Delta Devils' goal: to be competitive

PHOTO: MVSU's Oliver Hughes is brought down by Jackson State's Tim Dandridge.

ITTA BENA – Before coming here, Karl Morgan says patience was not one of his strong points.
But after an 0-4 start and being outscored 148-22, the Mississippi Valley State coach said “it’s becoming a strong trait” of his.
“That’s why I didn’t come in saying (winning) will happen overnight,” said Morgan, whose team has scored two touchdowns this season. “…I don’t know when it’s going to happen, but I know it will happen.”
Valley’s next chance get their first victory will be Saturday during their homecoming when they face the defending SWAC champion Prairie View A&M Panthers at 2 p.m. It will mark their first “home” game, which will be played 45 miles away at Greenville-Weston High because renovations must be made to Rice-Totten Stadium.
“We want to go anywhere we’re welcome – and Greenville has put out the welcome mat,” Morgan said.
The question asked even more than when will the stadium be renovated is when will the Delta Devils compete with the best of the SWAC?
Besides their 27-9 loss to Alcorn State, Morgan admits that the other three games “weren’t close.”
Morgan said that he didn’t predict a specific number of victories before the season began. But has the team, so far, measured up to his overall expectations?
“No we haven’t – we haven’t come close. Wins and losses, I didn’t put any number on that,” he said. “..We haven’t been real competitive. And I think that’s still a goal that we’re trying to get to.”
There have, however, been several positives worth pointing out. Quarterback Oliver Hughes, who took over the starting position after Alabama native Carl Davis broke his ankle against South Carolina State, has started to catch on. And last week in their loss to Jackson State, receiver Paul Cox had 130 receiving yards and a touchdown – earning him the team’s Offensive Player of the Week honors.
“Each week we’re getting a whole lot better, but its one or two things that are stopping us from being a better team….so we’re trying to correct that,” said Hughes, a Holmes Community College transfer.
Hughes accounted for 171 total yards last week, including 35 yards on the ground. He went 5-of-19 through the air with a touchdown and an interception.
“(Hughes) is getting there. He’s a lot better than he was two weeks ago,” said Morgan. “...I think there’s some positive things happening with him.”
Last week at Jackson State, the Delta Devils had to deal with one of the SWAC’s best newcomers, quarterback Casey Therriault. This week, it doesn’t get any easier as they face Prairie View’s K.J. Black.
The Panthers (1-3, 1-2 SWAC) haven’t lived up the hype, but Morgan said that’s probably because of an injury to Black earlier in the season. With him back, he’s preparing for a well-groomed offense.
“They’re still the defending champions,” said Morgan, “and they’re going to come in with the mindset of winning the seven games they have left.”
Valley’s struggles over the years have brought about questions whether they should consider the move to Division II.
Morgan’s response?
“I think all the coaches here in different sports committed to staying at (Division I) and being successful,” he said.
With the majority of Greenville hotels booked for the weekend, it looks as if the Delta Devils will have a big crowd to cheer them on for the first time this season.
And knowing the crowd is on your side can sometimes play a huge role, said Hughes.
“If you go to somebody’s else’s house, it’s way louder. And you might have some of your fans there, but all of their fans are there,” he said. “It’s a different environment. But it’s just the noise level. We just have to go out there and do our job.”
And as for playing their “home” games at Greenville-Weston?
“We’re going to try to make it as much like home as we can,” said Hughes.

Greenville hotels fill up for MVSU homecoming

GREENVILLE — The upcoming matchup between Mississippi Valley State and Prairie View A&M in Greenville will likely have a positive economic impact on the Delta.
And area hotels are proof.
Of five of Greenville's largest hotels, three of them have sold out of rooms for this upcoming weekend. Days Inn, Holiday Inn Express, and Comfort Inn have booked all their available guest rooms for Friday and Saturday.
An employee at Days Inn said they could not release official numbers, but a “few rooms are available.”
An employee at the Econo Lodge said that they haven’t seen a significant jump in guests, but it could happen in the “next couple days.”
Comfort Inn and Hampton Inn employees stated that it's not unusual for their hotel to sell out, even if there wasn’t a big event in town.
However, at the Holiday Inn Express, it's directly related to MVSU and Prairie View, said an employee.
“As far as we know, it's directly related to (MVSU) Homecoming,” she said.
MVSU homecoming events in Greenville are slated to kick off Thursday with “MVSU Day in Washington County” at the Washington County Convention Center from 9 a.m. to noon. Admission is free.
There will be a golf tournament at 8 a.m. Friday at the Greenville Municipal Course. There will also be a scholarship banquet, green tea social and a block party taking place Friday.
The MVSU homecoming parade will be at 9:30 a.m. Saturday on Washington Avenue.

DTC Power Poll

1. Charleston (5-1)
Beat Ray Brooks 54-0
2. Leflore Co. (4-1)
Beat McClain 56-16
3. Clarksdale (3-2)
Beat Saltillo 56-13
4. West Bolivar (4-2)
Beat Leland 21-6
5. Eastside (5-1)
Beat Greenwood 30-20
6. Greenwood (5-1)
Lost to East Side 30-20
7. Greenville Weston (3-2)
Beat Murrah 18-6
8. Leland (4-2)
Lost to West Bolivar 21-6

Roundup: GWHS improves to 3-2

JACKSON — The Greenville-Weston football team won three games all last season. After a 18-6 win Friday night over Murrah, the Hornets have equaled that marked, improving to 3-2 on the season.
For the second time this season, GWHS running back Donald Jackson ran for over 100 yards. The junior ran for 158 yards and two touchdowns to help the Hornets secure a district victory. GWHS is now 1-0 in their district, tied with Madison Central, Northwest Rankin and Grenada, who defeated Vicksburg Friday night.
A 65-yard kickoff return by Donnell Corbin set up Greenville's other touchdown — Juwan Brady returned a fumble for a 10-yard score.
GWHS returns home Friday night — after three road trips — when they face district foe Warren Central.

West Bolivar 21, Leland 6
ROSEDALE — After winning their first four games and springing to the top of the Delta Touchdown Club Power Poll, the Leland Cubs have lost two straight games. Their latest loss came Friday night after falling to West Bolivar 21-6. The Cubs are now 4-2 on the season.
Washington 49, Lee Aca. 13
CLARKSDALE — After falling short in their first three games of the season, it seems the Washington School Generals have found the spark they were searching for. Washington (3-3) used 42 first half points — including 28 in the second quarter — to crush Lee Academy Friday night 49-13.
The Generals used two kick return touchdowns — an 88-yarder by Andrew Steinle and a 90-yarder by Dylan Elkins — to take some of the pressure off the offense.
However, Washington's offensive weapons, especially running back Ryan Gober, were in working order. Gober had two touchdowns on the night (5, 50 yards).
Washington's other touchdowns came from a 11-yard pass from Eric Brozovich to Hayden Lewis, a 2-yard run by Read Kelly and a 10-yard scamper by Lea Turner.
Washington will travel to Starkville Academy Friday night. SA broke their 20-game losing streak Friday night after beating Winston Academy 31-29.

West Point 34, Gentry 8
Ruleville 19, O’Bannon 6
Desoto 32, Deer Creek 0
GCS 28, Lee, Ark. 21
Montgomery 62, St. Joe 34
Indianola 41, W. Memphis 6

Simmons raids Riverside, 50-18

AVON — In an earlier interview, Simmons High football coach Carlos Thompson said it was unusual for the Blue Devils to sustain two losses early in the season.
In their last game before district play Friday night, Simmons players made sure they wouldn’t get a third one.
Thanks to 327 passing yards and five touchdowns from quarterback Debrille Grant, Simmons (4-2) showed why beating the Blue Devils is a tough task after defeating county rival Riverside 50-18.
“A win is always good, because it builds momentum going into your next game,” said Thompson.
The final score, however, can be a little misleading, as the Riverside Bulldogs (2-3) stuck close to the Blue Devils until late in the game. Riverside even cut the lead to 36-18 in the third quarter after a 30-yard touchdown scamper by Marquel Richardson.
But that would prove to be Riverside’s final touchdown, as Simmons pulled away by scoring once in third quarter and again in the fourth.
Both teams lost several fumbles, and Riverside had a couple chances to turn the tide but they just couldn’t get over the hump.
“The kids fought hard. They fought till the end,” said RHS coach Warren West. “But we gave up two or three touchdown passes....We’re not a good enough team to give away two or three touchdowns, especially to a team like Simmons.”
RHS was, however, the first to put points on the board, after Lorenzo Johnson returned the game-opening kickoff 91 yards for a touchdown.
However, Simmons senior receiver Miekell Gray, who had three catches for 125 yards and three touchdowns on the night, answered quickly with a 59-yard touchdown reception from Grant.
Following a Simmons fumble and a couple Riverside punts, Fredy Cosey gave Simmons six more points after catching a 61-yard bomb from Grant. Damian Samuels converted the two-point conversion to give the Blue Devils a 14-6 lead in the first quarter.
It would be midway through the second quarter before Gray struck again when he caught a 51-yard touchdown reception on the first play from scrimmage.
RHS then cut it to an 8-point lead, 20-12, with less than a minute remaining in the fourth quarter after Johnson ran in a touchdown from two yards out.
Less than 30 seconds, however, was enough for Grey to strike for the third time in the first half. After a 32-yard catch by Archie Dennard, Grey caught a 17-yard pass to widen the lead. Roderick Richardson converted the 2-point conversion to send the Bulldogs into the locker room down 28-12.
Thompson said he was proud of Gray’s performance.
“He didn’t do anything to hurt us. He really stepped up tonight,” he said.
If the first half belonged to Gray, the second half was all Cosey’s. The shifty receiver/running back had two rushing touchdowns (20, 21 yards) in the second half to extend the lead. Rashuun Alexander also caught a 15-yard touchdown.
Marquel Richardson scored Riverside’s final touchdown in the third quarter when he ran in from 30 yards out.
Despite the 50 points on the scoreboard, Thompson said his team still needs to improve in certain areas, but “a pretty win is better than a ugly loss.”
Simmons will be at home this Friday hosting West Tallahatchie. Meanwhile, Riverside will host Marshall. Both games will kickoff at 7 p.m.

