Samford Football Game Program--Mercer Game

OCT. 4

Jeremiaha Gates Running Back

Samford vs. Mercer Seibert Stadium

Barron Jefferson Varnons Crew Headquarters

POWER TO THE

LINEMEN

© 2014 Alabama Power Company

Linemen protect what’s important, whether it’s in the game of football or in the everyday delivery of electricity. At Alabama Power, our linemen are focused on keeping 1.5 million poles and towers up and running. It’s a job that has to be done for our state to thrive. We’re proud to support Samford football and the linemen who have a common dedication to protect the things that matter.

Head Coach Pat Sullivan. . . . . . . . . . . 4 Assistant Coaches. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 Football Support Staff. . . . . . . . . . . . 12 Returning Players. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 Signees . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 Today’s Game. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21 Around the SoCon. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22 Player Feature. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23 Rosters. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24 Depth Charts. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26 Student-Athlete Feature. . . . . . . . . . 27 Player Q&A. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28

Fall Sports Schedules/Results . . . . . . 30 Seibert Stadium. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34 Cooney Family Field House. . . . . . . . 38 Academic Enhancement Program . . . 42 Academic Progress Ratings . . . . . . . . 44 Andrew Westmoreland . . . . . . . . . . . 46 Martin Newton. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48 Athletics Administration . . . . . . . . . . 50 Head Coaches . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52 Assistant Coaches/Staff . . . . . . . . . . . 54 NCAA Compliance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56 Bulldog Club . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58

Editor: Joey Mullins Senior Graphic Designer: Monica Washington Director of Creative Operations: Janica York Carter Editorial Assistant: Julie Beckwith Contributors: Zac Schrieber, Nathan Sheehan, Mike Grace, Abby Turner, Bo Kerr Photographers: Caroline Summers, Rebecca Long, Jimmy Mitchell, David Johnson, Beth Hall

Produced by Samford Office of Marketing and Communication

Samford University . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60 Athletics Facilities . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62 Southern Conference. . . . . . . . . . . . . 64 All-Americans/Honors. . . . . . . . . . . . 66 Cheerleaders/Dance/Band. . . . . . . . . 68 Players in the NFL. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69 Year-by-Year Records. . . . . . . . . . . . . 70 Team Records. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 72 Individual Records. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 73

A division of Samford Athletics, Samford Sports Properties manages media rights and sponsorship opportunities for Samford University Athletics. Under the direction of Senior Associate Director of Athletics for External Operations Bo Kerr, Samford Sports Properties is responsible for revenue generation through corporate sponsorships, as well as the growth and ­development of all radio, video and interactive platforms, including the Samford Sports Network, SamfordSportsTV and the online home of Samford Athletics, www.samfordsports.com.

Samford Sports Properties provides sponsors with a single source for multi-­ platform sponsorship opportunities across all of Samford athletics. For more infor­ mation, contact Bo Kerr at jkerr@samford. edu or 205-726-2139.

INTERNET The official website of Samford University athletics is www.samfordsports.com. A partnership of Samford Athletics and SideArm Sports, the internet home of the Bulldogs is full of the most up-to-date information on Samford football and Samford’s 16 other varsity sports. With news stories, coach and student-athlete biographies, plus team rosters, statistics, schedules, game notes, results and video, the most comprehensive coverage of the Bulldogs can always be found online at www.samfordsports.com.

multiple devices, including smartphones, tablets, laptops and PCs, is scheduled to launch in the fall of 2014. The SoCon Digital Network will broadcast intra­conference games across several sports not selected by national or regional networks. Archived or video on demand content will also be available and housed primarily on institutional websites.

SOCIAL MEDIA Samford fans can keep up with the Bulldogs 24/7 through the following social media outlets:

www.facebook.com/SamfordSports

twitter.com/samford_sports youtube.com/samfordsportsnetwork instagram.com/samfordsports

RADIO Samford football can be heard during the 2014 season on WZRR-FM 99.5 Nash Icon, the 100,000-watt signal that serves as Birmingham’s home for “Today’s Hottest Music.”

Additionally, the Inside Samford Sports radio show airs on 100.5 ESPN JOX2.

The weekly show spotlights Bulldog coaches, players and special guests each Monday12–1 p.m.

Mike Grace returns for his eighth year as executive producer of the Samford Sports Network and “Voice of the Bulldogs.” Scot Harrison, cohost of the Matt and Scot Show on Cumulus Media’s WJOX-FM 94.5, returns for his second year as color commentator. Samford student and sports marketing major Blake Gardner joins the broadcast crew as sideline reporter.

VIDEO SamfordSportsTV is your online destination for FREE live and on-demand audio and video streamed straight to your computer or mobile device. Powered by ­ www.samfordsports.com, Bulldog fans can access live audio and video of select football, soccer, volleyball, men’s and women’s basketball, baseball, and softball games. Fans can also gain access to live and on-demand audio and video of select game highlights, press conferences, features and exclusive interviews found only on SamfordSportsTV. To catch all of the exciting action, just look for the SamfordSportsTV link at www.samfordsports.com.

The Southern Conference Digital Network, a league-wide digital network available free of charge to consumers on 2

The 2014 Samford football broadcast team. Left to right: Mike Grace, Blake Gardner and Scot Harrison.

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SAMFORD HEAD COACH

PAT SULLIVAN

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at Sullivan was hired as Samford’s 35th head football coach on Dec. 1, 2006. In his seven seasons as head coach, he has had a major impact on the program.

In 2013, the Bulldogs won their first Southern Conference title, and the team earned the program’s first NCAA Division I-FCS playoff bid since 1992. The team also posted its third-straight winning season for the first time since 1999. The team won eight games overall, the most since 1992, and finished 6-2 in the SoCon, the team’s best record in league play since joining the SoCon in 2008. The 2013 Bulldogs finished the season ranked 18th in the final FCS coaches poll and 19th in the final Sports Network poll.

The 2012 Bulldogs finished with an overall record of 7-4 and a Southern Conference mark of 5-3. At the time, the seven overall wins were the most for the program since 2003.

The 2012 team also earned the program’s first two wins over ranked opponents since 1994, defeating No. 19 The Citadel and No. 6 Wofford during the season. The Bulldogs entered the rankings at No. 25 for the first time since 1993.

For his efforts, Sullivan was named the league’s CoCoach of the Year at the conclusion of the season. Also in 2012, four players—Ryan Dudchock, Nicholas Williams, Jaquiski Tartt and Cameron Yaw—were named first-team All-Conference. Fabian Truss, Jacob Kirschenbaum and Kelsey Pope were named second-team All-Conference. Tartt was also named All-American after the 2012 season.

In 2011, the Bulldogs posting a record of 6-5 overall and 4-4 in Southern Conference play, after being picked to finish near the bottom of the league in the preseason. At the conclusion of the season, five Samford players were named All-Conference. Corey White and Truss were named first-team All-Conference, while Dudchock, Pope and Yaw were named to the second team.

The 2010 senior class, Sullivan’s first signing class at Samford, produced an All-American linebacker (Bryce Smith) and the all-time leading collegiate rusher in the history of the state of Alabama (Chris Evans).

After the 2009 season, five Samford players were named to the SoCon’s All-Conference team, and three more were named to the league’s All-Freshman team.

In 2008, Sullivan led Samford to its first winning season since 2003 with a 6-5 overall record. The Bulldogs also finished tied for fourth in its first season in the Southern Conference after being picked to finish last in all of the league’s preseason polls.

Following the 2008 season, five Samford players were named to the SoCon’s All-Conference teams, including running back Evans, who became Samford’s first running back to rush for more than 1,000 yards in back-to-back seasons. Freshman quarterback Dustin Taliaferro was also named the 2008 SoCon Freshman of the Year.

In Sullivan’s first season as Samford’s head coach in 2007, the program saw major improvements. The Bulldogs

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improved in nearly every offensive category from the 2006 season.

In addition to the successes on the field and in recruiting, Sullivan has made a major impact on the school’s fund-raising efforts. Cooney F ­ amily Field House, which is named for Birmingham business executive and Samford graduate Gary Cooney, was opened prior to the 2009 season in the south end zone of Seibert Stadium. The field house was funded completely from private ­donations.

“In every respect, Pat exemplifies the qualities that are important to Samford,” Samford President Andrew ­Westmoreland said. “People are drawn to the strength of his character, his commitment to his student-athletes, his emphasis on performance in the classroom as well as on the field and his faith. In addition, his teams win.

What more could we ask?”

Sullivan, the winner of the 1971 Heisman Trophy as a quarterback at Auburn University, is the 35th head football coach in Samford history. He had served on the coaching staff at the University of Alabama at Birmingham [UAB] since 1999.

At UAB, Sullivan worked with the team’s quarterbacks and was the offensive coordinator from 1999 to 2005. He served as the assistant head coach and running backs coach in 2006. He recruited and coached Darrell Hackney, the all-time leading passer in UAB history, and the third-leading passer in Conference USA history.

During Sullivan’s time at UAB, the Blazers posted an overall record of 43-49, and the 2004 team earned the program’s first bowl bid to the Sheraton Hawaii Bowl. Sullivan also has experience as a head coach at the Division I-FBS level, as he served as the head coach at Texas Christian University from 1992 to 1997. He helped lead TCU’s Horned Frogs to back-to-back winning seasons for the first time in 42 years with records of 7-5 in 1994 and 6-5 in 1995. His 1994 team also earned a berth in the Independence Bowl, the school’s first bowl bid in 10 years.

Sullivan was named the 1994 Southwest Conference Coach of the 6

Year. He also earned the Top Newcomer Award from American Football Q ­ uarterly in 1995 after taking the program from a 2-8-1 record in 1992 to the consecutive winning seasons in 1994 and 1995. His six-year record at TCU was 24-42-1.

Before becoming head coach at TCU, Sullivan spent six seasons as an assistant coach at his alma mater, Auburn. He coached the quarterbacks, including three of the top passers in the program’s history: Jeff Burger, Reggie Slack and Stan White. Working under Head Coach Pat Dye, Sullivan helped Auburn win three Southeastern ­Conference championships (1987, ’88, ’89) and post an overall record of 52-16-3.

A 1972 graduate of Auburn, Sullivan was a three-year starter at quarterback for the Tigers (1969–71).

In addition to winning the Heisman Trophy, he was named an All-American and SEC Player of the Year in 1970 and 1971. He helped lead Auburn to three postseason bowl appearances, and was named the MVP of the 1970 Gator Bowl and the 1971 Sugar Bowl.

Following his senior season, Sullivan was named MVP of the 1972 Senior Bowl, and he played in the College All-Star Classic, taking on the Super Bowl champion Dallas Cowboys. He played professional football for five seasons with the Atlanta Falcons, Washington Redskins and San Francisco 49ers.

Sullivan is a member of the halls of fame for the Senior Bowl, Gator Bowl, Sugar Bowl, Alabama Sports, National Football and National High School. In the spring of 2014, Sullivan was honored by the Auburn Alumni ­Association with its Lifetime Achievement Award.

Sullivan has previous ties to ­Samford as his father, Jerry, played football at Samford (then Howard College) in 1949 and 1950. One of the elder Sullivan’s teammates was Bobby Bowden.

Sullivan and his wife, Jean, have three children, daughter Kim, and twins Kelly and Patrick. They also have eight grandchildren, Alex, Jay, Mallory, Joseph, Taylor, Lucy, John Michael and Claire.

COACHING EXPERIENCE 2007–present Head Coach

Samford University 2006 Assistant Head Coach/ Running Backs

University of Alabama at Birmingham 1999–2005 Offensive Coordinator/ Quarterbacks

University of Alabama at ­Birmingham Head Coach 1992–97

Texas Christian ­University Assistant Coach 1986–91

Auburn University COACHING AWARDS Top Newcomer Award 1995 American Football Quarterly Southwest Conference 1994 Coach of the Year Southern Conference 2012

Coach of the Year PLAYING EXPERIENCE 1969–71 Quarterback

Auburn University PLAYING AWARDS Heisman Trophy, 1971 Walter Camp Player of the Year, Academic All-American, ­Academic All-SEC Consensus All-­ 1970, 1971 American, SEC Player of the Year Halls of Fame Senior Bowl, Gator Bowl, Sugar Bowl, Alabama Sports, National Football, National High School MVP Awards 1972 College All-Star Game, 1972 Senior Bowl, 1972 Sugar Bowl, 1970 Gator Bowl EDUCATION 1972

B.S., business ­administration Auburn University

PERSONAL Born Jan. 18, 1950 Hometown Birmingham, Ala. High School John Carroll, 1968 Wife Jean Children Kim, Kelley, Patrick Grandchildren Alex, Jay, Mallory, Joseph, Taylor, Lucy, John ­Michael, Claire

Bill D’Ottavio

ASSISTANT HEAD COACH/DEFENSIVE COORDINATOR/SAFETIES

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ill D’Ottavio enters his eighth season as Samford’s defensive coordinator and his fourth as assistant head coach.

D’Ottavio’s 2012 defense led the Southern Conference in interceptions with 14. The unit also produced S­amford’s highest NFL Draft pick when Corey White was selected in the fifth round by the New Orleans Saints.

In 2009, D’Ottavio’s defense ranked in the top 20 in the nation in total defense, scoring defense, sacks and tackles for a loss.

In 2008, D’Ottavio produced one of Samford’s strongest defenses. The Bulldogs led the Southern Conference in scoring defense, total defense, rushing defense, opponent first downs and turnover margin.

D’Ottavio came to Samford from Tulane University, where he served as

assistant head coach from 2004 to 2006. He coached cornerbacks. In 2005, the Green Wave ranked first in Conference USA in pass defense.

D’Ottavio served on the coaching staff at the University of Central Florida [UCF] from 1999 to 2003. He coached linebackers, and served as the team’s defensive coordinator in 2002 and 2003. In 2000, the UCF defense ranked sixth in the nation in sacks and tied for 10th in the nation in turnovers gained.

From 1997 to 1998, D’Ottavio served as defensive coordinator and linebackers coach at his alma mater, Millersville University in Pennsylvania. He helped Millersville to a 15-5 record over those two seasons, and the team won the 1998 Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference Eastern Division c­ hampionship.

D’Ottavio worked at Middle ­Tennessee State University [MTSU] in 1995 and 1996. He coached the secondary and assisted with the special

teams, specifically on kickoff coverage.

Prior to his time at MTSU, D’Ottavio served on the coaching staff at Indiana University of Pennsylvania from 1989 to 1994. He coached the secondary from 1989 to 1992, and was promoted to defensive coordinator in 1993. He coached the defensive line while coordinating the defense in 1993 and 1994.

D’Ottavio helped lead the team to a 65-11-1 record, five appearances in the NCAA semifinals and two appearances in the NCAA finals.

D’Ottavio served as a graduate assistant at the University of Pittsburgh in 1987 and 1988. He began his coaching career as a student assistant at ­Millersville in 1985, and he served the school as a graduate assistant in 1986.

A native of Roxbury, N.J., D’Ottavio is a 1986 graduate of Millersville.

Brandon Herring ASSOCIATE HEAD COACH/OFFENSIVE LINE

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randon Herring enters his eighth season on the Samford coaching staff and his first as associate head coach. He coaches the offensive line.

Herring mentored the offensive line that helped produce Samford’s all-time leading rusher and the first player in school history to rush for more than 1,000 yards in four straight seasons. The line has blocked for two of the top three rushers in program history, Chris Evans and Fabian Truss.

Several members of the his offensive line have garnered All-SoCon honors. In 2013, Kasey Morrison was named to the All-Conference team. Following the 2012 season, Ryan Dudchock was named first-team All-Conference, while Jacob Kirschenbaum was named second-team All-Conference.

Following the 2010 season, offensive lineman Thomas Gray was named to the All-Southern Conference team by

both the league’s coaches and media.

After the 2009 season, center Jon Weber was named first-team All-SoCon. Offensive linemen George Allers and Charlie Sanford were named to the league’s All-Freshman team.

In 2008, Weber and fellow offensive lineman Mitchell Waters were named to the All-Conference team.

In Herring’s first season at Samford, Gray, then a freshman, was named to the Ohio Valley Conference’s All-Newcomer team. That season, the Samford’s offensive line allowed the fewest sacks in the OVC.

Herring came to Samford after spending seven seasons at the University of Alabama at Birmingham [UAB]. He has spent his last three seasons coaching the Blazers’ offensive line.

Under Herring’s tutelage, offensive linemen Andy Galloway (2004), Matt Batusic (2005) and Julius Wilson (2005 and 2006) were named All-Conference for Conference USA. The 2005 Blazer offense averaged a school-record 434.6 yards per game.

Prior to working with the offensive line, he worked with the field goal and extra-point teams, and with the tight ends.

Herring played football at UAB from 1995 to 1999. He started all 11 games at center as both a junior and senior for the Blazers. As a senior, he was named a permanent team captain.

Following his senior season in 1999, Herring started his coaching career as a graduate assistant at UAB, working with the offense.

A native of Hueytown, Ala., Herring is a 2000 graduate of UAB with a degree in history. He and his wife, Melissa, have two children, Max, 9, and Macy, 6.

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Travis Trickett OFFENSIVE COORDINATOR/QUARTERBACKS

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ravis Trickett is in his fourth season on the staff and his third as offensive coordinator. After working with the tight ends and slot receivers in 2011, Trickett began working with the quarterbacks in 2012.

In 2013, he mentored quarterback Andy Summerlin during his record-­ breaking senior season. Summerlin, who was named the Southern Conference’s Offensive Player of the Year, set school records for passing yards in a game (495 vs. Georgia Southern) and passing yards in a season (3,640).

In Trickett’s first season coaching quarterbacks, the Bulldogs finished third in the Southern Conference in passing offense, and Summerlin ranked

third in the league in passing.

In 2011, Trickett assisted with a much-improved offense from the previous season. He tutored tight end Zeke Walters, who caught 11 passes for 153 yards in his first season.

Trickett came to Samford after working as a graduate assistant at Florida State since May of 2008, working on the staffs of both Bobby Bowden and Jimbo Fisher. While at FSU, he helped coach quarterbacks Christian Ponder and E. J. Manuel.

In 2007, Trickett worked as an offensive graduate assistant on Nick Saban’s staff at Alabama. He worked with quarterbacks John Parker Wilson and Greg McElroy.

The son of FSU offensive line coach Rick Trickett, he began his coaching career as a student assistant at West

Virginia University, working under Head Coach Rich Rodriguez. As part of his duties with the Mountaineers, Trickett worked with quarterback Pat White.

Trickett graduated from West Virginia in 2007 with a bachelor’s degree in business administration and marketing. He also earned a master’s degree from Florida State in sports administration in 2009.

Trickett and his wife, Tiffany, were married in the summer of 2013. They have a son, Maverick, born in the spring of 2014.

Bobby Blick

ASSISTANT COACH/TIGHT ENDS/SLOT RECEIVERS

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obby Blick enters is in his first season on the staff. He coaches tight ends and slot receivers.

Blick comes to Samford from Georgia Tech, where he served as a staff assistant for special teams and quality control during the spring. Prior to working at Georgia Tech, he worked with Samford coaches as an offensive analyst.

Blick coached at Elon University, working with the team’s tight ends and running backs from 2011 to 2013. In his first season with Elon, the Phoenix sported a veteran pair of tight ends, Andre Labinowicz and Taylor Berry. Blick

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also oversaw former fullback Matt Eastman’s move to the position.

In 2012, Blick guided a young group of tight ends to 16 receptions for 234 yards and two touchdowns. Three tight ends saw their first intercollegiate game action, while another was a senior who moved to the position the previous spring.

