Pearl River, when he rambled for 143 yards on 12 carries and one score. He had 21 rushes for 81 yards in the season finale at MS Gulf Coast. Also considered a top offensive threat is sophomore transfer Hakeem Parker, a 6-4, 205-pound wide receiver from Joseph S. Clark High School in New Orleans, where he earned All-State and All-Metro honors. On the defensive side, Karcher considers cornerback Chris Apperwhite as the top returnee. Apperwhite is a 6’, 170-pound product of Laurel High School, where he received second team All-State and 4A All-District honors. Austin Franklin returns to handle kicking and punting duties. Franklin averaged 36.4 yards per punt. His longest effort was a 55-yarder against Jones County. His best day as a kicker came in a 31-0 victory over MS Delta, when he drilled a 32-yard field goal and connected on all four PATs. Franklin is a 6’, 180-pound product of Petal High School, where he was a first team All-Metro selection on the 6A State Championship squad. Other sophomores and their respective high schools include quarterback Donnie Fenmer (6’, 207), Harrison Central; offensive lineman Blake Edmonson (5-10, 240), Northwest Rankin; tight end and All Area selection Layton Holcomb (6-2, 220), Oak Grove; linebacker/defensive back Zachary Thigpen (5-9, 200), an All-State selection from Laurel. Freshman players, their respective honors and high schools include long snapper Trent Haden (5-8, 195), All-District, Sumrall; quarterback Jacori Taylor (6-2, 210), first team All-State, Early County, GA; wide receiver Daniel Gregory (6-1, 190), AllDistrict, New Hope; wide receiver Jimmie Saulsberry (6’, 180), Starkville; wide receiver Jimmy Cockrell (5-10, 170), first team AllState, Columbus; wide receiver/defensive back Desmond Grayson (5-11, 175), Meridian; tight end Tyler Pace (6-2, 260), AllState, All-Conference. All-District, Newton; tight end Brandon Davis (6’, 240) and nose guard Demetre McCleon (5-11, 260), both of Newton County; Lamarcus “Marko” Franks (5-5, 150), All-State and three-time team MVP, Greene County; running back Matthew Hicks (5-11, 206), Ocean Springs; guard Andy Morris (6-1, 260), All-District and District Defensive MVP; Amite School Center; offensive tackle Edward Delee (65, 290), All-District, All-Metro and Fab 15, Centreville Academy, Clinton, La.; center Quincy Cole (6’, 266), All-State, Ackerman;

AUSTIN FRANKLIN

position? Michael Graise (6-4, 250), West Oktibbeha; offensive/defensive lineman Jonathan Chambers (5-10, 275), second team All-State, offensive lineman of the year and most improved, West Oktibbeha HS, Dallas, Texas; offensive lineman KarDevin Thomas (5-11, 313), second team All-State, Super 24 OL and NEMS All-Star, Calhoun City; offensive lineman Brandon Thomas (6-3, 285), first team All Coast, Gulfport; offensive lineman Brody Martin (6-1, 250), All Conference, MAIS All-Star, Marshall Academy, Red Banks, MS; offensive tackle Charles Robinson (6-2, 280), Neshoba Central; defensive backs Blake Gordon (5-11, 196) and Corey Miles (5-11, 187), defensive lineman Xavier Telfort (6-1,280) and defensive end Ronald Dixon (6-1, 210), all of Northwest Rankin; defensive back Anthony Ruffin (5-10, 185), All-State and three-time All-District, Kemper County; defensive back Blake Buteaste (5-8, 165), D’Iberville;defensive back Jabri Selmon (5-6, 165), Kosciusko; defensive back JaDerrick Farrow (5-11, 195), All-Region, All-State, MVP, Bleckley County, Cochran, GA; defensive back Sheppard Jones (5-8, 168), Lanier; cornerback Anthony Triplett (5-8, 150), two-time All-State selection, Philadelphia; cornerback Chris Thornton (5-7, 160), All-State, most valuable returner and linebacker Kendrick Maxwell (6’, 220), Super 22 Offensive Lineman and most improved defensive lineman, both of Houston; defensive back/strong safety Grant Landrum (5-11, 190), All-District, All-Conference, Sumrall; free safety Darrion Burnside (6-4, 185), All-State, All-District, Neshoba

Central; free safety Phankezian Walker (62, 194), All-District and defensive end Anthony McGee (6-2, 240), both of Quitman; cornerback Zachery Bobbitt (5-8, 160), Meridian; linebacker Christian Wraggs (5-11, 192), defensive player of the year, Super 11, Louisville; linebacker Dewayne Lewis (5-10, 190), All-State, All-Region, Durant; linebacker Quanterris Newby (5-6, 210), AllState, All-District, New Hope; wide receiver/linebacker Chris Washington (6-5, 215), Lake; linebacker Thomas McCool (5-11, 220), All-State, All-District and defensive end K.D. Monroe (6-1, 260), All-Division, both of Neshoba Central; linebacker Matthew Moore (6-1, 222), defensive lineman/ linebacker Daryl Rogers (6-3, 215) and defensive lineman/linebacker Joshua Brown (6’, 232), most valuable defensive lineman, all of Laurel; linebacker Tyler Armistad (511, 210), All-Region, Caledonia; linebacker/ safety Isaiah Williams (6-3, 202), All-Metro and nose guard Xavier Woodard (6’, 350), both of Jim Hill; defensive tackle Jeremy Lindsey (6-1, 249), All-Division, Hamilton; defensive lineman Chris Yarbrough (5-9, 280), two-time All-District, Florence; defensive tackle Romario Cobb (6’, 260), Ocean Springs; and linebacker Lucas Morgan (6-3, 218), All-District, honorable mention AllState, Morton. The Warriors battle longtime rival East Mississippi at 7 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 5 in Scooba, and begin home action with MACJC South Division foe Copiah-Lincoln at 6:30 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 12 at Bailey Stadium on the Decatur campus. - MSM 2013 JUCO PREVIEW - 33

EAST MISSISSIPPI LIONS 2012 RESULTS: 8-2 Overall; 5-1 Division

SCHEDULE Aug. 29.................@Pearl River Sept. 5................... East Central Sept. 12.............Southwest MS Sept. 19...................@MS Delta Sept. 28...................... Coahoma Oct. 3.......................... @Holmes Oct. 10................Northeast MS Oct. 17........... @Northwest MS Oct. 24....................... Itawamba DONTREAL PRUITT

By DAVID ROSINSKI

EMCC Sports Information

he 2012 football campaign at East Mississippi Community College produced a fourth MACJC North Division title in five years and a fifth consecutive berth in the MACJC State Playoffs. However, after seeing their school-record, 20-game winning streak snapped in the regular-season finale, the Lions look to the 2013 football season with perhaps more hunger than ever before. That mindset has come about due to the standards and expectations being raised on the Scooba campus under the guidance of head coach Buddy Stephens, who directed EMCC to the NJCAA National Championship two years ago. Under his leadership, the Lions have posted an impressive five-year

34 - MISSISSIPPI SPORTS MAGAZINE

composite record of 44-10, including a 27-3 division mark. Dating back to the 2008 season, only five NJCAA football programs nationally have produced more total victories than EMCC. That preseason fire has also been fueled by the fact that the Lions’ school-record win string was snapped abruptly after dropping consecutive one-point decisions to Itawamba in the regular-season finale and then to eventual state champion Copiah-Lincoln in the MACJC State Semifinals played in Scooba. Those narrow, season-ending losses dropped the reigning NJCAA champions to the No. 15 spot in the final national poll. “We were highly ranked going into last season coming off the national championship, but we shot ourselves in the foot two straight games at the end of the year and didn’t play as well,” Stephens recalled. “When it comes down to the expectations

of the program, we not only compete for championships but now expect to win championships. “That is the difference in the way we approach things. We now have a bull’s eye on our back that we have to live with. Last year, we felt entitled and took too much for granted. So, we have to finish games and outwork people no matter who we play against.” OFFENSE Stephens and his staff once again return a bevy of talent on each side of the ball along with adding several impact transfers and signees. Of the 32-man signee class the Lions announced in February, 13 of those signees competed in the Bernard Blackwell North/South All-Star Classic while 10 others participated in the Mississippi/Alabama All-Star Game. With another championship-caliber team assembled in Scooba this

season, the Lions have been assigned a No. 6 preseason ranking in the JCGridiron.com Dirty 30 Junior College Team Rankings that were announced in July. Recognized nationally as being one of the NJCAA’s perennial offensive juggernauts since Stephens took over the helm beginning with the 2008 season, East Mississippi returns 10 offensive lettermen from last year’s playoff squad. Touted for having an NJCAA All-American at the quarterback position each of the last five years -- Randall Mackey-twice, Brad Henderson, Bo Wallace and Quez Johnson -- the Lions welcome back 2012 back-up Dontreal Pruitt under center. The former Laurel High School standout is being challenged for signalcaller duties by Arkansas State University transfer Todd Mays from Olive Branch High School. “They are two different quarterbacks with different styles,” Stephens noted. “Dontreal is a guy who commands the pocket. Todd can have an impact at quarterback, running back or receiver.” EMCC’s offensive skill players exhibit high skill level and valuable experience. Lakenderic Thomas returns to the backfield after ranking as the Lions’ third-leading rusher a year ago. The hard-running West Point product averaged an impressive eight yards per carry to gain 390 rushing yards in spot duty as a collegiate rookie. The versatile Mays may also see some reps at running back after redshirting a year ago at Arkansas State. Under the direction of offensive coordinator Marcus Wood, the Lions’ receiving corps includes sophomores C.J. Bates, Terrance Barron and Justin Mack, who combined for 24 catches a year ago in limited back-up duty. Antoinne Adkins, who saw significant playing time as a freshman wide receiver during EMCC’s 2011 NJCAA Championship campaign, also returns after missing last year with a knee injury. Also noted for producing quality passcatchers of late, the Lions welcome a pair of four-star receiving prospects who have attracted attention from SEC schools. Camion Patrick is a former University of Tennessee commit, while Earnest Robinson signed with Auburn University following a standout career at Pinson Valley High School in Alabama. Perhaps East Mississippi’s most notable offensive skill-position player from the high school ranks is Charleston High School’s Kameron Myers. In addition to being tabbed the 2012 Mississippi Association of Coaches Class 3A Offensive Player of the Year, he also claimed this year’s MHSAA Class 3A state title in both the 100-meter and 200-meter dashes. Up front, the Lions have an experienced