MVSU homecoming schedule

Mississippi Valley State's homecoming game against Prairie View A&M Saturday, Oct. 2, Greenville-Weston High is scheduled to kickoff at 2 p.m. But before that, there will be a slew of activities for fans and Delta residents to participate in. Here it goes:

Thursday, Sept. 30
MVSU Day in Washington County
*Meet and greet the Valley family.
Where: Washington County Convention Center, 1040 Raceway Road, Greenville
Time: 9 a.m. - noon
Free admission

Friday, Oct. 1
MVSU Golf Tournament
Where: Greenville Municipal Golf Course, 465 Base Golf Road (near the airport)
Time: 8 a.m.
For registration call Gloria Turner at 662-254-3790

11th Annual Douglas T. Porter Athletic Scholarship Fund Banquet
Where: Washington County Convention Center
Time: 7 p.m.
Tickets: $50
Call 662-378-1502 for more information

Green Tea
*A tribute to president of MVSU, Dr. Donna Oliver....Wear your fancy hat
Where: Posecai's Restaurant, 1443 Trailwood Drive, Greenville
Time: 10:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.
Tickets: $25
Call 662-378-1502 for more information

Saturday, Oct. 2
King of the Grill Tailgate Challenge
Where: Greenville-Weston High, 419 Robertshaw Street
Time: 5 a.m.
For registration, call Gloria Turner at 254-3790

MVSU Homecoming Parade
Where: Downtown Greenville, Washington Avenue
Time: 9:30 a.m.

MVSU vs. Prairie View
Time: 2 p.m.
Tickets: $20

NPHC Greek Show / Comedy Show
*Hosted by Benji Brown
Where: Washington County Convention Center
Time: 8 p.m.
Tickets: $7 for children in advance, $10 MVSU students in advance, $15 non-students in advance, $20 for all at door.

Official Green and White After Party
Where: Washington County Convention Center
Time: 10 p.m.
Price: Same as the ticket prices for Greek show

Walnut Street Block Party
Time: 8 p.m. - until

Concert: J. Blackfoot & Billy Bonds
Where: Harlow's Casino Resort Hotel
Time: Doors open at 8 p.m., show kicks off at 9 p.m.
Tickets: $20 ($15 with Delta Rewards card)
For tickets call 866-524-5825

JUCO roundup: MDCC falls to Hinds in OT

The Mississippi Delta Community College Trojans fell in overtime to Hinds Community College Thursday night 37-31.
Hollandale native Jamarious Lyons blocked a potential game-winning field goal to send the game into overtime. However, a fumble by Delta quarterback Channing Martin led to a game-winning Hinds touchdown.
Jarvis Smith led MDCC with 122 yards on 10 carries, while James Ball posted 73 yards on seven attempts. Jeffrey Perkins had 54 yards on 15 attempts.
Martin went 14-of-26 for 126 yards and two touchdowns.
MDCC now sits at 0-4 overall and 0-2 in their division. Hinds moves to 3-1 overall and 0-1 in their division.
MDCC will be at home next Thursday against Itawamaba Community College.

Northwest 37, Coahoma 7

SENATOBIA – On their home turf here Thursday night, the Northwest Rangers dominated Coahoma 37-7, spoiled CCC’s run of two consecutive victories, and took sweet revenge over their heartbreaking loss to the Tigers in 2009.
Plagued by turnovers and costly penalties, the Tiger offense sputtered off- balance while Northwest’s stable of running backs appeared indestructible.
Quarterback Jazy Parker rushed for Coahoma’s only touchdown on the night.
Coahoma has a 2-2 record, and Northwest, nationally ranked at No. 10: 4-0.
Coahoma plays East Mississippi at home Thursday, Sept. 30.

Gulf Coast 51, Southwest 31
Pearl River 44, East Central 13
Northeast 35, Holmes 20
Copiah-Lincoln 20, Jones County 14
East Mississippi 37, Itawamaba 10

Davis progressing for DSU; MVSU has tough road ahead

GREENVILLE — The tone of the rivalry between Delta State and Henderson State transformed from “disparaging comments” to punches three years ago after a brawl between the two teams, that resulted in a one-game suspension and two years probation for DSU’s Ron Roberts and HSU’s Scott Maxfield.
After three years, has the temperature died between the two teams?
“Yeah, as far as I’m concerned, yes,” said Roberts. “I’m sure it’s going to come up there somewhere, obviously. I don’t know if he’s going to use it as a way to motivate his players. But most of our players weren’t even around then.”
One of those players is redshirt junior quarterback Micah Davis, who has led the Statesmen to a 2-1, 1-0 GSC record and catapulted to one of the rising players in the conference.
Last week against Valdosta State, Davis went 27-of-32 for 275 yards and three touchdowns. And he’s currently tied for third place in the GSC in passing touchdowns.
“He continues to get better every week.....He has a great grasp of the offense,” said offensive coordinator Greg Stevens. “...He’s (also) becoming more and more of a leader on the vocal side.”
Saturday’s game against HSU is scheduled for 6 p.m.
NOTES: DSU’s Maurice Moore, a transfer from Wisconsin, currently ranks first in the GSC in all-purpose yards per game. DSU senior running back Trevar Deed is now the school’s all-purpose yards leader. Pig Pckin’ 2010 begins today at DSU. A series of events are scheduled including a barbecue competition, men’s basketball open house and more. Go to www.Gostatesmen.com for more info.

MVSU
The Mississippi Valley State football team surpassed one obstacle last week after scoring their first touchdown of the year. Unfortunately, the Delta Devils lost the game 27-9 to in-state rival Alcorn State.
This week against Jackson State (2-1, 0-1 SWAC), MVSU (0-3, 0-2 SWAC) hopes to overcome another roadblock: beat Jackson State, which hasn’t happened since 1994.
Quarterback Oliver Hughes did, however, have his best game of the season last week against Alcorn. The Holmes Community College transfer threw for 152 yards and ran for 24. He went 18-of-37 through the air.
That maybe one reason MVSU coach Karl Morgan sees a little progress.
“It’s a progress....and I think we’re making progress. We’re looking for the positives,” he said.
Meanwhile, JSU is coming off their first loss of the season after succumbing to Grambling 28-21 after a potential game-tying reception went incomplete.
One player MVSU can only hope to contain is JSU quarterback Casey Therriault, who has thrown for at least 280 yards in every game — including a 404 yard, three touchdown season-opneing peformance against Delta State.
So far this season, the JUCO transfer has thrown for 1,034 yards and eight touchdowns to go along with only two interceptions.
Saturday’s game kicks off at 6 p.m. at Veteran Memorial’s Stadium.

Former NFL player, Glen Alen resident Renfro to be buried today

GREENVILLE — Former NFL linebacker and Glen Allen resident William Renfro is scheduled to be laid to rest today in Batesville. Renfro, 78, played seven years in the NFL for the Washington Redskins, Philadelphia Eagles and the PIttsburgh Steelers. He died Sept. 18 in Pensacola, Fla after after complications following heart surgery.
The Memphis State football Hall of Famer also played for the New York Jets in the American Football League (AFL).
Following his professional career, Renfro coached at several schools in Desoto County and was later elected to the Desoto County Board of Supervisors.
“He was the first one in our family to go to college, and that started something because our parents found the money and sent four more of us to college,” Renfro’s sister, Annette Clark, told the Commercial Appeal. "He was a great brother and I cherish the memories of him.”
Added Clark, "He played with Jim Brown and was roommates with Don Shula."

Game of the Week: Riverside, Simmons — rivalry or not?