Prior to working at Elon, Blick served as an offensive graduate assistant on the staff at North Carolina State University from 2008 to 2011. He was a part of teams that made two bowl appearances, including a 23-7 win over West Virginia University in the 2010 Champs Sports Bowl. That season, N.C. State ranked

third in the Atlantic Coast Conference in scoring offense, averaging 31.8 points per game, and was fourth in total offense, averaging 338.5 yards per outing.

Blick was also an undergraduate assistant at N.C. State from 2004 to 2007. He was part of the staff that helped the Wolfpack team to the 2005 Meineke Car Care Bowl.

Blick graduated from N.C. State in 2007 with a degree in political science and a concentration in secondary education.

Chris Boone ASSISTANT COACH/DEFENSIVE LINE

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hris Boone is in his first season on the staff. He coaches the defensive line.

Boone comes to Samford from Northwestern State, where he served as associate head coach, defensive coordinator and secondary coach in 2013. His defense finished second in the Southland Conference in total defense in 2013.

The Demons also won six games for the first time in five years.

Prior to working at Northwestern State, Boone served as defensive coordinator and linebackers coach at Jacksonville State in 2011 and 2012. In 2012, his defensive unit led the Ohio Valley Conference in red zone defense in league play.

In 2011, JSU won the OVC, going 7-4 overall and 6-2 in the league.

Boone’s defense led the OVC with 17 interceptions. In league games, the defense led in rush defense (144.9 ypg), third-down conversion percentage (67%) and scoring defense (24.8 ppg). Five of

his players made All-Conference.

From 2006 to 2010, Boone was assistant head coach, defensive ­coordinator and secondary coach at ­Tennessee–Martin, reaching the FCS playoffs in 2006. He helped the ­Skyhawks post their best five-season record (32-25) in school history. He coached two All-America linebackers in 2007 and 2008, and a 2006 Buck Buchanan Award nominee. Two of his defenses (2010, 2006) ranked in the top 12 nationally in total defense.

His 2010 defense led the OVC in total defense, ranking 12th nationally.

UTM led the OVC in pass defense, pass efficiency defense, fewest first downs allowed and third-down conversion defense. The 2006 team won the OVC and finished 9-3 with a No. 13 national ranking. Boone’s defense led the OVC and finished sixth in the nation in total defense, scoring defense, rush defense, pass defense and pass efficiency ­defense.

Boone was the defensive coordinator and secondary coach at East Central Community College from 2004 to

2005. From 2002 to 2004, he coached at Nicholls State University. The 2003 Nicholls team played for the Southland Conference championship as two of Boone’s linebackers earned All-­ Southland Conference honors for the second straight year. In 2002, Nicholls had its first winning season since 1996 (7-4) and finished with a No. 21 ­national ranking, leading the conference in scoring defense.

Boone has also coached at ­Arkansas–Monticello (2000–02), UAB (1999–2000), Pearl River Community College (1997–98) and Southern Mississippi (1996–97). He was a high school coach at Wayne County (Miss.) during the 1998 season.

A 1997 graduate of Southern Mississippi, Boone played at USM in 1995. Prior to that, he played at Jones County (Miss.) Junior College, where he was a two-year starter and voted team captain in 1991 and 1992.

Boone and his wife, Coco, have three children, daughters Cameron and Casidee, and son Colton.

Kodi Burns ASSISTANT COACH/RUNNING BACKS

K

odi Burns is in his first season on the staff. He coaches the running backs.

“Kodi has excelled as a player and coach, but more importantly, he is an outstanding person,” Head Coach Pat Sullivan said. “He will be a tireless recruiter who will relate well to both our players and coaches. We could not be more excited to have Kodi join the Samford football family.”

Burns comes to Samford after spending the 2013 season as an offensive graduate assistant at Auburn, working under Head Coach Gus Malzahn and former Samford offensive coordinator Rhett Lashlee. Burns was a

part of the staff that took Auburn from a 3-9 record in 2012 to a 12-2 mark in 2013. The 2013 Tigers won the ­Southeastern Conference title and played in the BCS National ­Championship game.

At Auburn, Burns coached and developed Heisman Trophy finalist Tre Mason and wide receiver Sammie Coates, who ranked third in the nation in yards per catch. He also assisted with the implementation of the offensive system and with game planning.

Burns spent the 2012 season working as an offensive graduate assistant under Malzahn and Lashlee at Arkansas State. He helped lead the program to the Sun Belt Conference championship, posting a record of 10-3 overall and 7-1 in conference play. The

team also earned the program’s first bowl win, defeating Kent State, 17-13, in the GoDaddy.com Bowl.

Burns coached Sun Belt Conference Offensive Player of the Year and all-time leading passer Ryan Aplin. He also coached Freshman All-America wide receiver J. D. McKissic.

Burns played quarterback and wide receiver at Auburn from 2007 to 2010.

During the 2010 season, he was a wide receiver on Auburn’s BCS National Championship team. He also played in the Outback Bowl in 2009 and was the Most Valuable Player of the Chick-fil-A Bowl in 2007.

Burns earned his bachelor of science degree in exercise science from Auburn in 2011. He is pursuing his master’s degree from Auburn as well.

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Trent McKnight ASSISTANT COACH/WIDE RECEIVERS

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rent McKnight is in his third year as a full-time member of the staff, and his first as the team’s passing game coordinator and wide receivers coach.

For his first two years on staff, he coached the tight ends and slot receivers.

Under McKnight’s direction, Tony Philpot was named to the 2012 SoCon All-Freshman team, and Zeke Walters earned All-Conference recognition in 2013.

He joined the Samford staff after working as the wide receivers coach at Georgia Military College in ­Milledgeville, Ga., in 2011. He also recruited the states of Alabama, Georgia

and Florida for GMC.

McKnight worked as a student assistant for the defense at Samford while working on his bachelor’s degree from 2008 to 2010. He worked with the safeties in 2008 and 2009, and the linebackers in 2010. He also helped out with the running backs during the spring of 2010.

During his previous stint with the Samford staff, McKnight was responsible for the scout team offense and special teams. He was in charge of film breakdown and self-scout analysis, and he assisted with scouting reports, playbooks and teaching tapes. He also assisted with on-campus recruiting.

From January to November of 2008, McKnight coached the

c­ ornerbacks at Oak Mountain High School. He also coached the kickoff coverage team, and he assisted with game-planning, film breakdown and scouting reports.

He served as a recruiting intern at the University of Alabama from December 2007 to January 2008. He assisted with the evaluation process for prospective student-athletes for the ­Crimson Tide.

McKnight earned a bachelor’s degree in business administration and management from Samford in 2010. He played on the Samford team as a safety, while also contributing on special teams in 2006 and 2007.

McKnight’s wife, Ashley, is also a Samford graduate.

Ross Newton ASSISTANT COACH/LINEBACKERS/RECRUITING

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oss Newton is in his ninth season as an assistant coach.

He is in his fourth season coaching the linebackers after working with the defensive line for his first five years on the staff. He is also in his third season as Samford’s recruiting coordinator.

Under Newton’s guidance, senior linebacker Justin Shade was named the Southern Conference’s Defensive Player of the Year in 2013.

In 2011 and 2012, Newton coached a group of experienced linebackers that was one of the strengths of the Bulldogs’ defense.

Under Newton’s tutelage, the Samford defensive line saw great improvement. In 2010, defensive

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linemen Alex Davis and John Michael Clay were named to the All-Conference teams for the Southern Conference.

In 2009, Samford’s defense ranked in the top 20 in the nation in total defense, scoring defense, sacks and tackles for a loss. Also, Clay was named second-team All-Conference by both the league coaches and media at the conclusion of the season. In 2008, defensive lineman Patrick Hatcher was named to the Southern Conference Media Association’s All-Conference team.

Overall, the Samford defense led the Southern Conference in scoring defense, total defense and rushing defense in 2008.

Newton came to Samford in 2006 after spending the previous season as a graduate assistant coach for defense at

the University of Alabama at ­Birmingham.

Newton was a member of the Samford football team from 2000 to 2003. He registered 143 tackles and eight sacks. He was selected a team captain in his senior year in 2003.

As a senior, he also won the Kenny Morgan Leadership Award.

A native of Homewood, Newton played high school football for his father, Bob Newton, at Homewood High School.

Newton graduated from Samford in 2004 with a B.A. in history with a minor in political science. He has worked toward a master’s degree in education at UAB. He is married to the former Allison Lyn Swartz, a fellow Samford graduate, and they have two sons, Thomas, 2, and newborn William.

Sam Shade ASSISTANT COACH/DEFENSIVE BACKS

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am Shade is in his sixth season as an assistant coachd.

He coaches the cornerbacks and, as of 2014, serves as the team’s special teams coordinator.

In 2011, Shade worked with a secondary that ranked third in the Southern Conference in pass defense.

He also tutored 2012 NFL Draft pick Corey White.

Shade came to Samford after having served as a volunteer coach at ­Briarwood Christian School since 2004.

He coached the defensive backs, helping lead the team to a 5A state runner-up finish and a 14-1 overall record. At Briarwod, he coached former Samford player Will Tumlin and Furman player Matthew Gordon.

Shade played in the National Football League from 1995 to 2003. He played for the Cincinnati Bengals from 1995 to 1999. He led the Bengals in tackles in 1997 and was second in the category in 1998. For his last two seasons, his defensive coordinator was NFL Hall of Fame Coach Dick LeBeau.

Shade played for the Washington Redskins from 1999 to 2003 for three head coaches: Norv Turner, Marty Shottenheimer and Steve Spurrier. He also played for three defensive coordi­ nators: Mike Nolan, Ray Rhodes and Marvin Lewis. In April of 2000, Shade won the Redskins’ Unsung Hero Award for on-the-field commitment and community service accomplishment.

In the summers of 2000 to 2005, he held youth football camps in Washington and Birmingham. He also worked as a

color commentator for the NBC Network from 2003 to 2004.

Shade played college football at the University of Alabama from 1991 to 1994. He was a member of the 1992 national championship team, and he was named a permanent captain as a senior in 1994. He was drafted by the Bengals in the fourth round of the 1995 NFL Draft.

A Birmingham native, Shade attended Wenonah High School and was a Bryant-Jordan Scholar Athlete Award winner following his senior year.

Shade and his wife, Jacquetta, have four children: sons Justin and Jacoby, and daughters Jaila and Jamyia. Justin recently graduated from Samford after playing four seasons for the Bulldogs.

Jay Chapman DIRECTOR OF FOOTBALL OPERATIONS

J

ay Chapman is in his fourth season on the staff. He serves as the team’s director of football operations and is involved in all aspects of the Samford football program.

He assists Head Coach Pat Sullivan with day-to-day operations, and he oversees and coordinates all aspects of team travel. He also oversees and monitors the Samford football camp programs.

Chapman worked at the University of Alabama at Birmingham from 2008 to 2010 as the director of player development for the Blazers. He served as the associate director of recruiting for UAB for the last two years.

In 2007, Chapman served as coordinator of football operations for Team Alabama in the All-American Football League.

He was president of Thermacraft Insulation from 1997 to 2007.

Chapman graduated from Samford

with a bachelor’s degree in general s­ tudies. He also holds a bachelor’s degree from Auburn in animal and dairy science. He earned a master’s in public and private management from Birmingham-Southern.

11

Rocky Sabbatini VIDEO COORDINATOR

R

ocky Sabbatini is in his seventh ­season as video coordinator. He coordinates the filming and editing of all practices and games, as well as video exchange with o ­ pponents.

Sabbatini had s­ erved as a video assistant with the Atlanta Falcons since 2003. He filmed games, practices and ­meetings, and edited the films. He prepared weekly film breakdowns for coaches and players, and c­ reated NFL draft profile tapes. He also assisted with

team motivational tapes.

Before his stint with the Falcons, ­Sabbatini served as a video department intern with the St. Louis Rams from 2002 to 2003. He organized and delivered video stills on game days, intercut practice tapes, copied and distributed practice tapes, and organized videotapes for each season.

In the fall of 2001, Sabbatini was the video coordinator for Cape Central High School in Cape Girardeau, Mo. He was in charge of organizing and managing that s­ eason’s videotapes. In addition to video­taping all practices and games, he

also s­ couted opposing teams.

From 1996 to 1999, Sabbatini was a video assistant for the Southeast Missouri State University football team. He was in charge of videotaping and copying practices and games, and he was responsible for videotape exchange.

Sabbatini is a 2002 graduate of ­Southeast Missouri State University. He earned his bachelor of science degree in mass communication with emphasis on video p ­ roduction, and he held a minor in ­coaching.

Sabbatini and his wife, Breanna, have one son, Joey.

James Carlson DIRECTOR OF EQUIPMENT SERVICES

J

ames Carlson begins his 13th season as a member of the staff. He oversees and coordinates all equipment services for all sports, working specifically with the football program.

Carlson orders and maintains all equipment for the football team. He also organizes and oversees transport of all

equipment for road games, and handles the coaches’ sideline communication.

In his role as football facilities coordinator, he coordinates the use and security of Seibert Stadium.

Before joining the Samford staff, Carlson spent three seasons as the football equipment manager and video coordinator at Henderson State ­University, where he handled day-to-day operations of the equipment room, film breakdown and computer scouting. He

worked for two seasons under former Samford Offensive Coordinator Doug Meacham and former Assistant Coach Patrick Nix.

A native of Warner Robins, Ga., Carlson is a member of the National Equipment Manager’s Association. His wife’s name is Brena.

Ryan Davis

DIRECTOR OF STRENGTH AND CONDITIONING

R

yan Davis is in his third season with the football program, and his second as director of Strength and conditioning.

He made an immediate impact on the program, installing a “4th Quarter” program that has greatly improved the conditioning of the team.

He came to Samford after spending two seasons as an assistant with the University of Alabama. He worked directly with the football team, specializing in the development of running backs and quarterbacks, mentoring players such as Heisman Trophy winner Mark Ingram and Heisman Trophy candidate Trent Richardson.

12

Davis was a volunteer intern in 2009 when the Tide won its first national title under Coach Nick Saban and was an assistant on staff when the team won its second title in 2011. Davis was also in charge of overseeing the strength programs for volleyball, rowing and women’s tennis.

Before joining the Crimson Tide, Davis was a graduate assistant for the University of West Florida, where he obtained his master’s degree in education. He worked with several sports, including volleyball, softball, baseball, men’s and women’s soccer, and men’s and women’s basketball.

After graduating from West Florida, Davis was hired by Head Football Coach Charlie Strong and completed a short

stint as an assistant strength coach at the University of Louisville.

Davis obtained his bachelor’s degree in health and exercise science from Rowan University in Glassboro, N.J. He is certified through the National Strength and Conditioning Association and the Collegiate Strength and ­Conditioning Coaches Association [CSCCA]. In 2010, he received the John Stucky Award from the CSCCA for his performance in the practical component of his certification.

Davis has been mentored by some of the most popular names in the field, including long-time Alabama strength coach Terry Jones, Sr., and Alabama’s director of strength and conditioning Scott Cochran.

Brock School of Business and Samford Athletics The Foundation for Student Success

13

Support Staff

Pamela Bartz Director of P 足 erformance Nutrition

Diane Blakney Administrative Assistant

Christina Harris Football Academic Adviser

Matt Price Head Football Athletic Trainer

2014 PLAYERS RS-FRESHMAN

86

John Albert Wide Receiver

RS-JUNIOR

14

Carson Barnett Quarterback

RS-FRESHMAN

57

JonAshley Amison Offensive Line

SOPHOMORE

27

Jamerson Blount

Cody Brooks Defensive Back

14

75

Royus Amos

48

Matt Azemar

RS-SENIOR

RS-SOPHOMORE

RS-JUNIOR

73

Jordan Boatright JUNIOR

Wide Receiver

Justin Anderson

Wide Receiver

SENIOR

Jeremy Brown

87

RS-FRESHMAN

Wide Receiver

Offensive Line

19

RS-FRESHMAN

Offensive Line

Free Safety

RS-SOPHOMORE

22

SOPHOMORE

68

Wesley Carter Offensive Line

62

Armando Bonheur Offensive Line

JUNIOR

65

Jose Casanova Defensive Line

21

James Bradberry

RS-FRESHMAN

53

Austin Barnard Punter

RS-JUNIOR

50

Gunnar Bromelow

Defensive Back

Offensive Line

SENIOR

SENIOR

76

Kyle Champion Offensive Line

85

Robert Clark Wide Receiver

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15

RS-FRESHMAN

39

Chaz Claunch Wide Receiver

RS-JUNIOR

2

Michael Eubank Quarterback

SOPHOMORE

3

1

Kelvin Clay

63

Andy Clements Offensive Line

RS-FRESHMAN

RS-FRESHMAN

37

Reece Everett Place-Kicker

RS-SOPHOMORE

59

Karel Hamilton Wide Receiver

Place-kicker

JUNIOR

RS-JUNIOR

Alec Hulmes

RS-SOPHOMORE

Wide Receiver

Warren Handrahan

64

43

Josh Killett

38

Troy Forrest

42

Amos Harper Offensive Line

JUNIOR

10

Josh Kimberlin

RS-JUNIOR

RS-FRESHMAN

Defensive Line

Defensive End

4

Albert Mitchell Quarterback

RS-SOPHOMORE

58

Gordon Crozier

RS-SOPHOMORE

15

Roosevelt Donaldson

Linebacker

Offensive Line

Defensive Line

SENIOR

RS-SOPHOMORE

RS-JUNIOR

9

Jeremiaha Gates RS-FRESHMAN

SENIOR

Justin Minick

Justin Cooper

RS-SOPHOMORE

Defensive Back

80

23

Running Back

Linebacker

Jerry Mathis

RS-JUNIOR

Tight End

Long-snapper

92 16

SENIOR

72

Robert Hatcher Offensive Line

RS-SOPHOMORE

93

Jake Kingree Defensive Line

RS-SOPHOMORE

55

Jonathan Mooney Linebacker

47

Jay Galloway Linebacker

SOPHOMORE

91

Jared Holloway Defensive Line

RS-SOPHOMORE

82

John Thomas Lynn Wide Receiver

RS-SENIOR

26

Brandon Nettles Defensive Back

16

Bruce Greer Defensive Back

RS-FRESHMAN

70

Ryan Hughes Offensive Line

RS-FRESHMAN

28

Jamie Major Linebacker

JUNIOR

71

Brad Noble Defensive Line

AT REGIONS, EVERY DAY IS GAME DAY. Game day brings out the best in all of us. Leadership. Teamwork. Tradition. Spirit. These are the things we love about college football. They’re also the values that drive our more than 22,000 associates at Regions to give you the products, advice and guidance you need to move life forward.

Regions is a proud supporter of the Samford Bulldogs.

1.800.regions | regions.com Š 2014 Regions Bank.

17

RS-SOPHOMORE

84

Emmanuel Obajimi Wide Receiver

JUNIOR

32

54

Michael O’Neal

RS-SOPHOMORE

29

Tonne Osaigbovo

RS-FRESHMAN

18

Drew Pederson

RS-SENIOR

95

Greg Peranich

RS-FRESHMAN

41

Sam Pettway

Kicker

Linebacker

Quarterback

Punter

Defensive Back

RS-JUNIOR

SENIOR

RS-FRESHMAN

SOPHOMORE

JUNIOR

98

5

52

89

Michael Pierce, Jr.

Brinson Porter

Connor Rafferty

H Back/Tight End

Defensive Line

Defensive End

Offensive Line

Wide Receiver

Linebacker

RS-SENIOR

RS-SOPHOMORE

RS-JUNIOR

JUNIOR

RS-FRESHMAN

RS-SOPHOMORE

Calvin Ruff, Jr.