JARRAN REED

group as well led by returning starters Avery Gennesy, Kenney Averhart and Blake Sharp on the offensive line. The 6-foot-6, 320-pound Gennesy, from Southaven, is being heavily recruited by several BCS programs, while Louisiana-Monroe transfer Jamal Danley, by way of Byhalia High School, will also look to make an immediate impact on EMCC’s talent-laden front line. “This may be one of the most athletic offensive lines I’ve been associated with in my coaching career,” Stephens admitted. “We also have a lot of depth on the offensive line.” defense Defensively, the Lions will look to adjust without veteran defensive coach William Jones, who was hired as head coach at Pearl River after spending the past combined dozen seasons working alongside Stephens at EMCC and previously at PRCC. New EMCC defensive coordinator Jordan Lesley

came over from traditional MACJC North Division power Northwest Mississippi this past offseason to lead the Lions’ stopper unit. The Lions will need to reload their entire defensive secondary, which ranked sixth nationally among the NJCAA’s team leaders with 22 interceptions a year ago under the tutelage of secondary coach Clifton Collins. Expected to be paced by a sophomore group of defensive backs, including Byerson Cockrell, A.J. Stamps, Allen Sentimore and Ken Breland, EMCC also figures to receive immediate contributions from Mississippi Gulf Coast transfer Fenest Armstrong. EMCC’s linebacker unit looks to be spearheaded by the return of sophomore Christian Russell, who topped all Lion defenders with 77 total tackles a year ago. Also back are veterans C.J. Shepherd, Brandon SEE EAST MS continued on Page 54 2013 JUCO PREVIEW - 35

HINDS EAGLES 2012 RESULTS: 4-5 Overall; 2-4 Division

SCHEDULE Aug. 29....................@MS Delta Sept. 5.....................@Coahoma Sept. 12............. MS Gulf Coast Sept. 19........................ @Co-Lin Sept. 26.......... East Central MS Oct. 5............. @Southwest MS Oct. 10............. @Jones County Oct. 17............................Holmes Oct. 24..................... Pearl River

KENYA DENNIS

By BRIAN EMORY HCC Sports Information

n expectation of championships every few years is the norm for Hinds Community College. Under the leadership of Gene Murphy, the winningest active community college coach in the country, Eagles fans are chomping at the bit for another shot at the MACJC state championship. A 2012 preseason ranking of 6th nationally by the NJCAA may not have been justified, but the 2013 Eagles have something to prove. The schedule begins with two road games

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against MACJC north division teams in Mississippi Delta and Coahoma before a brutal five game stretch against south division heavyweights. The Eagles went 1-4 during the same stretch last season against Gulf Coast, state champion Co-Lin, East Central, Southwest, and Jones. New defensive coordinator Larry Williams joins the staff after helping bring a state championship to Wesson. Williams returns to Hinds for a second stint after serving seven seasons as an assistant (2002-09). Williams bought Co-Lin assistant coach and former Mississippi State University star Clarence McDougal with him to handle linebackers for the Eagles.

OFFENSE Freshman quarterback James Summers (Greensboro N.C.) is handed the keys to an offense that sputtered at times during the season despite two WR’s that signed with SEC schools. Summers will find sophomore running back Darryan Ragsdale (Pelahatchie) behind him along with returners Joshua Dixon (Clinton) and Gregory Foster (Greenville). One new face joining returning wideouts Keithon Redding (Decatur, GA) and Khiry Lucas (Cleveland) is Robert Lockhart, a transfer from the University of Miami. Lockhart is a silky smooth and sneaky fast receiver that should complement Redding and Lucas. The offensive line returns five sophomores with experience each position. Mississippi State University commit Norman Price (Vicksburg) will line up at left tackle and protect the blind side of Summers. At right tackle is team leader Thomas Collins. (Lanier) “TC” is returning from a knee injury and is now 100 percent on the field and ready to the vocal leader on the team. Center Kirby Wixson and guard Landon

Dunham return and both have experience in division games. Guard Kel Thurmon has moved back and forth between defensive line and offensive line, but college scouts rave about his potential at guard. DEFENSE Reigning MACJC defensive player of the year, Risean Broussard, decided to jump to the NFL after one season in Raymond so only four starters return defensively. Pass rush specialist Dale Foster (Jackson) returns to the defensive line. There will be many new faces on the d-line for the Eagles in 2013. Linebacker Herbert Harris (Clinton) will be joined by another transfer from “the U” in Eddie Johnson (Selma, AL). As a true freshman Johnson was a top tackler for the Hurricanes. Former Ole Miss linebacker Marcus Mayers is also in the LB mix. University of Missouri commit Kenya Dennis returns at cornerback and leads a young group of defensive backs. Jackson Clarion Ledger Dandy Dozen selection Montreal Jordan (Philadelphia) should bring the lumber at safety. SPECIAL TEAMS Sophomore Pate DeMuth (Raymond) returns after finishing second nationally in yards per punt last season. Sophomore Tyler Poe (Pearl) also ranked in the top five nationally throughout the season before missing three straight field goals late in the season. The Eagles will have multiple options in the kick return game. That role will be fleshed out in August. - MSM

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HOLMES BULLDOGS 2012 RESULTS: 5-4 Overall; 4-2 Division

SCHEDULE Aug. 29................Jones County Sept. 5............@MS Gulf Coast Sept. 12.......... @Northeast MS Sept. 19..................... Itawamba Sept. 26.....@Mississippi Delta Oct. 3.............. East Mississippi Oct. 12...............Northwest MS Oct. 17........................... @Hinds Oct. 24.....................@Coahoma

FRED FRANKLIN

By steve diffeY HCC Sports Information

olmes Community College Head Football Coach Jeff Koonz saw his 2012 squad make a major turnaround by going 5-4 overall and 4-2 in the North Division missing the playoffs by one game after the Bulldogs went 2-7 his first season. Heading into the 2013 campaign, the Bulldogs will be led by a solid group of defensive returners and will be reloading with newcomers on the offensive side of the ball.

OFFENSE Gone on offense is two-year starter at quarterback Dennis Robertson, who transferred 38 - MISSISSIPPI SPORTS MAGAZINE

to Delta State University. Robertson was a bruiser on the ground and also had a strong arm. He finished the season 151-of-251 for 1,477 yards and six touchdowns with seven interceptions. Nick Glover from Winona, who saw limited action, returns for his sophomore campaign at quarterback. He will be battling with incoming freshmen James Ayers of Northeast Jones, Payne Horan of Grenada and Benjamin Hickman of Picayune for the starting nod this season. The Bulldogs’ leading target Jonathan Rumph finished the year with 25 catches for 569 yards and three touchdowns. Rumph transferred to the University of Georgia and is expected to be a top receiver there this year.

Battling for time along the offensive front will be Talbot Buys of Port Gibson, DiAndre Lemon of Sallis, Stuart Shaw of Grenada, Devonte Bradley of New Albany, Billy Lightning of Batesville, Claybourn Williams of Utica and Corey Anderson of Houston. At running back, the Bulldogs return Fred Franklin of Jackson and Richard Hampton of Olive Branch. Franklin finished the 2012 campaign with 52 carries for 170 yards and a touchdown. He also caught 13 passes for 106 yards. He was named the NJCAA Player of the Week after having 157 yards in returns against Hinds including a 91-yard return in the first half. Hampton had 43 carries for 158 yards and seven catches for 30 yards during the 2012 season. Other backs will be Percy O’Bannon from Charleston, who was the 3A Player of the Year in 2011 and Gregory King of Vicksburg. Leading the returners at receiver are Daniel Huffines of Natchez and Shaquan Holmes of Jackson. Huffines caught 30 balls for 286 yards and a touchdown while Holmes had 14 catches for 133 yards. Other receivers will be De’MonTerius Kendrick of Crystal Springs, Brant Williams of Cleveland, Jakarius Flowers of Gentry and

(12) KRIS GIVENS

Daniel Joyner of Miami, Fla. DEFENSE The Bulldog defense returns a solid group of veterans who helped lead the Bulldogs in 2012. Kris Givens quickly made himself known around the league last season when he started pulling in key interceptions from opposing offenses or batting the passes away. The sophomore from Ridgeland finished the campaign with 34 tackles but more impressively he had seven interceptions with one of them being returned for a touchdown. He also had 12 broken up passes and three recovered fumbles with one of them being returned for a touchdown. New to the defensive backfield will be Tee Shepherd, a Notre Dame transfer and a fivestar recruit, who is expected to make an immediate impact for the Bulldogs. Shepherd transferred to Holmes during the Christmas break and went through spring workouts. Other defensive backs are Terrious Triplett, an Arkansas State transfer, from Memphis and Aâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Darius Benson of Crystal Springs. Linebackers include Traver Jung of Greenville, Brion Ballard of Canton and Antreon Bennett of West Point.

ERIC HILTON

Along the defensive front, the Bulldogs return sophomore Eric Hilton from Hollywood, S.C. Hilton had 54 tackles, 41 of them solos. He had eight tackles for loss and five sacks along with five caused fumbles. Richard Mitchell from Southaven, who finished with 12 tackles, one tackle for loss and a caused fumble, is expected to lead along the defensive front with Hilton. Other defensive linemen are Kenderson

Obas of Orlando, Fla., Lyndon Johnson of West Point, Tony Drinkwater of Grenada, Kebeon Clinton of West Bolivar and Braxton Broadnax of Gulfport. SPECIAL TEAMS Bulldog specialists are Matt Spencer of Brandon, kicker Cole Ballard of Lawrence and long snapper Jordan Fleming of Macon. - MSM 2013 JUCO PREVIEW - 39

ITAWAMBA CC INDIANS 2012 RESULTS: 6-3 Overall; 4-2 Division

SCHEDULE Aug. 29.................. East Central Sept. 5........... @Southwest MS Sept. 12........ Mississippi Delta Sept. 19...................... @Holmes Sept. 28.............Northwest MS Oct. 3............................ @Co-Lin Oct. 12.....................@Coahoma Oct. 17................Northeast MS Oct. 24.........@East Mississippi

man that has the campus buzzing about the upcoming football season in Fulton.