GREENVILLE — Riverside and Hollandale Simmons High are both in the same county. Some of Riverside’s players even have a Hollandale address, said RHS coach Warren West.
There’s certainly a recipe for a rivalry between the two teams, but does one actually exist? Or is it just friendly competition between two nearby schools?
“It’s not a rivalry like South Delta or Leland, but it’s a rivalry — the players know each other,” said Simmons coach Carlos Thompson. “It has been a lopsided rivalry game, but they play us hard every year.”
Over the last two years, the Riverside Bulldogs have fell victim to the Blue Devils by a combined score of 66-0 — including a 52-0 loss last year. The last time RHS defeated Simmons was in 2007; they won 28-26.
Although not a district game, Riverside coach Warren West expects a strong effort from his bunch. But he said in order to have a chance against a Blue Devil team that is coming off a 46-0 win over Humphreys County, RHS must steer clear from turnovers.
“We have to take care of the football,” West said. “We turned the ball over five times (against Broad Street last Friday) — twice inside (their) 5-yard line and twice on our on 5. ...We can’t turn the ball over and stay in the game against Simmons.”
Besides turnovers, the Bulldogs have another problem: four starters are injured, including quarterback Ladarius Goodman, who is expected to return before the end of the season, said West.
Goodman’s replacement has been reserve running back Lorenzo Johnson.
“He’s done what we asked him to do, but we’re limited to what we can do,” said West.
On the other side of Washington County, Simmons receiver Rashuun Alexander has provided a spark to the Blue Devil passing game. The 6-foot-1 junior has been the go-to guy for quarterback Debrille Grant.
“He’s one of our top receivers,” said Thompson. “He works hard in practice and it’s been showing in the game. “He’s of the guys that when the game is on the line, we can count him.”
Full Lineup
Leland (4-1) at
Rosedale (3-2)

O’Bannon (2-3) at
Ruleville (3-2)

Deer Creek (3-1) at
Desoto Aca. (4-0)

St. Joe (0-5) at
Mongtomery Co. (3-2)

Ray Brooks (1-4) at
Charleston (4-1)

Lee, Ark. (3-2) at
GCS (2-2)

Washington (2-3) at
Lee Academy (2-3)

West Point (3-1) at
Gentry (2-2)

Indianola Aca. (2-3) at
West Memphis (0-4)

Greenwood (5-0) at
East Side (4-1)

Cleveland (1-4) at
Shannon (2-2)

South Delta (3-2) at
Humphreys Co. (0-5)

Bayou Aca. (3-2) at
Strider Aca. (0-4)

Delta Touchdown Club Power Poll (Week 5)

1. Charleston (4-1)....Beat Grenada 41-0
2. Greenwood (5-0).....Beat Elzy 31-8
3. Leflore Co. (3-1)...Bye Week
4. Leland (4-1)........Lost to Ruleville 6-0
5. Clarksdale (2-2)....Bye Week
6. West Bolivar (3-2)..Beat South Delta 30-8
7. Eastside (4-1)......Beat Cleveland 22-0
8. Greenville-Weston (2-2) Bye Week
9. Simmons(3-2)........Beat Humphreys County 46-0
10.South Delta (3-2)...Lost to West Bolivar 30-8

DSU holds off Valdosta State 27-23

DSU Media Relations

VALDOSTA, Ga. – They didn’t dominate the stat sheet on Saturday, but on fourth and one with 30.5 seconds remaining in the game, the Delta State (2-1, 1-0 GSC) University defensive line stoned Valdosta State (2-1, 0-1 GSC) quarterback Blake Whitmire’s sneak attempt to preserve a 27-23 Statesmen victory at Bazemore-Hyder Stadium. The win extended DSU’s win streak to five over VSU and planted the Statesmen firmly among the top contenders for the Gulf South Conference title.
“The game featured several momentum shifts throughout the day, but in the end our guys did what it took to win the game,” stated Ron Roberts, Statesmen head coach.
The Statesmen totaled 386 yards of offense, while the Blazers accounted for 303 yards.
DSU quarterback Micah Davis finished the game completing 27 passes to 11 different receivers on 32 attempts for 275 yards and three touchdowns. Chance Dennis finished the game with three catches for 93 yards and two touchdowns. Castile closed the game with five grabs for 55 yards and Moore grabbed four for 26 yards and a score.
While not racking up huge yardage on the day, Trevar Deed became DSU’s career all-purpose leader with 4,015 yards. His 53 yards Saturday catapulted the senior past Rico McDonald’s 3,978 yards for tops in school history.
Jerry Barnes led the Statesmen defense with 10 tackles, but Garrett Williams was the star of the show. The senior, who is the reigning GSC Defensive Player of the Week, closed the game with nine tackles, his third interception of he season and a forced fumble.
Larry Dean continued to chase former Statesmen Lardester Hicks-Green’s GSC career tackles record, closing out the game with 19 stops.
The Statesmen return to Parker Field-McCool Stadium next Saturday, Sept. 25, as Delta State hosts Henderson State at 6 p.m.

Generals take charge, beat Indianola Academy 49-7

GREENVILLE — Washington School’s Ryan Gober had two rushing touchdowns, Lea Turner ran in a 1-yard scamper, Read Kelly had 63 yards — including a four-yard rushing touchdown, and Eric Brozovich was 6-for-7 for 76 yards with a 21-yard touchdown pass to Jeffrey Davis.
Folks, those were the stats at halftime.
The Washington School Generals (2-3) marched out to a 35-0 halftime lead en route to a 49-7 victory Friday night over Indianola Academy.
There weren’t many highlights for the Colonels during the The Delta Democrat Times Game of the Week, as Indianola picked up only 50 first half yards and didn’t score until the first play of the fourth quarter against Washington’s reserves. Indianola’s Cody Maxey scored their lone touchdown on a 17-yard scamper.
The Generals’ scored two additional touchdowns during the second half — Hayden Lewis scored on a 2-yard quarterback sneak in the middle of the third quarter and Adam Gober punched in the final touchdown late in the fourth.
It’s safe to say, Washington School took no prisoners Friday night. The game started at 7 p.m. and was over by 8:45 p.m.
“I’m so proud of our team. The older guys came out and did was they were suppose to do,” said Washington School coach Phillip Wasson. “And we got these young guys out to get some experience.”
Washington’s defensive unit was stellar on the night, holding the Colonels to just 75 total yards. Dylan Elkins and Andrew Steinle both picked off Indianola quarterback Caleb Dodson, who struggled throwing the ball all night.
For a team that started off 0-3, the Generals have started to get things going by winning their last two games.
“I don’t think people realize the first three games were (against) really tough opponents,” said Wasson. “And it really helps us for the rest of the year because (they) were really physical. All three games we were in, and all three games were very physical.”
Washington will be on the road this Friday at Lee Academy. Kickoff is scheduled for 7 p.m.

Prep Roundup: Simmons runs over Humphpreys County 46-0

HOLLANDALE — Simmons’ 14-0 loss to Leland Sept. 10 must have lit a spark under the Blue Devils, as they bounced back by crushing Humphreys County Friday night 46-0.
Simmons (3-2) wasted no time putting points on the board, as the Blue Devils scored 24 first quarter points and followed it up with a touchdown in each of the final three periods.
Senior running back Damian Samuel had a phenomenal night, scoring three rushing touchdowns (25, 20, 18 yards).
Senior quarterback Debrille Grant also had a field day on Humphreys County, throwing for three touchdowns, including a 70-yard strike to big time receiver Rashuun Alexander.
Fredy Cosey had an 18-yard receiving touchdown, while senior Miekell Gray added a 20-yard touchdown reception.
Roderick Richardson scored on two 2-point conversions.
Simmons will be traveling to Riverside Friday. Gametime is 7:30 p.m.
Deer Creek 20, Lee, Ark. 6
LEE, Ark. — Lee Academy, of Arkansas, picked the wrong team to play on homecoming, as the Deer Creek School Warriors rallied to a 20-6 victory over the Cougars.
Deer Creek's Mark Wooley dominated on both sides of the ball, scoring on a 40-yard reception and intercepting three Cougar passes on the night. He took one of those interceptions 25 yards for a score.
Sophomore Taylor Bennett also scored a touchdown for the Warriors (3-1).
Deer Creek was led defensively by Tyler Towels, Hunter Kirby, David Grant Dowdy, Andrew Watkins, J.P. Phillips and Thomas Wade.
Deer Creek will travel to Desoto Academy this Friday.

GCS 20, Tupelo Christian 17
GREENVILLE — Justin Leavy rushed for two touchdowns and threw a 74-yard scoring strike to Hunter Martin to lead the Greenville Christian Saints (2-3) to a 20-17 victory over Tupelo Christian Prep School.
GCS will host Lee, Ark. Friday.