40

Devon Schmitt

66

C. H. Scruggs

7

Gavin Sinclair

Defensive Line

Tight End

Offensive Line

Wide Receiver

RS-SENIOR

RS-JUNIOR

RS-SENIOR

RS-SOPHOMORE

6

Jaquiski Tartt Free Safety

SOPHOMORE

35

Terrell Woods Defensive Line

24

Trey Wesley Defensive Back

81

Brandon Wilkinson Defensive End

30

Jake Wilks Running Back

Javian Ramson

51

Tony Philpot

97

18

RS-SENIOR

13

Tyler Small

Jonathan Rodgers

96

Mitchell Smith

Tight End

Defensive Line

RS-SOPHOMORE

RS-JUNIOR

25

Denzel Williams Running Back

31

Bobby Wilson Linebacker

Game day excitement Sheraton is where teams get together. We’re the hotel of choice for Birmingham Southern College, the Birmingham Barons, Birmingham Crossplex UAB and Samford University Athletics. Enjoy a huge fitness center, indoor pool, fun restaurants and lounges and great guestrooms, 757 in all, so we can host an entire team on one quiet floor.

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19

2014 SIGNEE

36

Austin Chapman

33

Frank D’Alonzo

2014 SIGNEE

90

Xavier Forrest

2014 SIGNEE

99

Ahmad Gooden

Linebacker

Fullback

Defensive Line

Defensive Line

2014 SIGNEE

2014 SIGNEE

2014 SIGNEE

2014 SIGNEE

27

James Huston

11

Malik Johns

78

Antwan Johnson

Wide Receiver

Wide Receiver

Offensive Line

2014 SIGNEE

2014 SIGNEE

2014 SIGNEE

49

44

36

Deion Pierre

Anthony Preston

Defensive Line

Linebacker

Fullback

2014 SIGNEE

2014 SIGNEE

2014 SIGNEE

Nate Parsons

28

Brad Starace Wide Receiver

20

2014 SIGNEE

15

C. J. Toomer Defensive Back

25

Brandon Whitaker Linebacker

17

Krondis Larry

2014 SIGNEE

83

Darius Harvey

2014 SIGNEE

8

Devlin Hodges

Wide Receiver

Quarterback

2014 SIGNEE

2014 SIGNEE

46

Carter McManes

41

Khalil Norman

Running Back

Linebacker

Fullback

2014 SIGNEE

2014 SIGNEE

2014 SIGNEE

60

Tyler Queen Long-Snapper

2014 SIGNEE

24

Ryan White Wide Receiver

45

Shaheed Salmon Linebacker

2014 SIGNEE

12

Omari Williams Defensive Back

69

Michael Sherwood Offensive Line

S

amford returns home to take on new Southern Conference member Mercer Saturday at 2 p.m. at Seibert Stadium. The game can be heard locally on 99.5-FM Nash Icon or worldwide at www.995nashicon. com.

Samford enters the game with a record of 2-2 overall and 1-1 in Southern Conference play. The Bulldogs are coming off a 38-24 loss at 14th-ranked Chattanooga Sept. 27.

Mercer is currently 4-1 overall and 1-1 in SoCon games. The Bears are coming off a 27-24 SoCon win at VMI Sept. 27.

The Series

Samford and Mercer meet for the 21st time, with Mercer holding a 10-9-1 advantage in the series . . . Saturday’s game marks the first meeting in the series since 1941 when Mercer discontinued its football program . . . Mercer reinstated football in 2013, and this season is the program’s first as a Southern Conference member . . . Of the 20 previous meetings, 15 were played in Macon, Ga., with four being played in Birmingham and one at a neutral site in Albany, Georgia . . . The last meeting came on Nov. 20, 1941, with Samford earning a homecoming win over Mercer, 27-6 . . . Mercer’s last win in the series came on Oct. 1, 1932, with the Bears winning, 21-6, in Macon.

Samford At Seibert Stadium

Samford has an all-time record of 147-76-4 in games played at Seibert Stadium. This season, Samford has six home games on its schedule, and the Bulldogs are currently 2-0 in those games.

Last season, Samford posted a record of 4-1 in home games. Under Head Coach Pat Sullivan, Samford is 24-16 in games played at home.

The Last Time Out

Samford suffered its first Southern Conference loss of the season in a 38-24 setback at 14th-ranked Chattanooga Sept. 27.

Samford was led offensively by wide receiver Karel Hamilton with six catches for a career-high 129 yards

Wide Receiver Karel Hamilton

and two touchdowns. Michael Eubank completed 18 of 33 passes for a career-high 244 yards, two touchdowns and three interceptions. Denzel Williams rushed 21 times for 78 yards and one touchdown.

Justin Cooper led the Samford defense with 13 tackles, including 11 solo stops. Trey Wesley and Jaquiski Tartt had six tackles each. On special teams, Warren Handrahan made his lone field-goal attempt, making a kick from 19-yards out. Handrahan was also good on all three of his extrapoint attempts.

Samford Against SoCon Teams

Now in its seventh season as a member of the Southern Conference, Samford has a record of 25-25 in league games. The Bulldogs posted their best SoCon record since joining the league in 2008 last season, finishing with a 6-2 league mark and

earning a share of the program’s first SoCon title.

Against the current members of the Southern Conference, Samford has an all-time record of 48-55-4. The Bulldogs are 9-10-1 all-time against Saturday’s opponent, Mercer, though the game will be the first time the two programs have met as fellow members of the SoCon.

Samford’s overall record against each current SoCon member is as follows: Chattanooga (10-27-3), The Citadel (3-4), Furman (7-9), Mercer (9-10-1), VMI (2-0), Western Carolina (10-1) and Wofford (7-4).

So far this season, Samford is 1-1 in SoCon games.

Looking Ahead

After Saturday afternoon’s home game against Mercer, Samford will take the next week off from competition. The Bulldogs play next on Oct. 18, hosting Wofford at 2 p.m. at Seibert Stadium.

21

AROUND THE SOUTHERN CONFERENCE CURRENT STANDINGS

TEAM Western Carolina Chattanooga Mercer SAMFORD Furman Wofford The Citadel VMI

SOCON OVERALL RECORD PCT HOME AWAY NEUTRAL RECORD PCT HOME 1-0 1.000 0-0 1-0 0-0 3-1 .750 2-0 1-0 1.000 1-0 0-0 0-0 2-2 .500 1-1 1-1 .500 0-1 1-0 0-0 4-1 .800 2-1 1-1 .500 1-0 0-1 0-0 2-2 .500 2-0 1-1 .500 0-1 1-0 0-0 2-3 .400 1-1 0-0 .000 0-0 0-0 0-0 2-2 .500 2-0 0-0 .000 0-0 0-0 0-0 1-3 .250 1-1 0-2 .000 0-1 0-1 0-0 1-4 .200 1-1

CHATTANOOGA (2-2, 1-1 SoCon) DATE OPPONENT Aug. 28 at Central Michigan Sept. 6 Jacksonville State Sept. 13 at Austin Peay Sept. 27 SAMFORD* Oct. 4 VMI* Oct. 11 at Tennessee Oct. 18 at The Citadel* Oct. 25 Mercer* Nov. 1 at Western Carolina* Nov. 8 Wofford* Nov. 15 at Tennessee Tech Nov. 22 at Furman

THE CITADEL (1-3, 0-0 SoCon) DATE OPPONENT Aug. 30 Coastal Carolina Sept. 6 at Florida State Sept. 20 at Charleston Southern Sept. 27 Gardner-Webb Oct. 4 at Wofford* Oct. 11 Charlotte Oct. 18 Chattanooga* Oct. 25 at Western Carolina* Nov. 1 at Mercer* Nov. 8 Furman* Nov. 15 SAMFORD* Nov. 22 at VMI* FURMAN (2-3, 1-1 SoCon) DATE OPPONENT Aug. 30 Gardner-Webb Sept. 6 at Mercer* Sept. 13 at Presbyterian Sept. 20 at South Carolina State Sept. 27 Western Carolina* Oct. 4 Coastal Carolina Oct. 18 at South Carolina Oct. 25 SAMFORD* Nov. 1 at VMI* Nov. 8 at The Citadel* Nov. 15 Wofford* Nov. 22 Chattanooga*

22

TIME/RESULT L, 16-20 L, 23-26 (OT) W, 42-6 W, 38-24 3 p.m.

TBA 11 a.m.

11 a.m.

1 p.m.

12 p.m.

1:30 p.m.

2:30 p.m.

TIME/RESULT L, 16-31 L, 12-37 L, 18-20 W, 37-14 12:30 p.m.

1 p.m.

11 a.m.

1 p.m.

3 p.m.

1 p.m.

12 p.m.

12:30 p.m.

TIME/RESULT W, 13-3 W, 25-20 L, 7-10 L, 7-17 L, 17-35 6 p.m.

TBA 12:30 p.m.

12:30 p.m.

1 p.m.

11 a.m.

2:30 p.m.

MERCER (4-1, 1-1 SoCon) DATE OPPONENT Aug. 28 Reinhardt Sept. 6 Furman* Sept. 13 at Stetson Sept. 20 Ave Maria Sept. 27 at VMI* Oct. 4 at SAMFORD* Oct. 11 Austin Peay Oct. 18 Western Carolina* Oct. 25 at Chattanooga* Nov. 1 The Citadel* Nov. 15 Warner Nov. 22 at Wofford*

TIME/RESULT W, 45-42 L, 20-25 W, 49-0 W, 42-21 W, 27-24 2 p.m.

3 p.m.

3 p.m.

11 a.m.

3 p.m.

3 p.m.

12:30 p.m.

SAMFORD (2-2, 1-1 SoCon) DATE OPPONENT Aug. 30 at TCU Sept. 11 Stillman Sept. 20 VMI* Sept. 27 at Chattanooga* Oct. 4 Mercer* Oct. 18 Wofford* Oct. 25 at Furman* Nov. 1 Concordia (Homecoming) Nov. 8 Western Carolina* Nov. 15 at The Citadel* Nov. 22 at Auburn

TIME/RESULT L, 14-4 W, 52-0 W, 63-21 L, 24-38 2 p.m.

2 p.m.

12:30 p.m.

2 p.m.

2:30 p.m.

12 p.m.

TBA

VMI (1-4, 0-2 SoCon) DATE OPPONENT Aug. 30 at Bucknell Sept. 6 at Bowling Green Sept. 13 Davidson Sept. 20 at SAMFORD* Sept. 27 Mercer* Oct. 4 at Chattanooga* Oct. 11 at Navy Oct. 18 Gardner-Webb Oct. 25 at Wofford* Nov. 1 Furman* Nov. 15 at Western Carolina* Nov. 22 The Citadel*

TIME/RESULT L, 38-42 L, 7-48 W, 52-24 L, 21-63 L, 24-27 3 p.m.

2:30 p.m.

12:30 p.m.

12:30 p.m.

12:30 p.m.

1 p.m.

12:30 p.m.

AWAY 1-1 1-1 2-0 0-2 1-2 0-2 0-2 0-3

NEUTRAL 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0 0-0

WESTERN CAROLINA (3-1, 1-0 SoCon) DATE OPPONENT Aug. 30 at South Florida Sept. 6 Brevard Sept. 13 Catawba Sept. 27 at Furman* Oct. 4 at Presbyterian Oct. 11 Wofford* Oct. 18 at Mercer* Oct. 25 The Citadel* Nov. 1 Chattanooga* Nov. 8 at SAMFORD* Nov. 15 VMI * Nov. 22 at Alabama

TIME/RESULT L, 31-36 W, 45-21 W, 35-17 W, 35-17 1 p.m.

2:30 p.m.

3 p.m.

2:30 p.m.

1 p.m.

2:30 p.m.

1 p.m.

TBA

WOFFORD (2-2, 0-0 SOCON) DATE OPPONENT TIME/RESULT Aug. 30 at Georgia Tech L, 19-38 Sept. 13 North Greenville W, 42-27 Sept. 20 at Gardner-Webb L, 36-43 Sept. 27 Virginia-Wise W, 49-15 Oct. 4 The Citadel* 12:30 p.m.

Oct. 11 at Western Carolina* 2:30 p.m.

Oct. 18 at SAMFORD* 2 p.m..

Oct. 25 VMI* 12:30 p.m.

Nov. 8 at Chattanooga* 12 p.m.

Nov. 15 at Furman* 11 a.m.

Nov. 22 Mercer* 12:30 p.m. *Southern Conference game All times are Central; dates and times are subject to change.

GATES’ HIGH SCHOOL VERSATILITY PAYS OFF IN COLLEGE

by Joey Mullins, Samford Athletics Communication

W

hen playing football at Trinity Catholic High School in Ocala, Florida, Samford senior running back Jeremiaha Gates didn’t focus on just one position; he played whatever position his team needed him to play.

“I bounced around a lot,” Gates said. “On the offensive side, I played quarterback and running back, and I played linebacker for two years on defense. There were certain games when I would play in the defensive backfield, just to have less contact. In a few packages, they would allow me to play safety. My freshman and sophomore years, they let me get some action at punt returner and kickoff returner. It was always interesting to touch the ball from a different standpoint on special teams.” Senior Running Back Jeremiaha Gates As a senior, Gates was named first-team All-State team captain and Offensive Player of the Year. He helped lead his team to a 14-0 record and a state championship, rushing for 1,287 yards and 28 touchdowns.

In the state championship game, Gates rushed for 188 yards and five touchdowns, earning Most Valuable Player honors.

His performance in that state title game caught the attention of recruiters all over the eastern half of the country. Despite the attention from a lot of schools, Gates said offensive coordinator Travis Trickett sold him on Samford University.

“Coach Trickett was probably the most consistent recruiter for me,” Gates said. “He made me feel like they didn’t just want me; they needed me.” Trickett got Gates to visit and meet the rest of the coaches. “I really fell in love with the coaching staff,” Gates continued. “I also liked the fact that Samford was a smaller school with a good education and a lot of one-on-one time with professors, because I couldn’t see myself in big classes.”

Gates said that playing quarterback in high school helped make the transition to college football smoother than it would have been.

“Because I played quarterback in high school, I learned everything pretty quickly because I knew concepts and I learned by concepts,” he said.

Gates also said the academic transition was easy for him, but there were some areas that the transition was tougher.

“The big transition was learning how to practice and the mental capacity at which you have to play in college,” he said.

“Another big transition for me was being eight hours from home.

Being eight hours from home for an 18-year-old kid is life changing, especially not knowing anyone in the local area.”

As a freshman in 2011, Gates served as backup to starting running back Fabian Truss. Despite being the backup, Gates played in all 11 games. He even started the final two games of the season when Truss was injured.

In the final game of his freshman season, Gates rushed 28

times for a career-high 119 yards in front of 85,347 fans at Auburn’s Jordan-Hare Stadium.

“Honestly, it wasn’t real at that point in time because I was in the game and I was focusing so hard on just doing the right thing,” Gates said. “Whatever was happening was just natural, God-given ability. For it to actually happen on that stage, it probably set the tone for the rest of college for me. It gave me confidence that I could be however good I wanted to be.”

Gates backed up Truss for his first three seasons in a Samford uniform. He says he learned a lot from watching the way Truss handled himself.

“I learned how to be a leader from him in a different way,” Gates said. “You don’t have to be a vocal leader; you can lead by example. I learned how to practice and come to work every day, not just when you feel like it.”

Gates also says the coaching staff has taught him a lot.

“One thing I really learned from Coach Sullivan and the coaching staff is that it’s not always about you,” he said. “In life, it’s not always about you. You’re always a part of something bigger than yourself.”

In addition to his work on the football field, Gates has been a strong student. He has also been involved in the school’s Student Athlete Advisory Committee and other leadership organizations.

“Getting involved in leadership organizations like IMPACT really helped me come through Samford, get to know some people, come out of my shell and really enhanced my experience here,” Gates said.

After he graduates from Samford, Gates said he wants to stay involved in college athletics.

“The end-goal for me is to be a college coach,” he said.

“Right now, offensive or defensive coordinator is my goal. I’m not sure the route that I’m going to take. I’ll probably be a graduate assistant somewhere. Then hopefully I’ll get on track to be an OC or DC somewhere. Eventually, I want to be a college athletics director.”

23

Numerical Rosters

SAMFORD BULLDOGS NO 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 27 28 28 29 30 31 32 33 35 36 36 37 38 39 40 41 41 42 43 44 45 46 47 48 49 50 51 52 53 54 55 57 58 59 60 61 62 63 64 65 66 68 69 70 71 72 73 75 76 78 80 81 82 83 84 85 86 87 89 90 91 92 93 95 96 97 98 99

NAME Kelvin Clay Michael Eubank Karel Hamilton Albert Mitchell Brinson Porter Jaquiski Tartt Gavin Sinclair Devlin Hodges Jeremiaha Gates Josh Kimberlin Austin Mohlenbrok Malik Johns Omari Williams Tyler Small Carson Barnett Roosevelt Donaldson Bruce Greer Krondis Larry Drew Pederson C. J. Toomer Jeremy Brown Ryan White James Bradberry Cody Brooks Justin Cooper Trey Wesley Denzel Williams Brandon Nettles Jamerson Blount James Huston Jamie Major Brad Starace Tonne Osaigbovo Jake Wilks Bobby Wilson Tony Philpot Frank D’Alonzo Terrell Woods Austin Chapman Anthony Preston Reece Everett Troy Forrest Chaz Claunch Devon Schmitt Sam Pettway Khalil Norman Amos Harper Josh Killett Deion Pierre Shaheed Salmon Carter McManes Jay Galloway Matt Azemar Nate Parsons Gunnar Bromelow Jonathan Rodgers Connor Rafferty Austin Barnard Michael O’Neal Jonathan Mooney JonAshley Amison Gordon Crozier Warren Handrahan Tyler Queen Chase Zeegers Armando Bonheur Andy Clements Alec Hulmes Jose Casanova C.H. Scruggs Wesley Carter Michael Sherwood Ryan Hughes Brad Noble Robert Hatcher Jordan Boatright Royus Amos Kyle Champion Antwan Johnson Justin Minick Brandon Wilkinson John Thomas Lynn Darius Harvey Emmanuel Obajimi Robert Clark John Albert Justin Anderson Javian Ramson Xavier Forrest Jared Holloway Jerry Mathis Jake Kingree Greg Peranich Mitchell Smith Calvin Ruff Michael Pierce Ahmad Gooden

POS WR QB WR QB DE DB WR QB RB DB QB WR DB TE QB DL DB RB QB DB WR DB DB DB LB DB RB DB FS WR LB WR LB RB LB H-Back FB DL LB FB PK TE WR TE S FB OL LB LB LB LB LB WR DE OT/LS LB OL P P LB OL OL K LS LS OL OL LS DL OL OL OG OL DT OL OL OL OL OL DE DE WR WR WR WR WR WR WR DL DT DL DL P DL DL DL DL

HT 6-0 6-6 6-1 6-3 6-4 6-1 5-11 6-2 5-10 6-1 6-0 5-10 6-1 6-4 6-1 6-2 6-1 5-7 6-3 5-11 6-5 6-3 6-1 6-1 6-2 6-1 5-10 6-0 6-1 5-9 6-2 5-11 6-0 5-7 6-1 6-2 5-8 6-2 6-0 5-11 5-11 6-4 6-1 6-3 6-0 5-6 6-1 6-2 6-3 6-2 5-11 6-1 5-8 6-4 6-6 5-11 6-3 6-4 6-4 5-10 6-6 6-1 5-10 6-1 6-1 6-4 6-3 6-1 6-2 6-2 6-4 6-4 6-5 6-2 6-2 6-3 6-7 6-4 6-7 6-3 6-4 6-0 5-11 6-1 5-9 6-0 5-10 6-2 6-3 6-0 6-3 6-4 6-4 6-4 6-0 6-0 6-3

WT 185 246 190 195 235 218 165 210 216 205 180 170 180 220 197 258 200 145 215 215 220 170 205 215 230 192 191 205 190 180 224 175 225 185 235 243 220 240 215 220 175 230 185 208 190 194 244 220 230 215 200 215 160 210 305 225 295 190 204 249 280 290 181 210 275 266 277 215 275 295 305 260 320 256 315 288 320 302 280 250 242 200 170 201 173 180 195 205 305 290 305 240 185 270 240 309 235

CL Sr. RS-Jr. So. RS-Fr. Sr. RS-Sr. Jr. Fr. Sr. Jr. Fr. Fr. Fr. RS-Fr. RS-Jr. RS-So. RS-Jr. Fr. RS-Fr. Fr. RS-Jr. Fr. RS-Jr. RS-So. RS-Jr. RS-Jr. RS-So. RS-Sr. So. Fr. RS-Fr. Fr. RS-So. RS-So. RS-Jr. Jr. Fr. So. Fr. Fr. RS-Fr. RS-Fr. RS-Fr. RS-So. RS-Fr. Fr. RS-So. RS-Jr. Fr. Fr. Fr. RS-So. RS-Fr. Fr. RS-Jr. Jr. RS-Fr. RS-Fr. RS-Sr. RS-So. RS-Fr. RS-So. RS-So. Fr. Fr. RS-So. RS-So. Jr. Jr. RS-Jr. Jr. Fr. RS-Fr. Jr. RS-Fr. RS-Sr. So. Sr. Fr. RS-Jr. RS-Sr. RS-So. Fr. RS-So. RS-Sr. RS-Fr. RS-Fr. So. Fr. So. Sr. RS-So. RS-Sr. RS-So. RS-Sr. RS-Jr. Fr.