COACH JOHN WILLIAMS Photo courtesy ICCImages.com

By ADAM C. GORE ICC Sports Information

t was a rollercoaster ride of a season for the Itawamba Community College football team in 2012. It was a season filled with injuries, heartache and triumphs as the Indians finished 6-3 under fourth-year head coach Jon Williams. “It was a good, but tough season,” Williams said about the 2012 season. “We had a lot ups and downs, but the thing that I took away from the season was the heart and the character of a football team that refused to quit and that type of mentality helped make things happen for us

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towards the end of the season.” A heart-breaking and controversial 1412 loss to Holmes Community College ultimately proved to be the difference in the Indians making the playoffs, but it also was the turning point of the season according to Williams. “That game lit a fire in our guys like I’ve never seen before,” Williams commented. “They seemed to practice with a lot more focus and play with a new-found intensity. Hopefully the guys are able to bring that desire and hunger to this season to build on the success we had for last season.” ICC returns a mix a seasoned sophomores and exciting crop of incoming fresh-

OFFENSE Griff Loftis and Andrew Goodman return to battle out for the starting QB for the Indians. “These two guys give us a lot of options on offense,” said Williams. “They are going to be competing week in and week out for the starting role which is not only going to make them better, but I feel like it will help make the rest of the team better by feeding off their energy in practice, in the weight room and every aspect of the game both on and off the field.” Last season, Goodman totaled 632 yards, 5 touchdowns and 1 interception on 65-of83 passing before being sidelined with a season-ending injury that allowed Loftis to step in to pass for 1,716 yards and 13 touchdowns on 156-of-250 passing. Despite tossing 13 interceptions, Loftis led the Indians to three-straight victories to close out the season with a 17-14 come-from-behind win over Coahoma on

Military Appreciation Night, a 36-15 victory to extend the Indians’ win record to three-straight seasons over rival Northeast and one of the biggest wins in the program’s history in a 24-23 upset victory over the defending NJCAA champion East Mississippi. Tobias Lofton and LaDarell Hunt return to the Indians’ backfield after Lofton finished second in rushing with 365 yards and 1 touchdown on 77 carries while Hunt finished third with 177 yards and 1 score on 62 carries behind Courtney Gladney, who finished with 526 yards and 4 touchdowns on 99 carries despite missing one game last season. “Tobias and LaDarrell bring a lot hunger and a lot of energy to the backfield,” Williams said of the duo. “A lot of times you have guys that might not like the thought of sharing carries throughout the season, but they take a lot of pride in doing whatever it takes to help the team win verses worrying about their numbers at the end of the night.” Sanford Seay and Jarvis Bentley return as the top two receivers from the 2012 season. Seay finished the season with 377 yards and 3 TDs on 27 receptions while Bentley 37 passes for 297 yards and 1 trip to the end zone behind West Virginia University signee Ronald Carswell, who led the team with 44 receptions (429 yards, 1 TD) and Mississippi Valley State signee Rashad Pargo, who hauled in a team-high 508 yards and 8 touchdowns on 38 catches last season. “Our style of play on offense really gets our receiving core a lot of opportunities to make things happen,” Williams commented. “We like to spread the ball around to a lot of different guys and that makes things extremely difficult for defensive coordinators to plan against. This is a group of guys that feed off each other and that carries over to the rest of the team on both sides of the ball.” A young group of offensive lineman return from the bringing with them valuable experience that the Indians didn’t have during the 2012 season. “In this league you don’t have a lot of time to develop your offensive line,” said Williams, who shares duties as offensive line coach. “It’s going to be incredibly valuable having guys coming back knowing what it’s like battling on this level.” The Indians will turn to returning sophomores Tabarrius Coffey, Brandon Jones and Greg Hadley along with University of South Carolina transfer Kyle Harris to anchor the offense this season. Offensively, the Indians showed vast improvement last season and hope to continue to build on their success. They averaged 393.2 yards per game (132 rushing; 260 passing) and scored 24.4 points per game under first-year offensive coordinator Jason McManus.

SANFORD SEAY Photo courtesy ICCImages.com

“I feel like we’ve got an exciting group of guys offensively,” said Williams. “We are working on putting the pieces of the puzzle together to give us the best opportunity to compete against some of the best teams in the nation each time we take the field and I feel like we got a lot of guys that can step up to help us do that this season.” DEFENSE First-Team MACJC All-State linebacker CJ Jackson returns to Fulton after leading the nation with 26 tackles for loss. The Water Valley native finished the season with 72 total tackles (54 solo; 18 assists) with 7 sacks, a forced fumble and a pass break-up. “CJ was all over the place last season,” Williams said of the Water Valley native. “One play he was in the backfield causing problems and then the next he is chasing a guy down on the opposite of the field making a stop. He brings a lot of energy to the defensive side of the ball and we are going to be looking for that again this season.” Randal Boyd and DQ Reynolds will anchor the Indians defensive front. As freshmen, Boyd recorded 38 tackles (27 solo; 11 assists) with 2 sacks, 7 tackles for loss, 2 fumble recoveries and a blocked extra point while Reynolds tallied 23 tackles (12 solo; 11 assists) with 1 sack and 8.5 tackles for loss. “Randal and DQ are your ideal defensive linemen,” commented Williams. “They are big, physical and athletically gifted guys that play their positions the way it was meant to be played. It takes more than just one of-

fensive lineman to corral these guys which helps free up a lot of our other guys to make things happen defensively.” Darius White returns to lead a secondary that has produced the likes of Darius Slay (Mississippi State/Detroit Lions), Ryan Thompson (Indiana) and Tevin Blanchard (Florida International). The Grenada, MS native finished the season with 26 tackles (22 solo, 4 assists) with 2.5 tackles for loss and was second on the team with 6 pass break-ups after missing part of the season due to injury. “You can’t say enough about the job Coach [Tyrone] Fox has done with our secondary over the years,” Williams said. “We are going to look for the next guy up that wants to make a name for himself in our secondary this year and I think he have a good group of guys that will be able to come in and compete for starting roles in our secondary.” As a team, last season the Indians finished eighth in the nation with 38 sacks along with being ranked ninth amongst the nation’s leaders with 80.3 tackles per game and 14 fumbled recoveries while finishing in the nation’s Top 25 in total defense giving up 279.4 total yards per game (155.9 passing; 123.6 rushing) under the guidance of third-year defensive coordinator Sean Cannon. “Our guys took a lot of pride in making things extremely difficult for opposing teams’ offenses last season,” Williams said of his teams’ defensive prowess. “It wasn’t just a couple of guys that made our defense so strong, it was the team chemistry and their desire to be the best they could be on every snap of the ball that made them so successful.” SPECIAL TEAMS Last season, the Indians defeated the defending NJCAA National Champion on a 43-yard field goal along with a come-frombehind division win on a last-second field goal by MACJC All-State freshman kicker Tyler Jackson. This season, the Indians will look toward a pair of freshmen in Jeb Millender and Emitt Dendy to replace Jackson, who is now a member of the Brigham Young University football team. “Tyler left us with some big shoes to fill,” Williams said of the Lafayette County native. “But I feel like both of these guys have the ability to come in to be successful for us this season. Words can’t express how valuable a quality kicker is on this level and we’ve been fortunate enough to have some of the best in the state come through our program… Jeb and Emitt have the potential to carry on that tradition this season.” - MSM

2013 JUCO PREVIEW - 41

JONES COUNTY BOBCATS 2012 RESULTS: 6-3 Overall; 5-1 Division

SCHEDULE Aug. 29....................... @Holmes Sept. 5............ @Northeast MS Sept. 14................... Pearl River Sept. 19..........@MS Gulf Coast Sept. 28............................Co-Lin Oct. 3...........@East Central MS Oct. 10...............................Hinds Oct. 17........... @Southwest MS Oct. 26...............Northwest MS “We’re optimistic about this season,” Perkins said. “We have a good group of kids.”

ETHAN HAMILTON

By SHAWN WANSLEY JCJC Sports Information

Photos/JCJC Public Relations

ongtime NFL and major college head football coach Ray Perkins entered unchartered waters in 2012. Perkins took over as head football coach at Jones County Junior College in Ellisville. It was the first time for the former New York Giants, Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Alabama Crimson Tide head coach to be involved with a junior college program and the veteran coach learned a lot. “I feel a lot more comfortable going into this season,” he said. “Sitting here last year, I did not know anything about anything. The main thing about the football aspect now is

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the players. I think we have better players than we did last year. “I think we have more speed, more size and more talent. Now, if we can get all of that talent together and play as a team – that’s up to the coaches. It’s up to us. But the heaviest burden will be on the players because they are the ones that play and they are the ones that win the games.” The Bobcats enjoyed some success last season. They ended the year with a 6-3 overall record, including a 35-28 upset of then topranked Mississippi Gulf Coast on Sept. 22 at Bobcat Stadium/Sim Cooley Field. They finished in a three-way tie for first place in the MACJC South Division, but missed out on a playoff spot because of the tiebreaker.

OFFENSE Offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach David Thornton returns for his second year to direct the Bobcats offense. Last year, JCJC was third in the state in total offense, averaging 412.0 yards per game and they also averaged a whopping, 32.8 points per contest. JCJC returns its starting quarterback from the end of last year, several experienced wide receivers and a pair of talented offensive linemen. Ethan Hamilton, a sophomore from Noxapater, took over as quarterback in game six vs. East Central last year after starter Ben Stevens was injured vs. eventual state champion Copiah-Lincoln. Hamilton completed 40-of75 passes for 566 yards and five touchdowns as he guided JCJC to a 3-1 record down the stretch. But Mississippi State University transfer Steven Swindle, who prepped at Oak Grove High School, along with incoming freshmen Kenneth Coleman and Ra’Quazious Boyd will be in the mix, as well. Coleman is from Hazlehurst, while Boyd is from Lafayette High School in Alabama. He participated in the

Alabama High School Basketball All-Star Game last year. “I don’t know who the quarterback is going to be right now,” Perkins said. “We have four guys we are going to work with at this point. We have the two sophomores in Hamilton and Swindle and we have the two young guys in Coleman and Boyd. We will just have to wait and see.” The Bobcats lost workhorse running back Rueben Ducksworth to graduation. Ducksworth rushed for 1,084 yards and was an NJCAA Honorable Mention All-American selection. The Tennessee-Martin signee was also named the MACJC’s South Division Most Valuable Back, All-MACJC South Division first-team and All-Region 23. The Bobcats have moved Justin Harris from wide receiver to running back. Harris is a sophomore from Morton. After Harris, the Bobcats will rely on freshmen, such as Thamaz Taylor of Purvis. Taylor played in the Bernard Blackwell All-Star Classic last season. At the wide receiver slots, Dylan Bossier, JaMicheal Willis and Taylor Higgason return. Bossier, who is from Lafayette, La., had 27 receptions for 584 yards and five touchdowns last year. He was named All-MACJC South Division first-team and has committed to Louisiana-Lafayette. Willis had 25 catches for 235 yards and two scores as a freshman. He is from Gardendale High School in Birmingham, Ala. Higgason started the first five games for the Bobcats last year before being sidelined by an injury. The Petal sophomore had 21 catches for 217 years as a freshman. In addition, Jackson Lanier sophomore Jarret Smith has moved from the secondary to wide receiver. Smith was a secondteam All-NJCAA performer as a freshman return specialist last year. Smith could also play at running back sparingly. He was also All-MACJC South Division first-team and All-Region 23 last year as a return specialist. Also at a wideout position will be Quitman sophomore Quartez Cooks, who sat out the 2012 season. Incoming freshman Rodregus Ducksworth, who played in the Blackwell All-Star Game, is from Taylorsville and is regarded as a top prospect. “We have some experience there, plus I’m looking for Ducksworth to be a really great player,” Perkins said. The Bobcats have 11 offensive linemen listed with a pair of experienced players returning. But they did lose three starters, including NJCAA first-team All-American tackle Frederick Moore. Moore, a Southern Miss signee, was named the MACJC South Division’s Most Valuable Offensive Lineman, All-MACJC South Division first-team and All-Region 23.

