FEBRUARY 29, 2008

DELTA STATE FOOTBALL MOURNING TRAGIC LOSS OF MONTERIO JAMES

CLEVELAND – Delta State University and the Statesmen football program are mourning the tragic loss of Monterio James, who took his own life in Starkville on Thursday. DSU head coach Ron Roberts and his staff learned of his passing late Thursday evening.

“As a coach, as a father, you are never prepared for something like this,” said Roberts. “Monterio was a vibrant young man, full of life and potential…his passing is such a tragedy. Our staff and his teammates are hurting for his family and loved ones today. He was such an important part of our program and he will be deeply missed.”

Roberts’ staff held a team meeting at 8:30 p.m. Thursday night to alert the team of James passing, as the head coach returned to Cleveland from a trip to South Carolina. Delta State counselors and several area pastors were on hand to offer support for the team and coaches. They will remain on call around the clock as long as their services are needed.

“Monterio was a leader on the field and in the locker room. He means a lot to the young men on this team and it was very important to me that their needs be addressed at such a heartbreaking time. Dr. Wayne Blansett, Vice President for Student Affairs, and his staff did not hesitate in their efforts with our players and their continued support is greatly appreciated,” added Roberts.

James, a native of Starkville and a standout defensive back for the Statesmen, was not currently enrolled at DSU. The 6-foot-1 junior was attending East Mississippi Community College, but planned to return to the Statesmen football program in the fall.

Funeral arrangements are not available at this time.

FEBRUARY 21, 2008

FORMER DELTA STATE QUARTERBACK SCOTT EYSTER SIGNS WITH AAFL’S TEAM ALABAMA

• Official "Team Alabama" Website

CLEVELAND – Former record-setting Delta State University quarterback Scott Eyster has signed with Team Alabama of the All-American Football League. The signing was announced on Wednesday by Team Alabama officials.

The AAFL consists of six teams located in Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Michigan, Tennessee, and Texas. All six teams will play 10 game schedules starting April 19 and running through the playoffs in June.

A new twist to the AAFL is that all of the league’s players must be college graduates. Over 650 athletes will participate in the AAFL, many of which have played in NFL Europe and other top leagues.

Eyster, who led the Statesmen’s high-powered offense from 2003-2006, finished his career at Delta State as the school’s all-time leading passer, as well as the Gulf South Conference’s all-time leading passer.

Eyster threw for 13,889 yards in his career, ranking second all-time in NCAA Division II history. As a senior, Eyster led the Statesmen to the NCAA National Semifinals in 2006 with a 12-3 overall record.

The Hammond, La., native also holds the Delta State record for career passing touchdowns, connecting with receivers a total of 116 times throughout his career, and is the only Delta State quarterback to eclipse the 3,000 yard plateau in a season, a feat he accomplished in each of his four years.

Eyster holds the top-five single game passing yards spots, locking up the top spot with 483 yards against Valdosta State in 2004. The Statesmen gunslinger was twice named an All-American and was a three-time All-Gulf South Conference selection. He was named the GSC Offensive Player of the Year in 2005 and 2006, and was twice a finalist for the NCAA Division II Player of the Year Award, the Harlon Hill Trophy.

Other quarterbacks in the league include former Nebraska standout and Heisman Trophy winner Eric Crouch, former Arkansas and Dallas Cowboys quarterback Clint Stoerner, and former Louisiana State starter Marcus Randall.

Team Alabama’s first game is scheduled for April 19 versus Team Texas. Kickoff is slated for 1 p.m. at Legion Field in Birmingham, Ala.

February 20, 2008

STATESMEN FOOTBALL PLACES FIVE ON FOOTBALL GAZETTE ALL-AMERICAN TEAMS

• Football Gazette

CLEVELAND - The Delta State University Statesmen placed five athletes on Don Hansen’s Football Gazette 2007 All-American Team.

Harlon Hill finalist Michael Eubanks headlined the team as a first team selection. The senior linebacker set an NCAA Division II career sack record with 30.5 in his career, after recording 12.0 sacks this season. He also had 90 total tackles, 27.0 for a loss of 138 yards, forced two fumbles and recovered two more.

Fullback Ben Stallings and offensive lineman Mark Ellis were both named to the second team offense. Stallings, a sophomore, and Ellis, a junior, along with third team offensive lineman, senior Chris Goff, all played big roles in leading the Statesmen offense to the NCAA playoffs. The Statesmen also boasted the No. 1 ranked total offense, rushing offense and passing offense. Stallings gained 321 yards and three touchdowns on 64 carries, and caught three passes for 22 yards.

Cornerback Monterio James was named to the third team defense. The junior had four interceptions, 37 tackles, and recovered two fumbles.

 

February 1, 2008

ROUNTREE LATEST ADDITION TO STATESMEN FOOTBALL STAFF

CLEVELAND - Clint Rountree, a former standout at the University of Tulsa, is the latest addition to the Delta State University football coaching, as announced by head coach Ron Roberts on Friday. Rountree, who spent the 2007 season at the Colorado School of Mines, will take over the Statesmen secondary after the departure of Dave Aranda to the University of Hawai’i.

“Clint is a great addition to our staff,” stated Roberts. “He’s a high energy guy, who knows this game inside and out. He’ll lead our secondary by example and he’s a guy that knows the importance of academics and athletics.”

The Tahlequah, Okla., native spent the 2007 season as the wide receivers coach at Colorado School of Mines for coach Bob Stitt. The Orediggers went 7-5 and competed in the 2007 Dixie Rotary Bowl. Rountree coached Derek Dystra to First Team All-Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference and National Football Foundation All-Colorado Team honors.

Rountree lettered all four years at the University of Tulsa, where he played strong safety and wide receiver. Rountree led the Golden Hurricane to the 2003 Humanitarian Bowl and was a top candidate for the Western Athletic Conference Player of the Year Award. In 2004, his senior season, Rountree led Tulsa in sacks and tackles for loss.

After graduating from Tulsa, Rountree stayed at his alma mater as both a student assistant and graduate assistant on Steve Kragthorpe’s coaching staff. In his two years as an assistant with the Golden Hurricane, they claimed the 2005 Conference USA championship in their inaugural season and participated in both the Liberty Bowl and the Armed Forces Bowl.

Clint Rountree graduated in 2006 from the University of Tulsa with a bachelor’s degree in Exercise Sports Sciences. He is currently pursuing his master’s degree in history.

 

January 28, 2008

D2FOOTBALL.COM NAMES EUBANKS DEFENSIVE PLAYER OF THE YEAR; EUBANKS AND JAMES NAMED ALL-AMERICAN

• Complete D2Football.com Release

CLEVELAND - Delta State senior linebacker Michael Eubanks earned D2Football.com Defensive Player of the Year honors, as released on Saturday. The Cleveland native set an NCAA D-II career sacks record with 39.0 this season. Eubanks tallied 12.0 sacks with 90 total tackles and 27.0 for a loss of 138 yards. He also ranks third all-time with 70.5 tackles for loss in NCAA history. The hard-hitting speedster also forced two fumbles and recovered two more.

Eubanks and fellow defensive standout, junior cornerback Monterio James, garnered D2Football.com All-American honors. Eubanks was named to the First Team, while James earned Second Team honors.

James finished the season with 37 total tackles and four interceptions, adding to his Delta State career record, which now stands at 17.

           
“These are two of the top defensive players in the country and they deserve these honors. They work hard in practice and perform well on the field,” head coach Ron Roberts said.

January 20, 2008

DAVE ARANDA ACCEPTS POSITION AT HAWAII; KARL SCOTT HEADED TO TUSCULUM

CLEVELAND - Dave Aranda, co-defensive coordinator and secondary coach of Delta State's Gulf South Conference Champion defense, has accepted a position on Greg McMackin's staff at the University of Hawaii. Graduate assistant linebackers coach Karl Scott has also accepted a position with Tusculum College. Both departures are effective immediately.

"I'm pleased Dave has received this opportunity to coach at the University of Hawaii," said Ron Roberts, Delta State head coach. "Dave did an outstanding job with our defense and I wish him well. Karl is an outstanding young coach and he has an excellent opportunity at Tusculum College working with former Delta State great Pete Golding."

Aranda and Scott helped guide the Statesmen to the league's top overall defense, scoring defense, rush defense, and pass efficiency defense.

Coach Roberts announced a search is already underway for their replacements. A time table was not announced.

January 11, 2008

East Beats West In Valero Cactus Bowl; DSU's Eubanks named Defensive MVP

KINGSVILLE, Texas --  Delta State ( Miss.) linebacker Michael Eubanks was voted the most valuable defensive player after registering a record five tackles for loss as the East team defeated the West team 42-13 in the Valero Cactus Bowl played at Javelina Stadium.

The annual all-star game for Division II football players was dominated by the East defense as Eubanks finished with six total tackles, three quarterback sacks, a forced fumble and returned an interception for a touchdown.

Eubanks started the scoring by returning an interception 24 yards for a score just 1:28 into the game.

The East built a 28-7 halftime lead and after the West cut the lead to 28-13, Hillsdale ( Mich.) quarterback Mark Nicolet threw two of his three touchdown passes to close the scoring.

Nicolet was the game’s offensive MVP, completing 10 of 18 passes for 103 yards and three touchdowns and gained 41 yards on four carries.

Offensive lineman Brandon Barnes of Grand Valley State (Mich.), last night’s winner of the Gene Upshaw Award as Division II’s outstanding lineman, was the named the Jim Langer Award winner as the game’s most outstanding offensive lineman.

The East outgained the West 390 to 188 with the East rushing for 251 yards and gaining another 139 through the air.  Bloomsburg’s ( Pa.) Jamar Brittingham led all carriers with 84 yards on 12 carries and Catawba’s (N.C.) Kory Fisher added 79 yards on 15 carries and scored twice.

Valdosta State’s ( Ga.) Maurice Leggett set a Valero Cactus Bowl record with a 52-yard interception return in the fourth quarter.

Midwestern State’s ( Texas) Daniel Polk led the West’s offensive attack, completing 10 of 20 passes for 96 yards and a score and rushing 14 times for 78 yards.
  
The West leads the all-time series 8-5-1.

January 2, 2008

STATESMEN FOOTBALL ADDS GEORGIA TRANSFER BLAKE BARNES TO 2008 RECRUITING CLASS

CLEVELAND – Delta State University head football coach Ron Roberts announced the addition of Blake Barnes, a transfer quarterback from the University of Georgia, to the 2008 recruiting class. Barnes, who graduated from UGA in December, has one year of eligibility remaining. He plan’s on pursuing a master’s degree starting in January.