Broad Street 45
Riverside 26

Durant 31
St. Joe 12

Shaw 34
McAdams 14

JFK 39
Coahoma Ag. 0

East Side 22
Cleveland 0

Rosedale 30
South Delta 8

Statesmen shoot music video

MVSU's hard road basketball schedule

Rivals.com did a piece on MVSU's tough out of conference basketball schedule. Here's the link: http://rivals.yahoo.com/ncaa/basketball/blog/the_dagger/post/A-brutal-schedule-awaits-cash-strapped-Mississip?urn=ncaab-270085&cp=2#comments

Morgan: Nothing comes out of quitting

GREENVILLE — In 2001, Karl Morgan served as an assistant football coach on an Alcorn State team that finished 6-5. But now the head Delta Devil will lead Mississippi Valley State onto one of the largest stages they’ll ever play on Saturday when they face Alcorn State at Soldiers Field in Chicago at 4 p.m.
Ask Morgan and he’ll explain that playing Alcorn State in Chicago is a big deal — and not just because of location.
“(We) highlight Alcorn and Jackson State (on our calendar). It’s big for recruiting,” said the first-year coach. “Currently we’re the third option. If (recruits) don’t go to Jackson State, they go to Alcorn. And if not Alcorn, they come to us.....We want to move up in the pecking order.”
In order to become a more attractive option to recruits, Morgan said he knows his team first has to win some ballgames.
MVSU has been outscored 78-6 over the first two games against Alabama State and South Carolina State. They’ve yet to score a touchdown.
Plus, the Delta Devils lost their starting quarterback, freshman Carl Davis, after he broke his ankle in last week’s 44-0 loss to South Carolina State. Holmes Community College transfer Oliver Hughes, who was ineligible for the season-opener, is now the starter.
Through MVSU’s trials and tribulations, Morgan said he has been preaching to his team to keep a never quit attitude.
“The main thing I told them in the locker room is to keep fighting....And what’s the other alternative: to quit? Nothing comes out of quitting,” said Morgan.
Morgan said his team will fly out of Greenville at 7 a.m. Saturday morning on their way to Chicago. He added that there won’t be much sightseeing because the Delta Devils are there for business.
Morgan said over the last 15 years, Alcorn has won 10 meetings between the two schools. And they’ve not been any better against JSU either; who, Morgan said, has defeated the Delta Devils 15 years straight.
“We have to turn a tide on our in-state rivals,” he said.
The last time Alcorn State was on the field, they easily took care of Langston 50-27. And they did it with only 69 yards through the air. The Braves did, however, rush for over 200 yards and forced six turnovers.
Meanwhile, the MVSU defense has given up an average of nearly 207 yards per game. Their leading rusher so far this season has been senior Tristian Hudnall, who has rushed for 63 yards on 25 carries. Fellow senior Chris Watkins has 48 yards on 23 attempts.
But through it all, Morgan wants his Delta Devils to keep on pushing.
“...We have to keep working like we’ve won two games,” he said. “You have to be hopeful for a brighter day....And if not, why even go out there?”

Feature Friday: SWAC coaches impressed by JSU's Therriault

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE CLARION LEDGER

GREENVILLE — There's something different about the Jackson State football team this year.
And it’s not hard to point out. The difference has been transfer quarterback Casey Therriault, who has lead the Tigers to a 2-0 record.
The Grand Rapids Community College quarterback has breathed new life into the Tigers, throwing for nearly 700 yards and seven touchdowns through two games. In his first game — which came against Delta State — the 6-foot-5 Michigan native threw for 404 yards and three touchdowns. He followed up his dynamic debut by lighting up Tennessee State last Saturday for 284 yards and four touchdowns in the Heritage Classic.
Therriault has come along at the right time for a team that won only three games last season. He’s now the arguably the most popular guy in Jackson, but those far from the Veteran’s Memorial Stadium have took notice.
“The difference (in JSU) is their quarterback play, said Grambling coach Rod Broadway. “He’s the big difference in their play. I like this kid.”
Alcorn State coach Earnest Collins also chimed in on the heralded quarterback.
“He’s impressive. He can throw the ball. That’s what he does, and he does it well,” said Collins.
Since last week’s win over Tennessee State, Therriault has been flooded with awards. He received College Football Performance Awards Performer of the Week Honorable Mention, HSRN National Player of the Week, and was recently tabbed as Boxtorow.com Co-National Player of the Week.
“Anytime you have a (player) that shows good leadership....that builds offensive play it really helps out your team,” said JSU coach Rick Comegy. “We’ve been looking for that for a long time, and we’re glad we got that.”
Still not a believer in Therriault? Well, maybe these stats will bring you to the other side: Jackson State quarterbacks threw for six touchdowns all last season; Therriault has seven through two games.
Despite his newfound stardom, Therriault is as humble as ever.
“....We actually have a goal this year, we have a dream — and that’s to go undefeated one game at a time,” he said in a recent radio interview. “....It’s really nothing else to say besides we’re ready to win games.”

Q & A with Alcorn State's Earnest Collins

The Southern Press spent a little time this morning chatting with Alcorn State coach Earnest Collins to get his take on the Braves' trip this weekend to face in-state rival Mississippi Valley State. Here's some key points from our chat. Enjoy.

Q: How big of a deal is playing Valley in Chicago?
Collins: It's a different experience. But it's good to get that experience. And we'll be playing an in-state rival which makes it big for us...The Chicago part is okay. It gives (the players) a chance to play in a NFL stadium. As far as importance, it’s a conference opponent and it’s (MVSU)

Q: You guys put up 50 points against Langston. Were you shocked by that performance?
Collins: You’re always surprised when you score 50 points in a game, no matter who you play. Our guys played together in that game. I'm proud of how hard and fast our guys played in that game.

Q: Alcorn rushed for over 200 yards last week. What’s the plan this week against Valley?
Collins:....We want to get our game balanced, but we’ll take whatever they give us.

No. 1 Leland dealt first loss, falls to Ruleville 6-0

RULEVILLE — The Ruleville Central Tigers picked a fine week to play their best game. Ruleville (3-2) used a dominating rushing attack Thursday night to control the clock and defeat the Delta's No. 1 team, Leland, 6-0.
“Ruleville had a good gameplan. Their offense was their defense,” said Leland coach Eugene Sanders, whose team now stands 4-1. “We didn't play a bad ballgame.....They just controlled the clock. And we never could get on the field.”
Despite the loss, Sanders said his team could use Thursday's performance later on in the season.
“(The loss) could help us down the road, and we can see how other teams will prepare for us,” said Sanders.

MDCC scores first TD of the year, but falls 26-13 to Northeast

BOONEVILLE — The Mississippi Delta Community College Trojans made a valiant effort but still came up on the losing side of a 26-13 North Division battle with Northeast Community College Thursday night.
Riverside High grad and Hollandale native Ridge Rochell made two field goals for MDCC.
Jaris Smith, of Drew, scored MDCC's first touchdown on the year; it came from two yards out.
MDCC will be on the road next Thursday at Hinds Community College at 7 p.m.

Coahoma explodes past Holmes, 41-14

CCC Media Relations

CLARKSDALE – The explosion of four second -half touchdowns iced down Coahoma’s impressive 41-14 win over Holmes Thursday before a hometown crowd celebrating the Tigers second consecutive victory.
CCC quarterback Garrick Jones threw four touchdown passes including two to Hollis Moore and one each to Devon Perry and Rishunn McCaled.
Other CCC touchdowns were earned on a run by Courtney Vaughn in the first quarter and an end zone romp by Byron Gadsden following the recovery of a Bulldog punt in the fourth quarter.
“I’m not speechless tonight; I’m delighted,” said Dr. Vivian Presley, CCC president. following the game.
Although the Tigers led every quarter and were ahead 14-7 at halftime, coach Freeman Horton, complained that his team was slow getting started. “But they played a fine second half,” he added.
Scoring for the Bulldogs were Harry Peoples on a 24-yard run in the second quarter, and wide receiver LaSean Williams catching quarterback W.J. McAllister’s touchdown pass with 1:05 minutes left in the fourth quarter.
The Tigers, who defeated nationally-ranked Jones County Junior College last week and lost to Co-Lin in the season opener, now have a 2-1 record and will take on No. 11 nationally -ranked Northwest Community College next Thursday, Sept. 23, in Senatobia. Holmes with a 0-3 record plays Northeast.
Coahoma’s next home game is Thursday, Sept. 30, against East Mississippi.

MVSU hoops finds a place to practice

ITTA BENA — After weeks of searching, the Mississippi Valley state basketball programs finally have a place to practice.
Taylor Kuykendall, of The Greenwood Commonwealth, reported that MVSU has been approved to practice at Threadgill Elementary in Greenwood. The Greenwood Public School District voted unanimously to give Valley permission to use the school's gym.
"It's probably the largest gym in the city schools," coach Sean Woods told the newspaper. "It's actually larger than Greenwood High's, so it will do more than accommodate our needs."
Valley's gym floor was badly damaged due to a leak in the Harrison HPER Complex.
MVSU had previously asked to practice in the Leflore County Civic Center for no cost. However, they were turned down.
The cost to use Threadgill's gym will be $15-16 per day. Valley begins practice Oct. 15.