HOMETOWN/PREVIOUS SCHOOL Chattanooga, Tenn./Red Bank HS Corona, Calif./Arizona State Valrico, Fla./Strawberry Crest HS Nashville, Tenn./Christ Presbyterian Academy Atlanta, Ga./Wesleyan HS Mobile, Ala./Davidson HS Fort Lauderdale, Fla./Aquinas Kimberly, Ala./Mortimer-Jordan HS Ocala, Fla./Trinity Catholic HS Olive Branch, Miss./Southern Baptist Educational Center Tuscaloosa, Ala./American Christian Dade City, Fla./Pasco HS Birmingham, Ala./Parker HS Tampa, Fla./Jefferson HS Sharpsburg, Ga./Landmark Christian Cutler Bay, Fla./Western Michigan New Augusta, Miss./Perry Central HS Miami, Fla./Booker T. Washington HS Moorestown, N.J./Moorestown HS Anchorage, Alaska/Service HS Coral Springs, Fla./Coral Springs HS Valdosta, Ga./Valwood HS Pleasant Grove, Ala./Arkansas State Kellyton, Ala./Benjamin Russell HS Fort Lauderdale, Fla./Texas Tech Hiram, Ga./Hiram HS Columbiana, Ala./Shelby County HS Mobile, Ala./McGill-Toolen Catholic Tallahassee, Fla./Lincoln HS Lilburn, Ga./Parkview HS Piedmont, Ala./Piedmont HS North Palm Beach Gardens, Fla./Dwyer HS Kennesaw, Ga./Harrison HS Trussville, Ala./Hewitt-Trussville HS Shelbyville, Tenn./Shelbyville Central Opelika, Ala./Opelika HS Mobile, Ala./Saint Paul’s Episcopal Boaz, Ala./Boaz HS Birmingham, Ala./Mountain Brook HS Bradenton, Fla./IMG Academy Clinton, Miss./Clinton HS Cullman, Ala./Cullman HS Brea, Calif./Lutheran HS Alpharetta, Ga./King’s Ridge HS Mobile, Ala./UMS-Wright Huntsville, Ala./Westminster Christian Stone Mountain, Ga./Stephenson HS Brentwood, Tenn./Brentwood HS Pembroke Pines, Fla./Somerset Academy Tampa, Fla./Land O’ Lakes HS Alpharetta, Ga./Blessed Trinity HS College Park, Ga./Woodward Academy Johns Creek, Ga./Johns Creek HS Marietta, Ga./Johnson Ferry Christian Alpharetta, Ga./Alpharetta HS Mobile, Ala./Mississippi College Tampa, Fla./Robinson HS Fayetteville, Ga./University of Miami Vestavia, Ala./University of Alabama Norco, Calif./Riverside Christian HS Elba, Ala./Elba HS Fort Lauderdale, Fla./Aquinas Mountain Brook, Ala./Mountain Brook Birmingham, Ala./Vestavia Hills HS Fayetteville, N.C./Fayetteville Christian Orange Park, Fla./Fleming Island HS Bowling Green, Ky./Greenwood HS Garner, N.C./Garner Magnet HS Vestavia Hills, Ala./UAB Jasper, Ala./Walker HS Purvis, Miss./UAB Plano, Texas/Prestonwood HS Rainsville, Ala./Plainview HS Marietta, Ga./Walton HS Leesburg, Ga./Lee County HS Suwanee, Ga./Peachtree Ridge HS Deerfield Beach, Fla./DBHS-Atlanta Technical Americus, Ga./Americus-Sumter HS Thomasville, Ala./Thomasville HS Marietta, Ga./The Walker School Venice, Fla./Univ. of South Florida Hendersonville, Tenn./Goodpasture HS Tallahassee, Fla./Lincoln HS Miami, Fla./Everglades HS Palm Beach Gardens, Fla./Louisville Roswell, Ga./Roswell HS Brentwood, Tenn./TCU Muscle Shoals, Ala./Muscle Shoals HS Nashville, Tenn./Ensworth HS Mobile, Ala./St. Paul’s Episcopal Conyers, Ga./Rockdale County HS Johns Creek, Ga./Chattahoochee HS Pace, Fla./Pace HS Canton, Ga./Sequoyah HS Tampa, Fla./Jesuit HS Daphne, Ala./Tulane University Talladega, Ala./Talladega HS

Numerical Rosters

MERCER NO 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 30 31 32 33 34 36 37 38 40 41 42 43 44 45 46 47 48 49 50 51 52 54 55 56 57 58 59 60 61 62 63 64 65 66 67 68 69 70 71 74 75 76 77 78 79 80 81 82 83 84 85 86 87 88 89 90 91 92 93 94 95 97 98 99

NAME Jordan Marshall Aaron Avant J. T. Palmer Sebastian Hicks Andy Nichols Josh Jones John Russ Tanner Brumby Lendell Arnold Corey Lockett Tosin Aguebor Michael Haynes Chandler Curtis Hunter Mackay Eli Grambling LeMarkus Bailey Josh Moore Nevin Harton Derek Owings Joseph Reese Zach Jackson Sytavious Brown Duronte Carter Caleb Brown Payton Usher Jeremy James Alex Lakes Tee Mitchell Mike Gray JeTarii Donald Jagger Lieb Tripp Patterson Josh Bennett Alex Avant Tyler Ward Robert Brown Lee Bennett Isaiah Buehler Grant Radakovich Devin Davidson Travonte’ Easley C. J. Kleckley Sam Walker Will Roper Michael Wagner David Pinkerton Rob East Kyle Williams Kyle Trammell Kirby Southard Avery White Michael Rainwater Hayden Gregory Trey Bartlett Tunde Ayinla Jack Lightsey Sam Arrington Preston Pittman Blake Fussell Anthony Perella Caleb Yates John Garrett Abernathy Wilson Heres Zac Rice David Ricard Mitch Payne A. M. Posey Hal Weaver Brett Steverson Thomas Pietro Garrett Smith Thomas Marchman Colin Mitchell D’Vante Penamon Ryan Knapp Josh Abrams Justin Johnson Avery Ward Tyler Zielenske Jeff Bowens Adrian Humphrey Darius Tenney Tash Van Dora Marvin Davis Austin Wysor Kelly Brooks Nick Collins Bret Niederreither Jalen Penn Hank Avery Cody Jones Austin Barrett

POS WR DB WR DB DB WR QB QB DB LB LB QB WR WR TE DB QB DB TE DB DB DB DB RB RB DB RB RB DB RB K/P LB LB DB LB TE LB LB TE LB LB LB TE K LB RB P DL LB OL OL LB DL LB DE OL OL OL OL DT OL LS OL OL OL OL OL OL OL OL OL OL DE WR WR WR WR WR K/P WR WR WR WR DT DE DE DT DT DT DE DE DL

HT 5-7 5-8 6-2 5-8 6-1 5-11 6-0 6-1 5-9 5-9 6-3 6-0 5-10 6-0 5-11 5-11 5-11 5-11 6-3 5-10 6-0 5-10 5-11 5-8 5-7 5-10 5-10 5-10 6-0 5-8 5-8 6-0 6-3 5-8 6-1 6-1 6-0 6-2 6-1 6-1 6-0 5-11 6-3 5-11 5-10 5-8 5-11 6-0 6-0 5-11 6-0 6-2 5-10 6-0 6-0 6-3 6-1 6-1 6-1 5-8 6-3 6-2 6-0 6-3 6-1 6-3 6-6 6-2 6-5 6-4 6-2 6-2 6-1 5-11 6-1 6-3 6-4 6-2 6-1 5-11 5-9 5-10 5-10 5-8 6-5 5-10 5-11 6-3 6-1 6-3 6-4 6-2

WT 174 174 209 180 183 182 199 183 188 201 226 190 186 195 217 194 207 177 248 185 195 190 170 205 173 174 212 186 168 169 181 227 215 168 231 218 202 226 247 218 188 206 223 195 205 173 179 235 220 272 270 208 217 200 239 262 241 284 286 257 288 255 289 283 276 289 321 240 324 299 327 287 249 159 167 200 194 167 193 189 178 192 185 282 240 257 261 290 254 245 246 295

CL So. So. Jr. So. So. So. So. Fr. So. So. So. So. Fr. Jr. So. Fr. RS-Fr. So. So. So. So. So. RS-Fr. So. So. Fr. Fr. Fr. So. So. Fr. So. So. Jr. So. So. Fr. Fr. So. So. Fr. So. Fr. Sr. So. So. So. Fr. Fr. So. So. So. RS-Fr. Jr. So. So. So. So. So. So. Fr. Jr. Jr. Fr. So. So. Jr. RS-Fr. RS-Fr. So. So. Fr. RS-Fr. So. So. So. Fr. Fr. So. So. So. Jr. Jr. So. Fr. So. So. So. Fr. Jr. So. Fr.

HOMETOWN/PREVIOUS SCHOOL Powder Springs, Ga./Hillgrove HS Lithonia, Ga./St. Pius X Catholic HS Calhoun, Ga./Presbyterian College McDonough, Ga./Eagles Landing Christian Atlanta, Ga./Holy Innocents’ Washington, Ga./Thomson HS Buford, Ga./Mill Creek HS Jasper, Ga./Pickens HS Newnan, Ga./Air Force Prep Warner Robins, Ga./Northside HS Johns Creek, Ga./Chattahoochee HS Sugar Hill, Ga./North Gwinnett HS Calhoun, Ga./Calhoun HS Hoschton, Ga./Ole Miss Perry, Fla./Taylor County HS Marietta, Ga./Hillgrove HS Middleburg, Fla./Ridgeview HS Alpharetta, Ga./Alpharetta HS Saline, Mich./Eastern Michigan Columbus, Ga./Pacelli HS Snellville, Ga./Texas Christian Cordele, Ga./Crisp County HS Covington, Ga./Newton HS Fayetteville, Ga./Fayette County HS Newnan, Ga./Northgate HS Flowery Branch, Ga./Flowery Branch HS Newnan, Ga./Northgate HS Jacksonville, Fla./Air Force Prep Jacksonville, Fla./Creekside HS Nashville, Tenn./Montgomery Bell Academy Port Orange, Fla./Spruce Creek HS Lenoir, N.C./Air Force Academy Waycross, Ga./Ware County HS Lithonia, Ga./Tuskegee University Macon, Ga./Tattnall Square Academy Nashville, Tenn./Christ Presbyterian Academy Leesburg, Fla./Leesburg HS Apopka, Fla./Apopka HS Marietta, Ga./Walton HS Suwanee, Ga./Peachtree Ridge HS Nashville, Tenn./Montgomery Bell Academy Macon, Ga./Rutland HS Cumming, Ga./South Forsyth HS Hendersonville, N.C./South Carolina State Alpharetta, Ga./Alpharetta HS Bogart, Ga./North Oconee Dublin, Ga./Dublin HS Lilburn, Ga./Air Force Prep Kennesaw, Ga./Air Force Prep Alpharetta, Ga./Johns Creek HS Loganville, Ga./Loganville HS Jesup, Ga./Wayne County HS Johns Creek, Ga./Grayson HS St. Cloud, Fla./Pikeville Canton, Ga./Cherokee HS Tampa Bay, Fla./Armwood HS Johns Creek, Ga./Johns Creek HS Birmingham, Ala./Briarwood Christian HS Snellville, Ga./Brookwood HS Augusta, Ga./Lakeside HS Murfreesboro, Tenn./Oakland HS Macon, Ga./Mount de Sales Academy Roswell, Ga./Air Force Academy Newberry, Fla./Newberry HS Stockbridge, Ga./Woodland HS Sylva, N.C./Baylor School Smithonia, Ga./Tennessee Live Oak, Fla./Suwannee HS Fitzgerald, Ga./Fitzgerald HS Marietta, Ga./Blessed Trinity Ft. Pierce, Fla./Ft. Pierce Central Gainesville, Ga./North Hall HS Marietta, Ga./Walker School Culloden, Ga./Mary Persons HS Macon, Ga./Tattnall Square Academy Macon, Ga./Georgia Military St. Augustine, Fla./Nease HS Alpharetta, Ga./Chattahoochee HS Oxford, Ga./Walnut Grove HS Chattanooga, Tenn./Baylor HS Stockbridge, Ga./Riverside Military Fayetteville, Ga./Tulane Hartwell, Ga./Samford Augusta, Ga./Richmond Academy Trussville, Ala./Trussville HS Sandersville, Ga./Walton HS Tucker, Ga./Tucker HS Etters, Pa./Temple Powder Springs, Ga./Harrison HS Macon, Ga./Air Force Academy Cochran, Ga./Bleckley County HS Milton, Tenn./Oakland HS

25

Depth SAMFORD ChartsBULLDOGS OFFENSE LT 68

75 LG 76

52 C 73

58 RG 66

62 RT 50

70 RB 25

9 WR 84 OR 7

85 WR 1

89 WR 3

19 TE 32

40 QB 2

14

Wesley Carter Royus Amos Kyle Champion Connor Rafferty Jordan Boatright Gordon Crozier C. H. Scruggs Armando Bonheur Gunnar Bromelow Ryan Hughes Denzel Williams Jeremiaha Gates Emmanuel Obajimi Gavin Sinclair Robert Clark Kelvin Clay Javian Ramson Karel Hamilton Jeremy Brown Tony Philpot Devon Schmitt Michael Eubank Carson Barnett

DEFENSE STUD 5 OR 97

15 DT 98

90 NG 92

65

91

6-4 6-7 6-4 6-3 6-3 6-1 6-2 6-4 6-6 6-5 5-10 5-10 6-1 5-11 5-9 6-0 6-2 6-1 6-5 6-2 6-3 6-6 6-1

305 320 302 295 288 290 295 266 305 320 191 216 201 165 173 185 205 190 220 243 208 246 197

Jr. So. Sr. RS-Fr. RS-Sr. RS-So. RS-Jr. RS-So. RS-Jr. RS-Fr. RS-So. Sr. RS-So. Jr. RS-Sr. Sr. So. So. RS-Jr. Jr. RS-So. RS-Jr. RS-Jr.

Brinson Porter 6-4 Calvin Ruff 6-0 Roosevelt Donaldson 6-2 Michael Pierce 6-0 Xavier Forrest 6-3 Jerry Mathis 6-3 Jose Casanova 6-2 Jared Holloway 6-0

235 240 258 309 305 305 275 290

Sr. RS-Sr. RS-So. RS-Jr. Fr. Sr. Jr. So.

DE

SLB

MLB

WLB

CB

SS

OR FS

CB

81 35 80 43 45 23 28 29 47 44 24 16 27 10 22 6 22 21 26

Brandon Wilkinson Terrell Woods Justin Minick Josh Killett Shaheed Salmon Justin Cooper Jamie Major Tonne Osaibovo Jay Galloway Deion Pierre Trey Wesley Bruce Greer Jamerson Blount Josh Kimberlin Cody Brooks Jaquiski Tartt Cody Brooks James Bradberry Brandon Nettles

6-4 6-2 6-3 6-2 6-2 6-2 6-2 6-0 6-1 6-3 6-1 6-1 6-1 6-0 6-1 6-1 6-1 6-1 6-0

242 240 250 220 215 230 224 225 215 230 192 200 190 205 215 218 215 205 205

RS-Sr. So. RS-Jr. RS-Jr. Fr. RS-Jr. RS-Fr. RS-So. RS-So. Fr. RS-Jr. RS-Jr. So. Jr. RS-So. RS-Sr. RS-So. RS-Jr. RS-Sr.

6-4 5-10 5-11 6-4 6-1 6-1 6-3 5-9 6-0 5-9 6-0

175 181 175 204 215 197 195 173 185 173 185

RS-Sr. RS-So. RS-Fr. RS-Sr. Jr. RS-Jr. RS-Fr. RS-Sr. Sr. RS-Sr. Sr.

Corey Lockett Kyle Trammell Sytavious Brown Tyler Ward Tripp Patterson Devin Davidson Lee Bennett Kyle Williams Hank Avery Alex Avant Sebastian Hicks Mike Gray LeMarkus Bailey Lendell Arnold Zach Jackson Jeremy James Aaron Avant

5-9 6-0 5-10 6-1 6-0 6-1 6-0 6-0 6-3 5-8 5-8 6-0 5-11 5-9 6-0 5-10 5-8

201 220 190 231 227 218 202 235 245 170 180 185 194 185 195 174 174

So. Fr. So. So. So. So. Fr. Fr. Jr. Jr. So. So. Fr. So. So. Fr. So.

TEAMS 85 Tyler Zielenske 32 Jagger Lieb 47 Will Roper 85 Tyler Zielenske 50 Rob East 85 Tyler Zielenske 66 John Abernathy 50 Rob East 12 Michael Haynes 25 Payton Usher 31 JeTarii Donald 13 Chandler Curtis 31 JeTarii Donald

6-1 5-8 5-11 6-1 5-11 6-1 6-2 5-11 6-0 5-7 5-8 5-10 5-8

193 181 195 193 179 193 255 179 190 173 170 186 170

So. Fr. Sr. So. So. So. Jr. So. So. So. So. Fr. So.

SPECIAL TEAMS P 95 Greg Peranich PK 59 Warren Handrahan

37 Reece Everett KO 54 Michael O’Neal LS 64 Alec Hulmes H 14 Carson Barnett

18 Drew Pederson PR 85 Robert Clark

1 Kelvin Clay KOR 85 Robert Clark

1 Kelvin Clay

MERCER

26

OFFENSE WR

LT

LG

C

RG

RT

TE

OR QB

RB

WR

WR

3 84 78 69 67 65 54 61 55 75 71 76 38 19 42 7 12 27 25 1 13 6 80

J. T. Palmer Avery Ward Thomas Marchman David Ricard Wilson Heres Caleb Yates Kirby Southard Sam Arrington Avery White Brett Steverson A. M. Posey Thomas Pietro Robert Brown Derek Owings Grant Radakovich John Russ Michael Haynes Alex Lakes Payton Usher Jordan Marshall Chandler Curtis Josh Jones D’Vante Penamon

6-2 6-2 6-2 6-1 6-0 6-3 5-11 6-1 6-0 6-5 6-6 6-4 6-1 6-3 6-1 6-0 6-0 5-10 5-7 5-7 5-10 5-11 5-11

209 170 287 276 289 288 272 241 270 324 321 299 218 248 247 199 190 216 173 174 186 182 160

Jr. Fr. Fr. So. Jr. Fr. So. So. So. RS-Fr. Jr. So. So. So. So. So. So. Fr. So. So. Fr. So. So.