“We’re excited that Blake decided Delta State was the place to finish his career,” said Roberts. “He is a big, mobile quarterback with excellent arm strength and the ability to lead an explosive offense.”

Barnes played the last three seasons for Mark Richt at Georgia. The 6-foot-3, 228-pound junior saw limited action during the 2007 season after spending the better part of 2005-2006 seasons as one of the back-up quarterbacks for the Bulldogs.

One of the nation’s top signal-callers out of Baldwyn High, Barnes was named the Gatorade Mississippi High School Player of the Year in 2003. During his career at BHS, Barnes passed for 6,939 yards and 82 touchdowns, while rushing for 910 yards and 22 scores.

“Blake has played for two great coaches in Georgia’s Mark Richt and Baldwyn’s Jimmy Dillinger,” added Roberts. “He understands what it takes to run a complex offense and I think his abilities fit our needs perfectly.”

The Statesmen added 14 mid-year transfers to the recruiting class on December 19. Signing day for high school seniors is scheduled for Wednesday, Feb. 6.

- Photo courtesy UGA Sports Communications/Dan Evans

December 19, 2007

STATESMEN ADD 14 TO ROSTER FOR 2008 SEASON; OFFENSIVE AND DEFENSIVE LINE KEY TO EARLY SIGNING CLASS

CLEVELAND - Delta State head football coach Ron Roberts announced the signing of 14 players for the 2008 season during the early signing period Wednesday. After a 2007 season that saw the Statesmen lose 29 players to graduation, Coach Roberts wanted to use the early signing period to fill some gaps on both sides of the ball.

“With the number of players we lost on the offensive and defensive lines, we knew we needed to fill those spots as soon as possible,” said Roberts. “Getting these guys now allows us to have them for spring practice, which is great!”

This year’s semester break class is listed below.

NAME	POS	HGT	WGT	PREVIOUS SCHOOL
Blake Barnes	QB	6-3	225	Georgia
Neil Broussard	OL	6-3	285	MS Gulf Coast CC
Justin Wraggs	OL	6-3	320	MS Gulf Coast CC
Matt Conner	OL	6-1	290	Itawamba CC
Tagameon Cole	OL	6-3	320	MS Gulf Coast CC
Katlan French	WR	5-9	185	East Central CC
Steven Belford	DT	6-4	315	Holmes CC
Kenneth Whitfield	DL	6-1	255	East Central CC
Mark Hoskins	DL	6-1	290	East Central CC
Chris Favors	DE	6-1	275	Grand Valley State
Jesse Pedyfoot	DE	6-2	255	Hinds CC
Marcus Watson	DT	6-6	275	MS Delta CC
Hollan Fiu	LB	6-1	215	New Mexico Military
Cedric Okoi	CB	6-1	185	Rochester (MN) CC
Rolando Oliver	CB	5-11	180	San Mateo (CA) College

 

December 14, 2007

CHADRON’S WOODHEAD CLAIMS HILL TROPHY; DSU’S EUBANKS FINISHES THIRD

CLEVELAND – Delta State University senior linebacker Michael Eubanks finished third in Harlon Hill Trophy balloting, as Chadron State running back Danny Woodhead claimed the award for a second-straight year on Friday at the 22 nd annual Hill Trophy Banquet. Abilene Christian tailback Barnard Scott finished second. The Harlon Hill Trophy is presented annually by the Hill National Committee, and is awarded each year to the top player in NCAA Division II.

“This has been such a fun ride,” said Eubanks. “It was such an honor to considered one of the nation’s top players and I just want to congratulate Danny (Woodhead) for winning the award again.”

Eubanks, a 6-foot-2, 225-pound outside linebacker, has had a special postseason following Delta State’s 10-2 year. The senior led the Statesmen to their third Gulf South Conference title and a second-straight NCAA playoff appearance. Along the way, Eubanks earned four All-American accolades, garnered GSC Defensive Player of the Year for a second time and earned All-Southeast Region honors for a third-straight year.

Eubanks finished the season with 90 tackles, 27 for a loss of 138 yards, and 12 sacks. He broke the NCAA career sack record (39.0) with a five sack performance versus Shaw in the first round of the NCAA playoffs, while establishing new records at Delta State and the GSC. He also finished his career ranked third in NCAA history in career tackles for loss with 70.5.

Eubanks joins former Statesmen quarterback Scott Eyster as former Hill Trophy finalists. The honor has added significance since it is just the second time in 22 years that a defensive standout has made the final three.

December 13, 2007

DSU’S EUBANKS RAKES IN AFCA AND ASSOCIATED PRESS ALL- AMERICA HONORS

CLEVELAND – Delta State University senior linebacker Michael Eubanks continues to rake in the postseason honors with the latest coming from the American Football Coaches Association and the Associated Press, as the Cleveland native earned first team All-American honors from both institutions.

“Michael had a tremendous season and career at DSU and he is most deserving of these awards,” said DSU head coach Ron Roberts. “Very few players come along in a coach’s career with the makeup of a Michael Eubanks, and I have been lucky to coach him these past three years.”

The 6-foot-2, 225-pound outside linebacker has had a special postseason following Delta State’s 10-2 season and Gulf South Conference title. On Wednesday, he added AFCA All-American honors to his resume, and Thursday, the AP tabbed the speedster for its team as well.

Eubanks finished the season with 90 tackles, 27 for a loss of 138 yards, and 12 sacks. The Cleveland native led the Statesmen to the playoffs for a second year in a row, while winning the Gulf South Conference Championship. Along the way, the senior broke the NCAA career sack record (39.0), while establishing new records at Delta State and the Gulf South Conference. He also finished his career ranked third in NCAA history in career tackles for loss with 70.5.

Eubanks is also a finalist for the Harlon Hill Trophy, presented annually to the nation’s top NCAA Division II player. The honor has added significance since it is just the second time in 22 years that a defensive standout has made the final three. The award will be presented on Friday, Dec. 14 in Florence, Ala. Abilene Christian running back Barnard Scott, and Danny Woodhead of Chadron State are the other two finalists.

December 7, 2007

Delta State’s Eubanks headlines Cactus Bowl East Roster; Ricks and Wiggins to represent DSU as well

• 2008 Cactus Bowl Rosters

KINGSVILLE, Texas- The 2008 Valero Cactus Bowl has announced its rosters for the 2008 Division II All-Star game to be played at Javelina Stadium in Kingsville, Texas on Friday, January 11, 2008 at 7:00 p.m.  
           
The Valero Cactus Bowl will be regionally televised in up to 8 million homes on Fox Sports Southwest.
           
The selection committee picked from among the best seniors in NCAA Division II football.
           
Headlining the East team is Harlon Hill Trophy finalist Michael Eubanks.  Eubanks is a linebacker from Delta State (Miss.) and is one of only two players in the history of the award, given annually to the best player in NCAA Division II, to make the three finalists as a defensive player.
           
Joining Eubanks from DSU are All-GSC performers Jeremy Ricks and Jamarcus Wiggins.  Ricks proved to be a three-way threat this season as receiver, rusher and kick-returner.  Wiggins paced the Statesmen defense with seven interceptions and three blocked kicks. 
           
Other standouts on the East team include Shepherd (W.va.) running back Drevon Wallace who finished second in the nation in rushing with 2138 yards and 24 touchdowns.
           
The two quarterbacks for the East team were the Players of the Year in their respective conferences.  Mark Nicolet of Hillsdale (Mich.) was the Player of the Year in the Great Lakes Intercollegiate Athletic Conference after throwing for 3,335 yards and 31 touchdowns.  Brad Roach of Catawba (N.C.) was the Offensive Player of the Year in the South Atlantic Conference after compiling 3,332 yards and 32 scores.
           
The West team includes wide receiver Nick Smart of Southwest Baptist (Mo.) who set the NCAA All-Division record for most pass catches in a season with 143.
           
West quarterbacks include Daniel Polk of Midwestern State (Texas), who was the only player in college football to pass for at least 2,000 yards and rush for at least 1,000 yards, and Ben King of Minnesota State-Mankato who led NCAA Division II with 4,096 yards passing.
           
Valero is a part-owner of the San Antonio Spurs franchise, stepping in to help organize a bid when the franchise was being pursued by out-of-town buyers who, potentially, could have relocated the team.
           
Valero has also been the title sponsor of the Valero Texas Open since 2002. In that time, the tournament has gone from the bottom of the PGA TOUR in terms of charitable fundraising to raising more for charity than any other event in PGA TOUR history.
           
The Cactus Bowl began as the Snow Bowl in 1994 at the Fargo Dome in Fargo, North Dakota.  After its initial seven-year run, the game moved to Kingsville in January 2001.
           
The game was played in Kingsville for six years, took a hiatus last year and will return to Javelina Stadium in 2008.

December 3, 2007

EUBANKS ONE OF THREE FINALISTS FOR HARLON HILL TROPHY – PRESENTED ANNUALLY TO THE NCAA DIVISION II PLAYER OF THE YEAR

CLEVELAND – Delta State University senior linebacker Michael Eubanks has been named one of three finalists for the Harlon Hill Trophy, presented annually to the NCAA Division II National Player of the Year, as released on Monday by the Hill National Committee. Bernard Scott, a junior running back from Abilene Christian University, and Danny Woodhead, 2006 Hill Trophy recipient and senior running back from Chadron State University, are the remaining finalists.  The winner will be announced at the 22nd Annual Harlon Hill Trophy Presentation Banquet, Friday, Dec. 14 in Florence, Ala. 

“I am deeply honored to be among the final three for the Harlon Hill Trophy,” said Eubanks. “This has been a special season for me, but it would not have been possible without the support of my teammates, coaches and family.  I give all the credit to them.”   

Eubanks, a senior from Cleveland, Miss., set the all-time Division II career record for quarterback sacks with 39 for 249 yards. He ranks third all-time in Division II history in career tackles for loss with 70.5 for 355 yards. He led one of the nation's top defensive units this season with 90 tackles, 12 sacks and 27 tackles for loss. He also helped lead Delta State to a 10-2 record that included a Gulf South Conference Championship and a spot in the quarterfinals of the NCAA playoffs. His tackles for loss ranked second nationally this season. He is just the second defensive player to ever finish in the top three in the Hill Trophy voting. The other is the 1995 winner, Ronald McKinnon of North Alabama.

A three-time All-American and two-time GSC Defensive Player of the Year, Eubanks concluded his career as the all-time leader in sacks (39) and tackles for loss (70.5) in GSC history. 

The Hill Trophy is sponsored by Coca-Cola, the City of Florence, Ala., Trustmark Construction, the Marriott Shoals Hotel and Spa, Opti-Net and Herff Jones.
               