MVSU loses starting QB, JUCO transfer Hughes to take over

PHOTO CUTLINE: Holmes Community College transfer and Grenada native Oliver Hughes is now MVSU's starting quarterback after starter Carl Davis broke his ankle Saturday at South Carolina State.

ITTA BENA — Mississippi Valley State football coach Karl Morgan has had to deal with playing three “home” games 50 miles away in Greenville-Weston High, a 0-2 start to the 2010 season without scoring a touchdown — and now he has to replace his starting quarterback.
True freshman quarterback Carl Davis, a 6-foot-1, 175 pound Mobile, Ala. product, broke his ankle on MVSU's second series last Saturday at South Carolina State. Morgan said he hopes Davis can get a medical redshirt.
His replacement is Holmes Community College transfer and Grenada native Oliver Hughes.
“Hughes is going to be the starter now,” Morgan said during a teleconference early Monday afternoon. “And we'll have to be creative on what we can and what we can't do.”
Hughes went 6-of-12 for 41 yards Saturday in MVSU's 44-0 loss to South Carolina State. However, he accounted for negative 38 yards rushing because of several sacks. MVSU finished as a team with negative 9 yards rushing and 44 total.
MVSU now only has two quarterbacks left on their roster. Hughes’ backup will be Michael Shaw, a sophomore from Memphis.
MVSU will be traveling to Chicago Saturday to battle rival Alcorn State at Soldier’s Field.

Leland native Williams honored by GSC

CLEVELAND — Leland native and South Delta High alum Garrett Williams patiently awaited his turn to make a big splash on the Delta State defense.
And after three seasons, the 5-foot-9, 190 pound defensive back has started to make some noise. Williams, who had two key interceptions last week to secure a victory over Arkansas Tech, was named the Gulf South Conference Defensive Player of the Week Monday afternoon.
Even in the glory, Williams gives the credit to his fellow Statesmen.
“I have 10 other guys that also (did) their job, and perhaps the ball just came my way and I just did my job — and great things happened,” said Williams.
Currently, Williams ranks second on the team in tackles — with 23 — behind Xavier Triplett. He also has one of DSU’s four sacks.
Before this season, Williams saw limited action, recording 55 tackles in the past three seasons.
DSU coach Ron Roberts said the former high school running back has paid his dues.
“He’s been here for four years and has definitely paid his dues in this program. And he’s been a tremendous leader through fall camp (and) the spring,” said Roberts. “He’s well deserved of the attention he’s getting for the effort that he’s put in.”
At South Delta High School in Rolling Fork, Williams was a stud at running back, and was voted the team’s MVP in both football and baseball.
Williams said it was a tough transition when he first arrived to campus, but after getting some tutelage from then-starter Robert Watts, it “just clicked.”
Williams said he knew this year would be different for him compared to his last three seasons in Cleveland.
“I was expecting it.....plays came my way and I just executed them,” he said.

Week 4: Delta Touchdown Club Power Poll

1. Leland (4-0)
2. Charleston (3-1)
3. Greenwood (4-0)
4. Leflore Co. (3-1)
5. South Delta (3-1)
6. Clarksdale (3-1)
7. West Bolivar (2-2)....DTC Team of the Week
8. Eastside (3-1)
9. Greenville-Weston (2-2)
10. Simmons (2-2)

Washington School gets first victory of the season

GREENVILLE — The Washington School Generals football team got their first victory of the season Friday night with a 35-21 victory over district foe Magnolia Heights.
With the score deadlocked at 21 at the half, the Generals (1-3, 1-1 District) scored a touchdown in both the third and fourth quarter to come away with the win.
Washington running back Ryan Gober had a field day on the Chiefs (3-1), rushing for 139 yards on 22 carries and two touchdowns.
Fullback Read Kelly added another punch by rushing for 94 yards and touchdown on only eight attempts.
Through the air, Eric Brozovich went 12-of-17 for 141 yards. The senior standout also added two rushing touchdowns of his own.
Hayden Lewis (3 catches, 53 yards) and Jeffrey Davis (3 catches, 34 yards) were Washington School's leading receivers.Nathan Noble made five PAT's.
Washington School will be celebrating homecoming this Friday when they host Indianola Academy at 7 p.m.

Noxubee County 38, GWHS 6
MACON — The Greenville-Weston High football team fell to 2-2 on the season after losing to Noxubee County 38-6.
Donnell Corbin scored the Hornets only touchdown on the game on a 80-yard kickoff return.
GWHS will be off this week before going on the road to face Murrah on Sept. 24.

Deer Creek 32, Strider 6
CHARLESTON — The Deer Creek School football team improved to 2-1 Friday night following a 32-6 win over district opponent Strider Academy.
Senior quarterback Seve Signa threw for 130 yards, including a 13-yard touchdown pass to senior Tyler Key. Signa also added 33 yards on the ground, including a 13-yard rushing touchdown.
Senior Matt Wells scored the Warriors' first touchdown when he ran in a 12-yard touchdown. Mark Wooley had a 48-yard punt return touchdown. Sophomore Tanner Bennett gained 36 rushing yards on the night, including a 7-yard touchdown.
Defensively, Deer Creek was led by Hunter Kirby, Mark Wooley, Grant Dowdy and Tanner Bennett.
The Warriors will be on the road this week to face Lee Academy in Arkansas.

Bayou Academy 20, Greenville Christian 13
O'Bannon 14, Tupelo Christian 0
Montgomery County 22, Ray Brooks 14
Gentry 28, Humphreys County 0
Coahoma Ag. 26, Riverside 24
South Panola 39, Clarksdale 0
Charleston 18, Cleveland 7
Shaw 21, St. Joseph 14

Leland comes away with 14-0 win over Simmons in 'family atmosphere'

LELAND — There wasn't a seat in the house at Friday's much-anticipated matchup between Washington County rivals Leland and Simmons High. The huge crowd lined every corner of the stadium, while most people stood trying to get to see who would win the dogfight between two of the Delta's top teams.
And although Simmons and Leland fans cheered on two different sides of the stadium, everyone in attendance is family, said Leland coach Eugene Sanders, whose team won 14-0.
“When Hollandale and Leland play, you have fraternity brother against fraternity brother; you have cousins against cousins....This rivalry is like Ole Miss against Mississippi State and Jackson State against Alcorn (State)....and Auburn against Alabama,” said Sanders.
Through three quarters, it looked as if the first team to score would come away with the victory. And, ironically, it happened that way.
On the last play of the third quarter, Leland scored the first touchdown of the game when junior tailback Arthur Morris scored on a reverse from three yards out. Leland missed the extra point.
Leland struck quickly on their next possession when junior quarterback Davante Overton found Kenya Dennis open across the middle for a touchdown.
Leland's Brandon Capers scored on the 2-point conversion pass from Overton to cap the scoring.
“It came down to who wanted it the most. And I figured the team who made the fewest mistakes will win — and (Leland) made the fewest mistakes,” said Simmons coach Carlos Thompson Sr. “You can't be a good team with six turnovers. They capitalized off our turnovers."
The man responsible for forcing a couple of those turnovers was Dennis — who along with a receiving touchdown, added two interceptions.
“(Dennis) has come a long way, I tell you that,” said Sanders. “He played that cornerback (position) like it supposed to be played.”
Simmons quarterback Debrille Grant had a good connection going on with junior receiver Rashuun Alexander, but it wasn't enough to dismantle a stingy Leland defense that forced six turnovers.
Simmons did, however, stall a Leland offense that has put up at least 20 points in every game this season. And they did it without Delta Democrat Times Preseason Defensive Player of the Year Lazarius Chase, who is suffering from a severe leg injury.
“We miss (Chase) a whole lot. He's the guy that anchored our defense,” said Thompson. “But our defensive guys played well. We gave them good field position.....We're not good enough to drive 80 yards on a good team. It's a game of field position and they had better field position in the second half. And it's a game of momentum — and they had the momentum tonight.”
The loss hurts, Thompson said, but it doesn't affect their shot at making a playoff run.
"It wasn't a district game, so I feel good about that — so the loss doesn't hurt us early on in the season," he said. "We just have to go work on our mental mistakes."