JARRET SMITH

Jalen Beavers returns as a starter at tackle where he was an All-MACJC South Division second-team performer as a freshman. He is from Stringer High School. Levell Hartfield, who started several games at a guard slot, has moved to center to anchor the line. Hartfield is a third-year sophomore from Moss Point. “It will be a matter of time before the offensive line situation plays out,” Perkins said. “We need to see who we will shuffle around, who will start and who will play the most.” DEFENSE Defensive coordinator and secondary coach Steve Boyd is back for his 21st season at JCJC. The Bobcats were fifth in the state in total defense last season, allowing 343.3 yards per game and they gave up 23.2 points per game. The Bobcats lost some quality players off of last season’s defense, but Perkins is optimistic about this group. “I think we have the people to have a really good defense,” he said. In the secondary, the Bobcats will have players such as Lumberton sophomore Victor Jenkins, Hattiesburg freshman Jamal Hatten and Long Beach freshman Marcus Betts in the mix. Betts was chosen to play in the Alabama/Mississippi All-Star Game last year, while Hatten was a quarterback for the South team in the Blackwell All-Star Game. “Hatten was a quarterback at Hattiesburg,” Perkins said. “Betts is a good looking kid.” The Bobcats lost leading tackler and NJCAA Honorable Mention All-American Damien Wilson at linebacker. Wilson, who signed with the University of Minnesota, led the MACJC and was fourth in the nation in

tackles with 122 total stops. He was named the Most Valuable Defensive Lineman for Region 23, the MACJC South Division’s Most Valuable Defensive Back, All-MACJC South Division first-team and All-Region 23. JCJC will be depending on freshmen at linebacker, including Kendall Island of Bay High, Doug Cross of Picayune and Jamal Lucas of Hoover High School in Birmingham, Ala. Lucas committed last summer to Southern Miss and was also offered by Memphis. Cross played in the Blackwell All-Star Game. “We are working Island in the middle and I think he’s got a really good shot there,” Perkins said. “We’ve got some good players at linebacker.” In the defensive line, JCJC will rely on out-of-state talent from the state of Tennessee. Sophomore Stephen Eddings out of Bartlett High School in Memphis, Tenn., is a returnee, while Courtney Gaines out of Hillcrest High School in Memphis and Takyler Harris from Bolivar, Tenn., are the newcomers. “Out-of-state players are supposed to be pretty good players,” Perkins quipped. Others to look for in the defensive line will be freshmen Devin Smith of Hancock and Justice Coleman of Gautier, along with one of the most intriguing players on the team – sophomore Jamal Young of McComb. Young ran track the past two years at Southern Miss and now will give football a shot. He ran track at Butler Community College (Kan.) for two years prior to going to Southern Miss. His specialty was the 400-meter run. “Jamal is a fairly mature young man,” Perkins said. “He has a degree from Southern Mississippi and is a really good athlete. I think he has a chance to be a player for us.” SPECIAL TEAMS In addition to Smith being a top-notch return specialist, the Bobcats return placekicker/punter Grant McLaurin. McLaurin, a sophomore from Forrest County AHS, was 32-of-36 in extra points and 10-of-19 in field goals with a long of 44 yards. He averaged 37.8 yards per punt. Plus, the Bobcats signed one of the top kickers in the state in Cole Byrd of Northeast Jones. “Grant returns and does a good job,” he said. “I think Cole has a lot of ability. He can do several different things, kicking-wise. I’m looking for that position to be very competitive.” Smith was second in the state and ninth in the nation in kickoff returns with 19 for 575 yards – a 30.3 yards per return average. - MSM 2013 JUCO PREVIEW - 43

MS GULF COAST BULLDOGS 2012 RESULTS: 8-1 Overall; 5-1 Division

SCHEDULE Aug. 29....................... Coahoma Sept. 5............................Holmes Sept. 12......................... @Hinds Sept. 19...............Jones County Sept. 26......... @NE Mississippi Oct. 3....................@Pearl River Oct. 10............. SW Mississippi Oct. 19..............................Co-Lin Oct. 24................@East Central ranked among the NJCAA’S top 10 when that pre-season poll debuts in August. “The voters recognize that we have a chance to have a great season,” said Campbell, who’s entering his 10th season at Gulf Coast. “It also puts a huge target on you, which gives us extra motivation to work hard during summer workouts.”

By BILL SNYDER

MGCC Sports Information

ississippi Gulf Coast Community College has finished in the NJCAA’S Top 10 rankings seven straight years and has reached the MACJC Title Game six years in a row. However, it’s what the Bulldogs couldn’t pull off in the last two seasons…an MACJC Championship...that has head coach Steve Campbell, his staff, and his players working overtime for in 2013. “We’ve been very close to winning the State title in the past two seasons but couldn’t get it done,” said Campbell, who’s entering his tenth season as the team’s head coach. “Hard work

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is always part of what we do here at Gulf Coast, and this summer and fall we’re working even harder to get back to the Championship game and finish the job.” In 2012 Gulf Coast finished 9-2 and won another MACJC South Division title, the team’s sixth since 2005, with a freshman heavy squad. This fall the Bulldogs bring back six starters on offense, seven on defense, and a schedule that includes five home games. Gulf Coast is an impressive 36-3 at home since 2006 and had a 20-game home winning streak up until the 41-37 loss to Co-Lin at home in last season’s State Championship battle. The Bulldogs begin 2013 as the Nation’s #1 team according to jcgridiron.com’s “Dirty 30” preseason poll and will also be

OFFENSE On offense, the Bulldogs are led by 2012 NJCAA All-American wide receiver D’haquille Williams. Last season Williams caught 67 passes (4th in the nation) for 1,295 yards (2nd in the Nation) and 17 touchdowns (2nd in the nation) in 2012. The 6-3, 190 pounder averaged 19.3 yards per catch and scored a TD in every game but one during 2012. It’s the eighth year in a row that a Bulldog has earned NJCAA First Team honors. Fellow wideout Tyrone Williams will miss 2013 after injuring his knee during spring drills. Getting the ball to Williams will be sophomore quarterback Colton Kane, a 6-4, 215 pound transfer from East Central. In addition to Williams, Kane will be handing off to bruising Bulldog running backs Detrick

Goff and Antwon Wells. Goff (6’3, 235) rushed for 304 yards and 11 TD’S in 2012. Wells (5’10, 200), a sophomore from East Central, rushed for 159 yards and a TD in limited action last year. Several starters from an offensive line that produced the Nation’s second best rushing attack (272 yards per game) will be back for Gulf Coast, including Nick Proby (6’1, 280), Cordarrley Gaines (6’7, 360), Jonathan Steube (6’4, 335), Chris Frigo (6’2, 285) and Craig Frigo (6’4, 325). Starting tight end Marlon Pope (6’4, 265) also returns for Gulf Coast. DEFENSE On defense, seven starters are back in-

cluding the entire secondary from 2012 that racked up 9 interceptions combined. The defensive backfield includes Auburn commitment Derek Moncrief (3 INT) along with Nigel Green (2 INT), and Josh Keys (1 INT). Sophomore linebackers Cavellis Luckett (68 tackles, 2 sacks, 1 INT) and Trey Wafford (49 tackles, 1 sack, 2 INT) both return along with nose tackle Sherman Boyd (36 tackles, 1 sack in 2012) and defensive lineman David Howell. Gulf Coast will also count on immediate contributions from 24 incoming freshman, including defensive lineman Tavares Bingham (6’2, 230, Mobile-Williamson H.S.), linebacker Elijah Parker (6’2, 205, Bran-

MGCCC NOTES:

Former MGCCC Bulldogs compete at Super Bowl XLVII In 2007, Tramaine Brock and Terrence Cody helped lead Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College to a perfect 12-0 record and an NJCAA National Championship. A little more than five years later, Brock and Cody will suited up on opposing sides of the field at Super Bowl XLVII in New Orleans Feb. 3. Brock, a Long Beach, MS. Native, is entering his fourth season at defensive back with the San Francisco Forty-Niners while Cody is in his third season at nose guard for the Baltimore Ravens. Both began their college careers at Gulf Coast. Both reached the pinnacle of their pro careers a 90-minute drive away from A.L. May Memorial Stadium on the college¹s Perkinston Campus. “It’s definitely special,” said Gulf Coast head football coach Steve Campbell. He and longtime Bulldog defensive coaches Steve Davis and Stevon Moore coached Brock and Cody for two years and took their raw talent and molded both of them into top college prospects. “We had no idea what we had when we got T.C.,” Campbell added. “We knew

don), and defensive back Jeremy Cutrer (6’2, 170, Sumner, LA). SPECIAL TEAMS On special teams, freshman Kevin Phillips (Pillow Academy) and kicker Tristan Reynolds (Petal) will work with returning long snapper Wyatt Smith. “I’m not sure if it’s unfinished business,” Campbell added, “But I do know this group has a chance to do something special. We’re going to focus on the process of putting in the work and getting better each day.” MSM

he was strong and athletic. He came onto the junior college scene and blossomed as a sophomore.” Cody was an NJCAA All-American in 2007 and went on to help Nick Saban and Alabama when a National Championship. By that time, the 6-4, 349 pounder was a Crimson Tide folk hero of sorts known as “Mount Cody.” Baltimore drafted him in the second round (57th overall) of the 2010 NFL Draft. Meanwhile, Brock¹s road to the NFL¹S promised land took a different route. After intercepting seven passes for Gulf Coast during the 2007 NJCAA Championship run, Brock transferred to the University of Minnesota and played there as a junior. He then came back closer to home and played his senior season at Belhaven College in Jackson. “Tramaine was a huge part of that 2007 team,” Campbell said. “His work ethic back then helped him get to the next level, and that same desire to compete at a high level has helped him play for a team that’s going to the Super Bowl.” Brock earned that chance after signing as an undrafted free agent with San Francisco in 2010. According to the Forty-Niner’s media guide, Brock became the first undrafted rookie free agent to make the team’s opening day roster in 2010 in five years. Brock, Cody, and current Buffalo Bills linebacker Chris White were all part of the Bulldogs’ 2007 defensive squad. Now Brock and Cody, two championship-caliber players that once helped Gulf Coast to a perfect season both played in the NFL’S premier game, which was won by Baltimore 34-31. 2013 JUCO PREVIEW - 45

NORTHEAST MS TIGERS 2012 RESULTS: 3-6 Overall; 2-4 Division

SCHEDULE Aug. 29......................... @Co-Lin Sept. 5.................Jones County Sept. 12..........................Holmes Sept. 19.............Northwest MS Sept. 26............. MS Gulf Coast Oct. 3.......................... Coahoma Oct. 10.......................@East MS Oct. 17....................@Itawamba Oct. 24........................ MS Delta

PARRISH HUDDLESTON

By KEVIN MALONEY NWMSCC Sports Information

icky Smither aims to unleash some big weapons as the Northeast Mississippi Community College football team zeroes in on a return to the Mississippi Association of Community and Junior Colleges (MACJC) playoffs after a one-year absence. “I don’t know how many games we’re going to win,” said Smither, who enters his sixth season as head coach of the Tigers. “I don’t have a crystal ball, but I can tell you that we’re going into a gun fight finally with some bullets. “It’s going to be fun to watch. I know there are some teams that are loaded as well, but I think that if we play up to what we can do, it’s going to be a special year for Northeast.” Young, but talented players must gain onthe-field experience quickly for the Tigers to

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enjoy success with just eleven combined starters returning from its 3-6 team of a year ago. OFFENSE One area in which Northeast does return know-how is the offensive line. Romia Wilson brings a state championship background from West Point and is joined by fellow sophomore Kortilous Ellis of Charleston. Booneville native Ross Smith had a great training camp and along with his fellow freshmen, will have the chance to learn under one of the best offensive minds in Mike Markuson. Markuson joins the Tigers from the University of Wisconsin and had previous stops in the Southeastern Conference (SEC) at the University of Mississippi (Ole Miss) and the University of Arkansas.