Candidates for the 2007 Hill Trophy were nominated by the sports information directors at their respective schools and those nominations were then reviewed by the Hill Regional Advisory Committees, which trimmed the list of candidates.
               
National voting concluded on November 30 and the top three finishers were invited to the Shoals for the presentation banquet. The winner of the 2007 award, which is presented by the National Harlon Hill Award Committee, will be announced at the Harlon Hill Trophy and Division II Football Hall of Fame Banquet on Friday, Dec. 14 in Florence, prior to the NCAA Division II Football Championship Game on Dec. 15.
               
Tickets are $45 each or $360 for a table of eight and can be purchased by calling the Shoals Chamber of Commerce at (256) 764-4661.

December 3, 2007

STATESMEN PLACE 10 ON DAKTRONICS ALL-SOUTHEAST REGION SQUAD

CLEVELAND - Delta State placed a region-high 10 players on the 2007 Daktronics All-Southeast Region Team. Senior linebacker Michael Eubanks led the charge with his second consecutive First-Team nod. The Cleveland native set a new NCAA career-sack record with 39.0, and also set new Gulf South Conference records for sacks (39.0) and tackles-for-loss (73.5). He led the NCAA’s third-ranked defense with 90 total tackles this season, with 12.0 sacks and 27.0 tackles-for-loss.
           
Junior cornerback Monterio James joined Eubanks on the First-Team defense, while offensive lineman Mark Ellis and junior athlete Dedrick Wilson were selected to the First-Team offense.
           
James intercepted four passes, recovered two fumbles, one he returned for a touchdown, and broke-up a team-high nine passes. He also recorded 37 tackles. Ellis anchored an offensive line that opened holes for the Gulf South Conference’s top-ranked rushing (232.1 yards per game) and total offense (468.5 ypg).
           
Wilson led the offense as a quarterback before suffering a season-ending knee injury in the final regular-season game at Arkansas-Monticello. The first year starter for the Statesmen was the leading rusher with 762 yards and 12 touchdowns on 160 carries. He also completed 84-of-180 passes for 1,128 yards and six touchdowns.
           
Seniors Chris Goff and John Simmons joined Ellis as Second-Team offensive lineman selections, while senior defensive linemen Chris Eccles and Michael Lewis, as well as sophomore linebacker Lardester Hicks and senior safety Jamarcus Wiggins rounded out the Statesmen’s selection.
           
Eccles led the Statesmen defensive line, which held opponents to just 67.6 rushing yards per game, with 45 tackles, 9.0 for loss, with one sack and a blocked kick. Lewis was third on the team with 16.0 tackles-for-loss, while recording 30 total tackles. He was also second on the team with 7.0 sacks.
           
Hicks continued his stellar career, finishing second on the team with 73 tackles, 11.0 for loss. He also intercepted a pass, recorded a sack, forced two fumbles and blocked a kick. Wiggins simply led the Gulf South Conference with seven interceptions, one in the end zone which clinched the win over Valdosta State. He was third on the team with 61 tackles, 3.0 for loss, and blocked two fourth quarter field goals in the 9-7 win over Henderson State.
           
All of the First-Team selections will move on to the All-American ballot. The All-American Team will be released on Dec. 11.

November 24, 2007

STATESMEN FALL ON LATE UNA TOUCHDOWN 20-17
By Travis Chamblee, Football Contact

• Box Score: UNA 20 - DSU 17  

FLORENCE , Ala. - The Delta State defense dominated all season, but it was A.J. Milwee and the North Alabama offense that stole the show in the second round of the NCAA playoffs, ousting the Statesmen with a 20-17 victory. The Statesmen end the season 10-2, while the Lions move to 10-1. UNA will face the Valdosta State/Catawba winner in the quarterfinals next Saturday.

Milwee completed a five-yard pass on third-and-goal with 16 seconds left in the game to take the lead, 20-17, that would prove to be the difference.

After an exciting, defensive struggle that kept two of the Gulf South Conference’s top ranked offenses at bay, Trey Adams split the uprights with 24 seconds left in the first half from 41 yards out to tie the game at 10 as the teams headed into the locker rooms.

North Alabama struck first; taking advantage of a short field after Spencer Strickland barely got the punt off of his foot because of a high snap. The Lions drove 17 yards, but had to settle for a 43-yard field goal by Scott Shurden to take a 3-0 lead with 4:53 left in the first quarter.

It took Delta State nearly a whole quarter’s worth of football to answer the score. Garrett DeWitt led the Statesmen down the field, picking up varying amounts of yards on completion after completion. Ten plays and 91 yards later, Chad Schroeder, lined up in the quarterback spot, dove over the pile from a yard out for the touchdown. Adams’ kick was good, and with 8:46 left in the second quarter, the Statesmen led 7-0.

The Lions answered back two possessions later, as A.J. Milwee led North Alabama down the field. He found Reggie Hubbard in the end zone for a 13-yard touchdown pass to cap a six-play, 54-yard drive. Shurden’s kick was good, and with 2:00 left in the half, North Alabama led 10-7.

DeWitt showed the poise of an experienced veteran running the two-minute drill to get the Statesmen in field goal position for Adam’s game-tying kick just before the end of the half.

The Lions came out of the locker room on a mission. A.J. Milwee and running back David McCants led the charge down the field, but A.J. Milwee was knocked out of the game after a hit by Jamarcus Wiggins, diving for Milwee’s fumble. After a loss of yards on second down, Jason Fenderson knocked down Dusty Goodwin’s third-and-four pass to force the Lions to settle settle for a 32-yard field goal by Shurden, giving the Lions a 13-10 lead early in the second half.

North Alabama had a golden opportunity to add to their lead a short time later when the pressure got to DeWitt, forcing a fumble. The Lions recovered the ball setting up first-and-10 at the DSU 22-yard line. On first down, head coach Mark Hudspeth reached into his bag of tricks, but the double-reverse, pitch back pass resulted in an 18-yard sack. Two incompletions later, North Alabama punted.

The defenses continued to be the stars of the show as the third quarter ended without any further scores. However, it did see the Statesmen answer the Lions’ trickeration with a couple of trick plays of their own. After DeWitt hit Eric Marshall for 11 yards of third-and-12, the Statesmen sent in the punting unit. Strickland ran to the slot, and Ben Stallings took the direct snap, barreling forward for about four yards, more than enough to pick up the first down. On the very next play, the Statesmen ran a reverse to DeWitt, who was lined up as a receiver on the far side of the field. He pulled up and threw a pass to Jeremy Ricks, but the Lions secondary forced the incompletion. A few plays later, the Statesmen were forced to punt.

The Statesmen had a chance to tie the game with 7:28 left in the game after David Tahi’s sack on third-and-long forced the Lions to punt. The Statesmen got a short field as Will Batson’s kick went out of bounds near midfield. After a near interception by the Lions, DeWitt picked up nine yards on third-and-eight to set up first-and-10 on the UNA 39-yard line. After a 17-yard pass to Schroeder, the offense stalled. Adams came in to attempt a 35-yard field goal, but missed wide left.

After yet another defensive stand, the Statesmen got the ball back at their own 32-yard line. DeWitt hit Marshall for a 67-yard gain, and then ran in himself from the one-yard line for the touchdown. Adams kick was good, and with 5:31 remaining in the game, the Statesmen led 17-13.

The Statesmen defense again held the Lions, and Delta State took over at their own 21-yard line with 3:44 left in the game. After a big run by Stallings on second-and-long set up third-and-three, Stallings took the direct snap, but could only pick up two. The Statesmen had to punt and North Alabama took over at their own 45-yard line with 2:03 left on the clock.

Milwee led the Lions down the field quickly, using his arm to set up a first-and-goal situation with just over 30 seconds left in the game. On third-and-goal from the five-yard line, Milwee found Messing in the end zone to take a 20-17 lead with 16 seconds remaining, ending the Statesmen’s playoff run.

The Statesmen finished the day with 390 yards of total offense, while the Lions managed just 244. Sophomore Garrett DeWitt threw for 307 yards on 24-of-29 passing, while Eric Marshall hauled in seven receptions for 125 yards to lead DSU.

UNA’s A.J. Milwee finished the game with 197 yards passing on 22-of-35 passing with two touchdowns. Jason Messing and Reggie Hubbard had touchdown grabs for the Lions.

Jamarcus Wiggins led DSU with 10 tackles, while Michael Eubanks finished with six stops and three tackles-for-loss.

November 20, 2007

DELTA STATE’S EUBANKS AMONG NINE FINALISTS NAMED FOR HARLON HILL TROPHY, AS NCAA DIVISION II FOOTBALL PLAYER OF THE YEAR

• Eubanks for Harlon Hill
• Complete Harlon Hill release

FLORENCE, Ala. – Delta State University senior linebacker Michael Eubanks has been named one of the nine finalists for the Harlon Hill Trophy, presented annually to the NCAA Division II College Football Player of the Year. 
               
A list of 24 candidates has been trimmed to nine with the top two players from each of the Northeast, Southwest and Northwest regions advancing through regional voting, as well as three from the Southeast where there was a tie in the voting. The finalists were selected by the NCAA Division II sports information directors in regional voting and are now on the national ballot where all 149 of the division's SIDs will select the award's 22nd winner.
               
The list of 2007 finalists is comprised of four running backs, three quarterbacks, a receiver and a linebacker.
               
Seven of the finalists have helped lead their teams into the NCAA Division II playoffs this season, including the 2006 Hill Trophy Winner Danny Woodhead of Chadron State.
               
Advancing from the Southwest region are 2006 Hill Trophy winner Danny Woodhead of Chadron State College and junior running back Bernard Scott of Abilene Christian.   Finalists from the Northeast region are senior running back Jamar Brittingham of Bloomsburg, who was a finalist in 2005, and senior running back Dervon Wallace of Shepherd.  Sophomore quarterback Brad Iciek of Grand Valley State University and senior wide receiver Weston Dressler of the University of North Dakota were selected from the Northwest region. Southeast Region finalists include senior linebacker Michael Eubanks of Delta State University, junior quarterback David Knighton of Harding University and junior quarterback A.J. Milwee of the University of North Alabama. 
               
The second round of this weekend's Division II playoffs will feature three head-to-head matchups between Hill finalists.  Eubanks and Milwee will face off in the North Alabama-Delta State game, Iciek and Dressler will meet in the Grand Valley State-North Dakota game and Scott and Woodhead will compete against each other in the Abilene Christian-Chadron State game. .
               
Eubanks, a senior from Cleveland, Miss., set the all-time Division II career record for quarterback sacks with 39 for 249 yards. He ranks third all-time in Division II history in career tackles for loss with 67.5 for 355 yards. He leads the nation's third ranked defense with 84 tackles, 12 sacks and 24 tackles for loss, and he has helped lead Delta State to a 10-1 record that includes a Gulf South Conference Championship and a spot in this weekend's NCAA playoffs. He is the first defensive player in DSU history to be nameda finalist for the Hill Trophy.  
               