DEFENSE LE

NT

RE

59 92 94 99 98 95

Tunde Ayinla Kelly Brooks Bret Niederreither Austin Barrett Cody Jones Jalen Penn

6-0 5-10 6-3 6-2 6-4 6-1

242 267 290 295 246 254

So. So. So. Fr. So. Fr.

SAM

OR MLB

WLB

B

FC

SS

FS

BC

SPECIAL PK

KO

P

LS H

KR

PR

10 52 22 37 33 43 40 51 97 36 4 30 16 9 21 26 2

JONES SETS GOALS FOR ALL SEASONS Herb Brooks, Samford Athletics Communication

I

t’s never easy being a collegiate student-athlete, but when you compete in three different seasons, you have to go the extra mile to be successful in the classroom and in ­competition.

Adam Jones runs cross country, indoor track and outdoor track for Samford while juggling a full-time class schedule and the social life of a normal college student. The key to making it all work according to Jones is having a passion for competition and being really good at time management.

“It is definitely very difficult never having an off season, but that is also a reason why I love what I do,” Jones explained. “I love competition more than anything else, and although it does get stressful trying to balance school work in season, the meets and the competition factor make up for it.”

Each of Jones’ three seasons has a different type of strain on the body and the mind.

“As a distance runner, the biggest thing for improvement is consistency. With every healthy season I have, it makes me stronger for the next,” Jones said. “Cross country helps with middle distance in track. Cross country season is all about obtaining strength and building stamina, so when track comes around, my body feels stronger and much more fit cardiowise.”

Jones says it takes both physical and mental commitment to prepare for an entire fall and spring full of competition. The cross country and track training schedule typically takes place in the early morning hours or afternoon, and that is coupled with weight training and frequent trips to the training room to receive treatment.

Jones believes that to be successful, you also have to set goals. “I have written down my goals for every track season, and I have never had a time or mark that I have not met or far exceeded,” he said.

Jones set goals last season, but what he achieved at the end of the outdoor track season wasn’t on that list. He qualified for the NCAA preliminaries to participate in the NCAA ­championships in Eugene, Oregon.

“There was not one part of me that would have believed it if I was told this at the beginning of the season,” Jones said.

“My goal was to make it to regionals and nothing else. I set my goals at regionals with no hope of even making it past the first round.”

Before Jones made his memorable journey to the NCAA championships, he enjoyed another moment with his teammates—a Southern Conference championship.

“The SoCon championship was definitely one of my favorite meets of the year, but I actually did not run very well,”

Jones said. “I felt as if my body was not getting any faster, and I was so far from the regional mark that it seemed hopeless. I had run 3:49 in the 1,500, and regionals required a 3:45.”

The week after SoCon championships, he told the coaches that he wanted his season to be over.

Cross country coach Lori Strand recognized Jones’ struggles, but she believed in him and urged him not to give up.

“She believed in me,” Jones said. “After three days of not running, she texted me and told me that she wanted me to run a race at Georgia Tech just for fun the following weekend. She could tell that I had put so much stress on not reaching the regional mark and that anxiety got the best of me, so she told me to ‘go out there and race it for fun,’ and that she didn’t care about time at all.”

That moment proved to be the turning point for Jones as he ran not for his goal, but for the sheer joy of competition.

“I had put so much stress on reaching a specific goal that I forgot why I run,” Jones said. “I run because I love being competitive, and competition is fun for me. I needed someone to make me take a step back and realize why I love track so much, and fortunately, Coach Strand did that for me. She’s amazing, and that’s why I love her as a coach.”

After that race, Jones knew he had made the NCAA preliminaries and had achieved his goal.

“Once I saw the time and realized that I had made it to regionals, I couldn’t control myself. All I wanted to do was run to coach and give her the biggest hug I could.”

Several teammates joined him in Jacksonville, Florida, weeks after that race to compete for a spot at the NCAA championships, and Jones was happy that he was able to share that moment with them. He ran his best race of the season to become the only Bulldog to qualify for the NCAA championships in 2014.

“It was the absolute best feeling in the world, and ­fortunately I have my family, coach and teammates to share it with,” Jones said.

When asked if he’d add the goal to his list to make it back to the NCAA championships, Jones didn’t hesitate to answer.

“It’s every athletes dream to make it, but just because I have made it once does not mean that I am satisfied,” Jones said. “I loved the experience of running on that track against the top guys in the nation, and I would do anything to have that feeling again. So now the goal is to make it to finals with several of my teammates.”

27

Q&A WITH SENIOR DEFENSIVE BACK BRANDON NETTLES

by Zac Schrieber, Samford Athletics Communication

How did you choose Samford and what did you initially like about the program?

Head Coach Mike Dean (currently the coach at Mary G. Montgomery) told me I should look into Samford. Jaquiski Tartt and Sidney Jordan, who are also from my hometown of Mobile, Alabama, also liked it, and we got along with Brandon Nettles each other, so we decided to visit together. What really sold me on Samford was the coaching family, especially [Head] Coach [Pat] Sullivan and what he stands for as a person. I also really liked [Assistant] Coach [Sam] Shade and Omar Johnson, who was also a player from Mobile.

How has a winning mindset from a very successful high school program helped you?

It taught me to never be satisfied with how hard you work. I was much more prepared than the coaches at Samford thought I would be, and I think that helped me get ahead and get more playing time. I was still redshirted as a freshman, but I was ready to play a lot that year if they needed me to.

Is this the most talented Samford team since you’ve been here?

Yes, by far. Since I’ve been here, one of our main problems was always depth. This season, we are just overflowing with talent at each position, from the secondary to the offensive line, quarterbacks, receivers and defensive line. Everyone is prepared and can just roll in and fill their spot on the depth chart.

Why can Samford win the SoCon again this year?

We’ve definitely been training hard all year long. Succeeding this season has been on our mind the whole time. We also have great focus and determination. Our mindset is that of getting better each and every day in practice, as well as in the weight room. With those points alone, we’re trying our best to win the SoCon again, and this time, we don’t want to have to share it with any other teams.

How badly does this senior class want to win the SoCon and return to the playoffs?

Having a glimpse of the playoffs last year really gave us a taste, but I don’t think we were ready. Now, we’ve been there and 28

done that, so it’s time to not just make the playoffs, but to win the whole thing, because we are so much more experienced now.

How has Coach Sullivan impacted your life?

He’s impacted me by helping me focus on the important things in life such as relationships, education, family and all of the more important aspects of what life is all about. It’s more than just football.

Is the 4.5 40-yard dash you ran in high school your fastest?

I also ran a 4.45 when I was in high school on the track team and was running the hurdles. Speed is just something that I naturally had. I actually feel like I’m a lot faster than that, but I haven’t been timed in the 40 in a while.

As one of the top track athletes in the state, has Head Coach Rod Tiffin tried to get you to run track at Samford?

Yes! He keeps asking me to come out there each year, but I’ve always wanted to focus on football, and running track as well would just be too much. I really do miss running track, though, and I might have an opportunity to get back into it once I graduate. My track career might not be over just yet.

Have you always lived in Mobile?

Most of my family is from Mobile, but my parents lived in San Diego, California, for about seven or eight years. When they had an opportunity to move back home, I was about 4 years old.

What is your favorite song of all-time?

I love Michael Jackson. Any Michael Jackson song is one of my favorites, whether it’s “Dirty Diana,” “Thriller” or some of his smoother songs. I also really liked his stuff when he was with The Jackson 5, especially “I’ll Be There.”

What is your favorite TV show?

I really like watching the Food Network. Most people know that I really like to eat, so it helps prepare me to learn how to cook and to make the things that I really enjoy eating.

You’re majoring in biology. What are your plans once you graduate?

If I don’t get an opportunity to play at the next level with football, then I want to be a dentist. I’m not sure whether I’ll take the dental hygienist route or go to grad school and then head to dental school, but ultimately, I want to be a dentist and have my own practice.

29

2014 SAMFORD UNIVERSITY FALL SPORTS Aug. 30 Sept. 11 Sept. 20 Sept. 27 Oct. 4 Oct. 18 Oct. 25 Nov. 1 Nov. 8 Nov. 15 Nov. 22

FOOTBALL at TCU STILLMAN VMI* at Chattanooga* MERCER* WOFFORD* at Furman* CONCORDIA (Homecoming) WESTERN CAROLINA* at The Citadel* at Auburn

L, 14-48 W, 52-0 W, 63-21 L, 24-38 2 p.m.

2 p.m.

12:30 p.m.

2 p.m.

2:30 p.m.

12 p.m.

TBA

*Southern Conference game

Aug. 15 Aug. 22 Aug. 24 Aug. 29 Aug. 31 Sept. 5 Sept. 7 Sept. 12 Sept. 14 Sept. 19 Sept. 21 Sept. 28 Oct. 3 Oct. 5 Oct. 10 Oct. 12 Oct. 17 Oct. 19 Oct. 24 Oct. 26 Oct. 29 Nov. 1–2 Nov. 7 Nov. 9

SOCCER

OLE MISS (exhibition) CINCINNATI at #14 South Carolina at Jacksonville State at Georgia State BELMONT #3 VIRGINIA at Auburn at Lipscomb at Austin Peay KENNESAW STATE at Chattanooga* EAST TENNESSEE STATE* WESTERN CAROLINA* at VMI* at UNCG* at Furman* at Wofford* THE CITADEL* MERCER* SoCon First Round SoCon Quarterfinals SoCon Semifinals SoCon Finals

*Southern Conference game

30

W, 3-2 L, 1-2 (OT) L, 0-2 W, 3-2 W, 2-1 W, 2-0 L, 1-3 W, 2-1 L, 0-2 W, 3-1 L, 2-4 W, 3-0 7 p.m.

2 p.m.

4 p.m.

2 p.m.

7 p.m.

2 p.m.

7 p.m.

2 p.m. campus sites campus sites Cullowhee, N.C. Cullowhee, N.C.

VOLLEYBALL GEORGIA STATE W, 3-0

Aug. 29 Aug. 29 Aug. 30 Sept. 5 Sept. 6 Sept. 6 Sept. 12 Sept. 12 Sept. 13 Sept. 19 Sept. 19 Sept. 20 Sept. 26 Sept. 30 Oct. 3 Oct. 4 Oct. 8 Oct. 10 Oct. 11 Oct. 17 Oct. 18 Oct. 24 Oct. 25 Oct. 29 Nov. 1 Nov. 7 Nov. 8 Nov. 14 Nov. 15 Nov. 22–24

†

JACKSONVILLE STATE† #16 MICHIGAN STATE† at Northern Kentucky†† vs. Eastern Michigan†† vs. SIU—Edwardsville†† vs. Central Arkansas‡ at Florida State‡ vs. LSU‡ vs. Lamar University‡ ‡ at Ole Miss‡ ‡ vs. Jackson State‡ ‡ at Chattanooga* UAB WESTERN CAROLINA* THE CITADEL* MERCER* at UNCG* at Wofford* at The Citadel* at Furman* EAST TENNESSEE STATE* UNCG* CHATTANOOGA* at Mercer* at Western Carolina* at East Tennessee State* FURMAN* WOFFORD* SoCon Tournament

W, 3-0 L, 1-3 L, 0-3 W, 3-2 L, 1-3 L, 0-3 L, 0-3 L, 1-3 W, 3-1 L, 0-3 W, 3-0 W, 3-1 6 p.m.

7 p.m.

7 p.m.

6 p.m.

6 p.m.

2 p.m.

5 p.m.

3 p.m.

7 p.m.

2 p.m.

6 p.m.

12 p.m.

5 p.m.

1 p.m.

7 p.m.

2 p.m.

TBA

Samford/UAB Challenge ††NKU Tournament Seminole Invitational ‡ ‡Ole Miss Rebel Classic *Southern Conference game

† ‡

CROSS COUNTRY

Aug. 29 Sept. 13 Sept. 25 Oct. 17 Oct. 31

Nov. 14 Nov. 22

Samford vs. Alabama Dual Meet Men-L, Women-L Commodore Classic (Nashville, Tenn.) Men-8th, Women-11th Charlotte Invitational (Charlotte, N.C.) Men-1st, Women-2nd Crimson Classic (Tuscaloosa, Ala.) Southern Conference Championships (Greensboro, N.C.) NCAA South Regionals (Tallahassee, Fla.) NCAA Championships (Terre Haute, Ind.)

All times are Central; dates and times are subject to change.

31

OCT. 25 at 4 p.m.

•

dinner for 5k participants

• Flat, fast course; great for a PR! • T-shirt guaranteed for 5k participants registered

by Oct. 18 • Location: Samford Track/Lakeshore Trail *Free 5K registration to captain who organizes a team of 10 or more

5K ENTRY FEES

Through Oct. 18 • $25 • $20 with Samford ID After Oct. 18 • $30 • $25 with Samford ID 1-mile Fun Run $10 Start at the Samford Track and Soccer Stadium and proceed along the Lakeshore Trail.

Rain or shine. All runners and walkers welcome.

Register at active.com.

For more information, go to samford.edu/legacyleague.

Proceeds will provide life-changing scholarships to Samford University for students with financial need.

32

33

S

SEIBERT STADIUM

eibert Stadium has been home to the Samford football team since 1958, one year after the campus was moved from East Lake to its present site. Over the years, the stadium has seen some memorable football, including the Bobby Bowden era (1959– 62), a one-loss season in 1971 and the Terry Bowden era, which ended with a 14-game Bulldog ­winning streak in the stadium.

The ­stadium is named for the late F. Page Seibert, a Daytona Beach, Fla., ­businessman who donated money for the completion of the stadium in 1961 with the addition of stands on the west side. Originally, the stadium had the ­current gatehouse and seating on the east side.

The first game was played Friday, Sept. 26, 1958, with Samford ­losing to Sewanee, 21-0. Bobby Bowden brought Samford (then known as Howard

34

College) its first win at Seibert on Oct. 3, 1959, as the Bulldogs defeated the Tennessee Tech “B” team, 34-0. The first win against varsity c­ ompetition came two weeks later when the Bulldogs defeated Millsaps, 26-0.

Seibert Stadium has undergone ­numerous improvements during the past few years. Before the 2009 season, the Cooney Family Field House was opened in the South end zone of the stadium.

The facility includes locker rooms, training rooms, meeting rooms and coaches offices for Samford’s football program. A second-level terrace overlooks Seibert Stadium. A third level provides for future university expansion.

In fall 2005, the original grass surface was replaced with an LSR Blade Synthetic Surface. The surface was replaced with a new version of the turf in the summer of 2014.

The four-level Bashinsky Press Tower was completed before the 1989 season.

This Georgian-Colonial structure contains complete facilities for print and elec­tronic media on the third level, reserved seating for 51 guests on the second level, and a con­cession stand and restroom ­facilities on the ground floor. A partially covered film deck is located atop the ­facility, and an ­elevator serves all ­levels.

At the same time, more than 200 theatre-type reserved seats were added in front of the press tower, bringing the ­seating capacity to 6,700. Aluminum seating replaced the o ­ riginal wooden seats. A scoreboard f­eaturing an electronic matrix m ­ essage board was added before the 1994 s­ eason. The improvements have made Samford’s football facility one of the finest in the nation at the Division I-FCS level.

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SEIBERT STADIUM FACTS

Capacity: 6,700

Built: Gatehouse and East Stands, 1958; West Side Stands, 1961; ­Bashinsky Press Tower, 1989; Electronic Message Board, 1994; Video Board, 2005; Cooney Family Field House, 2009.

First Game: Friday, Sept. 26, 1958 (Sewanee defeated Samford, 21-0) First Win: Oct. 3, 1959 (Samford ­defeated Tennessee Tech “B” team, 34-0) First Varsity Win: Oct. 16, 1959 (Samford defeated Millsaps, 26-0) Samford Overall Record at ­Seibert (220 games): 144-72-4 (.664) Samford Day Record at Seibert (154 games): 95-55-4 (.629) Samford Night Record at Seibert (66 games): 49-17-0 (.742) Most Common Opponents at Seibert: Chattanooga ­ ississippi 13, Jacksonville State 11, Tennessee–Martin 10, M College 9, Tennessee Tech 9 Most Samford Points: 72 vs. Maryville (10), 1987 Largest Margin of Victory: 62 points (Samford 62, Faulkner 0), 2008 (Samford 72, Maryville 10), 1987

36

Most Opponent’s Points: 82, by Salem (Samford 9), 1984

Longest Interception Return: 100-yard touchdown, Ricky Fields, vs. Concord, 1990

Largest Margin of Defeat: 73 points (Salem 82, Samford 9), 1984

Most Yards Rushing: 249, Surkano Edwards, vs. West Georgia, 1992

Longest Run from Scrimmage: 81-yard run, Chris Evans, vs. Austin Peay, 2007 Longest Pass Completion: 92-yard touchdown, Andy Summerlin to Chris Cephus vs. Chattanooga, 2013 Longest Samford Pass ­Completion: 92-yard touchdown, Andy Summerlin to Chris Cephus vs. ­Chattanooga, 2013

Most Carries: 35, Derek Staley, vs. Tennessee Tech, 1995 Most Touchdowns Rushing: 4, Steve Hayden, vs.

Morgan State, 1995; 4, Brady Jones, vs. Austin Peay, 1990; 4, Brady Jones, vs. East Tennessee State, 1989 Most Pass Attempts: 60, Ray Nelson, vs. Jacksonville State, 2003 Most Completions: 36, Andy Summerlin, vs. Elon, 2013

Longest Punt: 73 yards, Ray Collins, vs. Southwestern, 1961

Most Yards Passing: 495, Andy Summerlin, vs. Georgia Southern, 2013

Longest Field Goal: 52 yards, Ray Early of Furman, 2010

Most Touchdown Passes: 6, Jimbo Fisher, vs. Ferrum, 1987; 6, Jimbo Fisher, vs. Maryville, 1987

Longest Samford Field Goal: 48 yards, Mark Prevost, vs. Jacksonville State, 2007

Most Receptions: 16, Efrem Hill, vs. Jacksonville State, 2003

Longest Punt Return: 90-yard touchdown, Mick Edmonson of ­Jacksonville State, 1989 Longest Samford Punt Return: 76 yards, Anthony Jordan, vs. Alcorn State, 1994 Longest Kickoff Return: 100-yard touchdown, Fabian Truss vs. Western Carolina, 2013

Most Touchdown Receptions: 3, Efrem Hill, vs.

Eastern Kentucky, 2004; 3, Efrem Hill, vs. West Alabama, 2004; 3, Efrem Hill, vs. West Alabama, 2003

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42

KNOW w h a t t o do i n cas e of

SUS P E CTE D C O N C U S S I O N

A concussion is an injury caused by a blow to the head in which the brain moves rapidly and may collide with the inside of the skull.

Even a minor fall or collision may be of concern, so be alert to symptoms such as headaches, unsteadiness, confusion or other types of abnormal behavior.

Any athlete with a suspected concussion:

n Should be IMMEDIATELY REMOVED FROM PLAY/ACTIVITY n Should be urgently assessed medically n Should not be left alone n Should not drive a motor vehicle

www.ChildrensAL.org/concussion In case of medical emergency, call 911 or go directly to your local ER 43

ACADEMIC ENHANCEMENT PROGRAM

T

he National Collegiate Athletic Association [NCAA] has strongly enforced academic reform this decade as it pertains to student-athletes’ continuing eligibility and ultimate college graduation. Because of the tightening of new legislation, academic support services throughout the country have been highlighted to spearhead the additional success that is needed for ­student-athletes to earn a degree.

The academic success for Samford University student-athletes begins with the Academic Enhancement Program [AEP]. The AEP was developed in the early 1990s and is based on individual instruction with student-athletes who are integrated within a caring environment that is conducive to academic success.