Markuson’s lines have produced six AllAmericans in the past ten years with the most well-known of those players being former Ole Miss Rebel turned Super Bowl champion Michael Oher, the subject of the movie “Blind Side.” “We’re excited about the offensive line because we’re really excited about who’s coaching them,” said Smither. “Mike comes to us with about 30 years of Division I experience and we feel really good about that.” Markuson’s linemen will be protecting a position in quarterback that must improve after Northeast signal callers threw a combined 18 interceptions last season. Louisiana State University (LSU) transfer Jerrard Randall is the front-runner to lead the offense with freshman Joe Kirkland of Moss Point also in the mix. “Jerrard is probably one of the best quarterbacks I’ve ever coached, and I’ve coached some pretty good ones,” said Smither. “He can throw the ball 80-something yards. Joe was the best quarterback in the state of Mississippi two years ago. He’s a very, very intelligent guy that can throw it around. I feel really good about those two guys.”

Joining the athletic duo of Randall and Kirkland in the backfield will be a series of new faces with the exit of Jay Jones, who signed with the University of South Alabama. Newcomers including Tez Lane (West Point), Mitchell Cunningham (North Pontotoc), Demarkous Dennis (Lafayette County) and Ledarious Strong (South Panola) should find early playing time. West Bolivar graduate Demarrion Haynes comes back to lead a fast group of receivers. The sophomore hauled in 19 catches for 322 yards in just six games for the Tigers last year. Former Ole Miss signee A.J. Jackson (66, 250) should make an immediate impact with his size and athleticism. “He’s making one-handed catches while running down the field like a tailback,” Smither said. “He’s a big target, has great ball skills and is a great blocker. His future is very bright.” The Bruce freshmen trio of Rashad Turner, Jonathan Bobo and Shaq Bush also hope to make their way onto the field at wide receiver. DEFENSE Defensive coordinator Travis Macon looks to mold a handful of recent high school graduates into playmakers like returning sophomores Dequinten Spraggins and Parrish Huddleston. Spraggins, a West Point native, managed 43 tackles during his freshman campaign while Baldwyn’s Huddleston will help soften the loss of former Tiger Lavon Hooks, the nation’s top defensive tackle prospect in 2012, who is now at Ole Miss. Joining Huddleston up front is Louisville, Ky., product Daniel Ross, whom Smither says could be a better athlete than Hooks. Another former LSU player in Jeremy Liggins looks to switch sides of the ball to the defensive line in an effort to better the team. Liggins led his alma mater Lafayette County to back-to-back state titles as a quarterback. “He’s a tremendous athlete and a great kid,” said Smither of Liggins, who committed to Ole Miss last spring. “He’s a magnet. If you’re ever around him, you’ll see what I’m talking about. Everybody loves him, so we’re really excited to have him.” Add that tandem to a group that includes Rezean Prather (Ripley) and Dequan Ivery (Miami, Fla.), and the Northeast defensive line under coach Greg Davis could become a force to be reckoned with. “Honestly, I think with what we’ve got, this may be best four up front that this league has seen in the last couple of years,” said Smither. “These guys are pretty good.” Martice Buckley joins Spraggins in the

SHUNTEZ SMITH

defensive backfield and could see playing time at both safety and corner. Smither compares him to another former Northeast corner who has found high levels of success in the SEC. “He’s another Deion Belue (University of Alabama),” he said. “I don’t put a lot of people in that category because Deion was special. Buckley has got the same explosiveness that Deion had.” Antwan Wilson, Buckley’s former Charleston teammate, is another big-time talent at corner that has attract attention from Division I schools. Smither feels comfortable when talking about coach Jonathan Webster’s strong corps of linebackers. “We have eight guys that you could throw in a hat and just draw them out and you’re solid,” said Smither. “Nick Johnson (Olive Branch) played a lot for us last year. Nick’s going to play a vital role for us and has a bunch of experience.” Memphis, Tenn., product Marcus Robinson (6-3, 230) brings receiver-like agility to the defensive backfield. He’ll be joined by a troupe of Noxubee County standouts, led by Antonio Ryland, that hope to prove their

mettle rapidly. SPECIAL TEAMS Smither’s Tigers have one huge gap to fill in special teams following the graduation of All-American punter Jonathan Harrison. Hunter Bull (Southaven) and Wilson could split the punting duties, according to Smither. “We feel comfortable there even though losing Jon put us uneasy,” said Smither. “We’ve got guys that can get out of the pocket. We’re looking at going in that direction.” While punting may be an open battlefield as to who starts, Chris Coopers has the responsibilities of placekicking locked down. The former Madison Central star hit 4 of 6 field goal attempts and 15 of 17 extra points for Northeast in 2012. “If we score like I think we can, Cooper’s going to have a big year,” Smither said. “Kickers are hard to move on to Division I because every one of those guys walk-on, but if somebody doesn’t sign Cooper, there’s an issue because he’s accurate and strong legged.” Corinth’s Brady Allen should step in as the deep snapper. - MSM 2013 JUCO PREVIEW - 47

NORTHWEST MS RANGERS 2012 RESULTS: 7-1 Overall; 5-1 Division

SCHEDULE Aug. 29.......... @Northwest MS Sept. 5....................... Itawamba Sept. 12.....................@East MS Sept. 19.......... East Central MS Sept. 26................@Pearl River Oct. 5.................................Hinds Oct. 10............@MS Gulf Coast Oct. 17.................Jones County Oct. 24.......................... @Co-Lin

KENDALL CARR

By KEVIN MALONEY NWCC Sports Information

t’s a fresh start for Northwest football. Brad LaPlante, the youngest known head coach in the program’s history, will usher in a new era. LaPlante was named Northwest’s 28th head coach in January and brings a whole new staff and approach to Senatobia. LaPlante replaces Ricky Woods, the second winningest coach in school history, who led Northwest to a 35-13 overall record (24-6 north) in five seasons with two north division titles, two runner-up finishes and the 2012 Brazos Valley Bowl Championship – the school’s first bowl win in 20 years. “We’re excited to start a new era of football under coach LaPlante,” third-year athletic director Cameron Blount said. “His work ethic and past success speaks for itself. It’s a great op-

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portunity for our kids to excel with the plan coach has for his players moving to the next level. He’s come from a winning program at Rochester and we hope that translates to success at Northwest and in the MACJC.” Prior to a short stint in the Texas high school ranks, LaPlante spent 11 seasons at NJCAA Division III Rochester Community and Technical College (RCTC) from 19992002 and 2004-10. He spent his first two seasons as the offensive line coach and his second two as the co-offensive coordinator before being named the head coach in 2004. LaPlante had a cumulative head coaching record of 64-16 (53-10 conference record, 10-2 playoff record) from 2004-10 and led RCTC to four state championships in six appearances, five NJCAA bowl games and the 2007 NJCAA Division III National Championship. “It’s going to be great to get back to col-

lege football and build those relationships again,” LaPlante said. “I think that this is one of the premier jobs in the nation and it has a great history. As a staff we want to continue to build on that.” LaPlante will face the tall task of replacing 19 of 22 starters and returns just a dozen sophomores off last year’s 8-2 team who finished as north co-champions and won the Inaugural Brazos Valley Bowl. Mike Beagle (offensive coordinator), Ricky Coon (defensive coordinator), Zach Wilkerson (defensive backs/special teams), Wilfred Thomas (linebackers), Marcus Windham (running backs) and Tres Sullivan (quarterbacks) will each begin their first seasons with the team, while receivers coach Scott Oakley will enter his 10th season. “We demand a lot from each other as a staff,” LaPlante said. “We want to do things right and we’re going to hold our players accountable. We want them to have a future after Northwest and that’s why we have study tables and grade checks. If you’re doing things right, there’s no way that success can’t happen.” Northwest has won, shared or finished runner-up in the north division in six of the

past seven seasons, and hopes to continue that trend. The Rangers have also finished in the NJCAA Top 10 in two of the past three seasons and continually are preseason ranked by the NJCAA and JC Gridiron. “We’ll be very young this year and will have a lot of freshmen,” LaPlante said. “We may have as little as just a dozen returners. Our first couple of games will tell the story on how good we’re going to be, especially on the offensive and defensive line.” OFFENSE Northwest finished the 2012 season third in the nation in total offense at 434.1 yardsper-game, a fourth straight year finishing in the Top 15 offensively. The Rangers averaged 38 points-per-game and scored 40 or more in seven of 10 games. Guided by NJCAA Second Team AllAmerican center Austin Douglas, the experience on the offensive line allowed sophomore quarterback Domonique Harris and freshman running back Damian Baker to have breakout seasons. Both players were named to the all-state team at season’s end. Harris, Offensive MVP in the Brazos Valley Bowl, finished second in the state with 2,361 passing yards, completing 59 percent of his passes for 18 touchdowns and 11 interceptions. He also ran for 130 yards and two touchdowns. Baker led the state in rushing with 1,161 yards (8th most in single-season history) and 10 touchdowns, the first Ranger since 2004 (Eldra Buckley) to eclipse the 1,000-yard barrier. Baker is the lone returner in a backfield that had four legit running backs a year ago to start the season. He has a chance to be Northwest’s all-time leading rusher if he can go for 1,123 yards. The offensive line lacks a single returner and loses a great sophomore group in the trenches. In addition to Douglas, who is battling for a starting spot at Ole Miss, the Rangers lose all-state selections Christian Chalmers, Martize Wallace and Deshondrick Hines as well as Thomas Campbell, Danterrius Young, Cor’tez Hibbler and Spencer Hudson. The unit that boasts the most returners of any position is the receiving corps with five. The team went over 2,000 yards for a fifth consecutive season under coach Oakley’s watch. D’Montrise Swinney, an all-state honorable mention, was second on the team last season with 25 catches for 428 yards and two touchdowns. With the injury of Josh Hamilton midway through the year, Swinney stepped up with some big performances against Mississippi Delta and East Mississippi and became one of Harris’ top targets. The Rangers also return Derrell Lovelady (9 gms, 9 catches, 164 yards, 2 TD), Josh