The Hill Trophy is sponsored by Coca-Cola, the City of Florence, Ala., Trustmark Construction, Herff Jones, the Marriott Shoals Hotel and Spa and Opti-Net.
               
Candidates for the 2007 Hill Trophy were nominated by the sports information directors at their respective schools and those nominations were then reviewed by the Hill Regional Advisory Committees, which trimmed the list of candidates.
               
National voting will conclude on November 30 and the top three finishers will be invited to the Shoals for the presentation banquet. The winner of the 2007 award, which is presented by the National Harlon Hill Award Committee, will be announced at the Harlon Hill Trophy and Division II Football Hall of Fame Banquet on Friday, December 14 in Florence, prior to the NCAA Division II Football Championship Game on Dec. 15.
               
Tickets are $45 each or $360 for a table of eight and can be purchased by calling the Shoals Chamber of Commerce at (256) 764-4661.

17 November 2007

A very good day for the Statesmen, Delta State easily takes 45-7 first round victory/Eubanks breaks NCAA sack record
By Rori E. Herbison

• Box Score: DSU 45 - Shaw 7

CLEVELAND —There are certain, undeniable signs during the course of a football game that can give you a definitive feeling things are going your way. Such examples might be your team is up 35-0 nothing at the halftime break or the fact your defense has only allowed your opponent to three yards rushing in the first quarter. Others might include the fact your offense accepted no less than a touchdown in its first four possessions.

The list could go on and on for the Statesmen, as Delta State (10-1) easily took a 45-7 lopsided victory over Shaw University (8-4) in the first round of the NCAA Division II playoffs Saturday.

With Saturday afternoon’s victory, Delta State advances to a second round match-up with North Alabama (9-1). The Statesmen will travel to Florence, Ala. for the noon or 1 p.m. (to be determined) kick-off at Braly Municipal Stadium. The Gulf South Conference rivals last meet Oct. 18 in a non-conference tilt that saw the Lions hand the Statesmen their only loss of the 2007 campaign, 28-17.

In his first post season action as a collegiate head coach, Ron Roberts urged his charges to a quick start. The Statesmen offense answered the call, posting seven to the Travis E. Parker Field-Horace McCool Stadium scoreboard in just 24 seconds.

The two-play drive opened with starting quarterback Garrett Dewitt completing a 39-yard pass to Statesmen wide-out Jeremy Ricks. Junior wide-out Chad Schroeder hustled 35 yards to pay dirt for his third rushing score of the year.

After a solid, three-and-out hold from the Delta State defense, the Statesmen offense followed Ben Stallings to the endzone, as the sophomore running back muscled in from six-yards out for the score for his second TD of the year.

Stallings’ third score of the season would not be far behind, as on the Statemen’s ensuing possession, Delta State marched systematically and methodically 62 yards to take a decisive 21-0 lead with 7:51 left to play in the first quarter. Stallings capped the seven-play scoring drive with a three-yard touchdown poke.

The Bears offense failed to convert a first down on their next possession, setting up Delta State’s fourth consecutive touchdown of the quarter. This time, Dewitt peppered the football to alternating wide outs, Eric Marshall and Schroeder. The nine-play, 45-yard scoring drive was capped by Schroeder’s one-yard rush – his fourth of the year.

The Statesmen added one more score to its first half drudging of the Bears, taking the convincing 35-0 lead to the locker room at the halftime break. Dewitt connected for his first passing touchdown of the contest, finding a streaking Jermaine McRoy on a 14-yard strike.

Shaw shattered any hopes of a Statesmen shut-out, as Bears’ freshman tailback Raymond Williams sprinted 90-yards for Shaw’s sole score of the contest.

The Statesmen answered on a Steven Davis four-yard touchdown scamper. Adams booted a 45-yard field goal in the fourth quarter to cap the afternoon’s scoring, 45-7.

Dewitt finished his day with 349 yards behind a 25-of-35 passing performance. Marshall hauled in 145 yards receiving, followed by Schroeder’s 94 yard effort. Schroeder would also add a team-leading 49 yards rushing for 143 all-purpose yards. Stallings concluded his rushing day with 44 earned yards.

The list of defensive stand-outs most absolutely begins with Statesmen All-American performer, Michael Eubanks. Eubanks finally caught the record he has been chasing the entire 2007 campaign, as with just four minutes left in the contest, the Cleveland native wrapped up the Bears quarterback for the fifth time today – earning sole possession of the NCAA Division II career sack record with 39.

Eubanks and teammate Lardester Hicks both finished the day with eights tackles, while Monterio James added six tackles.

Delta State held the Bears to just 85 yards rushing on the day.

Shaw University ends its season 8-4.

November 15, 2007

Statesmen prepare for CIAA-champion Bears; Winner faces UNA in NCAA Second Round
By Travis Chamblee, Football Contact

• NOTES: Bears at Statesmen - NCAA 1st Rd.

CLEVELAND - The Statesmen will be making their second consecutive NCAA playoff berth Saturday, as they welcome the Shaw Bears into Travis Parker Field at Horace McCool Stadium. The game will be the first ever match-up between the two conference champions. The Statesmen won the Gulf South Conference Championship with an 8-0 record, 9-1 overall, while the Bears (8-3) won the Central Intercollegiate Athletic Conference Championship with a 31-24 double-overtime victory over Virginia Union in the CIAA championship game.
           
The Bears have an inside scope on the Statesmen and football in Mississippi in first year head coach Darrell Asberry. The Tiger standout was a two-year letter winner as a quarterback, graduating in 1994. Asberry coached at Jackson State from 1999-2002, and spent 2003 as the offensive coordinator at Coahoma Community College.
           
Asberry was also a member of the North Carolina Central staff last season. Despite earning the No. 2 seed in the Southeast Region, the Eagles lost to the Statesmen 24-17 in the second round.
           
The Bears have one of the top defenses in the nation, allowing just 12.6 points per game on 182.8 yards. The Bears are led by CIAA Defensive Player of the Year, junior defensive tackle Louis Ellis. The Jackson, Miss., native has a team-high 22.5 tackles for a loss of 102 yards, 8.0 sacks, and is second on the team with 65 tackles. Junior linebacker Tiquan Collins leads the team with 78 tackles, 13.5 for loss.
           
The Statesmen offense is leading the Gulf South Conference with 468.5 yards per game. The also lead the conference in rushing yards per game, 232.1 yards per contest, and are scoring 31.3 points per game. After leading the Statesmen to a 51-14 win over Arkansas-Monticello in his first career start, sophomore quarterback Garrett DeWitt will try to continue to provide the offense with a spark. Over the past three games, DeWitt has completed 35-of-53 passes for 636 yards and four touchdowns with just one interception. He has also rushed for 76 yards and three touchdowns on 18 carries.
           
The Statesmen also have the top-ranked defense in the GSC, leading in total defense (224.3), rushing defense (67.6), and scoring defense (14.0). Senior linebacker Michael Eubanks leads the team with 76 tackles. He also has a GSC-high 19.0 tackles for a loss of 97 yards and 7.0 sacks. Senior safety Jamarcus Wiggins leads the secondary with seven interceptions, needing just one takeaway to tie the single-season mark of eight set by Monterio James. He also has 49 tackles, good for third on the team.
           
The Bears are posting solid numbers on the offensive side of the ball, 22.6 points per game on 301.5 yards. Sophomore quarterback Travis Robinson leads the way, completing 74-of-169 passes for 1,042 and eight touchdowns, while throwing eight interceptions. Sophomore wide receiver Lenell King, a Mound Bayou native and Ole Miss transfer, has been Robinson’s favorite target, catching 33 passes for 505 yards and one touchdown. DeAndre Okonji has been the big play guy, catching 29 passes for 480 yards and eight touchdowns.
           
The Bears are averaging just shy of 140 yards per game rushing, thanks, in large part, to the legs of junior tailback Alan Atwater. The Appalachian State transfer has carried the ball 135 times for 718 yards and eight touchdowns. Freshman tailback Raymond Williams has carried 132 times for 492 yards and three touchdowns.
           
Kickoff for the opening round playoff game is scheduled for Saturday at noon at Travis Parker Field at Horace McCool Stadium. The winner of the game will advance to play North Alabama in Florence, Ala., on the following Saturday.

November 11, 2007

STATESMEN RECEIVE NO. 3 SEED IN SOUTHEAST REGION; DSU TO HOST NO. 6 SEED SHAW SATURDAY

• Complete NCAA Tournament Bracket

CLEVELAND – Less than 24 hours after they had sealed the third Gulf South Conference championship in program history, the Delta State University football team received the No. 3 seed in the Southeast Region for the upcoming NCAA Division II National Championship Tournament.  The Statesmen (9-1, 8-0 GSC) will host the Bears of Shaw University (8-3), champions of the Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association, on Saturday, Nov. 17 at Parker Field-McCool Stadium.  Kickoff is set for 12 p.m. 

“While we feel we could have been seeded a little higher, we are happy for another opportunity to play in the NCAA tournament,” DSU head coach Ron Roberts said.  “The Shaw Bears are a talented team with a fine coaching staff and we will have to be at the top of our game to beat them on Saturday.”

Valdosta State (9-1) received the region’s top seed and will face the winner of the Catawba (10-1) versus Albany State match-up in the four-five game. 

North Alabama (9-1) grabbed the No. 2 seed and will await the winner of the Delta State versus Shaw game on November 24.

The Statesmen are no strangers to most of the teams in this year’s Southeast Region field.  On Oct. 11, Delta State defeated Valdosta State, 35-31, at Bazemore-Hyder Stadium in Valdosta, Ga.  DSU faced UNA a week later, only to fall 28-17 in Florence, Ala., at Braly Municipal Stadium. 

DSU and Catawba have not met since the 2000 NCAA playoffs, a 20-14 DSU victory.  The Statesmen have never faced the Bears of Shaw or the Golden Rams of Albany State on the gridiron. 

Tickets will go on sale Monday.  Prices are $10 for general admission, $15 for reserved chair-backs and $5 for students.  Fans may purchase tickets online at www.GoStatesmen.com or come by Chadwick-Dickson Athletic Fieldhouse Monday-Friday 8-5 p.m.  For more information or to inquire about tickets, please call the Department of Athletics at (662) 846-4300 or email us at athletics@deltastate.edu.               