The AEP system is designed to provide Samford’s student-athletes with the necessary guidance, personal attention and academic skills-­ enhancement activities to help them have the most positive educational and ­personal experience possible. Studentathletes are integrated within a ­foun­dation of the ­university’s general education core cur­riculum that ­emphasizes basic skills for academic achievement.

Junior- and senior-level peer tutors assist athletes in English, foreign

l­anguages, math, science and business.

With tutorial sessions incorporating improved study techniques, the AEP puts student-athletes in position to succeed and become independent learners.

The AEP environment includes a ­seminar room with 104 seats, which is ­adjacent to a computer lab with 28 terminals.

In conjunction with the Career ­Development Center, the Writing Center, Math Lab and all student support services, the AEP is a bridge from freshman orientation to gradu­ation and professional life. According to the 2008 NCAA graduation report, Samford had a ­graduation rate of 97 percent of ­student-­athletes exhausting eligibility between 1996–2002.

The AEP strives to meet the needs, ­concerns and overall welfare of all student-­athletes. Each May, the aca­ demic enhancement office honors student-athletes who have achieved a 3.0 GPA or better over the last two full terms.

LIFE SKILLS PROGRAM

The Department of Athletics offers a ­variety of support programs for student-­ athletes, including some NCAA Student

Samford student-athlete Hannah Dawson receiving her degree in nursing in 2013.

44

Affairs programming. This student develop­ment program exists to enhance the quality of the s­ tudent-athlete experience within the university s­ etting.

There are five focus areas that address ­student-athlete development.

Commitment to Academic ­Excellence: To support the academic progress of student-­athletes toward intellectual development and g ­ raduation Commitment to Athletic ­Excellence: To build philosophical foundations for the develop­ment of athletics programs that are broadbased, equitable and dedicated to the well-being of student-athletes Commitment to Personal ­Development: To support the d­evelopment of a well-balanced lifestyle for student-athletes, encouraging ­emotional well-being, personal growth and decision-making skills Commitment to Career ­Development: To encourage studentathletes to develop and ­pursue career and life goals Commitment to Service: To engage student-athletes in service to their campus and ­surrounding community Student-athletes attend the programs in the five commitment areas that are most ­relevant and helpful to them at their current stage of develop­ment.

Topics include fi­ nancial management, time management, ­nutrition, stress management, media relations, spiritual develop­ment, choosing a major and a career, résumé writing, and sportsmanship. Speakers include faculty members, coaches, adminis­trators and com­munity experts.

An annual continuing education con­ference is held for campus ­organizers.

The Student Affairs Programming is designed to enhance and ­support the aca­demic and athletic endeavors of student-­athletes. Student-athletes gain preparation for success in life, develop enhanced inter­personal skills, build positive self-esteem, develop leadership skills and make meaningful contributions to their communities.

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Andrew Westmoreland President

A

s Samford University’s 18th president, Dr. Andrew Westmoreland has led the university to embrace a vision to enrich and expand its service to students and further inspire their desire to meet the needs of the world. To advance this vision the university is committed to a challenging strategic plan with three priorities: to provide an enriched and more vibrant university experience; to engage the global community in learning, faith and service; and to inspire imagination. In the boldest effort in its history, Samford seeks to raise $200 million by 2014 ­advancing the mission of Christ-centered higher education among the nation’s most respected universities.

Prior to his selection as president by the Samford board of trustees in 2006, he served eight years as president of Ouachita Baptist University in Arkadelphia, Ark., and, prior to that on the administrative staff for more than 19 years in various capacities, including vice president for development and executive vice president.

His book, Leading by Design, was published by Baxter Press in 2005.

In addition to his duties as Samford president, ­Westmoreland teaches a course in political science on a regular basis and serves as guest lecturer in other classes.

Westmoreland is a member of the board of trustees of the Commission on Colleges for the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, and serves as a consultant-evaluator for the Higher Learning Commission. In the community, he is a member of the board of directors for the Birmingham Business Alliance (formerly the Birmingham Regional ­Chamber of Commerce) and the Birmingham Downtown Rotary Club. He served as general chairman for the 2009 and 2010 March of Dimes Birmingham Walk for Babies. He is a trustee for Baptist Health System in Birmingham and serves on the advisory board for the Greater Birmingham ­Salvation Army.

Dr. Westmoreland is a graduate of Ouachita, having received a bachelor’s degree in political science in 1979. He earned a master’s degree in political science from the University of Arkansas at Fayetteville, and a doctorate in higher education administration from the University of Arkansas at Little Rock. A native of the ­Batesville, Arkansas area, he graduated from Batesville High School in 1975. He is married to Dr. Jeanna Westmoreland, who served as professor of education and dean of Ouachita’s School of Education. She teaches periodically and serves on the advisory board for Samford’s Orlean Bullard Beeson School of Education. In addition, she serves as executive director of Samford’s Legacy League and is active in a variety of ­community endeavors.

The Westmorelands have one daughter, Riley, a Samford graduate.

46

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DIRECTOR OF ATHLETICS MARTIN NEWTON

Martin Newton was introduced as Samford’s new athletics director at a press conference on March 9, 2011.

M

artin Newton was introduced as Samford’s director of athletics on March 9, 2011. In three full years at the helm of the athletics department, he has already made a major impact.

On the fields and courts, Samford’s teams have won nine Southern ­Conference titles in the last three years.

The school’s student-athletes have also posted impressive results in the classroom, with 162 Samford student-­ athletes being named to the SoCon Honor Roll for the 2013–14 academic year.

Also in Newton’s first three years, the athletics department has seen a significant increase in corporate sales, and a new softball stadium and baseball/softball indoor hitting facility was completed. The athletics department also redesigned its website, and Samford’s radio network was reorganized with the addition of a local commercial affiliate.

Newton negotiated a school-wide footwear and apparel deal with Nike, which went into effect in the summer of 2013. Also, the athletics department led the way in consolidating a universitywide lincensing agreement with ­Licensing Resource Group.

Newton has been recognized nationally for his work. He was named to the NCAA Leadership Cabinet for the 2013–14 and 2014–15 seasons.

A 1983 Samford graduate, ­Newton returned to his alma mater after ­spending two years as director of

­ asketball operations at the University b of Kentucky.

Charles Martin Newton, Jr., was selected following a national search led

by Harry B. Brock III, Samford’s vice president for business and financial affairs.

“Martin had an important combi­ nation of factors that convinced us that he was an ideal choice to lead our athletics program,” Brock said. “His experience in higher education, his broad network built from his years in collegiate sports and the fact that he is a Samford graduate will help him continue moving our program forward.”

Brock cochaired a 12-member search advisory committee with Emily Hynds, associate professor of m ­ athematics.

“Our committee was particularly impressed with Martin’s understanding of the important balance between academics and athletics,” Hynds added.

“Because he is a Samford graduate, he understands the importance of leading athletics to support the university’s mission.”

Newton graduated with a business degree. He was a four-year letterwinner in men’s basketball and was All-­ Conference honorable mention in 1980.

“I’d like to thank Dr. Westmoreland, the board of trustees and Buck Brock for this incredible opportunity to return to my alma mater as its athletics director,” Newton said. “Samford has always had a special place in my heart, and helped shape me both personally and professionally. I share Dr. Westmoreland’s vision for this university and our athletics department, and I look forward to serving our student-athletes, coaches, faculty and staff as we continue to move Samford athletics to the next level.”

Following graduation, he worked in sports marketing for Converse for 13 years. Newton then spent 13 years in a similar capacity at Nike.

Newton was hired at Kentucky in 2009, where he managed an $11 million budget, along with fund-raising, compliance, scheduling, marketing and academic support for the men’s basketball program.

Newton and his wife, Cindy, have three grown children, Katie, Madison and Charles. They also have two grandchildren, Charlie and Sawyer.

Martin Newton presents the Samford baseball team with its 2012 Southern Conference championship rings.

48

49

Martin Newton Director of Athletics

50

Larry Long Deputy Director of Athletics

Marvin Julich Executive Director of Athletics

Wanda Lucas Senior Associate Athletics Director for Business/Operations

Bo Kerr Senior Associate Athletics Director for External Operations

Harold Goss Assistant Athletics Director for Student Services and Academic Enhancement

Kathy Calhoun Herb Brooks Assistant Director of Athletics Financial Assistant Communication

James Carlson Director of Equipment Services

Tracy Fuller Financial Coordinator

Mike Grace Director of Multimedia Services

Michelle Durban Senior Associate Athletics Director for Student Services/ SWA

Hal Langston Assistant Athletics Director for Development/Bulldog Club

Michael McGreevey Assistant Athletics Director for Operations/Facilities

Christina Harris Football Academic Coordinator

Patrick Hatcher Director of Operations/Facilities

Chris Hicks Sponsorship Coordinator

Keisha Howard Office Coordinator

Cody Jackson Compliance Coordinator

Paige Mathis Academic Coordinator

Joey Mullins Assistant Athletics Director for Communication

Benson Orcutt Marketing Coordinator

Jarrett Rice Operations and Facilities Coordinator

Zac Schrieber Director of Athletics Communication

Kayla Shaffer Coordinator of Video Services

Abby Turner Marketing Coordinator

Wes Wilhoite Assistant Equipment Manager

Sarah Kate Masters Assistant Director of Development/ Bulldog Club

51

HEAD COACHES

Alma Mater Years at Samford University of Alabama 4 Years

(3 as head coach)

Mandy Burford was named Samford’s head softball coach on July 7, 2011, after spending one season as an assistant coach. In 2014, Burford led the program to the best season in school history. Burford’s Bulldogs won a school-record 38 games and set several individual records.

SOFTBALL MANDY BURFORD

MIKE MORRIS Alma Mater Auburn

M. GOLF AL DELGRECO

Years at Samford First Year

Al DelGreco enters his first season as the head men’s golf coach. He spent 17 seasons as a place-kicker in the NFL and more than eight years as the head golf coach at Spain Park High School. At Spain Park, his teams won three straight 6A state titles. He cohosts The Opening Drive sports talk show on WJOX 94.5 FM.

Alma Mater Auburn

BASEBALL CASEY DUNN

W. BASKETBALL

M. TENNIS RAHIM ESMAIL

Alma Mater Windsor

FOOTBALL PAT SULLIVAN

VOLLEYBALL DEX SCHROEDER

Alma Mater Ole Miss

W. GOLF RACHEL INGRAM 52

TRACK/CC ROD TIFFIN

Alma Mater Auburn

Years at Samford 7 Years

Pat Sullivan enters his eighth season as S­ amford’s 35th head football coach. In 2013, he led Samford to its first SoCon title and its first NCAA Playoff appearance since 1992. He was named the Southern Conference’s Co-Coach of the Year in 2012. Sullivan played collegiately at Auburn, winning the 1971 Heisman Trophy.

He also played five seasons in the NFL.

W. TENNIS DAVID VEST

Years at Samford 7 Years

David Vest was named Samford’s head women’s tennis coach Aug. 2, 2007. Vest’s 2014 Bulldogs posted a program-best 20-4 record, and Vest was named ITA Southern Region Coach of the Year. In his first season, he was named OVC Coach of the Year, and he led the Bulldogs to the OVC championship and an NCAA appearance.

Alma Mater King College

SOCCER TODD YELTON

Years at Samford 6 Years

Rod Tiffin enters his seventh year at Samford. The men’s and women’s track and field teams both took home SoCon Outdoor titles in 2014, and Tiffin was named both men’s and women’s Coach of the Year.

In 2009 and 2010, the women’s cross country team earned back-to-back SoCon Conference titles. Tiffin was named women’s cross country Coach of the Year in 2009 and 2010, and he was named men’s outdoor track and field Coach of the Year in 2011.

Alma Mater Morehead State

Years at Samford 1 Year

Rachel Ingram was named head women’s golf coach on Aug. 26, 2013. She spent the two previous seasons as an assistant coach at East Tennessee State University. In her first season at Samford, she led the program to its best finish in the SoCon Championship since joining the league in 2008.

Years at Samford 2 Years (First as head coach)

Alma Mater Auburn

Years at Samford 6 Years

Derek “Dex” Schroeder enters his seventh year as head volleyball coach. In 2011, ­Schroeder led the program to its first SoCon title and NCAA Tournament ­appearance. In his first two ­seasons, he led Samford to back-to-back Southern ­Conference North Division championships.

Alma Mater Kentucky

Mike Morris is entering his 13th season as head coach of the women’s basketball program. In 2011 and 2012, he led the program to its first two SoCon titles and NCAA ­Tournament appearances. He was named Coach of the Year in 2006 (OVC) and 2009 (SoCon). He is the program’s all-time winningest coach with over 200 wins in his time with the women’s program.

SCOTT PADGETT

Alma Mater Years at Samford University of Kentucky 3 Years In three seasons as head men’s tennis coach, Rahim Esmail has led his team to a SoCon regular-season title in 2012 and the league’s tournament title and NCAA Tournament bid in 2013. Prior to coming to Samford, he served as an assistant with Alabama women’s program.

Years at Samford 20 Years (12 as head coach)

After spending two seasons as an assistant coach at Samford, Scott Padgett was named the program’s 28th head coach in June. Prior to coming to ­Samford, he was an assistant coach at Manhattan and Kentucky. He played collegiate basketball at M. BASKETBALL Kentucky, and spent eight seasons in the NBA.

Years at Samford 10 Years

Casey Dunn enters his 11th season as head b ­ aseball coach. In 2012, he led the program to its first-ever SoCon title and first NCAA Tournament bid. Dunn has led the team to at least 30 wins in seven of the last nine years. His teams have reached the SoCon ­Tournament title game in three of the last four years.

He is the baseball program’s all-time winningest coach with over 300 wins in his time with the Bulldogs.

Alma Mater Belhaven

Years at Samford 12 Years

Todd Yelton became the second soccer coach at Samford Jan. 11, 2002. He led the Bulldogs to four straight OVC regular-season championships, and was named OVC Coach of the Year in 2003 and 2005. In 2008, his team earned the program’s firstever at-large NCAA Tournament bid. In 2011, his ­Bulldogs earned their first SoCon title and reached the NCAAs for the third time.

53

ASSISTANT COACHES AND SUPPORT STAFF

BASEBALL Matthew Addison Assistant Coach

NUTRITION

SOFTBALL

FOOTBALL

FOOTBALL

FOOTBALL

FOOTBALL

Pamela Bartz Ashley Holcombe Bell James R. Andrews Assistant Coach Orthopedic Surgeon Director of Performance Nutrition

Diane Blakney Administrative Assistant

Bobby Blick Assistant Coach

Chris Boone Assistant Coach

Kodi Burns Assistant Coach

EQUIPMENT

FOOTBALL

TRACK

BASKETBALL

ATHLETICS

BASEBALL

STRENGTH

VOLLEYBALL

James Carlson Director of Equipment Services

Jay Chapman Operations Director

David Clyburn Assistant Coach

Sara Clemmons Administrative Assistant

Joe Collins Turf Manager

Tony David Associate Head Coach

Ryan Davis Director

Alex DelPiombo Assistant Coach

M. BASKETBALL

M. BASKETBALL

FOOTBALL

W. BASKETBALL

Jake Headrick Assistant Coach

Brandon Herring Associate Head Coach

FOOTBALL

PHYSICIAN

STRENGTH

Bill D’Ottavio Assistant Head Coach

Benton A. Emblom Team Physician

Jonathan Farris Associate Director

M. BASKETBALL

FOOTBALL

Charles Newton Assistant Coach

54

PHYSICIAN

Ross Newton Assistant Coach

W. BASKETBALL Jazmine Powers Assistant Coach

Brandon Gilbert Operations Director

Ruth Ketcham Assistant Coach

STRENGTH

FOOTBALL

VOLLEYBALL

FOOTBALL

Thomas Rohling Coach

Rocky Sabbatini Video Coordinator

Matt Scott Assistant Coach

Sam Shade Assistant Coach

BASEBALL

SOCCER

TRACK

FOOTBALL

SOCCER

Tyler Shrout Vol. Pitching Coach

Andy Stoots Assistant Coach

Lori Strand Assistant Coach

Travis Trickett Assistant Coach

Jay Yelton Assistant Coach

FOOTBALL Trent McKnight Assistant Coach

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ASK BEFORE YOU ACT Compliance with NCAA rules is of utmost importance to Samford University. As a member of the NCAA, Samford is responsible for the actions of its coaches, student-athletes, employees, alumni, donors, boosters and friends. As such, please take a moment to familiarize yourself with these important items concerning NCAA rules and always remember to ASK BEFORE YOU ACT.

FIVE IMPORTANT RULES 1. Only coaches and athletics department staff members are permitted to be involved in the recruiting process. Alumni, friends and “other representatives of athletic interest” who are not employed by the university are not permitted to contact a prospect (or members of the prospect’s family) by letter, telephone or in person (on or off campus) for the purpose of soliciting participation in the athletics program. Samford faculty members are permitted to have contact with prospects on campus only.

2. A prospect remains a prospect even after he or she signs a Letter of Intent or financial aid agreement to attend the university. The prospect does not lose prospect status until the start of classes at Samford or the beginning of official team practice prior to the start of classes.

3. The prohibition of contact with a prospect is intended to relate to unavoidable incidental contacts with a prospect by representatives of a member institution’s athletics interest.

It is understood that such a contact is not prearranged by the athletics representative or an athletics department staff member; is not made for the purpose of recruitment of the prospect; and involves only normal civility. For example, if you meet a high school student or junior college studentathlete, you can talk with him or her about anything except Samford athletics. If you are attending a public function and find yourself talking to the parents of a prospect, you can talk about anything that doesn’t relate to the athletics department.

4. If a student-athlete accepts any benefits or special consideration based on his or her status as an athlete or because of athletic skill, the student-athlete will lose all eligibility for intercollegiate athletic participation. Do not do anything for prospective or enrolled student-athletes without specific authorization from the Samford Athletics Compliance Office.

5. Representatives of athletics interest (boosters) are reminded that NCAA rules regarding enrolled student-athletes remain in effect throughout the entire year, including summer breaks.

When student-athletes complete their final season of eligibility, they must abide by NCAA rules until the end of that academic year and/or until they are no longer receiving athletics financial aid.

FAQ Who is a “prospective student-athlete?”

A “prospective student-athlete,” also known as a recruit or prospect, is a student who has started classes for the ninth grade, seventh for men’s basketball. In addition, any younger student who receives any benefits from the institution not available to prospective students generally would be considered a prospective student-athlete.

Who is a “representative of athletic interest” or booster?

A representative or booster is an individual or business that is or has ever done any of the following: • been a contributor to the Samford Bulldog Club or has purchased tickets to a Samford athletics event • been an employee of Samford University or is the spouse of an employee • has ever made a donation of any kind to the Samford athletics department • helped to arrange or to provide employment for enrolled student-athletes or for prospects who have signed a National Letter of Intent • assisted or have been requested (by the athletics department) to assist in the recruitment of students to participate in any of Samford’s athletics programs • assisted in providing any benefit to Samford enrolled studentathletes or their families • been involved in promoting Samford athletics programs

ONCE YOU BECOME A BOOSTER, YOU NEVER LOSE THE IDENTITY OF A BOOSTER. 56

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SAMFORD UNIVERSITY

F

ounded in 1841, Samford is the largest independently supported university in the state of Alabama.

More than 4,700 students from 44 states and 20 nations study in Samford’s School of the Arts, Howard College of Arts and Sciences, Brock School of Business, Beeson School of Divinity (the only divinity school in the state), Orlean Bullard Beeson School of Education and Cumberland School of Law. A new College of Health Sciences is launching during the 2013–14 academic year to include the existing Ida V. Moffett School of Nursing and McWhorter School of Pharmacy, as well as a new School of Health Related Professions and School of ­Community and Public Health.