damian baker

Gaston (10 gms, 7 catches, 77 yards, TD), Robert Liggins (10 gms, 3 catches, 47 yards) and Hamilton (5 gms, 11 catches, 172 yards, 2 TD). DEFENSE It will be a completely different look on the defensive side of the ball with the Rangers returning just four sophomores from last year’s team and one starter in Keith Reynolds Jr. The new staff will also implement a new defensive scheme as opposed to the 3-4 defense run the past five years under Woods. Statistically, the Ranger defense improved from a year ago by allowing 24.6 points and 316.6 yards-per-game. Northwest held four opponents under 15 points and totaled 75 tackles-for-loss and 28 sacks (20th nationally). Twelve players combined to pick off an impressive 27 passes (third nationally) and four were returned for touchdowns. Randolph Williams and Taylor Rotenberry added two fumble returns for scores to give Northwest six defensive TDs (third nationally). Reynolds started all 10 games last season at free safety and was second among defen-

sive backs with 33 tackles, two interceptions and three breakups. Terrell White played in all 10 games in a backup role and was very productive with 31 tackles and a 33-yard interception return for a TD. On the defensive line, Tarow Barney and Kendall Carr appeared in all 10 games last season. Barney had 20 tackles and four hurries while Carr had 15 tackles, two TFL and a sack. Lost from last year’s team are six all-state selections in Desmond LaVelle, Jerome McClain, Aaron Thompson, Randolph Williams, Jayson Saffold and Demarcus Pegues. Four of the six will be suiting up at four-year schools next season. Two-time all-state selection placekicker Chase Carpenter is also gone, so the Rangers will have to replace a dual threat on special teams. Carpenter closed his career in the Top 5 in school history in multiple categories including third in PATs made (88) and fourth in punting average (40.03). For the first time since 2010, Northwest will have a five-game home football schedule. The Rangers open the season at home on Thursday, Aug. 29 against Southwest Mississippi. - MSM 2013 JUCO PREVIEW - 49

PEARL RIVER WILDCATS 2012 RESULTS: 3-6 Overall; 2-4 Division

SCHEDULE Aug. 29......................... East MS Sept. 5.......... Mississippi Delta Sept. 14........... @Jones County Sept. 19...................@Coahoma Sept. 26.............Southwest MS Oct. 3................. MS Gulf Coast Oct. 12.......................... @Co-Lin Oct. 19................... East Central Oct. 24........................... @Hinds

EMMANUEL RAY

By MITCH DEAVER PRCC Sports Information

hen it comes to MACJC football, new Pearl River Community College head coach William Jones knows his stuff. Jones, who boasts 13 highly-successful seasons in the Mississippi Juco league, has taken on the task of returning The River to state and national prominence after 11-year head coach Tim Hatten resigned following 2012’s dismal 3-6 campaign. Jones served as Hatten’s defensive coordinator from 2002 through 2007 in a span of unprecedented success that boasted four straight MACJC championships (2003 through 2006) and a NJCAA national title in 2004. Jones departed PRCC in 2008 to assume the same duties at East Mississippi CC, which won 50 - MISSISSIPPI SPORTS MAGAZINE

two state championships and a national title in his five years in Scooba. Hatten, who is now head coach at Crestview (Fla.) High School, sported an impressive 80-30 win-loss record over his 11 years with the Wildcats. “I’ve got some mighty big shoes to fill,” Jones admitted, “but I’m up for the task and we had a great recruiting class. Combine that with the solid guys we’ve got returning from last season, we could make some noise right off the bat.” River fans will get a first taste of William Jones football when the Wildcats host nationally-ranked East Mississippi Thursday, Aug. 29, in Dobie Holden Stadium. “This will probably be one of the most interesting season openers in school history,” Jones said. “It’ll be a great litmus test for our guys. I know first hand that East Mississippi has lots of talent coming back and they had

a great recruiting year.” EMCC head coach Buddy Stephens, a PRCC alumnus, was the Wildcats’ offensive line coach during Jones’ previous sevenyear DC stay in Poplarville. Jones says the MACJC is called the “little SEC” for a reason; noting the Mississippi league’s rugged South Division “is like the SEC West.” “It’s a street fight every week you play in our league and anybody can beat anybody,” he explained. “Week in and week out, you’ve got to play your very best football to have a chance to get a win. It doesn’t get any more competitive than the MACJC.” A brand new staff of impressive assistant coaches is on board with veteran offensive coordinator Scott Anderson and defensive coordinator Willie Mack Garza, a former Tennessee Volunteer and Southern Cal defensive backs coach, leading the pack. “Obviously, we’ve put in a lot of hard work already and had a great spring. We’re transitioning to a pro style offense from Pearl River’s previous spread scheme that concentrated on the pass,” Jones said. “We want to have the ability to run the ball when we have to on normal downs and distances

in critical game situations. “And we think we’ve recruited players that have the ability to do just that. We want a balanced offense with great ball distribution to the playmakers to take advantage of run and pass opportunities within the offensive scheme and design.” OFFENSE By far, freshman running back Darrell Robinson (5-foot-10, 200 pounds) out of MHSAA Class 4A champion Noxubee County High headlines Jones’ first recruiting class and should be an impact immediate player. “You’re talking about a guy that has great speed and vision…a guy that set the Mississippi high school touchdown record last year with 52,” Jones said. “I’ve been in this league for 13 years and I know he’s the best back to come through here during that time span. Darrell has all the things you have to have.” The Wildcats’ quarterback situation is in limbo with several in a heated competition to earn the starting berth. “Right now, I really don’t know,” he said, “but we’ve got several guys in a heated battle for the starting position.” Sophomore lineman Carson Miller (6foot-4, 295 pounds) of West Point returns to anchor PRCC’s offensive front directed by new O-line coach Jim Jones, who arrives in Poplarville after three seasons at Northwest Mississippi. “Carson has outstanding size and a great football IQ,” Jones added. “And he has phenomenal versatility with the ability to play center, guard, or tackle.” Wesley Haas (6-foot-5, 295 pounds) out of St. Stanislaus saw considerable playing time a year ago and will see the same this year, while a talented smattering of freshman will be vying for starting spots. Guard Terrence Carter (6-foot-3, 310 pounds) of Clinton High, tackle Cyrus Ekuguan (6-foot-4, 280 pounds) of Forest Hill High (Jackson), tackle-guard Derrick Isaac (6-foot-5, 305 pounds) of McComb High, guard-center Conner Kelly (6-foot-3, 290 pounds) of D’Iberville High, and guardcenter Daivon Milan (6-foot-2, 335 pounds) of Olive Branch High are all newcomers that could wind up in the starting line up. Justin Spears (6-foot-5, 315 pounds) of Callaway High (Jackson) transferred to The River after spending the 2012 season under O-line mentor Jones at NWCC. “Justin was a three-year starter in high school and was considered on of the top offensive lineman in the state his senior year in high school,” said Jones. “He’s a great addition to our team.” With the new pro style scheme, Jones and Anderson recruited three impressive tight

JEFFEREY DYSON

ends in the likes of Tanner Bryant (6-foot-4, 260 pounds) of Picayune High, Rusty Clark (6-foot-6, 240 pounds) of Harrison Central High, and B.J. Robinson (6-foot-3, 255 pounds) of Brookhaven High, who will also see backfield duty at fullback. “Tanner is a great blocker with soft hands and possesses a great football IQ,” Jones said of the three-year starter with the Maroon Tide. “Rusty played only one year of high school ball, but is an outstanding pass route runner with good hands. He has as much upside as anybody in our recruiting class. “B.J. is a great blocker and was a threeyear starter at Brookhaven. He should be a great contributor to our run game.” The Wildcats eye three talented wide receivers returning in Shaun Jones (6-foot-2, 175 pounds) of North Forrest High, Tyshean Norris (6-foot-1, 185 pounds) of Southaven High, and Akeem Pollard (6-foot-2, 175 pounds) of Petal High. “Shaun is explosive and can change directions like a jack rabbit,” Jones said. “He’s an outstanding route runner with great hands. Akeem has the unbelievable ability to change gears with the ball in his hands… he knows how to score touchdowns. “Tyshean comes from a football family (his father, Sean is an assistant coach at

Coahoma CC) and has all the tools to be a special player,” Jones said. “He should blossom in 2013.” Jones looks for great things from a pair of freshman cousins from Sumrall High in receivers Austin (6-foot-2, 180 pounds) and Devontea Watts (6-foot, 170 pounds). Austin finished SHS’s 2012 Class 4A playoff run with 106 catches for 1,936yards and 24 touchdowns, while Devontea had 72 receptions for 1,119 yards and 14 scores. “Both are very athletic and explosive pass catchers,” said Jones, “and are adjusting well to the collegiate level.” Other talented first-year receivers include Chad Cook (5-foot-11, 160 pounds) of Long Beach High, Charles Ducksworth (6-foot, 175 pounds) of Mize High, and Antwon Mitchell (6-foot, 175 pounds) of Moss Point High. Jones says Cook is also a dynamic kick returner and was one of the top-rated 100yard and 200-yard sprinters in the state, while winning state titles in the long jump in 2012 and 2013. Ducksworth scored 20 TDs for Class 2A Mize last season and was the first-team AllState kick returner, boasting three punts and SEE PEARL RIVER continued on Page 54 2013 JUCO PREVIEW - 51

SOUTHWEST MS BEARS 2012 RESULTS: 0-8 Overall; 0-6 Division

SCHEDULE Aug. 29.......... @Northwest MS Sept. 5....................... Itawamba Sept. 12.....................@East MS Sept. 19.......... East Central MS Sept. 26................@Pearl River Oct. 5.................................Hinds Oct. 10................... @Gulf Coast Oct. 17.................Jones County Oct. 24.......................... @Co-Lin

NEW HEAD COACH TUCKER PEAVEY

By MICHAEL D. GUNNELL SMCC Sports Information

ven in the best of situations, playing in the MACJC’s South Division is anything but an easy task. But, for the Southwest Bears things are even tougher as they try to bounce back from a 0-8 season (0-6 in the South) with virtually an entirely new coaching staff and roster. Head coach Tucker Peavey (1986, USM) starts his first season in Summit with a team comprised almost completely of freshman (only 13 players return from last season). Peavey will coach the quarterbacks and running backs. Also new on the staff are offensive coordi-