November 10, 2007

Statesmen claim GSC crown with 51-14 triumph over Boll Weevils; DSU awaits NCAA postseason announcement
By Travis Chamblee, Football Contact

• Box Score: DSU 51 - UAM 14

MONTICELLO, Ark. - Delta State University claimed their third Gulf South Conference Championship with a 51-14 victory over the Boll Weevils of the University of Arkansas-Monticello behind a solid performance by the defense and outstanding play by quarterbacks Garrett Dewitt and Dedrick Wilson.
               
The Statesmen got the quick start they needed from the defense, holding the Boll Weevils scoreless through the first quarter and intercepting two Scott Buisson passes, one by Jamarcus Wiggins and the other by Monterio James.
               
While the offense was unable to convert the first turnover into points, Wilson ran around the right side of the line for the touchdown on second and goal after the second interception. Trey Adams split the uprights with the extra point to give the Statesmen a 10-0 lead with 14:04 left in the first half.
               
Adams also kicked a career-long, 47-yard field goal with 2:48 left in the first quarter.
               
The Statesmen defense gave up just three first downs in the first quarter, allowing only 30 yards of total offense. The Statesmen offense finished the quarter with 76 yards of total offense, but Adams was just one-of-three on field goal attempts.
               
The Statesmen defense held the Boll Weevil offense on the ensuing possession, but the bouncing punt was touched by Jeremy Ricks, and the loose ball was recovered by the Boll Weevils, setting up a first and 10 on the DSU 12 yard line. A pass interference penalty gave Arkansas-Monticello a first and goal situation at the six yard line. Buisson found Jywin Ceasar on third down for the touchdown. Nick Green converted the extra point try to cut the lead to 10-7 with 8:59 left in the first half.
               
The Statesmen rolled right back down the field, marching 59 yards in 1:40 to answer the UAM touchdown with a 10-yard run by Dewitt on first and goal. Adams was true with the extra point, and with 7:05 left in the first half, the Statesmen led 17-10.
               
Delta State added another touchdown with 1:17 left in the half on a one-yard run behind the elephant package by Wilson. Chad Schroeder set up the score with a five-yard run on third down that nearly resulted in a touchdown. Adams was again good on the extra point try, and the Statesmen led 24-7 at halftime.
               
The Statesmen out-gained the explosive Boll Weevil offense 233 to 77 in yards of total offense. The defense sacked UAM quarterback Buisson four times, and intercepted two of his passes in the first half. Running back Johnny Polite gained 31 yards on 12 carries, but the sacks brought the team rushing total down to just four yards.
               
Dewitt was 9-of-13 passing for 134 yards, and rushed for 21 yards and a touchdown. Wilson was 2-of-3 passing for 32 yards, and rushed for 21 yards and two touchdowns.
               
The Statesmen caught the opening kickoff of the second half and marched down the field. Wilson capped of the six-play, 56-yard drive with a three-yard touchdown run. The drive featured several passes by Dewitt, including a long pass to Ricks on third down, which set up the first and goal situation. Adams made the extra point and with 13:43 left in the third quarter, the Statesmen led 31-7.
               
The Statesmen defense again forced the Boll Weevils to punt, but a personal foul roughing the passer penalty gave UAM a first down at the DSU 40 yard line to keep the drive alive. The Boll Weevils could not convert, however, as Wiggins intercepted his second interception of the game (seventh on the season) at the 36 yard line.
               
It looked as if the Statesmen would have to punt the ball right back to the Boll Weevils, but on fourth and three, Zak Mikel threw a pass to Wiggins. The completion moved the ball from the Delta State 33 to the UAM 20. Two plays later, Dewitt threw a 20-yard touchdown pass to Derek Freeman. Jonathan Meadows blocked the extra point, but with 10:35 left in the third quarter, the Statesmen led 37-7.
               
The Statesmen punched the ball into the end zone again just over three minutes later, on an eight-yard run by Dewitt. The eight-play, 66-yard drive was again a pass-heavy effort by Dewitt, but on the touchdown, he scrambled around the right side looking for a receiver before deciding to keep it himself for the score. Adams made the extra point, and with 7:22 left in the third, the Statesmen led 44-7.
               
The Boll Weevils had an opportunity to put points in the board late in the third quarter, but failed to convert on fourth and six. They had a fourth and one near the Statesmen 30 yard line, but a false start penalty backed the ball up five yards. Buisson’s fourth down pass fell incomplete as Miles Mason provided a big hit to break up the pass.
               
On the Statesmen’s next drive, it was Dewitt again. The sophomore quarterback had a big run to pick up a first down on third and long, hit Greg Betterson with a pass to set up first and goal at the six, and then ran in himself for the touchdown. Adams extra point was good, and with 2:20 left in the third, the Statesmen led 51-7.
               
The Boll Weevils added their second touchdown after a Statesmen fumble to cut the lead to 51-14, but the Statesmen had the game well in hand by that time.

The Statesmen ran the clock out and emptied every water cooler on the sideline, dousing several coaches during the celebration.
               
The Statesmen finished the night with 571 total yards, 373 passing and 198 rushing, while holding the Boll Weevils to just 164 total yards. Buisson was sacked five times by the Statesmen, and threw three interceptions.
               
Dewitt finished with 304 passing yards and a touchdown, completing 19-of-30 passes. The sophomore also carried the ball nine times for 40 yards and three touchdowns in his first career start. Wilson ran for 53 yards and three touchdowns on 15 carries. Ricks led the receivers with 92 yards on three catches, and Freeman had two catches for 27 yards and a touchdown.
               
Lardester Hicks led the defense with 11 tackles, while senior linebacker and Harlon Hill candidate Michael Eubanks had eight tackles, two for loss, and a sack. Wiggins recorded seven tackles and intercepted two passes, bringing the senior to within one of the Delta State single season record of eight.
               
The NCAA will announce the playoff bracket Sunday at 10:30 a.m. The Delta State Athletic Department will host a selection show party at the Warehouse in downtown Cleveland beginning at 10:00 a.m., and everyone is invited to attend.

November 9, 2007

DELTA STATE’S MICHAEL EUBANKS AMONG 24 CANDIDATES FOR HARLON HILL TROPHY

CLEVELAND –Delta State University senior linebacker Michael Eubanks was officially named one of 24 candidates for the Harlon Hill Trophy, awarded annually to the NCAA Division II National Player of the Year, as released Friday by the National Harlon Hill Award Committee.  Eubanks’ selection marks a fifth consecutive year that Delta State has had a regional finalist.  The list includes five players from the Southeast, six from both the Southwest and Northeast, and seven from the Northwest region.
               
“Michael is certainly deserving of this recognition today,” said DSU head coach Ron Roberts.  “I believe he is the most dominant defensive player to come through the GSC in many years, and I believe the committee took notice of that.  He is one of only two defensive players in the field.  He’s the type of person every coach hopes he has the opportunity to work with, and I hope he is able to bring home this award for himself and our institution.”
               
Players are nominated and voted on by the sports information directors at the 150 NCAA Division II football-playing institutions. The 24 initial candidates will be placed on regional ballots and the top two players from each of the four NCAA regions will advance to the national ballot when regional voting concludes on November 16.
               
There were more than 30 candidates initially nominated by the sports information directors at their respective schools and those nominations were then reviewed by the Hill Regional Advisory Committees, which trimmed the list of candidates.
               
Among the players vying for the 2007 award from the Southwest region is the 2006 winner, senior running back Danny Woodhead of Chadron State College.  Woodhead is trying to become just the third student-athlete to win the Hill Trophy more than once. Texas A&M-Kingsville running back Johnny Bailey won the Hill Trophy in 1987, 1988 and 1989, and Valdosta State quarterback Dusty Bonner won the award in 2000 and 2001.
               
The Northeast Region candidates are junior quarterback Steve Armstrong of Southern Connecticut State, senior running back Jamar Brittingham of Bloomsburg, junior defensive end Kirby Griffin of California University of Pennsylvania,  sophomore quarterback Trevor Harris of Edinboro, senior wide receiver Elfren Quiles of Kutztown, and senior running back Dervon Wallace of Shepherd. Brittingham finished third in the 2005 Hill voting.
               
Southeast Region candidates include senior linebacker Michael Eubanks of Delta State, sophomore receiver Cedric Jones of Valdosta State, junior quarterback David Knighton of Harding, junior quarterback Lamar Little of Virginia Union, and junior quarterback A.J. Milwee of North Alabama.
               
Candidates from the Northwest Region are sophomore running back Joique Bell of Wayne State, senior receiver Weston Dressler of North Dakota, sophomore quarterback Brad Iciek of Grand Valley State, senior quarterback Ben King of Minnesota State Mankato, junior tailback Brian McNeill of Nebraska-Omaha, senior quarterback Mark Nicolet of Hillsdale, and junior quarterback Mike Reilly of Central Washington. 
               
The list of Southwest Region candidates includes senior receiver Ashton Gronewold of Missouri-Rolla, junior quarterback Keith Null of West Texas A&M, senior running back Xavier Omon of Northwest Missouri State, senior quarterback Daniel Polk of Midwestern State, junior running back Bernard Scott of Abilene Christian, and senior tailback Danny Woodhead of Chadron State.
               
Eubanks, a 6-foot-2, 225-pound senior outside linebacker, leads the Gulf South Conference in tackles-for-loss (17.0-86 yards) and sacks (6.0-44 yards), while leading the nation’s fourth ranked defense in tackles with 68.  Earlier this year, Eubanks became the all-time leader in career sacks (33.0) and tackles-for-loss (60.5) in GSC history.  He currently ranks second on the NCAA all-time sack list.
               
It’s been quite a fall for the defending Gulf South Conference Defensive Player of the Year.  In late October, the National Football Foundation named Eubanks a finalist for the Draddy Trophy, awarded to the top scholar-athlete in collegiate football regardless of division, and awarded him the Coach Eddie Robinson National Scholar-Athlete Award, an $18,000 post-graduate scholarship.  He is the first NFF scholar-athlete in Delta State University history.             

The winner of the 2007 award, which is presented by the National Harlon Hill Award Committee, will be announced at the 22nd annual Harlon Hill Trophy Presentation Banquet on Friday, December 14 at the Florence Conference Center at 6:30 p.m. This year's Hill Trophy Banquet will also include the ninth induction into the Division II Football Hall of Fame.

Tickets are $45 each or $360 for a table of eight and can be purchased by calling Sarah Beth Vandiver at the Shoals Chamber of Commerce at (256) 764-4661.
               
The NCAA Division II Championship Game is scheduled for December 15 at Florence's Braly Municipal Stadium at 11 a.m.
               
The Hill Trophy is sponsored by Coca-Cola, the City of Florence, Ala., Trustmark Construction, Opti- Net, Herff Jones and the Marriott Shoals Hotel and Spa.