Leland native Williams leads DSU to a 27-25 victory over ATU

CLEVELAND — Last week, Leland native and South Delta High School alum Garrett Williams was named Delta State’s Male Student-Athlete of the Week after racking up 15 tackles in the Statesmen’s 32-17 season-opening loss to in-state rival Jackson State.
It’s a good chance, the 5-foot-9 defensive back — who plays the nitro position — will claim that award again after intercepting two second half Arkansas Tech passes Thursday night to help DSU seal a 27-25 victory over the Wonder Boys on national television.
Plus, Matt Dean’s career-long 48-yard field with over six minutes remaining proved to be the finishing touch for DSU (1-1).
“We played with great intesity in the second half and (Williams) made two key interceptions late that killed rives for ATU,” said DSU coach Ron Roberts. “(Dean) also handled the adversity of a penalty well and drilled that 48-yarder to win it for us.”
DSU quarterback, who came into Thursday’s game as one of the Gulf South Conference’s top passers after throwing for 365 yards last week, went 10-of-18 for 117 yards to go with a touchdown and an interception.
After being held to 36 rushing yards last week, All-American running back Trevar Deed broke out for 132 yards and a touchdown — including a 69-yard third quarter scamper for a score that put the Statesmen up 21-12.
Just a year removed from being a full-time receiver, Deed has adjusted well to his new position, Roberts said during his postgame television interview.
“He’s a special running back. We’ve got to be able to get him out in space a little bit more,” he said.
University of Houston transfer L.J. Castille caught Davis’ lone touchdown pass in the first quarter from 26 yards out. University of Wisconsin transfer Maurice Moore led DSU with four catches for 60 yards.
After allowing JSU quarterback Casey Therriault to throw for 404 yards last week in his SWAC debut, the Statesmen defense stepped to the plate this week. ATU quarterback Robert Sagerian was picked off three times while going 15-of-29 for 158 yards and two touchdowns. He was also benched on the Wonder Boys’ final drive of the game.
DSU outgained ATU 299 to 257 in total yards. Redshirt freshman and Hillsboro native Xavier Triplett finished with a career-high 13 tackles and his first career interception for DSU.
Joe Marshall, a junior from Clearwater, Fla., added two sacks for the Statesmen.
The game was marred by penalties. There were 30 total flags thrown — and DSU accounted for 20 of those, which resulted in 148 lost yards.
“It wasn’t a good, clean ball game,” said Roberts. “We made a ton of mistakes, the penalties were outrageous. It was a very sloppy ball game all the way around. We gotta play better than that. But you always have to cherish the (win).”
DSU is scheduled to travel to Valdosta State on Saturday, Sept. 18.

Stansbury on the difference between collegeiate sports programs — and more

Mississippi State basketball coach Rick Stansbury spoke about numerous topics while at the Bulldog Club meeting. Here are a few interesting one's that didn't make my story.

On players being required to go college for at least one-year:
".....These kids nowadays differ from other sports. (In) basketball, every (player)is trying to get to the league. In football and baseball, once you come, you know you're there three years. But right now I just have to worry about the rule we got. So if after one year, they're able to go and you've got a plan for that and can anticipate that happening, (you) can be able to see it ahead of time. Can you see it every time before it happens? Absolutely not. I think that's very obvious with us. Because these kids nowadays, they all think they're NBA players — all of them. And the people they listen to are not the people that have the teams doing the drafting; it's all those other people, telling them what they wanna hear. And that's just the way it is.
"Our sport is different (from) other sports. Football and baseball don't have half the problems we have — because these kids have so many opportunities to go overseas and play and make big money. And these agents know that, whether they get drafted or not.
"....Football doesn't have that and baseball doesn't have that. Our sport, everybody's looking for the next Kobe, Kevin Garnett. And most of these young guys, that's what they wanna be."

On Jarvis Varnado:
"He's done something very special. He protected that basket...never seen a guy in college basketball protect the basket like Jarvis protected the basket. We'll miss that for sure."


On Elgin Bailey:
"He just got cleared last week to go full speed with everything. He's a tough kid, physical kid." (Bailey has been injured for a year and a half)

Size of Sidney & Bailey
"If we put Sidney out there with Elgin, those two will weigh more than the whole team last year."


On freshman guard Jalen Steele:
"I saw him last summer and told him we weren't recruiting a 2-guard....The kid was under-recruited....As the year went on, we decided we wanted another guard. Well, when things didn't work out at Auburn...that was the first phone call we made.
"He does one thing special: shoot the basketball.
"He's going to be a better Barry Stewart. And that's a big statement."

On Kodi Augustus:
"We need Kodi to step up and be what he think he needs to be and should be. I was disappointed in Kodi last year. He averaged 9 points, 6 rebounds, or whatever it was. "Kodi's better than that. He's got to take that next step....If it's every going to kick in, it needs to kick in — because this is your last chance to do it.
"He can shoot the basketball. That's one thing he's gotta do to make up for some other things that aren't his strengths....He's gotta defend better and rebound better. And all that's gotten better. He just has to consistently put it together."

Stansbury talks Bost, $30k fine and more

PHOTO CUTLINE: MSU basketball coach Rick Stansbury was the guest speaker Tuesday night at the annual Bulldog Club meeting at the Washington County Convention Center in Greenville.

GREENVILLE — Mississippi State basketball coach Rick Stansbury can still vividly remember that crushing 75-74 loss to Kentucky last season in the SEC championship game. The loss cost the Bulldogs a SEC title and a birth in the NCAA Tournament.
“We knew it was a SEC championship at stake. We didn't know it was a NCAA bid at stake......It was a very tough pill to swallow,” Stansbury said Tuesday night as he spoke to a packed crowd during the annual Bulldogs Club Meeting at the Washington County Convention Center.
The second-longest tenured SEC basketball coach spoke for about 45 minutes about everything from this year's expectations to the questions surrounding the possible return of point guard Dee Bost.
And the latter is usually the first question he's asked, Stansbury said.
”Right now, there are a lot of Dee questions,” he said. (Renardo) Sidney questions are easy to answer because everyone knows about him. It's the unknown in Dee's situation that seems to get a lot of questions.” Bost originally declared for the NBA Draft, but decided to withdraw his name after the deadline. He reportedly said that he didn't know about the new deadline set by the NCAA. Bost is still awaiting a final decision by the NCAA.
As of now, Stansbury said he has no status on the North Carolina native. He added that he thought he would get news regarding the situation last week, but the process has stalled due to football season. However, he's confident the final decision is not far away.
“He took his name out of the draft 12 hours after the deadline.....He had no NBA workouts, no agent — so what advantage was gained?,” Stansbury asked the crowd. “You talk about kids wanting to stay in college, so how can you punish him? I said last year that Sidney would be eligible, but you see what happened there.
“So we don't know anything. You'll probably read about it on the Internet before I know about it. “
Another hot topic Stansbury discussed was the $30,000 fine he was dealt for his criticism of officials following the SEC Tournament game against Kentucky. It was the first-ever fine against an SEC basketball coach for criticizing officials.
“If I knew I was going to get fined $30,000, I would have said more,” Stansbury joked. “Because I didn't get my money worth, I can promise you that.”
Sidney has since been suspended for a year a nine games for unethical conduct and impermissible benefits. He sat out all last season and will not be on the floor for the first nine games of year.
“He got a year (suspension) plus nine games for something he said in ninth grade. Not what he did, but something he said,” Stansbury told the crowd.
Nowadays, Sidney is looking slimmer, as he's lost 15 pounds and now weighs around 285, Stansbury said. Until Sidney is able to take the court, Elgin Bailey will most likely join Kodi Augustus in the frontcourt.
MSU will, however, be without one of their most heralded players in history — Jarvis Varnado, who was drafted in the second round by the Miami Heat, but now plays in Italy.
Stansbury added that the Heat instructed Varnado to play overseas for one season, and they would sign him to a two-year deal afterwards.
“They're paying him good money and it's tax free,” Stansbury said.
The Bulldogs will also be without longtime assistant coach Robert Kirby, who left for Georgetown in June. His replacement is a former Stansbury recruit and Meridian Community College head coach George Brooks.
“George is a guy that I recruited in 1990 with Marcus Grant. That was my first recruiting class,” said Stansbury.
“When I told his (grandparents) in the 90s that I would take care of him, I didn't mean for the rest of his life,” joked Stansbury.
But no matter what goes on surrounding the MSU basketball program, Stansbury knows what everyone wants to hear: the outcome of Bost.
“It can't drag on much longer. When they drag it on, we'll appeal it,” said Stansbury.
“Now can we win our appeal like some other people have? We'll see. We're not real good at appeals.” said Stansbury before the crowd burst into laughter.

Where are they now?

PHOTO CUTLINE: Grenada native Joe Sykes, who played at Holmes Community College, West Virginia and Southern University, now suits in the Arena League.

Here are a few Mississippi natives who play in alternative football leagues.

UFL (United Football League)
Dezmond Sherrod, TE, (Miss. State) - Las Vegas Locomotives
McKinley Boykin, DT, (Ole Miss) - Florida Tuskers
Marcus Johnson, G, (Ole Miss) - Hartford Colonials

Arena League
Larry Kendrick, WR/DB, (Ole Miss) - Iowa Barnstomers
Ron Jones, DL, (Southern Miss.) - Arizona Rattlers
Terrell Browden, FB/LB, (Southern Miss) - Cleveland Gladiators
Tyrone Timmons, WR, (MVSU) - Tampa Bay Storm
Joe Sykes, OL/DL, (Holmes CC / Southern) - Milwaukee Iron
Marvin Byrdsong, FB/LB, (Miss. St) - Shreveport BattleWings

And the winner is....