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nator Jamie Everett (2001, Delta State), defensive coordinator Kelby Bowman (2000, Belhaven), special teams/receivers coach Cameron Achord (2009, Belhaven) and volunteer defensive line coach Jessie Bowman (2009, Mississippi State). Returning from last season are defensive backs coach Donald Dykes (1988, Southeastern Louisiana) and volunteer offensive assistant Paul Dancsisin (1973, Millsaps). Rebuilding a program down on its luck will not be easy and Peavey knows it. He said “good players, good work and life habits and good attitude” are what it will take to turn the Bears around and make them into a competitive team. While discussing his team, Peavey said he hoped “our players will represent the college

and community in a first-class manner and play hard. As coaches we will demand this.” Of the coaches, he said. “Our coaching staff has experience at all levels, from junior high to college. They are good people and good coaches with great work ethic.” Southwest’s schedule, as always, is not an easy one. The Bears start the season off with three straight games against teams in the JC Gridiron’s pre-season “Dirty Thirty”. They get things going at Northwest (#21) on August 29, host Itawamba (#19) on September 5 and travel to East Mississippi (#6) on September 12. Then, on October 10, they visit top-ranked Mississippi Gulf Coast. The regular season ends on October 24 in Wesson against arch-rival and defending state champion, Co-Lin. Asked about the schedule, Peavey said “I think all schedules in this league are difficult. We will have to play mistake free to win and eliminate unforced errors.” With so many new faces on the squad, Peavey said he was not sure about the team’s strength. “We have a lot to learn about each other,” he said. Team weaknesses, he said, are “lack of experience and size.” He said the season will be a success if “we get better each

week and win some games.” OFFENSE Everett said the Bears will run “a multiple offense, changing from one formation to another. We look to keep the defense on its heels by changing formations and using motions. We are going to be an explosive offense with the ability to score at any point in the game. We want to be able to extend drives by being efficient and making the easy plays.” Because they have such a large number of new players, Everett said “we are looking for several players to come in and step up. (We are) returning only two starters from a year ago in Maurice Thornton (5’ 10”, 290-Forrest Co. AHS) and Cornelius Virgil (6’, 275-Pascagoula H. S.), both offensive linemen. We look for Justin Blue (5’ 9”, 188-Brookhaven H. S.) and Chris Jones (5’ 9”, 165-Tylertown H. S.) to battle for the starting running back position with several wide receiver battles going on.” Mississippi State transfer Jamil Golden (6’ 5”, 222-Ridgeway H. S.-Memphis, TN) will be in the running for the starting quarterback spot as will De’Angelo Ballard (5’ 9”, 190-Noxubee Co. H. S.) and Cordarius Davis (5’ 11”, 151-McLaurin H. S.). “We have been putting in the offense this summer,” Everett continued, “and must be efficient coming out of fall camp due to the toughness of the early portion of the schedule.” Of the receivers, Achord said “we will have a new set of wide receivers with a wide variety of sizes from 5’ 6” to 6’ 4”. The corps will be explosive and should fit well into the scheme we are trying to establish.” Achord said the receivers feature “two sophomore transfers-Bodarius Johnson (6’ 4”, 190-Arizona Western College) and Aaron Chappell (6’ 4 ½”, 200-Ft. Valley State University), both from Taylor County, GA, High School-while there are (also) seven freshmen coming in. All the starting jobs are open and we look for an exciting fall camp as guys compete for playing time.” “We will use our receivers in a variety of ways,” Achord continued, “putting them in the best situation to be successful. Each wide receiver brings something to our team and we will use that to the team’s advantage.” DEFENSE Defensively, Kelby Bowman said the Bears “will run a 4/4 with a multiple of stunts, blitzes and coverages.” With only two starters back from last year, defensive back Dalvin Acker (5’ 11”, 175-Picayune H. S.) and linebacker Steven Joiner (5’ 10”, 205-Raymond H. S.), Bowman will be forced to rely heavily on freshmen to carry the load.

STEVEN JOINER

Expected to provide help to Acker are newcomers E. J. Carthan (5’ 11”, 180-Terry H. S.), Nick McDonald (5’ 10”, 190-Lawrence Co. H. S.) and Willdarrius Smith (6’, 180-Tylertown H. S.). Joiner can look for assistance from sophomore C. J. O’Quin (6’, 210-Franklin Co. H. S.) as well as freshmen Zarian Bingham (5’ 10”, 185-Terry H. S.) and Dominique Lavalais (6’ 1”, 228-Alexandria, LA, H. S.). Sophomore Maurice Magee (6’ 3”, 265-Amite Co. H. S.), along with several freshmen, will be battling for playing time on the defensive line. Newcomers to look for are DeKendrick Johnson (6’ 2”, 350-Franklin Parish H. S., Winnsboro, LA), D. J. Pierce (6’ 3”, 220-Purvis H. S.), Glenn Russell, Jr. (6’ 3”, 236-Lawrence Co. H. S.), Terrien Steele (6’ 4”, 265-Pickens Co. (AL) H. S.) and Jarvis Wallace (6’ 3”, 220-Greene Co. H. S.). With a lack of experience, Bowman says the Bears’ “defense will be built on character. We have some good coachable kids that are committed to getting better each day.” SPECIAL TEAMS Looking at the special teams, Achord said fans should look for a lot of excitement. “We

plan to have an explosive return game,” he said, “that generates a lot of excitement every time those units take the field. We want to be able to score, or have the potential to score, at any given point.” “We will be sound in every aspect of the kicking game,” Achord went on, “from protection on punts and field goals to proper kick placement on kickoffs. The entire team will take pride in the kicking game in all phases. We will be disciplined and show great enthusiasm every time any unit takes the field.” Michael McDaniel (5’ 7”, 165-Northwest Rankin H. S.) and Taylor Smith (6’ 3”, 195-Parklane Academy) will battle for the punting job while McDaniel leads the way in the kicking game. Back for another season as long snapper Jordan Grayson (6’ 1”, 215-Lawrence Co. H. S.). SUMMARY The Bears know they have nowhere to go but up after the team posted a winless season in 2012. But, with a lot of determination and hard work, they look to turn things around in 2013 and make some noise in the South Division. - MSM

2013 JUCO PREVIEW - 53

CO-LIN - Continued from Page 31

only returning experience along the defensive line. Cunningham, out of Wayne County High School, recorded 34 tackles and 4 sacks while seeing action in all 12 games last year. Jarrett, of Hollandale High School, recorded 9 tackles during limited playing time. A group of talented freshmen will look to fill in the experience gap along the defensive front. Freshman Jonathon Calvin (6’4, 245) of Murrah is a player the coaches are counting on to create a pass rush from the defensive end position. Durrell Vanerson (6’3, 240) of McComb will also compete for reps at end, while freshmen DeMorris Bedford (6’2, 240) of John F. Kennedy High School and Ryan Ducksworth (6’3, 255) of Taylorsville High School will split reps in the defensive interior. Jordan Harris (6’0, 230) returns at linebacker for the Wolves this season after leading the team in tackles throughout 2012. The Clarksdale High School product finished off 2012 with over 90 tackles, 7 of which were for a loss of yards. Fellow sophomores Darius Woodcox (5’10, 235) of Callaway and Jymal Ellis (6’4, 235) of Ridgeland will look continue the tradition of strong play from the linebacker spots last year. Helping in the cause will be athletic newcomers Carroll Phillips (6’3, 235), Edward EMCC - Continued from Page 31

Edwards and Laderrick Roberts. The Lions’ top freshman prospect on defense figures to be linebacker Demetrius Cain, who was named last year’s MHSAA Class 3A Defensive Player of the Year for Hazlehurst High School while also starring as the team’s running back. “I think our back seven (linebackers and secondary) on defense will be the strength early on and give our defensive line time to grow and get better,” Stephens added. “If we see considerable growth up front, we can be very good defensively.” On the defensive line, Jarran Reed and Jimmie Gipson are back as proven veterans in the trenches for EMCC. The Lions’ defensive front should also benefit greatly with the additions of University of Alabama transfer D.J. Pettway and South Carolina native D.J. Jones. Pettway, a Pensacola, Fla., native who saw action in 12 games as a redshirt freshman on the Crimson Tide’s 2012 BCS National Championship team, is already being touted by EMCC’s coaches in the same breath as former Lion All-Americans Denico Autry (MississipPRCC - Continued from Page 33

a kickoff returned for scores. “Charles was a three-year starter in high school (offense and defense) and is multidimensional on both sides of the ball,” Jones 54 - MISSISSIPPI SPORTS MAGAZINE

Muldrow (6’4, 225), Desmond King (6’1, 225), and Desmond Michel (6’0, 190). Muldrow, a sophomore out of Atlanta, GA, spent last season as a starter on the Contra Costa Community College defense in the CCCAA, while freshman linebacker Phillips, a graduate of Miami Central High School, join the Wolfpack after spending 2012 out of football. King and Michel are Mississippi talents out of Southaven High School and Pearl River Central High School respectively who signed letters-of-intent with the Wolfpack this past February. All are expected to be contributors this season. The defensive secondary looks to be the backbone of the Wolfpack defense again this season with the return of multiple sophomore leaders and the addition of talented freshman. With the departure of corner Jeremy Davis to Delta State University, the Wolfpack will turn to Brookhaven High School product, sophomore Greg Sims (5’11, 190) to build upon the superb cover skills he displayed last season which resulted in the shifty cover-man picking off three passes, while also recording 30 tackles. Looking to also build on success in 2012 is sophomore safety, Kalen Jackson (6’0, 205). In his first year out of Magee, the hard

hitting deep defender recorded 84 tackles in run support while picking off two passes and returning one pick back 51 yards for a score. Joining Jackson at the safety spots are highly recruited freshmen Nick Beasley (6’2, 200) from Madison St. Joe, BeJay Welch (6’3. 195) from Northwest Rankin, and Justin Morgan (6’4, 210) from Senatobia. Freshman also vying for time in the coverage spots are Joshua Bates (5’11, 180) of Provine and Ricky Green (5’11, 170) of South Delta.

pi State), Za’Darius Smith (Kentucky) and Claude Davis (South Florida). Jones, from Wren High School, was tabbed Medium School All-American Second Team by MaxPreps a year ago as well as South Carolina’s Class AAA Defensive Player of the Year by High School Sports Report.

“This program is where we want it to be, and that is consistently competing for championships.”

