Complete Weekly Release - Delta State at Harding

CLEVELAND - The No. 16 ranked Statesmen (1-1, 0-0 GSC) of Delta State University open league play Saturday, Sept. 20 in Searcy, Ark., against the Bisons (1-2, 0-0 GSC) of Harding University. Kickoff is set for 6 p.m. at First Security Stadium. The showdown will be the first for the two Gulf South Conference schools since 2005 when Delta State defeated Harding, 27-7, in Cleveland. 

"Harding is one of the most improved teams in our league this year," said Delta State head coach Ron Roberts.  "They are led by one of the most prolific quarterbacks in college football, David Knighton, and coach Huckeba always has a good game plan.  Saturday's contest will be a major test for our football team."

The Statesmen narrowly defeated Arkansas-Monticello, 37-31, this past Saturday in Cleveland at Parker Field-McCool Stadium. Garrett DeWitt connected with Greg Betterson on a 65-yard game-winning touchdown with less than a minute to play for the win. Sophomore receiver Trevar Deed scored a career-high three touchdowns and accounted for 200 all-purpose yards in the victory. 

Despite passing for 365 yards and a score, All-America candidate David Knighton and the Bisons of Harding took a tough 43-31 loss to Southwest Baptist on the chin this past Saturday. Knighton completed 34-of-67 passes for 365 yards with a score and two costly interceptions. Jeremy Holt rushed for 139 yards on 12 carries and added another touchdown. 

The Statesmen lead the all-time series with the Bisons 8-0-1. 

Saturday's showdown with Harding will be broadcast live on the Statesmen Sports Network and the internet beginning at 5 p.m. with the SouthGroup Insurance Pregame Report. Matt Jones handles play-by-play with analysis by Richard Webster and sideline coverage by J.T. Webb.