PHOTO CUTLINE: Former Ole Miss quarterback Micahel Spurlock now plays receiver for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.


Which Mississippi university currently has the most former players on a NFL roster?....Ole Miss

Ole Miss (24)

Trumaine McBride, CB (Arizona Cardinals) -- Ole Miss
Ben Claxton, C, (Arizona Cardinals) -- Ole Miss
Peria Jerry, DT, (Atlanta Falcons) -- Ole Miss
Michael Oher, OT, (Baltimore Ravesn) -- Ole Miss
Greg Hardy, DE, (Carolina Panthers) -- Ole Miss
Keydrick Vincent, G, (Tampa Bay Bucs) -- Ole Miss
Michael Spurlock, WR, (Tampa Bay Bucs) -- Ole Miss
Stacy Andrews, T, (Seattle Seahawks) -- Ole Miss
Chris Spencer, C, (Seattle Seawahks) -- Ole Miss
Patrick Willis, LB, (San Fran 49ers) -- Ole Miss
Eli Manning, QB, (NY Giants) -- Ole Miss
Benjarvus Green-Ellis, RB, (New England Patriots) -- Ole Miss
Jayme Mitchell, DE, (Minnesota Vikings) -- Ole Miss
Jamarca Sanford, S, (Minnesota Vikings) -- Ole Miss
John Jerry, G, (Miami Dolphins) -- Ole Miss
Jeremey Parnell, DT, (Miami Dolphins) -- Ole Miss
Dexter McCluster, WR, (Kansas City Chiefs) -- Ole Miss
Kendrick Lewis, S, (Kansas City Chiefs) -- Ole Miss
Ashlee Palmer, LB, (Detroit Lions) -- Ole Miss
Cassius Vaughn, DB, (Denver Broncos) -- Ole Miss
Mike Wallace, WR, (Pittsburgh Steelers) -- Ole Miss
Emmanuel Stephens, DE (Atlanta Falcons) -- Ole Miss
Darryl Harris, OL (Kansas City Chiefs) -- Ole Miss
Bruce Hall, RB (Denver Broncos) -- Ole Miss

Miss. State (14)
Ronald Fields, DT, (Denver Broncos) -- Miss. St.
Mario Haggan, LB, (Denver Broncos) -- Miss. St.
Antonio Johnson, DT, (Indianapolis Colts) -- Miss. St.
Jusitn Griffith, FB, (Houston Texans) -- Miss. St.
Donald Lee, TE, (Green Bay Packers) -- Miss. St.
Kyle Love, DT, (New England Patriots) -- Miss. St.
Jamar Chaney, LB, (Philly Eagles) -- Miss. St.
Tommy Kelly, DT, (Oakland Raiders) -- Miss. St.
Anthony Dixon, RB, (San Fran 49ers) -- Miss. St.
Kevin Dockery, CB, (St. Louis Rams) -- Miss. St.
David Stewart, T, (Tenn. Titans) -- Miss. State
Floyd Womack, G, (Cleveland Browns) -- Miss. State
Reggie Kelly, TE, (Cincinnati Bengals) -- Miss. State
Titus Brown, LB, (Cleveland Browns) -- Miss. State

Southern Miss. (7)

Shawn Nelson, TE, (Buffalo Bills) -- Southern Miss.
Jeremy Bridges, G, (Arizona Cardinals) -- Southern Miss.
Gerald McRath, LB, (Tenn. Titans) -- Southern Miss.
Demar Dotson, T, (Tampa Bay Bucs) -- Southern Miss.
Michael Boley, LB, (NY Giants) -- Southern Miss.
Brett Favre, QB, (Minnesota Vikings) -- Southern Miss.
Chirs Clark, T, (Denver Broncos) -- Southern Miss.

Others

Marcus Benard, LB, (Cleveland Browns) -- Jackson St.
Donald Driver, WR, (Green Bay Packers) -- Alcorn St.
Nate Hughes, WR, (Jacksonville Jaguars) -- Alcorn St.
Jaymar Johnson, WR, (Minnesota Vikings) -- Jackson St.
D.J. Johnson, CB, (NY Giants) -- Jackson St.
Tramaine Brock, DB, (San Fran 49ers) -- Belhaven

When's daddy coming home?

While growing up in a suburban neighborhood in Grenada, I had no idea how much my small neighborhood mimicked the rest of the city, county, state, and the world.
A group of us – about roughly 15 kids – grew up together, experiencing the emotional highs and lows of your normal 13-year-old.
But little did I know, most of us were “normal” in more ways than we thought.
Of those roughly 15 black youngsters, there were only three of us with a father at home. (That number dropped to two after one of my best friend’s father passed away.)
Fortunately, I was one of those select few with a male figure in the household.
But put those numbers in perspective; only 20 percent of my peers lived in a two-parent home. Compare those numbers to statewide statistics, and it resembles the same notion – only 30 percent of African-American children in Mississippi are brought up by two parents.
In contrast, an estimated 74 percent of white kids in Mississippi are raised by two parents.
As humans, we always point a finger at someone or something. So who don’ it?
Poverty?
Bad decisions?
Lack of education?
Or the one I’ve heard countless times: A welfare check?
It all depends on who you ask.
But for the record, those who’re convinced that black women (or any woman) will endure nine months of morning sickness, doctor visits and weight gain to receive $300 a month in food stamps, probably considers Bernard Madoff the savior of our economic future.   
The truth is – it’s a mix of poverty, bad decisions, a lack of education and the constant search to fill the emptiness left by an absent father.
Simply put, it’s a cycle – a cycle that our community must get a hold of in order to prosper.
Mississippi is ranked No.1 in teenage pregnancies. As an outcome, kids are raising kids.
Other than what not to wear to a party, what life lessons can a 16-year-old pass along?
And so the cycle continues.
I write this, urging fathers to break this vicious cycle.
Poverty is not a death sentence.
It’s probation.
And you’re the only member on the parole board.

Kenneth Mister is sports editor of the Delta Democrat Times

Pillow Academy gets revenge over Washington School, blanks two-time champs 24-0

PHOTO CUTLINE: Washington School running back Lea Turner gaines a first down during the Washington School’s 24-0 loss Friday to Pillow Academy.

GREENVILLE — Since Washington School defeated Pillow Academy 34-7 in the state championship game last year, the Mustangs have waited for their shot to even the score.
Prior to Friday night, the Generals came out victorious in the last four meetings between the two rival schools.
But thanks to a pounding rushing attack, Pillow Academy (3-0) cruised to a 24-0 victory over the Washington School (0-3).
“We had this (game) marked for a long time on the calendar,” said Pillow Academy coach Michael Fair. “We played with as much effort as we've played with all year. It's a big win for us, I can't lie.”
The Mustangs used a double dose attack with running backs Myers Fall and Luke Kimmel to drain the game clock, and secure the victory.
One of Pillow's longest drives came in the fourth quarter. The Mustangs ran the ball 15 straight times and took eight minutes off the clock, before Kimmel ran in a 9-yard score to make it 24-0.
The Pillow defensive line also put the pressure on Washington quarterback Eric Brozovich, who finished with 49 yards passing and completed 9 of 20 attempts.
The Generals running attack faired a little better. Ryan Gober rushed for 116 yards on 15 carries.
Dylan Elkins chipped in four catches for 20 yards.
This year, Washington has had to depend on several sophomores and juniors. In order to get back on the right track, the Generals will need to grow up quick, said first-year Washington coach Phillip Wasson.
“We have to get these young kids focused, get them excited — because it's not over yet,” said Wasson.
Pillow got on the board for the first time late in the second quarter with a field goal. Falls stretched the lead to 10-0 in the third quarter. And Kimmel punched in a 4-yard score later in the third.
Wasson said he knew the Mustangs would use their ground game to control the matchup.
“They're a power team, and that's their game — being physical,” he said.
Washington's schedule doesn't get any easier this week, as the Generals will host an undefeated Magnolia Heights (3-0) team.
“We have to win (this) Friday,” said Wasson.

GWHS 28, Canton 15

CANTON — Greenville-Weston running back Donald Jackson had a field day Friday night against Canton to lead the Hornets to a 28-15 victory and their second of the year.
Jackson rushed for 184 yards and two touchdowns on 29 carries to lead GWHS (2-1) to the victory.
GWHS will be on the road again Friday when they travel to Noxubee County (3-0).