SPECIAL TEAMS On special teams, East Mississippi returns placekicker Morgan Rhodes, who efficiently scored 74 points for the Lions last season by connecting on 59-of-63 extra-point attempts as well as 5-of-8 field goals. Freshman Drew White, of Tupelo High School, is likely to handle EMCC’s punting duties this season. SUMMARY Last year’s abrupt finish to an otherwise successful 8-2 season should certainly provide enough motivation for this year’s collection of players and coaches to return and stay in the national limelight for years to come. “We have to understand that we will get everybody’s best game,” Stephens stressed. said. “Antwon could also see action in the defensive secondary.” DEFENSE Obviously, defense is one of Jones’ primary focuses after spending two decades

SPECIAL TEAMS With the departure of kicker/punter Nolan Long and long snapper Tevin Tobias, both spots will be open to for competition during camp this summer. Competing for kicker will be sophomore Cody Spears (6’2, 210) who saw no action in 2012 and freshman Blayne Jones (5’10, 165) from Madison St. Joe. Spears will also compete for punting duties against freshman Trent Furr (5’10, 175) of Ackerman. Sophomore Terry Smith (5’9, 230) and freshman Sawyer Oakes will compete for snapping duties during camp. - MSM

SCHEDULE East Mississippi’s 2013 schedule begins with a compelling, inter-divisional meeting between Stephens and his former 12year coaching assistant William Jones, who left the Scooba campus after five seasons to become the new head coach at Pearl River. Stephens’ reloaded Lions and Jones’ revamped Wildcats kick off the campaign on Aug. 29 in Poplarville. EMCC plays host to East Central and Southwest Mississippi on Sept. 5 and 12, respectively, to close out non-divisional competition. Champions of the MACJC’s North Division four times in the previous five seasons under Stephens’ guidance, the Lions’ home division slate includes 2013 Homecoming foe Coahoma (Sept. 28), Northeast Mississippi (Oct. 10) and Itawamba (Oct. 24). EMCC’s division road opponents will be Mississippi Delta (Sept. 19), Holmes (Oct. 3) and Northwest Mississippi (Oct. 17). MSM coaching that side of the ball. “Because of my 20 years as a defensive college coach with 13 as a coordinator, that’s a point of emphasis and we have high expectations of playing championship level defense here,” he said. “Coach Garza and the

rest of the staff have done a great job of transitioning and developing our existing players to our current scheme and we’ve signed some outstanding runners and hitters that will be huge contributors.” Headlining the defensive front will be tackle Dalvon Stuckey (6-foot-3, 325 pounds) out of Walton High in Dufuniak Springs, Fla., and a Miami Hurricane commitment who started three games a year ago before exiting the team for disciplinary reasons. “Dalvon is as talented as any defensive lineman I’ve coached in my 13 years in the league,” Jones aid. “He’s one of those rare players who can control the line of scrimmage and the game if he plays at a high level on every snap.” Ends Carl Green (6-foot-3, 270 pounds of McComb High and Josiah Smith (6-foot-5, 230 pounds) of George County High also drew praise. Green, who was also dismissed from the team after three starts a year ago, is “a talented pass rusher who can play multiple positions,” according to Jones. “He is a difference maker.” Jones says Smith was the most improved player during this past spring workouts and boasted six quarterback sacks in two scrimmages. “And he seems to be improving every week that we’re around him. Both he and Green are D-I caliber players.” Four talented freshman D-linemen are catching a lot of attention in end Alvonte Bell (6-foot-6, 245 pounds) out of Everglades High in Miramer, Fla., tackle Tchaikovsky Catlett (6-foot-1, 300 pounds) of Moss Point High, tackle Jeremy Chester (6-foot-2, 285 pounds) of North Pike High, and tackle Khadedryck Todd (6-foot-4, 280 pounds) of Hattiesburg High. Bell signed with Kentucky out of high school and was considered one of the top high school defensive players in south Florida. Has excellent speed and ran an 11.2-second 100 meters as a junior in high school. Chester was one of the top power lifters in Mississippi at North Pike, but played just one year of varsity football. Despite his inexperience, he was dominant in controlling the line of scrimmage and wound up being as one of the tops recruits in south Mississippi. Todd was a three-year starter at HHS and was a major factor in the Tigers’ deep run in the Class 6A playoffs last season. “Khadedryck is a tremendous competitor with outstanding athleticism. He is transitioning well into the collegiate game,” said Jones. Jones’ corps of linebackers is solid, led by sophomore Martez Simpson (6-foot, 230 pounds) of Madison Central. Jones said Simpson was the most con-

sistent defensive player during spring drills and “possesses a high football IQ and will be our quarterback on the defensive side of the ball.” Soph Emmanuel Ray (6-foot-3, 210 pounds) of Lumberton High was moved from his safety position a year ago to linebacker to “add speed to the position,” said Jones. “Emmanuel was a playmaker for The River last season and we expect him to make the same kind of contribution as he moves closer to the line of scrimmage this go around,” Jones said. Freshmen backers include Jeremy Benjamin (6-foot3, 235 pounds) out of McArthur High in Hollywood, Fla., Richard Thomas (6-foot, 220 pounds) of West Lauderdale High, Stacey Warren (6-foot, 215 pounds) of Pascagoula High, and Antron Watts (6foot-1, 235 pounds) of East Marion High. Benjamin was a Marshall signee out of high school and had a standout performance in the south Florida’s renowned Nike Brower-Dade All-Star Game. He was considered one of the top defensive players and pass rushers in the state, while Thomas was a three-year starter who played on both sides of the ball for WLHS. Jones says Thomas is also working at the quarterback position in Wildcat camp. Warren, another potential River QB, was a two-way starter for the MHSAA Class 5A runner up Panthers last season; while Watts boasted defensive MVP honors in last season’s Bernard Blackwell All-Star game. “Antron was a three-year starter at East Marion, which won the state Class 2A championship his junior year,” said Jones. “Needless to say, he’s a heckuva player.” Shauntez Ball (6-foot-1, 185 pounds) of Madison Central is the only returning sophomore to the defensive backfield and is touted for his great size and speed --- “everything you look for in a cornerback… great man-to-man ability and technique and is a physical, open-field tackler. He’s a BCS kind of player.” Five newcomers in DB Taron Divins (6foot-2, 180 pounds) of McComb High, D.D. Johnson (5-foot-9, 180 pounds) of East Marion High, free safety Ty Northern (6foot-1, 190 pounds) of Rolling Fork High, strong safety Quartavious Smith (6-foot-2, 180 pounds) of McComb High, and strongfree safety Gemriah Williams (6-foot-1, 185 pounds) of Columbus High show promise in the secondary. “Taron and Quartavious were teammates at McComb,” said Jones. “Quartavious is an outstanding, multi-dimensional player and plays multiple positions, while being a solid kick returner.” Jones says Johnson, who is also taking snaps at quarterback, was East Marion’s

starting QB as a junior during its 2011 state Class 2A championship run, but concentrated on the defensive side of the ball his senior season. He was a three-year starter at EMHS. Northern transferred to Pearl River after spending his freshman season Northwest Mississippi. “He’s an outstanding half-field safety…a real ball hawk with big hitting ability,” says Jones. Williams was one of the top Class 6A defensive players in the state his senior year and is a vicious hitter with great playmaking ability. “Gemriah played on one of the best defenses in the Mississippi at Columbus,” Jones said. “Plus he’s an outstanding special teams guy.” Jones says the Wildcats’ special teams should be solid. SPECIAL TEAMS Returning to the line up is placekicker-punter Brandon King (5-foot-11, 165 pounds) of Florence High, who averaged 37.5 yards a boot on 38 attempts last year as a freshman. In addition, he led the team in scoring with 38 points (six field goals, 20 PATs). Mark Moore (6-foot, 180 pounds) of Hattiesburg High was injured in the preseason last summer and missed the 2012 season, but returns as the Wildcats’ kickoff specialist. He and King are in a heated competition for the placekicking duties. Jones also signed long snapper Bobby Daggett (5-foot-11, 210 pounds) of Pascagoula High, who was rated as one of the top five snappers in the Mississippi. “With the addition Bobby, one of the best in the league, our kicking game should be more than solid,” said Jones. Jones says the MACJC’s prominence is a credit to the outstanding coaching and talent in the league. “The coaching staffs in our conference consistently prepares our teams to play at a high level every week and that’s made a huge difference when our teams get to national championship play,” Jones said. “And it’s that way year in and year out. “Plus, our state legislators, college administrators, and faculties greatly support athletics in Mississippi,” he continued. “Without that kind of support, we couldn’t do our jobs effectively. “It’s a privilege to be affiliated with Mississippi junior college football.” - MSM

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The legend of Bull Sullivan

RICK CLEVELAND

rank Deford, the splendid writer formerly of Sports Illustrated, in 1984 wrote the longest — and quite possibly the best — cover story in that magazine’s history. It was about a long-deceased Mississippi junior college football coach named Bob “Bull Cyclone” Sullivan. The cover headline: The Toughest Coach There Ever Was. Bull Sullivan was most probably that. For sure, he coached in the toughest league there ever was and among some of greatest coaches 99 percent of football fans never heard of. Sullivan was a legend at East Mississippi Community College, but then so were Dobie Holden at Pearl River, Sim Cooley at Jones, Bobby Franklin at Northwest, Harold White, George Sekul and now Steve Campbell at Gulf Coast, and so many more. A junior college coach surely has one of the most difficult jobs in sports. He has constant turnover among his players. He has his players for only two seasons. And they are nearly all there for one of two reasons: They either weren’t gifted enough athletically or good enough students to qualify academically at a four-year school. It takes a special coach to be successful given those circumstances. Sullivan, a Mississippi Sports Hall of Famer, along with Franklin, Holden and Sekul, was certainly that. Deford has made no secret of how he learned about Sullivan. It was happenstance — serendipity, really. Thirty-one years ago at The Clarion-Ledger, we started a weekly sports feature called “Travelin.” The writer’s assignment was to go to a small town in Mississippi, learn and then write about the best sports story in the history of that town. I went to Scooba, and there was never any doubt about my subject. My story appeared on a Saturday in 1982. Somebody left that newspaper on a plane in Birmingham. Deford, who was in Birmingham, was catching that plane en route to New York. He picked up the paper, read the story and decided he wanted to learn even more about Sullivan and the Mississippi junior college league. You can find

56 - MISSISSIPPI SPORTS MAGAZINE

his story on the Internet. Use Google and search for “the toughest coach there ever was.” It will pop right up. I had spent one day working on my story. Deford spent weeks. My heavens, it is so well-reported, so well-written, so compelling. Deford has often told me that all these years later, people constantly bring it up or send him letters about it. In my one day of reporting the story I heard so many stories. A few of my favorites: From Hall of Famer Bill Buckner, probably Sullivan’s best quarterback ever: “One time Coach Sullivan was really disappointed with us after a game, so he led the players on a gauntlet drill where they’d run off through the woods, through briars and mud. He had them running into trees. He finally stopped at the edge of a pond and had the defense line up with their heels in the pond. He lined the offense up, put the ball down and told the offense, ‘OK, drown ‘em!’ The bottom of the pond was real boggy and we lost 16 pair of football shoes. One big guy really did almost drown.” Sullivan was a former Marine, a war hero. Randall Bradbury told me this one: “We all heard he once went into a Japanese machine gun pill box and killed seven of them at once, using just a shovel. I know he once told me, ‘Bradbury, I don’t know how many gooks I killed but one more like you ain’t gonna make any difference.’” From the late Dick Potter, a long-time juco official and one of the best: “A lot of officials had problems with him, but I always thought the only ones who did were bad officials. He wouldn’t give you any problem if he respected you. Whenever they were on the road, Cyclone used to take a lot of flak from the fans. Anyway, one time at Holmes it got pretty bad, so Cyclone had his players pick up their benches and march across to the other side of the field away from the Holmes fans. They actually did that.” Again from Buckner, talking about the old leather, facemaskless helmets adorned with a skull and crossbones, which Sullivan’s teams wore: “I remember one time, we were playing Tyler (Texas) in a bowl game. They were twice as big as us and heavily favored. We came out on the field with our helmets folded up, hanging out of our pants. They just stared. We won by three touchdowns.” There were more, so many more. Look up Deford’s story and read it. But remember this: Bull Sullivan might have been the toughest, but he wasn’t the only great coach in the toughest league there ever was. - MSM Rick Cleveland is the executive director of the Mississippi Sports Hall of Fame and Museum. He can be reached at rcleveland@msfame. com.

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