One of the oldest universities in con­tinuous existence, Samford enjoys national recognition in the U.S. News & World Report rankings of best colleges and in The Princeton Review’s America’s Best Colleges. Samford also has been nationally recognized for academics and affordability by Kiplinger’s Personal Finance, Forbes and USA Today. Several graduate and professional programs also have achieved top tier national recognition. Samford consistently attracts top-ranked students from high schools across the United States, and Samford graduates achieve high success in graduate and professional school acceptance rates. The geographic, socio­economic and cultural diversity of the student body provides an outstanding atmosphere for living and learning.

COMMUNITY Samford’s campus in Birmingham, ­Alabama’s scenic Shades Valley is among the nation’s loveliest. Architecturally and environmentally, it is a gem, with its stately Georgian-Colonial buildings, copper domes and spires and rolling green hills. Samford

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students enjoy the best of both worlds on this serene and secure campus only a few miles from one of the largest cities in the ­Southeastern United States. Beyond ­Samford’s remarkable physical beauty, ­students discover an environment of energy and inspiration that encourages growth in mind, body and spirit.

RESOURCES • Teaching: Samford offers small classes taught by 419 talented and dedicated faculty members (264 full time) who hold degrees from more than 160 colleges and universities in the United States and abroad; about 80 percent of them have earned the highest degrees in their fields of study.

• International Study: In any term, including January and summer terms, Samford students can be found living, studying or working in England, Morocco, Spain, Brazil, Costa Rica, Hong Kong, France and China. Samford’s premiere international program is housed in Daniel House, a renovated Victorian home in the heart of London’s famous West End, within easy walking distance of some of the city’s most famous cultural attractions.

• Athletics: Samford competes in 17 NCAA Division I sports, including baseball, basketball, cross country, football, golf, soccer, softball, tennis, track (including indoor track) and volleyball.

• Technology: The campus is wireless.

Every residence hall room has internet and phone connections for each resident.

Students also have access to laptop com­ puters, internet connections and printers in library study areas and through hundreds of PCs in 22 labs across campus.

• Arts: The arts serve as a cultural focal point for the university and the metropolitan region. Samford’s Leslie S. Wright Fine Arts Center features a 2,700-seat concert hall that serves the university and is the home venue for the nationally recognized Alabama Ballet, Opera Birmingham and the Alabama Symphony Orchestra’s POPS series. The 32,000-square-foot Jane Hollock Brock Hall includes a 300-seat, state-of-the-art recital hall that serves the university and is home to the Alabama ­Symphony’s chamber series, the Birmingham Chamber Music Society and SuperJazz. The 400-seat Ben F. Harrison Theatre and the 100-seat Bolding Studio in Bonnie Bolding Swearingen Hall are home to the regionally acclaimed Samford Theatre.

The Samford Art Gallery in Swearingen Hall hosts a variety of exhibits annually.

• Science: Samford’s William Self Propst Hall is one of the finest academic science facilities in the region. The state-of-the-art complex features the 100-seat Christenberry ­Planetarium, a 2,000-square-foot botanical conservatory for medicinal plants and numerous laboratories for hands-on scientific experience.

• Research: University Library, a ­Government Documents Repository since 1884, houses a collection of more than one million volumes and is a nationally acclaimed resource for genealogical research.

• Service: Whether providing health ­screenings for underprivileged residents of Alabama’s historic Black Belt region or helping to dig water wells in Sub-Saharan Africa, Samford students and alumni daily serve in a variety of missions and ministry settings around the world. Community service is a hallmark of the Samford experience and is integrated in the core curriculum.

THE SAMFORD SIGNIFICANCE • Founded in 1841 as Howard College, Samford is the largest independently supported university in Alabama.

• Samford has been ranked in the top tier of its peer group by U.S. News & World Report for more than two decades.

• Samford is ranked in the top 100 best values among private ­universities by Kiplinger’s.

• Samford has 204 majors, minors and concentrations in 26 undergraduate and graduate degree programs.

• Samford is home to the Alabama Governor’s School, a summer ­enrichment program for out­standing high school seniors.

• Samford’s Cumberland School of Law is one of only three American Bar Association-accredited law schools in Alabama.

• Samford’s McWhorter School of Pharmacy is one of two accredited pharmacy schools in Alabama.

• Samford students annually are involved in more than 200 ­university-related community service and global mission projects.

• Samford’s annual economic impact on Alabama is more than $330 million.

• Samford psychology professor Stephen Chew was named 2011 National Professor of the Year by the Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching.

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FACILITIES

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he Samford University athletics program has risen to regional and national recognition through its commitment to athletic and academic excellence. Samford student-athletes have achieved much on the playing fields and in the classroom.

Paralleling the competitive success of the program, Samford’s athletics facilities also continue to develop.

The newest addition to Samford’s athletic facilities is the Samford Softball Field, which opened in the spring of 2013. Also, the new J.T. Haywood Field House, which houses an indoor hitting facility, as well as locker rooms and meeting rooms for both baseball and softball, was officially opened in the fall 2013.

The new Samford Soccer and Track Stadium opened in the spring of 2011.

The 1,200-seat facility opened by hosting the 2011 Southern Conference Outdoor Track and Field ­Championships.

The program’s newest facility includes locker rooms, a ticket office, a high-tech press box, a nine-lane track and a regulation soccer field.

The Cooney Family Field House for football opened in August 2009. It includes coaches’ offices, meeting rooms, a locker room, weight room, training room, equipment room and players’ lounge.

The convocation/arena/fitness complex, Pete Hanna Center, was completed in fall 2007. The center provides outstanding playing facilities for volleyball, and men’s and women’s basketball in a 5,000-seat center, a fitness/wellness complex for the entire student body, and state-of-the-art training facilities for Samford’s varsity

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sports. Also included in the facility are offices, meeting space and support ­facilities for coaches and athletics ­administration. The facility is adjacent to Bashinsky Field House and can be expanded up to 6,000 seats for ­commencement and other major ­nonathletics events.

The Pat M. Courington Tennis Pavilion was completed in 2006 with three indoor courts, a support facility for locker rooms, offices and restrooms.

Samford’s Tennis Center also includes the Darwin C. Hardison Courts, ­featuring six outdoor NCAA courts.

All-weather field turf was installed at Seibert Stadium in the summer of 2005.

Facilities in Seibert Hall have been renovated to accommodate academic programs and student recreation activities.

Joe Lee Griffin Field, home of the Samford Bulldogs baseball team, was remodeled in 2000 to include offices, locker rooms and other support services in a facility that complements the Georgian-Colonial architecture found

throughout the Samford campus. The Carl E. Miller Press Box was added in 2009.

The Samford softball field was named the Sports Turf Managers ­Association Softball Field of the Year for 2001. Future plans call for expanded

seating and support facilities at the 300-seat stadium.

Bulldog Spirit Plaza, dedicated during 2005 Homecoming weekend, is the focal point of the area connecting Seibert Stadium, Joe Lee Griffin Field, Bashinsky Field House and Pete Hanna Center. Organized by the Class of 2003, the landscaped plaza includes a bas relief of the Bulldog mascot and more than 100 bricks honoring Samford alumni, students, parents, employees, former athletes and friends of the university as a celebration of Samford’s more than 125 years of intercollegiate athletics competition.

The athletics department is building its capital campaign efforts to raise funds to further assure Samford athletes of the finest playing facilities possible.

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SOUTHERN CONFERENCE

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he Southern Conference, which is in its 94th season of intercollegiate competition in 2014-15, is a national leader in emphasizing the development of the studentathlete and in helping to build lifelong leaders and role models.

The Southern Conference has been on the forefront of innovation and originality in developing creative solutions to address issues facing intercollegiate athletics. From establishing the first postseason college basketball tournament (1921), to tackling the issue of freshman eligibility (1922), to developing women’s championships (1984), to becoming the first conference to install the 3-point goal in basketball (1980), the Southern Conference has been a pioneer.

The Southern Conference is the nation’s fifth-oldest NCAA Division I collegiate athletic association. Only the Big Ten (1896), the Missouri Valley (1907), the Pac-12 (1915) and the Southwestern Athletic (1920) conferences are older in terms of origination.

Academic excellence has been a major part of the Southern Conference’s tradition. Hundreds of Southern Conference student-athletes have been recognized on Capital One Academic All-America and all-district teams. A total of 20 Rhodes Scholarship winners have been selected from conference institutions, including Wofford vol64

leyball player Rachel Woodlee, who earned the honor in 2012-13.

The Conference currently consists of 10 members in six states throughout the Southeast and sponsors 20 varsity sports and championships that produce participants for NCAA Division I Championships.

The Southern Conference offices are located in the historic Beaumont Mill in Spartanburg, S.C. A textile mill that was in operation from 1880 until 1999, Beaumont Mill was renovated in 2004 and today offers the league firstclass meeting areas and offices as well as a spacious library for storage of the conference’s historical documents.

MEMBERSHIP HISTORY

On Feb. 25, 1921, representatives from 14 of the Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Association’s (SIAA) 30 members met at Atlanta’s Piedmont Hotel to establish the Southern Intercollegiate Conference. On hand at the inaugural meeting were officials from Alabama, Alabama Polytechnic Institute (Auburn), Clemson, Georgia, Georgia School of Technology (Georgia Tech), Kentucky, Maryland, Mississippi A&M (Mississippi State), North Carolina, North Carolina State, Tennessee, Virginia, Virginia Polytechnic Institute (Virginia Tech) and Washington & Lee.

Dr. S.V. Sanford of Georgia was chosen as acting chairman and N.W. Dougherty of Tennessee was named secretary. The decision to form a new athletic conference was motivated by the desire to have a workable number of conference games for each league member. With 30 schools in the SIAA by the early 1920s, it was impossible to play every school at least once during the regular season and many schools went several years between playing some conference members. In addition, in 1920, the SIAA voted down proposed rules that an athlete must be in a college a year before playing on its teams and refused to abolish a rule permitting athletes to play summer baseball for money.

Play began in the fall of 1921, and a year later, six more schools joined the fledgling league, including Tulane (which had attended the inaugural meeting but had elected not to join), Florida, Louisiana (LSU), Mississippi, South Carolina and Vanderbilt. VMI joined in 1925 and Duke was added in 1929.

By the 1930s, membership in the Southern Conference had reached 23 schools. C.P. “Sally” Miles of Virginia Tech, president of the Southern Conference, called the annual league meeting to order on Dec. 9, 1932, at the Farragut Hotel in Knoxville, Tenn.

Georgia’s Dr. Sanford announced that

13 institutions west and south of the Appalachian Mountains were reorganizing as the Southeastern Conference. Members of the new league included Alabama, Alabama Polytechnic Institute, Florida, Georgia, Georgia School of Technology, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, Mississippi A&M, University of the South, Tennessee, Tulane and Vanderbilt.

According to the minutes of the meeting, Dr. Sanford stated that the division was made along geographical lines.

Florida’s Dr. J.J. Tigert, acting as spokesman for the withdrawing group, regretted the move but believed it was necessary as the Southern Conference had grown too large.

The resignations were accepted and the withdrawing schools formed the new league, which began play in 1933.

The Southern Conference continued with membership of 10 institutions, including Clemson, Duke, Maryland, North Carolina, North Carolina State, South Carolina, Virginia, VMI, Virginia Tech and Washington & Lee.

The second major shift occurred some 20 years later. By 1952, the Southern Conference included 17 colleges and universities. Another split occurred when seven schools – Clemson, Duke, Maryland, North Carolina, North Carolina State, South Carolina and Wake Forest – departed to form the Atlantic Coast Conference, which began play in 1953.

The revamped Southern Conference included members The Citadel, Davidson, Furman, George Washington, Richmond, VMI, Virginia Tech, Washington & Lee, West Virginia and William & Mary.

A third major shift occurred in 2012-13, when five members announced their departures and three schools were added. College of Charleston announced its decision to leave for the Colonial Athletic Association following the 2012-13 season, while Appalachian State (Sun Belt), Davidson (Atlantic 10), Elon (Colonial) and Georgia Southern (Sun Belt) announced they would depart following the 2013-14 campaign. At the Southern Conference’s 2013 spring meetings in Hilton Head Island, S.C., the league officially extended invitations to former members East Tennessee State and VMI, as well as Mercer, to join the league for the 2014-15 academic year.

Today, the league continues to thrive with a membership that includes 10 institutions and a footprint that spans six states: Alabama, Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee and Virginia. Current league members are The Citadel, East Tennessee State, Furman, Mercer, UNCG, Samford, Chattanooga, VMI, Western Carolina and Wofford.

LEADERSHIP

John Iamarino was officially named commissioner of the conference on Jan. 2, 2006. Iamarino has promoted the Southern Conference through an ambitious agenda that has improved championships, upgraded compliance-related matters, launched the conference’s Hall of Fame and increased the marketing and brand awareness of the

John Iamarino Commissioner

Geoff Cabe Senior Associate Commissioner

Sue Arakas Associate Commissioner

conference and its member institutions. He has also guided the league through its recent membership changes, ensuring the Southern Conference’s future viability and stability with the additions of East Tennessee State, Mercer and VMI.

Iamarino has also spearheaded the effort to create the SoCon Digital Network, which will launch in the fall of 2014, and orchestrated the addition of the league’s 20th sport, men’s lacrosse, for the 2014-15 academic year.

The Southern Conference named its first commissioner in December 1950. Duke’s Wallace Wade made the transition from Blue Devil football coach to athletics administration as the first person at the helm of the conference.

Lloyd Jordan replaced Wade as the commissioner in 1960 and served a 14-year term until Ken Germann became the league head in 1974. Germann was the commissioner for 13 years and orchestrated the league’s expansion to include women’s athletics. In 1987, he was succeeded by Dave Hart, who spearheaded the transfer of the league office from Charlotte, N.C., to Asheville, N.C.

Wright Waters succeeded Hart upon his retirement in 1991. Under Waters’ leadership, the Southern Conference expanded to 12 members, added three women’s sports and posted record revenue from the basketball tournament.

Waters was followed by Alfred B. White in 1998. White, a veteran member of the NCAA office, introduced the current conference logo and elevated the conference’s commitment to marketing and development of corporate partners.

Danny Morrison headed the conference from 20012005 and orchestrated the league’s move from Asheville, N.C., to Spartanburg, S.C. Under Morrison’s leadership, the conference increased its marketing and promotional efforts.

CHAMPIONSHIP HISTORY

The first Southern Conference Championship held after the formation of the league was the basketball tournament in Atlanta in 1922. The North Carolina Tar Heels won the tournament to become the first recognized league champion in any sport. The Southern Conference Tournament remains the oldest of its kind in college basketball.

Commissioner Germann spearheaded the Southern Conference’s expansion to include women’s athletics during the 1983-84 season. That year, league championships were held in volleyball, basketball and tennis. Cross country joined the mix in 1985 and the league began holding indoor and outdoor track championships in 1988. Most recently, the conference instituted golf and softball championships in the spring of 1994 and added soccer in the fall of 1994.

The Germann Cup, named in honor of the former commissioner, annually recognizes the top women’s athletics programs in the conference. From its humble beginnings, women’s athletics have become an integral part of the Southern Conference and its success.

The Southern Conference declares champions in 11 men’s sports – football, soccer, cross country, basketball, indoor track and field, outdoor track and field, wrestling, baseball, lacrosse, tennis and golf – and nine women’s sports – soccer, volleyball, cross country, basketball, indoor track and field, outdoor track and field, tennis, golf and softball.

Doug King Jason Yaman Associate Commissioner Assistant Commissioner for Compliance for Media Relations

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ALL-AMERICAN

Fred Bishop Linebacker 1999 All-American

Cortland Finnegan Defensive Back OVC Defensive Player of the Year 2003 Third-Team All-American 2005 AFCA All-American

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Bobby Bowden Quarterback 1952 All-Amercian

Jimbo Fisher Quarterback 1987 All-Amercian 1987 FB News Offensive Player of the Year

Harley Hopkins End 1938 Honorable Mention­ All-American

Bobby Jackson Quarterback 1962 All-Amercian

Justin Shade First-Team All-American Sports Network 2013

Bryce Smith Linebacker 2010 Associated Press All-American

Wally Burnham Linebacker 1963 All-Amercian

Sam Goldman End 1940 Honorable Mention All-Amercian

Norman Cooper Center 1936 All-Amercian

Philip Duplanis 1999 First-Team All-Independent 1999 Honorable Mention All-American

Marcus Durgin Cornerback 1991 Second-Team Sports Network 1991, 1992 Third-Team Associated Press

Tim Hamrick Efrem Hill Punter Wide Receiver 1987 Football News 2003 OVC Male Athlete All-Amercian of the Year, Consensus All-­American, OVC Offensive Player of the Year, 2004 AFCA All-American

Harold Hill End 1937 Honorable Mention All-Amercian

Anthony Jordan Jim Lovette Running Back Running Back 1994 Associated Press 1966 Honorable All-Amercian Mention ­All-American

Joe Milazzo Quarterback 1960 All-American

Michael O’Neal Kicker 1991 CoSIDA Academica Second-Team All-American

James Tarrant End 1940 Honorable Mention ­All-American 1941 Third-Team All-American

Jaquiski Tartt Second-Team All-American, 2013 First-Team All-American Sports Network Walter Camp 2012

Fabian Truss First-Team All-American, 2013 Second-Team All-American, Sports Network 2012

Bennie Story Defensive Tackle 1961 All-American

Surkano Edwards Running Back 1992 Honorable Mention, Sports Network All-Amercian

Scott Holmes Punter 1994 Associated Press All-Amercian

David Primus Kick Returner 1989 Football News All-American

Cameron Yaw 2011 and 2012 All-American

BIRMINGHAM • HOMEWOOD

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2014–15 CHEERLEADERS

2014–15 MARCHING BAND

2014–15 DANCE TEAM 68

BULLDOGS IN THE

Cortland Finnegan Cortland Finnegan was taken in the

seventh round of the 2006 NFL Draft by the Tennessee Titans. He was an All-Pro and played in the Pro Bowl in 2008. He has played for the Tenneessee Titans and St. Louis Rams, and he will play his first season for the Miami Dolphins in 2014.

Corey White Corey White was drafted by the New

Orleans Saints in the fifth round of the 2012 NFL Draft. In 2013, White started six games in the Saints’ secondary.

Nicholas Williams Nicholas Williams was drafted by the Pittsburgh Steelers in the seventh round of the 2013 NFL Draft.