November 9, 2007

Boll Weevils only thing separating Statesmen from Gulf South Conference title
By Travis Chamblee

• Game Notes: Statesmen at Boll Weevils

CLEVELAND - The Statesmen travel to Monticello, Ark. this weekend with more on the line than just a 10-game winning streak against the Boll Weevils. With a win, the Statesmen (8-1, 7-0 GSC) clinch the Gulf South Conference Championship out-right, and keep their playoff hopes alive.
           
However, this year’s 4-6 Boll Weevils are a far cry from the Arkansas-Monticello teams of years past. A total of seven freshmen have earned starting roles for the Boll Weevils, including quarterback Scott Buisson. The young gunslinger has his offense at the top of the GSC, averaging 464.1 yards and 27.5 points per game. Buisson is 201-of-335 for 2,241 yards and 15 touchdowns, and has rushed 127 times for 595 yards and six touchdowns.
           
Freshman Jywin Ceasar leads the talent-filled receiving corps. Ceasar has 52 catches for 527 yards and five touchdowns, and has rushed eight times for 105 yards and a touchdown. Junior Tim Harris has 45 catches for 620 yards and four touchdowns.
           
Senior John Williams leads the Boll Weevil rushing attack, which is leading the GSC with 237.2 yards per game. The speedy bruiser has carried 146 times for 876 yards and nine touchdowns. Freshman Johnny Polite has added 421 yards and four touchdowns on 100 carries, and has 17 catches for 113 yards and a touchdown.
           
The Statesmen enter the match-up with the league’s top-ranked rush defense (70.0 ypg), total defense (231.0 ypg), and scoring defense (14.0 ppg). Senior linebacker Michael Eubanks continues to climb in the record books, posting 68 tackles, 17 for a loss of 86 yards, six sacks for a loss of 44 yards, two fumble recoveries and two forced fumbles, all team highs. Sophomore linebacker Lardester Hicks has added 48 tackles, nine for a loss of 57 yards. Jamarcus Wiggins leads the secondary with five interceptions on the season. He has also recorded 42 tackles and blocked two field goals.
           
Despite a slow start against West Alabama, which allowed the Tigers to gain 89 yards and claim a nine point lead at the end of the first quarter, the Statesmen fought back to earn a 20-9 victory. The Statesmen defense shutout the Tigers’ offense for the rest of the game, allowing just 69 yards of total offense over the final three quarters.
           
The Statesmen offense, while not flashy, is getting the job done. Delta State is posting 29.1 points per game on 457.1 yards of total offense. Quarterback Dedrick Wilson continues to lead the Statesmen on the ground, with 709 yards and nine touchdowns on 145 carries, and the junior is 82-of-172 passing for 1,096 yards and six touchdowns, but has thrown 12 interceptions. Sophomore Garrett Dewitt has stepped up in the absence of Brett Hyatt. Dewitt is 16-of-29 for 332 yards and three touchdowns with just one interception in two games.
           
Jeremy Ricks and Chad Schroeder are the statistical favorites of Statesmen quarterbacks, each with 44 catches. Ricks has 601 yards and five touchdowns on the season, and has rushed 29 times for 198 yards and two touchdowns. Schroeder has 515 receiving yards and a touchdown, and has rushed for 227 yards and two touchdowns on 40 carries. Schroeder also threw for a touchdown against West Alabama, a 12-yard completion to Eric Marshall.
           
The Arkansas-Monticello defense is giving up 39.5 points per game on 425.3 yards of total offense. Linebackers Larry White and Wes Ables lead the team. White has 89 tackles, nine for loss, and a sack, while Ables has 67 tackles, 3.5 for loss, and an interception. Safety Solomon Edwards has 55 tackles and a team-high 4.5 sacks.           

The Statesmen lead the overall series 23-5, and haven’t lost to the Boll Weevils since 1996. Delta State shut-out Arkansas-Monticello 53-0 in Cleveland last season. Kickoff is scheduled for 6:00 p.m. Saturday at Convoy-Leslie Cotton Bowl Stadium in Monticello.

November 5, 2007

Delta State drops two spots to No. 3 in NCAA Southeast Region rankings

CLEVELAND - The Delta State University football team fell two spots this week in the Division II Southeast Region Poll to No. 3, as released Monday by the NCAA.  The drop came in spite of a 20-9 victory over the University of West Alabama in Livingston, Ala. this past Saturday. 

The never-ending see-saw at the top of the region continued this week as Valdosta State (8-1) jumped into the top spot behind a 63-28 victory over the University of Arkansas at Monticello.  The Blazers will conclude their season Saturday with the Wolves of West Georgia.  Also moving up to No. 2 is North Alabama (8-1).  The Lions throttled West Georgia 65-17 last Saturday and wrap up their regular season this week against West Alabama. 

Catawba (9-1), Carson-Newman (9-1) and Albany State (8-2) all won on their way to rounding out the top six.  Newberry (8-2) comes in at No. 7 and Virginia Union (9-1) at No. 8 while Fort Valley State (8-3) and Morehouse College (7-3) round out the top ten. 

The top six teams in the Southeast Region will advance to the NCAA Division II Championship Tournament beginning Nov. 17.  Host sites and game times are yet to be determined. 

The Statesmen will close out the regular season this Saturday in Monticello, Ark., as Delta State takes on the Boll Weevils of the University of Arkansas at Monticello.  Kickoff is set for 6:00 pm. at Convoy Leslie Stadium. 

November 3, 2007

STATESMEN REMAIN UNDEFEATED WITH 20-9 WIN AT WEST ALABAMA
By Travis Chamblee, Football Contact

• Box Score: Statesmen 20 - Tigers 9

LIVINGSTON, Ala. - The Delta State defense shutout the Tigers of West Alabama in the second half, and the offense found some much needed momentum as the Statesmen went on to win 20-9. With the win, Delta State remained undefeated in the Gulf South Conference at 7-0 and 8-1 on the season, while the Tigers dropped to 2-7, 0-6 in GSC play.

The Statesmen didn’t look like the team that was leading the Gulf South Conference in rushing defense during the first half of the game versus the Tigers option attack , allowing 101 yards on the ground in the period.

The Tigers took an early 3-0 lead, taking advantage of a short field after Jermaine McRoy fumbled a J.D. Wu punt. The defense held again, forcing West Alabama to settle for a 22-yard field goal by Mitch Warfield with 10:34 left in the first quarter.

The Tigers added six more points less than four minutes later when Terry Allen kept the ball and ran around the outside for a one-yard touchdown. Warfield missed the extra point, and with 6:55 left in the first quarter, the Tigers led 9-0.

The two defenses played solid, allowing no more points until the Statesmen finally broke the ice with a 32-yard field goal by Trey Adams. The Statesmen defense made a goal line stand on fourth-and-one, as Robert Watts stopped Allen on the sweep to hold the Tigers at just nine points late in the second.

The Statesmen were hurt by penalties and mistakes, having a touchdown called back because of a holding call. Several other Statesmen penalties resulted in Tiger first downs. In all, the Statesmen finished the period with eight penalties for 124 yards, while the Tigers committed just two for 30 yards.

The Statesmen out-gained the Tigers 179-107 in the first half.

The Statesmen began the second half sluggish, as well. Dedrick Wilson threw an interception on the opening drive, giving the Tigers the ball near midfield. The Statesmen defense again answered the call and forced the Tigers to punt.

The Statesmen offense drove down the field, and after a first-and-23, two key runs by Garrett Dewitt set up third-and-10. Dewitt found Eric Marshall in the end zone from the 17 yard line. Adams kick was good, and with 6:28 left in the third quarter, the Statesmen led 10-9.

On their next possession, Dewitt drove the Statesmen down the field, but a near interception in the end zone on second down nearly sent the offense back to the sideline scoreless yet again. On fourth-and-three, Roberts decided to play it safe and sent the field goal unit in. Adams split the uprights with a 24-yard kick to give the Statesmen a 13-9 lead with less than a minute left in the third quarter.

After the Statesmen forced the Tigers to punt, allowing just one first down on the drive, the Tiger defense returned the favor. Adams’ 33-yard field goal attempt was block by West Alabama’s defensive front with just over 11 minutes left in the game.

After Jahmada Hubbard recovered the muffed punt for the Statesmen at the DSU 27, Chad Schroeder ran 43 yards to the Tiger’s 30, and Ben Stallings added a 25-yard run to give the Statesmen first-and-goal at the five yard line. Two plays later, on third-and-goal from the 12, Schroeder threw a pass to Marshall in the end zone for the touchdown. Adams’ kick was good, and with just over six minutes remaining in the game, the Statesmen led 20-9.

Jamarcus Wiggins ended the Tiger’s hopes on their next drive with an interception on third-and long at the DSU 36 yard line with a little less than four minutes remaining in the game. The Statesmen were attempting to run the clock out, but on fourth-and-one, Lardester Hicks ran in from 44 yards out, only to have the touchdown called back because of a holding call. On the punt, the Tigers fumbled the ball and the Statesmen recovered, setting up first-and-10 on the West Alabama 23 with 1:10 left on the clock. Two plays later, the game was over and the Statesmen were victorious.

The Statesmen finished with 470 yards of total offense, 231 rushing yards on 47 carries and 239 through the air. The defense held the Tigers to just 158 total yards, 143 rushing and 15 passing.

Schroeder has six catches for 41 yards, nine rushes for 71 yards, and threw a 12-yard touchdown pass. Jeremy Ricks had five catches for 112 yards and had five returns for 77 yards. Dewitt came off the bench and completed 10-of-16 passes for 157 yards and a touchdown.

Michael Eubanks led the defense with 11 tackles, 2.5 for loss and half a sack, and Wiggins had five tackles and his fifth interception of the season.

The Statesmen will close out the regular season Saturday, Nov. 10 against the Boll Weevils of Arkansas-Monticello in Monticello, Ark. at 6:00 p.m.

October 30, 2007

No. 9 STATESMEN TO FACE TIGERS SATURDAY

• Week Nine Game Notes

CLEVELAND - The No. 9 Statesmen roll into Livingston, Ala. Saturday to take on the Tigers of the University of West Alabama. The Statesmen (7-1, 6-0 Gulf South Conference) have a 29-19-3 lead in the all-time series, and haven’t lost to the Tigers (1-7, 0-6 GSC) since 2002, but legendary head coach Bobby Wallace knows what it takes to win a title, and how to stop a title run.
           
The second-year West Alabama head coach won three national championships at the University of North Alabama, and will have his team motivated when the Tigers and Statesmen line up on the gridiron.
           
West Alabama runs a dangerous triple-option attack on offense, led by quarterback Terry Allen. The freshman has carried the ball 62 times for 325 yards and three touchdowns, thrown for 104 yards while completing 8-of-17 passes, and has caught 15 passes for 150 yards and a touchdown. He has also returned 33 kicks for 812 yards, including a 100-yard touchdown.
           