Simmons 46, Drew 0

HOLLANDALE — Since losing their season-opening game to Forest, the Simmons High Blue Devils have went on a short winning spree.
They defeated a tough South Delta team on Aug. 27 and won their second straight game Friday by blowing out Drew 46-0.
Simmons (2-1) put up 16 points in the first quarter, before adding 14 more in the second. The score stood 30-0 at intermission.
Then, the Blue Devils added a touchdown and a 2-point conversion in both the third and fourth quarter.
Rashuun Alexander caught three touchdowns (5 yards, 13, 26 yards) from Debrille Grant.
Miekell Gray had a 93-yard kickoff return.
Laquency Fain chipped in a 3-yard rushing touchdown.
Plus, Damian Samuels added a 4-yard rushing touchdown.
Simmons will be on the road Friday at Leland.

Deer Creek 7, Benton Aca.

ARCOLA — Deer Creek quarterback Seve Signa ran in for a 14-yard touchdown in the third quarter Friday night to send the Warriors to a 7-6 victory over Benton Academy.
Deer Creek (1-1) will be on the road Friday at Strider Academy.

DSU prepares for JSU — and their band

PHOTO CUTLINE: Delta State running back Trevar Deed (left) and Micah Davis talk to the local media Monday during a press conference. The Statesmen will be on the road Saturday to face Jackson State at 4 p.m. at Veteran Memorial Stadium. Davis, who last played at Copiah-Lincoln Community College, will get his first start at quarterback.

CLEVELAND — Delta State quarterback Micah Davis was raised about 50 miles outside of Jackson in Wesson, Miss., a small town home to roughly 1,800 people.
The former Copiah-Lincoln Community College quarterback admits that he wasn’t a Jackson State fan while growing up and he hasn’t kept up with the Tigers recently — but there’s one aspect of JSU football that intrigues him the most.
“The main thing I know about them is their band. That’s about all I know,” the 6-foot-2, 200 pound redshirt junior said with a smirk at Monday’s first press conference with local media.
Saturday’s 4 p.m. matchup against Jackson State will be the first since 2007, when the Statesmen defeated the Tigers 27-15.
DSU head coach Ron Roberts said he would like the see JSU on the schedule more often.
“I hope to get this to a yearly game. That would increase the rivalry and the excitement of the game,” said the fourth-year head coach, whose team finished 5-5 last season.
“For our local guys from Mississippi,” Roberts added, “this is the hugest game they’re going to play.”
Like most college football teams, the Statesmen have been preparing daily by fine-tuning their gameplan. After hours of preparation and two scrimmages, the Statesmen are beyond anxious to line up and hit someone else besides teammates.
“Anxious isn’t even the word (to describe it),” said senior running back Trevar Deed. “I can’t wait to get on the field and face somebody else. After while, it gets tiring going after our own defense; they know all of our stuff. We just can’t wait to go out and show our stuff against another team.”
Two similarities between JSU and DSU is both squads will depend on new quarterbacks to lead their offense.
Casey Therriault, who spent time in jail after pleading guilty to involuntary manslaughter for his role in a 2008 bar fight, takes over a JSU offense that averaged only 235 yards per game and threw for only six touchdowns last season.
Meanwhile, for the first time in three seasons, there will be a new face under center for DSU. Davis, whose father, Glenn Davis, played at DSU and currently coaches at Copiah-Lincoln, takes over for the departed Garrett DeWitt.
New Statesmen offensive coordinator Greg Stevens has high hopes for the legacy quarterback.
“I expect a lot out of Micah — not only Saturday, but the whole season. He’s a quiet leader, leads by example,” he said.
Roberts said from what he has seen so far, Davis has what it takes to succeed.
“I expect (Davis) to conduct himself the way he did in the spring and fall,” he said. “He really has a great grasp of our offense and I expect him to come out and have a heck of a showing on his first night out.”
The jury may still be out on what Davis will bring to the Statesmen, but when it comes to the two-time All-American running back Deed — all questions seem to fade.
The last time Deed was on the field (Nov. 7 against West Georgia), the Phoenix, Ariz. native rushed for 243 yards and two touchdowns to go along with three catches, 90 yards and another score.
Deed says he knows that JSU and upcoming teams will put much of their focus on him, which may affect some his statistics. But there’s only one stat that matters, he said.
“People can’t just say I need to go rush for 200 yards,” said Deed. “If I rush for 50 yards and we still win, that’s all that matters — we get the victory.”
But when it comes to SWAC football, the Statesmen know they’re not just playing against those suited up in blue and white jerseys.
“When they get in the stadium and the Sonic Boom (band) comes marching in, I think it’s going to be a great atmosphere,” said Roberts. “Then, all of our guys will understand what’s at stake.”

New faces set to roam Statesmen sideline

PHOTO CUTLINE: DSU coaches from left: Pete Golding (defensive coordinator), Ron Roberts (head coach), and Greg Stevens (offensive coordinator) met with the media Monday afternoon in prepartion for Saturday’s season-opening game against Jackson State. Coordinators Golding and Stevens are entering their first season at DSU.

CLEVELAND – After missing the playoffs for the first time in four years last season, Delta State head football coach Ron Roberts brought in seven new assistant coaches.
Of those seven, defensive coordinator Pete Golding probably took the least amount of time to get accustomed to the Delta.
Golding’s not from the immediate area, but he’s no stranger to Horace McCool Stadium.
The Hammond, La. native played safety for the Statesmen from 2002-05 and served as a graduate assistant in 2006.
The last year Golding played at DSU, he racked up 81 tackles (five for loss) and two interceptions.
His days of leading the defense on the field are done, but the former All-GCS safety doesn’t feel he has to.
When asked what he thought were the differences between playing and coaching at DSU, the former Tusculum College defensive coordinator and defensive backs coach said, “We’re a little more talented now. Coach Roberts and staff have done a great of recruiting here. (Players) are a little bigger, a little stronger now.
“It’s a great opportunity to come back to your alma mater.”
Golding has the task of revamping a Statesmen defense that lost two of its leaders in Robert Watts and Lardester Hicks-Green, who combined for 157 tackles last season.
“We don’t have a lot of (defensive) returners. We’re pretty young as well,” said Golding. “We have some juniors coming in, but they’re new to the program.
“The biggest thing was getting them adjusted,” he added. “….The biggest thing for us is buying in, and we feel like a lot of guys had bought into the system right now.”
Meanwhile, Greg Stevens, who served as an assistant at Utah State from 2005-08, will handle the offense.
He'll be leading a Statesmen offense who will depend on a new quarterback and a proven workhorse in Trevar Deed, a preseason ALL-American, who rushed for 931 yards and 10 touchdowns last year while hauling in 67 receptions and 805 yards.
There may be new faces surrounding DSU, but head coach Ron Roberts said the goal is still the same — win a title.
“We want to see the highest benchmark we can Sept. 4 (at Jackson State). "We’re going to play the best game we can possibly play. And go from there on a weekly basis, and make sure we set that thing higher every time we step on the football field.”

Greenville awarded 2-year bid for USTA tennis championships

GREENVILLE — Approximately 500 tennis players will flock to Greenville in 2011 and 2012 after the Greenville Country Club Tennis Association was awarded a two-year bid for the 2011 and 2012 USTA League Tennis, Mississippi Senior Championships.
The days for the 2011 event have been scheduled for May 13-15.
The tennis matches will take place at four locations: the Greenville Country Club, Cypress Hill Tennis Club, Ward's Recreation Center and the Leland Racquet Club.
Tournament headquarters will be at the Country Club.
“The economic impact of this event will be overwhelming for Greenville,” the Tennis Association said in a release. “There will be approximately 50 teams which are approximately 500 players that will be coming to Greenville. They not only will play tennis, but will eat at our restaurants, shop at our establishments and stay in our hotels.”
The USTA League Tennis Mississippi Senior Championship is a competition among the local winning teams in Senior men and women's 2.5, 3.0, 3.5, 4.0 and 4.5 divisions. The local winning teams are already champions in their local leagues, and will then compete for the state title and the opportunity to represent Mississippi at the Southern Sectional Championships.

Week 2 Top Performers

Washington County's top performers Friday during Week 2.

Eric Brozovich (Washington): 285 passing yards, 2 touchdowns (1 pass, 1 rush)
Justin Leavy (Greenville Christian): 81-yard rushing TD, 28-yard passing TD
Damien Samuels (Simmons): 152 rushing yards
Dashuun Alexander (Simmons): 89 receiving yards, 1 TD
Greg Foster (GWHS): 9 tackles
Cornelius Thomas (RHS): 8 tackles, 1 fumble recovery
Jermaine Henderson (RHS): 1 INT, 2 fumble recoveries

*Stats for O'Bannon and Leland were not made available.

Delta Touchdown Club Power Poll

Team (Record) Last Week

1. Clarksdale (2-0) 2
2. Charleston (1-1) 1
3. Leland (2-0) 4
4. Eastside (2-0) NR
5. Greenwood (2-0) NR
6. South Delta (1-1) 3
7. Leflore Co. (1-1) 7
8. Cleveland (1-1) 10
9. GWHS (1-1) 6
10.Simmons (1-1) NR