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YEAR-BY-YEAR LEADERS RUSHING

YEAR 1960 1961 1962 1963 1964 1965 1966 1967 1968 1969 1970 1971 1972 1973 1974–83 1984–85 1986 1987 1988 1989 1990 1991 1992 1993 1994 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013

NAME Bobby Jackson Bobby Jackson Reggie Allen Larry Lackey Richard Cruce Larry Lackey Jackie Clayton Jim Lovette Mike Ray Mike Ray Mike Cobb Walter McCoy Tommy Wheelis statistics not available no team statistics not available Jeff Price Shorty Smith Shorty Smith Brady Jones Brady Jones Surkano Edwards Surkano Edwards Damian Hines Anthony Jordan James Griffith Jerome Russell Rashad Brewer Jerome Russell Jerome Russell Kadell Wright Jason Ogletree Jason Ogletree Fred Gilliam Ray Nelson Justin Ray Marcus Rice Chris Evans Chris Evans Chris Evans Chris Evans Fabian Truss Fabian Truss Fabian Truss

PASSING

YEAR 1960 1961 1962 1963 1964 1965 1966 1967 1968 1969 1970 1971 1972 1973 70

NAME Joe Milazzo Johnny Shoemaker Johnny Shoemaker Larry Wyatt Larry Wyatt Jerry Colvin Jim Lovette Jim Lovette Jim Lovette Waylan Trammel Waylan Trammell Waylan Trammell Jimmy Nipper Steve Loflin

ATT-YDS AVG 73-703 9.6 78-653 8.4 90-513 5.7 84-373 4.4 136-506 3.7 93-292 3.1 103-447 4.3 116-631 5.4 129-506 3.9 79-347 4.4 168-797 4.7 74-300 4.1 110-405 3.7

76-397 5.2 149-889 6.0 140-845 6.0 170-848 5.0 217-1102 5.1 143-824 5.8 187-1270 6.8 122-497 5.8 141-924 6.6 146-678 4.6 161-589 3.7 147-735 5.0 163-894 5.5 177-1236 6.7 122-521 4.2 113-667 5.9 94-428 4.3 110-430 3.9 167-799 4.8 122-479 3.9 67-322 4.8 185-1033 5.6 260-1284 4.9 241-1152 4.8 233-1106 4.8 150-847 5.6 206-1063 5.2 167-877 5.3

ATT-COMP-INT (TD) YDS 145-80 (5) 1248 65-31 (7) 634 91-54 (4) 624 57-20 (1) 264 91-30 (5) 424 193-89-20 (5) 1162 87-37 (3) 627 170-83-8 (12) 1190 150-56-12 (8) 729 149-66-11 (9) 912 135-63-7 (9) 884 119-61-10 (5) 790 149-81-3 (5) 855 123-54 (8) 808

1974–83 1984–85 1986 Scotty King 1987 Jimbo Fisher 1988 Ted Darby 1989 Ted Darby 1990 Ted Darby 1991 Ben Wiggins 1992 Ben Wiggins 1993 Bart Yancey 1994 Bart Yancey 1995 Bart Yancey 1996 Bart Yancey 1997 Jake Rackley 1998 Mike Cain 1999 Josh Kellett 2000 Josh Kellett 2001 Ray Nelson 2002 Josh Kellett 2003 Ray Nelson 2004 Ray Nelson 2005 J. Adcock 2006 J. Adcock 2007 J. Adcock 2008 D. Taliaferro 2009 D. Taliaferro 2010 D. Taliaferro 2011 D. Taliaferro 2012 A. Summerlin 2013 A. Summerlin

RECEIVING

no team statistics not available 155-84-7 (9) 996 252-139-5 (34) 2394 293-122-9 (13) 1773 317-159-13 (7) 1953 245-122-9 (8) 1709 395-207-13 (17) 2532 296-145-8 (16) 1907 278-145-15 (7) 1638 245-143-11 (10) 1633 273-140-16 (10) 1661 277-145-11 (9) 1568 208-112-6 (6) 1574 89-49-3 (5) 701 136-67-7 (4) 831 117-52-12 (4) 733 219-120-6 (13) 1466 225-130-11 (12) 1518 408-242-9 (23) 2759 460-258-10 (20) 2807 366-189-16 (18) 2338 169-91-7 (5) 915 411-225-12 (14) 2472 225-151-5 (13) 1745 321-190-9 (9) 1692 224-133-9 (5) 1427 372-233-10 (14) 2301 365-244-6 (10) 2269 478-300-13 (26) 3640

YEAR NAME 1960 Buddy Bozeman 1961 Buddy Bozeman 1962 Buddy Bozeman 1963 Charles Jacob 1964 James Cecil Long 1965 Mike Bishop 1966 Jimmie Jackson 1967 John Easley 1968 Larry Cox 1969 Larry Cox 1970 Larry Cox 1971 Larry Cox 1972 Charles Clanton 1973 Steve Stewart 1974–83 no team 1984–85 statistics not available 1986 John Caradine 1987 Tim Richardson 1988 Tim Richardson 1989 Steve Miles 1990 Brian James 1991 Donnie Rory 1992 TeDarryl Marshall 1993 Scott McFadden 1994 Ron Green 1995 Mike Porter 1996 Michael Watson 1997 Michael Watson 1998 Jerome Russell 1999 Aryvia Holmes

REC-YDS 39-680 13-216 24-279 8-139 12-142 34-515 28-468 33-604 22-287 33-377 25-363 33-459 29-410 25-347 30-382 36-918 44-965 39-353 46-963 52-503 28-405 26-272 38-472 42-601 35-432 28-418 20-175 24-345

2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013

Aryvia Holmes Aryvia Holmes Aryvia Holmes Efrem Hill Efrem Hill Jeff Moore Jeff Moore Jeff Moore Jonathan Lowery Chris Evans Quin Roberson Kelsey Pope Kelsey Pope Kelsey Pope

TOTAL OFFENSE

28-410 74-1042 84-1158 92-1387 71-984 53-669 49-668 61-996 27-457 38-172 31-474 86-810 68-552 68-789

YEAR NAME PLAYS-YARDS 1960 Joe Milazzo 169-1281 1961 Johnny Shoemaker 94-765 1962 Johnny Shoemaker 138-761 1963 Larry Wyatt 141-623 1964 Larry Wyatt 186-790 1965 Jerry Colvin 272-1189 1966 Jim Lovette 170-892 1967 Jim Lovette 286-1821 1968 Jim Lovette 249-1060 1969 Waylan Trammell 218-901 1970 Waylan Trammell 208-1026 1971 Waylan Trammell 202-983 1972 Waylan Trammell 232-1086 1973 statistics not available 1974–83 no team 1984–85 statistics not available 1986 Scotty King 253-1245 1987 Jimbo Fisher 327-2631 1988 Ted Darby 348-1599 1989 Ted Darby 366-1804 1990 Ted Darby 282-1548 1991 Ben Wiggins 433-2489 1992 Ben Wiggins 317-1897 1993 Bart Yancey 314-1597 1994 Bart Yancey 288-1510 1995 Bart Yancey 304-1595 1996 Bart Yancey 323-1568 1997 Jake Rackley ­287-1708 1998 Jerome Russell 163-894 1999 Josh Kellett 283-1593 2000 Josh Kellett 213-999 2001 Ramon Nelson 299-1692 2002 Josh Kellett 269-1589 2003 Ray Nelson 523-3140 2004 Ray Nelson 627-3606 2005 Jefferson Adcock 489-2703 2006 Jefferson Adcock 225-981 2007 Jefferson Adcock 433-2451 2008 Dustin Taliaferro 291-1805 2009 Dustin Taliaferro 407-1751 2010 Dustin Taliaferro 290-1564 2011 Dustin Taliaferro 437-2356 2012 Andy Summerlin 416-2218 2013 Andy Summerlin 537-3532

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TEAM AND INDIVIDUAL RECORDS SCORING Most Points Scored Game: 87, vs. Birmingham-Southern, 1907

Quarter: 32, vs. Troy State, 1961

Season: 517, by 1987 team Most Touchdowns

Game: 12, vs. Troy State, 1961

12, vs. Memphis Navy, 1961

Season: 74, by 1987 team RUSHING Most Net Yards Gained

Game: 463, vs. Austin Peay, 1999

Season: 3,439, by 1999 team Most Rushing Attempts

Game: 87, vs. University of Mexico, 1963

Season: 627, by 1999 team Most Touchdowns Rushing

Game: 10, vs. Troy State, 1961

Season: 41, by 1999 team PASSING

Anthony Jordan

Michael O’Neal

TOTAL OFFENSE Most Yards Gained

Game: 698, vs. Maryville, 1987

Season: 5,403, by 2013 team Most Plays

Game: 102, at Furman, 2013

102, at Southeast Missouri, 2004

Season: 911, by 2013 team Most First Downs

Game: 36, vs. Maryville, 1987

Season: 262, by 2013 team PUNTING Most Punts

Game: 12, vs. Nicholls State, 1988

12, vs. Chattanooga, 1968

Season: 75, by 2009 team

Tank Edwards

Jimbo Fisher

Most Yards Passing

Game: 521, vs. Southeastern Louisiana, 2013

Season: 3,806, by 2013 team

Most Yards Punted

Game: 509, vs. Chattanooga, 1968

Season: 2,988, by 2013 team Highest Punting Average

Game (min. 5 punts): 54.2, vs. Chattanooga

(5-271), 2009

Season: 42.8, by 1994 team (49 for 2,099)

Most Passing Attempts

Game: 70, at Furman, 2013

Season: 492, by 2013 team

INTERCEPTIONS Most Passes Intercepted

Game: 8, vs. Anderson, 1986

Season: 24, by 1971 team

Most Pass Completions

Game: 44, at Furman, 2013

Season: 311, by 2013 team

Most Yards Returned

Game: 142, vs. Hampden-Sydney, 1987

Season: 285, by 1987 team

Most Passes Intercepted

Game: 6, vs. Jacksonville State, 1995

6, vs. Youngstown State, 1991

Season: 20, by 1985, 1969 and 1965 teams Highest Completion Percentage

Season: 67.7, by 2008 team (170-of-251) Most Touchdown Passes

Game: 7, vs. Ferrum, 1987; vs. Maryville, 1987

Season: 40, by 1987 team 72

Brady Jones

Ted Darby

TEAM DEFENSE Fewest Points Yielded

Season: 30, by 1909 team (eight games) Fewest First Downs Allowed

Game 2, vs. Louisiana College, 1966

Season: 93, by 1960 team Fewest Net Yards Rushing Allowed

Game -9, vs. Louisiana College, 1966

Season: 865, by 1971 team LOWEST AVERAGE NET YARDS Allowed Rushing (per game)

Season: 96.1, by 1971 team (865 in nine games) Passing

Game 0, vs. Georgetown (Ky.) and Maryville (Tenn.), 1960

Season: 49.0, by 1959 team (490 in 10 games)

RUSHING Most Carries Game: 37, Chris Evans, at Wofford, 2009

Season: 260, Chris Evans, 2008

Career: 919, Chris Evans, 2007–10 Most Yards Gained

Game: 312, Surkano Edwards, vs. Tennessee–­Martin, 1992

Season: 1,284, Chris Evans, 2008

Career: 4,575, Chris Evans, 2007–10 Most Touchdowns

Game: 4, Steve Hayden, vs. Morgan State, 1995

4, Brady Jones, vs. Austin Peay, 1990

4, Brady Jones, vs. East Tennessee State, 1989

4, Jim Lovette, vs. Furman, 1966

Season: 17, Brady Jones, 1990

Career: 34, Brady Jones, 1989–90 PASSING Most Yards Gained

Game: 495, Andy Summerlin, vs. Georgia Southern, 2013

Season: 3,640, Andy Summerlin, 2013

Career: 7,950, Ray Nelson, 2001–04 Most Attempts

Game: 69, Andy Summerlin, at Furman, 2013

Season: 478, Andy Summerlin, 2013

Career: 1,248, Ray Nelson, 2001–04

Cortland Finnegan

Jeff Moore

Most Completions

Game: 44, Andy Summerlin, at Furman, 2013

Season: 300, Andy Summerlin, 2013

Career: 704, Ray Nelson, 2004 Most Interceptions

Game: 5: Jefferson Adcock, at Eastern Kentucky, 2007

5, Bart Yancey, vs. Jacksonville State, 1994

5, Jerry Colvin, vs. Southwestern Louisiana, 1965

Season: 20, Jerry Colvin, 1965

Career: 54, Bart Yancey, 1993–96

Jefferson Adcock

Efrem Hill

OFFENSE Longest Single Plays

Touchdown Run from Scrimmage: 90, Bobby Jackson, vs. Troy State, 1961

Touchdown Pass Completions: 92, Andy Summerlin to Chris Cephus, vs.

Chattanooga, 2013 Punts: 79 yards, Bob Hooper, vs. Georgia Southern, 2008

Field Goals: 52 yards, Carmeron Yaw, at Chattanooga, 2012

Punt Returns for Touchdowns: 92, Mark Longnecker, vs. L­ ivingston, 1968

Kickoff Returns for Touchdowns: 100, Fabian Truss, vs. Western Carolina, 2013

100, Fabian Truss, at Georgia State, 2013

100, Emmit Lewis, vs. ­Jacksonville State, 1971

Interception Returns: 100, Ricky Fields, vs. Concord, 1990

Highest Completion Percentage

Season (min. 50 att.): 67.1, Dustin Taliaferro (151-225), 2008

Career (min. 150 att.): 64.5, Andy Summerlin, (544-843), 2012-13 Most Touchdown Passes

Game: 6, Jimbo Fisher, vs. Ferrum, 1987

6, Jimbo Fisher, vs. Maryville, 1987

Season: 34, Jimbo Fisher, 1987

Career: 60, Ray Nelson, 2001–04 PASS RECEIVING Most Receptions

Game: 17, Kelsey Pope, at The Citadel, 2011

Season: 92, Efrem Hill, 2003

Career: 250, Kelsey Pope, 2010-13 Most Yards Gained

Game: 260, Jeff Moore, at Tennessee Tech, 2007

Season: 1,387, Efrem Hill, 2003

Career: 3,054, Efrem Hill, 2001–04 73

TEAM AND INDIVIDUAL RECORDS Most Punts Returned

Season: 33, Marcus Durgin, 1992

Career: 77, Jerome Russell, 1996–99

Most Touchdown Receptions

Game: 3, Jeff Moore, at Tennessee Tech, 2007

3, Efrem Hill, vs. West Alabama, 2004

3, Efrem Hill, vs. Eastern Kentucky, 2004

3, Efrem Hill, vs. West Alabama, 2003

3, Mike Porter, vs. Nicholls State, 1995

3, Ron Green, vs. Central Florida, 1994

Season: 15, Efrem Hill, 2003

Career 31, Efrem Hill, 2001–04

Most Punt Return Yards

Season: 396, Jim Lovette, 1965

Career: 769, Jerome Russell, 1996–99

TOTAL OFFENSE Most Yards

Game: 492, Andy Summerlin, vs. Georgia Southern, 2013

492, Ray Nelson, at Southeast Missouri, 2004

Season: 3,606, Ray Nelson, 2004

Career: 9,575, Ray Nelson, 2001–04 Most Plays

Game: 77, Ray Nelson, at Southeast Missouri, 2004

Season: 627, Ray Nelson, 2004

Career: 1,691, Ray Nelson, 2001–04 Most All-Purpose Yards

Game: 435, Jimbo Fisher, vs. Wingate, 1987

Season: 2,260, Anthony Jordan, 1994 (924 rush., 400 rec., 936 ret.)

Career: 6,640, Fabian Truss, 2010-13 (3,088 rush., 764 rec., 2,493 kickoff ret., 295 punt ret.)

Most Touchdowns (responsible for)

Game: 6, Jimbo Fisher, vs. Ferrum, 1987

6, Jimbo Fisher, vs. Maryville, 1987

6, Jim Lovette, vs. Furman, 1967

Season: 40, Jimbo Fisher, 1987

Career: 60, Ray Nelson, 2001–04 Most Points (responsible for)

Game: 36, Jimbo Fisher, vs. Ferrum, 1987

36, Jimbo Fisher, vs. Maryville, 1987

36, Jim Lovette, vs. Furman, 1967

Season: 244, Jimbo Fisher, 1987

Career: 480, Ray Nelson, 2001–04

Fabian Truss

PUNTING Most Punts

Game: 12, Tim Hamrick, vs. Nicholls State, 1988 12, Trent Chason, vs. ­Chattanooga, 1968

Season: 73, Bob Hooper, 2009

73, Brian Holmes, 1997

Career: 238, Trent Chason, 1967–70 Most Yards Punted

Game: 509, Trent Chason, vs. C­ hattanooga, 1968

Season: 3,026, Bob Hooper, 2009

Career: 9,469, Trent Chason, 1967–70 Highest Average

Game (min. 5 punts): 54.2, Bob Hooper, vs. Chattanooga (5-271), 2009

Season (min. 30 punts): 42.9, Greg Peranich (68-2,915), 2013

Career (min. 70 punts): 41.3, Scott Holmes (158-6,531), 1993–95

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Highest Return Average

Season (min. 10 ret.): 17.9, Julius Head (11-197), 1961

Career (min. 25 ret.): 17.7, Richard Cruce (30-530), 1961–64 KICKOFF RETURNS Most Kickoffs Returned

Season: 50, David Primus, 1989

Career: 106, David Primus, 1988–91 Most Kickoff Return Yards

Game: 263, Cortland Finnegan, vs. Murray State, 2002

Season: 1,411, David Primus, 1989

Career: 2,692, David Primus, 1988–91 Highest Return Average

Season (min. 10 ret.): 33.3, Marcus Durgin (15-499), 1992 (led NCAA Division I-AA)

Career (min. 20 ret.): 29.4, Fabian Truss(85-2,493), 2010-13 SCORING Touchdowns

Game: 4, Fabian Truss vs. Gardner-Webb, 2012

4, Kelsey Pope, vs. Stillman, 2011

4, Steve Hayden, vs. Morgan State, 1995

4, Surkano Edwards, vs. Tennessee–Martin, 1992

4, Brady Jones, vs. Austin Peay, 1990

4, Brady Jones, vs. East Tennessee State, 1989

4, Jim Lovette, vs. Furman, 1967

Season: 18, Brady Jones, 1990

Career: 35, Brady Jones, 1988–90 Most Extra Points

Game: 10, Mike Bofamy, vs. Maryville, 1987

Season: 47, Mike Bofamy, 1987

Career: 142, Michael O’Neal, 1989–92 Most Field Goals

Game: 4, Cameron Yaw, vs. The Citadel, 2010

4, Mark Prevost, vs. Jacksonville State, 2007

4, Mark Prevost, vs. Southeast Missouri, 2007

4, Michael O’Neal, vs. Morehead State, 1990

Season: 23, Cameron Yaw, 2011

Career: 67, Cameron Yaw, 2009–2012

Cameron Yaw

Most Points

Game: 24, Fabian Truss at Gardner-Webb, 2012

24, Kelsey Pope, vs. Stillman, 2010

24, Surkano Edwards, vs. Tennessee–Martin, 1992

24, Brady Jones, vs. Austin Peay, 1990

24, Brady Jones, vs. East Tennessee State, 1989

24, Jim Lovette, vs. Furman, 1967

Season: 108, Brady Jones, 1990

Career: 303, Cameron Yaw, 2009-12 Most Points by Kicking

Game: 14, Cameron Yaw, vs. Elon, 2011

14, Michael O’Neal, vs. Eastern Kentucky, 1992

Season: 97, Warren Handrahan, 2013

Career: 303, Cameron Yaw, 2009–12

Kelsey Pope

DEFENSE Most Interceptions

Game: 3, Josh Kimberlin, at Florida A&M, 2013

3, David Primus, vs. West Georgia, 1988

3, Billy Robison, vs. Millsaps, 1987

Season: 7, Jeff Morris, 1996

7, Marcus Durgin, 1991

7, David Primus, 1988

Career: 17, Marcus Durgin, 1990–93 Most Yards Returned Interceptions

Game: 100, Ricky Fields, vs. Concord, 1990

Season: 162, Jerome Beaman, 1987

Career: 226, Marcus Durgin, 1990–93

Andy Summerlin

TACKLES Most Tackles

Season: 161, Craig Conner, 1989

Career: 481, Craig Conner, 1987–90 Most Defensive Plays

Season:165, Craig Conner, 1989

Career: 495, Craig Conner, 1987–90 Sacks

Season: 9.5, Justin Shade, 2013

Career: 24, James Taylor, 1995–98 FUMBLES Most Fumbles Recovered

Season: 4, Steve Tennin, 2004

4, Joe Acklin, 1996

4, Ernest Barbee, 1991

4, Ollie Sanders, 1990

Career: 10, Jeremy Perkins, 1991–94 Most Fumbles Caused

Season: 5, Tory James, 1993

Career: 7, Fred Bishop, 1996–99 All records are from 1960 to present. All ­former ­players, coaches and individuals are ­encouraged to send corrections or additions, with supporting documen­tation, to the Samford Office of Athletics Communication.

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