“He (Allen) is faster than a hiccup, lightning in a bottle,” said head coach Ron Roberts. “He is a talented athlete, and they run the option very well. It is assignment football, something we feel we do a good job of, but if he gets around the corner, no one is going to catch him.”
           
Cole Mason is usually the man the Tigers give the ball to when Allen doesn’t keep it. The junior has 140 carries for 687 yards and nine touchdowns for a rushing offense that is averaging 222.8 yards per game with 18 rushing touchdowns.
           
The Statesmen bring into the match-up the GSG’s top-ranked rushing defense, allowing just 60.9 yards per game. The Statesmen are allowing just 14.6 points per game on 240.1 yards of total offense. Senior linebacker Michael Eubanks leads the defense with 57 total tackles, 14.5 for loss, 5.5 sacks and 11 quarterback hurries, all team highs.
           
Michael Lewis is also having a stellar senior season on the defensive line, with 12.5 tackles for loss and 4.5 sacks. Lewis ranks second on the team in both categories. Jamarcus Wiggins leads the secondary with 37 tackles and a team-high four interceptions.
           
The Statesmen also bring the league’s second best statistical rushing offense, averaging 236.5 yards per game. Quarterback Dedrick Wilson leads the team with 666 yards and nine touchdowns on 127 carries, averaging 83.2 yards per game. He is also 76-of-158 passing for 1,026 yards and six touchdowns, but has thrown 11 interceptions.
           
Sophomore quarterback Garrett Dewitt stepped up in Brett Hyatt’s absence, completing 6-of-13 passes for 175 yards and two touchdowns, with one interception against West Georgia.
           
Jeremy Ricks leads the Statesmen receiving corps with 39 catches for 489 yards and five touchdowns, and has carried the ball 25 times for 169 yards and two touchdowns. Chad Schroeder has 38 catches for 474 yards and a touchdown, and has rushed 31 times for 156 yards and two touchdowns.
           
The West Alabama defense is allowing 32.5 points per game on 406.6 yards per game. Linebacker Tariq Ali and defensive tackle Alvin Garrett lead the Tigers. Ali has a team-high 63 tackles, 5.0 for loss, and two interceptions. Garrett has 60 tackles, 3.0 for loss, one sack, and a fumble recovery. Defensive end Jacobi Avery has a team-high 10.5 tackles for loss, and has two sacks. He also has an interception, a forced fumble, and a blocked kick.

            Kickoff is scheduled for 4:00 p.m. at Tiger Stadium in Livin

29 October 2007

DELTA STATE RANKED NO.1 IN NCAA SOUTHEAST REGION

CLEVELAND – The Statesmen (7-1, 6-0 GSC) of Delta State University climbed to the top spot in the Southeast Regional Poll with a 41-9 victory over West Georgia Saturday. DSU held down No. 2 last week, but benefited from former No.1 North Alabama’s 27-24 loss at Valdosta State.  Monday’s ranking marks the second time this season Delta State has been ranked No. 1 in the region.

The newest poll, released Oct. 29, has Valdosta State (7-1) at No. 2 after Saturday’s win with North Alabama (7-1) sliding to No. 3. Catawba (8-1), Carson-Newman (8-1), and Fort Valley State (7-1) round out the top-six, while No. 7 Newberry (7-2), No. 8 Virginia Union (8-1), No. 9 Albany State (7-2), and No. 10 Morehouse (6-3) are still fighting for one of the six playoff spots.

The Statesmen travel to West Alabama on Saturday to face the Tigers.  Kickoff is set for 4 p.m. at Tiger Stadium.

27 October 2007

Statesmen still perfect in league play, handily defeat West Georgia 41-9

• Box Score: Statesmen 41 - Wolves 9

CLEVELAND—Just hours after learning of Gulf South Conference rival North Alabama’s 24-27 defeat to Valdosta State University, No. 10 Delta State University (AFCA) looked poised to make the most of the news.

More importantly, the Statesmen seemed ready to take sole control atop the league standings, as senior Jeremy Ricks, in his last regular season home game, took Saturday’s opening kick-off back 92 yards to put Delta State ahead 7-0 against visiting West Georgia with just :12 seconds elapsed from the game clock.

It would not be Ricks’ only score of the night, nor Delta State’s, as the Statesmen handily defeated West Georgia 41-9 to stay unblemished in GSC action, 6-0, climbing to 7-1 overall. The Wolves fell to 2-7 on the year, 1-6 in the conference.

The Wolves only touchdown of the contest came early in the first quarter after an errant Dedrick Wilson pass set up West Georgia. Aided by the favorable field position, Ryan Poole connected with wide-out Daniel Johnson from 23 yards out. West Georgia’s point-after-attempt would be blocked, leaving the Wolves trailing, 6-7.

With :55 seconds left in the first quarter of play, West Georgia junior kicker, Jared Guberman split the uprights to register his 13 th successful attempt of the 2007 season, staying perfect at 13-of-13. The score put the Wolves’ ahead 9-7.

Plagued by five turnovers in the first half, the Statesmen seemed doomed to trail at the intermission break. That was until Ricks again decided to shoulder Delta State’s offensive load, scampering 66 yards to pay dirt on a broken play. Statesmen quarterback Garrett Dewitt had wound up, intending to connect with wide-out Chad Schroeder. A West Georgia floating free safety had thoughts of a sixth Delta State turnover, but instead inadvertently tipped the football to a fortunate and well-placed Ricks.

Trey Adams connected on the point-after-attempt to send Delta State to the intermission break with the 14-9 lead, much to the delight of the packed Homecoming crowd.

The Statesmen returned from the locker rooms at the break, intent on correcting the miscues from a sloppy first 30 minutes of football. Quarterback Dedrick Wilson repented for his sluggish and intercept-plagued first half, as the junior signal caller hustled to the end zone on two unanswered third quarter scores.

Wilson finished the contest with 145 yards rushing on the night to lead the Statesmen offense. He would convert on 9-of-17 passing for 106 yards with two interceptions.

Ricks found the end zone for the third time at the start of the fourth quarter, muscling in from six yards out, completing a six-play, 47 yard scoring drive.

With his tri-fecta scoring effort on the afternoon, the senior wide receiver from Hollandale has now crossed the pylons nine times in this, his final campaign with the Green and White. The effort also marks the fourth time in his career Ricks has scored three TDs in a game. For his career, he has tallied 182 points of offense – a mark that ranks him third in Delta State history books.

The Statesmen capped their scoring efforts, as Eric Marshall hauled in a 50-yard touchdown pass from Garrett Dewitt.

On the defensive side of the ball, Michael Eubanks led the ledgers with eight tackles (three solo, five assisted). Lardester Hicks had six tackles on the night (three solo, three assisted). Dominic Spinks, Jamarcus Wiggins and Robert Watts, all, added an interception to their respective season statistics.

Delta State will return to road next week, having had concluded the home-portion of its schedule today. The Statesmen will match-up with West Alabama at Tigers Stadium, Saturday, Nov. 3 at 4 p.m.

October 24, 2007

STATESMEN TO HOST WOLVES FOR HOMECOMING
By Travis Chamblee, Football Contact

• Game Notes: Week 8 - West Georgia

CLEVELAND - The Statesmen will look to get back to their winning ways Saturday, as they welcome the Wolves of West Georgia to Travis Parker Field at Horace McCool Stadium for Homecoming.
           
After a 27-17 non-conference loss at North Alabama, the Statesmen (6-1, 5-0 Gulf South Conference) are still on track to win at least a share of the Gulf South Conference Championship.
           
First, they must battle the Wolves (2-6, 1-4 GSC) and stellar quarterback Ryan Poole. The senior is 122-of-196 passing for 1,341 yards and 10 touchdowns, while throwing just three interceptions.
           
Jimmy Howard highlights a solid receiving corps for the Wolves, with 37 catches for 684 yards and nine touchdowns. Patrick Higgins is second on the team with 32 catches for 413 yards and a touchdown. Eight different receivers have caught a touchdown pass, and four receivers have at least 30 catches.
           
James Kennebrew leads the West Georgia rushing attack with 252 yards and three touchdowns on 74 carries. The Wolves have just two other running backs with more than 90 yards on the season, in Joey Harris, 142 yards on 32 carries, and Yusuf Holloway, 94 yards on 42 carries, but Kennebrew’s three touchdowns are the only rushing touchdowns by a running back. West Georgia quarterbacks have combined for the Wolves’ other four touchdowns.

Across from the West Georgia offense, will be Michael Eubanks and the third-ranked offense in the GSC. The Statesmen are allowing just 15.4 points per game on 247.9 yards of total offense. Eubanks leads the team with 49 tackles, 12.0 for loss, and 4.5 sacks, all team highs.
           
Jamarcus Wiggins leads the Statesmen secondary with three interceptions, including a game-saver in the end zone at Valdosta State. He has returned one for a touchdown, and has also blocked two crucial field goals. His 38 tackles are second on the team.
           
Dedrick Wilson will have to carry more of the load for the Statesmen offense this week, as Brett Hyatt is out with a hand injury. Wilson leads the Statesmen rushers with 111 carries for 521 yards and seven touchdowns. He is 67-of-141 passing for 920 yards and six touchdowns, but has been intercepted nine times.
           
Backing up Wilson in Hyatt’s absence will be Zak Mikel. The redshirt freshman has seen limited action at quarterback this season, completing 1-of-4 passes for 25 yards. He has been successful running the option, keeping eight times for 29 yards.
           
Jeremy Ricks continues to add to his career numbers, catching 36 passes for 415 yards and four touchdowns this season. Chad Schroeder and Eric Marshall continue to play crucial roles in the Statesmen offense. Schroeder has 33 catches for 400 yards and a touchdown, and has rushed 26 times for 109 yards and two touchdowns. Marshall has 16 catches, many which kept crucial scoring drives going, for 366 yards and two touchdowns.
           
Ben Stallings has been the go-to guy in the rushing game lately, with 39 carries 150 yards and a touchdown.
           
The West Georgia defense is allowing 40.1 points on 456.9 yards of total offense. Ray Mitchell leads the team with 65 tackles, and has a sack. He also has one of two interceptions by the Wolves. Michael Reardon has 42 tackles and has a team-high three sacks.
           
The Statesmen have a 13-7 overall lead in the series, and haven’t lost to the Wolves since 1999, winning the last three. West Georgia hasn’t beaten the Statesmen in Cleveland since 1997.
           
Kickoff is scheduled for 4:00 p.m. at Travis Parker Field at Horace McCool Stadium. The Statesmen will be celebrating Homecoming. DSU is 46-26-1 all-time in Homecoming games.

22 October 2007

STATESMEN FALL ONE SPOT IN NCAA SOUTHEAST RANKINGS
By Jim Ervin, Assistant to Media Relations

• Complete NCAA Region Rankings

CLEVELAND – The Delta State University football team slipped one spot this week to No. 2 in the NCAA Southeast Region rankings, as released on Monday.  The Statesmen (6-1, 5-1 Gulf South Conference) suffered their first loss of the season to the region’s new top-ranked and last remaining undefeated team, North Alabama 28-17 last Thursday. 

“We’re pleased to be ranked No. 2 this week,” said DSU head coach Ron Roberts.  “I believe our success on the field speaks for itself, but we still have a lot of football to play.” 

Holding down the No. 3 spot is Valdosta State (6-1), followed by Catawba (7-1) at No. 4 and Carson-Newman (7-1) at No. 5.  Virginia Union (7-1) is No. 6, while Fort Valley State (7-2) is currently on the outside looking in at No. 7.  Rounding out the top 10 is Morehouse (6-2) at No. 8, Newberry (6-2) at No. 9 and Albany State (6-2).  Wingate (6-2) and Lane College (6-1) closed out the rankings.

The Statesmen return to Parker Field at Horace McCool Stadium this Saturday for Homecoming versus the Wolves from the University of West Georgia.  Kickoff is scheduled for 4 p.m.

17 October 2008

No. 5 STATESMEN LOOK TO TAKE ROAR OUT OF No. 2 LIONS; THURSDAY'S GAME TO BE TELEVISED BY GSC
By Travis Chamblee, Football Contact

• DSU Game Notes

CLEVELAND - The No. 5 Statesmen travel to Florence, Ala. Thursday night for their third appearance on the GSC-TV Live Game of the Week. After a 35-31 comeback win at Valdosta State last Thursday, the test doesn’t get any easier as Delta State takes on the No. 2 Lions of North Alabama.
           
“Facing two opponents of this caliber back to back puts a lot on our plate,” head coach Ron Roberts said. “Valdosta and North Alabama are two of the top programs in the country.”
           
The Lions boast the Gulf South Conference’s top scoring offense, averaging 40.2 points per game behind the leadership of junior quarterback A.J. Milwee. The Lions’ signal-caller is 109-of-168 passing for 1410 yards and 12 touchdowns, while throwing just three interceptions. Milwee also has the ability to scramble out of trouble, rushing for 77 yards on 39 carries with two touchdowns.
           
“He is a talented athlete. He has a very strong arm and doesn’t make many mistakes,” Roberts said. “He uses his legs very well to get out of trouble. We have to step up to the plate and make plays.”
           
Behind a solid offensive line, Lion quarterbacks have only been sacked six times for a loss of 65 yards all season.
           
Milwee has plenty of targets to throw the ball to, completing passes to 16 different receivers this season. His favorite target, however, is 6-foot-1 senior Joemal Campbell, who has 29 catches for 410 yards and a touchdown. Senior Reggie Hubbard has 21 catches for 290 yards and four touchdowns. Both Hubbard and Campbell have burnt opposing defenders for big gains. Campbell’s longest catch is 75 yards, while Hubbard has a long of 78. 
           
The Lions also have a ton of talent in the running game. David McCants, Brandenn Picket and Tim Hicks have combined for 15 rushing touchdowns, tops in the GSC. McCants leads the team with 58 carries for 289 yards and four touchdowns, while Picket has 39 carries for 289 yards and three touchdowns. Hicks has 40 carries for 221 yards and five touchdowns.
           
The Statesmen enter the match-up as the No. 1 ranked scoring defense and rushing defense in the GSC, with 13.3 points per game and 72.2 rushing yards per game. Led by senior linebacker Michael Eubanks, the Statesmen continue to give opposing offenses fits, allowing just 240.2 yards of total offense per contest. The career GSC leader in both sacks and tackles for loss, Eubanks has 46 tackles on the season, 12.0 for a loss of 59 yards, 4.5 sacks for a loss of 34 yards, eight hurries, two forced fumbles and two fumble recoveries.
           
Jamarcus Wiggins leads the Statesmen secondary with 28 tackles and three interceptions, including a game-saver in the end zone against Valdosta State in the final minute. Wiggins has also blocked two kicks and recovered a fumble.
           
Quarterback Dedrick Wilson has the Statesmen rushing attack at the top of the GSC. Wilson has 406 yards and six touchdowns on 91 carries, an average of 67.7 yards per game. The Statesmen as a team average 225.3 yards per contest and have carried the ball across the goal line 12 times. Ken Cox has 244 yards and a touchdown on 36 carries, and Ben Stallings has 38 carries for 148 yards and a touchdown.
           
Wilson is 53-of-114 for 723 yards through the air with five touchdowns. Jeremy Ricks continues to establish himself as the go-to guy, with 32 catches for 375 yards and four touchdowns. His 22 career receiving touchdowns have him just eight away from establishing a new record at Delta State.
           
Chad Schroeder and Eric Marshall may not have flashy numbers, but the catches they have made over the course of the season have been just as big as any touchdown. Schroeder has 23 catches for 312 yards and a touchdown, and has rushed 23 times for 97 yards and two scores, while Marshall has 13 carries for 299 yards and two touchdowns. The two have countless catches which have kept crucial drives going for the Statesmen this season.
           
The Lions have the GSC’s second-ranked rushing defense, allowing just 118.3 yards per game. Craig Fox leads the defense with 37 tackles, three for loss, one interception, and a fumble recovery, which he returned 99 yards for a touchdown. Anton Bowen and Bobby Brooks make the UNA secondary one of the best in the GSC. Bowen has three interceptions and two breakups, and Bowen has two interceptions and two breakups. The Lions as a unit have 11 interceptions on the season.
           
While the Thursday night match-up doesn’t have any bearing on the Gulf South Conference Championship, it does have huge implications on the playoff scenarios. The Statesmen are currently ranked at the top of the Southeast Region, while North Alabama is ranked third, with a match-up against No. 2 Valdosta State yet to come.
           
The Statesmen eliminated the Lions from the playoffs in the 2006 Southeast Regional Championship, 27-10 in Florence. The Lions lead the overall series 20-25-1.
           
Kickoff is set for 7:00 p.m. Thursday night at Braly Municipal Stadium.

16 October 2007

STATESMEN CLIMB TO NO. 5 IN AFCA AND D2FB.COM RANKINGS; FB GAZETTE PLACES STATESMEN NO.6

• D2Football.com Top 25 Poll
• AFCA Top 25 Rankings
• Football Gazette Poll

CLEVELAND - The Statesmen (6-0, 5-0 Gulf South Conference) of Delta State University received a nice bump in the national rankings on Tuesday thanks to their 35-31 come-from-behind victory over previously-No.5 Valdosta State on Thursday. DSU will enter Thursday game at North Alabama ranked No. 5 in both the D2Football.com and American Football Coaches Association polls.

"I was pleased to see the bump in the rankings," said head coach Ron Roberts. "We have another major test this Thursday and I know the nation will be watching. UNA is a proven, tested winner and we will have our hands full."

DSU held down the No. 7 ranking in D2football.com's poll last week, while being ranked No. 8 in the AFCA poll. Thursday's opponent, North Alabama (6-0, 5-0 GSC), is ranked No.2 in all three polls.

The Statesmen and Lions will be featured on the GSC-TV Live Game of the Week this Thursday at Braly Municipal Stadium in Florence, Ala. CSS-Sports and Cox Sports Southeast will broadcast the game starting at 7:05 p.m.

15 October 2007

STATESMEN RANKED NO.1 IN NCAA SOUTHEAST REGION RANKINGS

• Complete NCAA Region Rankings

CLEVELAND – The Delta State University football team took over the top spot in the latest NCAA Southeast Region rankings, as released on Monday.  The Statesmen (6-0, 5-0 Gulf South Conference) remained undefeated with a thrilling 35-31 come-from-behind victory over Valdosta State this past Thursday in Valdosta, Ga.  Monday’s announcement marks the first time since 2001 that DSU had held down the region’s top spot.

“We’re excited to be ranked No. 1 in the region, but we have four difficult games remaining on our schedule,” said head coach Ron Roberts.  “The opportunity to make the playoffs and host is directly in front of our team, all we have to do is take care of business over the next four weeks.”

Despite losing to the Statesmen, Valdosta State (6-1) fell just one spot to No. 2 in this week’s poll.  North Alabama (6-0) remained No. 3 followed by Catawba (7-0) and Carson-Newman (6-1) in the top five.  Wingate (6-1) was No. 6 followed by Virginia Union (6-1), Albany State (6-1), Fort Valley State (6-1), and Morehouse (6-1) in the top 10.  Newberry (5-2) and Lane College (5-1) rounded out the rankings. 

The Statesmen will face No. 3 North Alabama on Thursday at Braly Municipal Stadium in Florence, Ala. in the GSC-TV Live Game of the Week.  WHCQ-TV9 will air the game locally in Cleveland.  Kickoff is slated for 7:05 p.m.        

15 October 2007

RICKS NAMED GULF SOUTH CONFERENCE SPECIAL TEAMS PLAYER OF THE WEEK

CLEVELAND – Delta State University senior wide receiver Jeremy Ricks has been named the Gulf South Conference Special Teams Player of the Week following Delta State’s come-from-behind victory over Valdosta State, 35-31, on Thursday.  Ricks’ selection marks the fourth overall award for the Statesmen’s football program this season and the second for a special teams performer. 

Ricks accounted for 240 all-purpose yards and three touchdowns against the Blazers.  The Hollandale native rolled up 121 total return yards on three kickoff returns with a touchdown.  The Statesmen trailed VSU, 31-7, with 6:38 left in the third quarter, but the Statesmen reeled off 28 unanswered points sparked by Ricks 85-yard kickoff return for a TD. 

Ricks and the Statesmen will travel to North Alabama on Thursday for a GSC showdown with the No. 3 Lions.  Game time is set for 7:05 p.m. and the game will be televised by CSS-Sports and Cox Sports Southeast.  

 

October 11, 2007

Statesmen erase 24-0 deficit to extinguish Blazers 35-31

By Travis Chamblee, Football Contact

VALDOSTA , Ga. – The No. 7 Delta State University Statesmen overcame every possible obstacle, as they fought back and defeated the No. 5 Blazers of Valdosta State University 35-31, despite trailing 17-0 at halftime

While the defense gave up only one touchdown in the first half, a six-yard touchdown pass from Willie Copeland to Zach Parker with 11:55 left in the second quarter, the offense couldn’t find any momentum,