Tigers looks for first win against UABP Saturday

Morgan Beard
Staff Writer

The Jackson State University Tigers look to pick up their first win of the season against the Golden Lions of Arkansas Pine Bluff University. The Golden Lions bring in a (1-2) overall record with a (1-0) record in Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC) play.

UAPB is coming off an amazing three overtime upset victory against two-times SWAC Champions Alcorn State University.  The Golden Lions first two loses came from the Tigers of Tennessee State University in week one 44-7 and The Aggies of Oklahoma Panhandle State 20-16. JSU leads the all-time series meetings 24-14-1.

This will be the 39th meeting on the gridiron between both HBCU’s. Saturday’s contest marks Head Coach Tony Hughes’ fourth career game as Tiger’s head coach.

Jackson State has won the last three meetings with a 37-3 victory last year on JSU’s Homecoming game. In 2014, Jackson State defeated UAPB 33-30 in overtime. In 2013, Jackson State defeated UAPB 42-33.

2012 was the last time UAPB defeated JSU 24-21 in overtime for the SWAC championship. UAPB junior QB Brandon Duncan is coming off a career high 505 passing yards and 4 touchdowns passes. He also leads the SWAC in passing yards and total offense.

Second team all-SWAC senior WR Willie Young is Duncan favorite target with 13 catches for 232 yards and two touchdowns from last game. The Tigers should watch out for first team all SWAC senior LB Willie Duncan III who leads the SWAC in solo tackles with 34 total. UAPB leads the SWAC penalties with 33 and punting average with 42.

The Tiger’s have not had a rushing touchdown or a 100 yard rusher in a game yet this season. Also, Williams, who had a 100 yards receiving last game, must continue his streak of effective games to provide big plays for JSU.

Defensively, JSU must limit big plays from Pine Bluff and force turnovers. Also put pressure on the quarterback and force the Golden Lions to punt the ball. JSU cannot afford for to give up big plays in the air and the tigers must contain the run.

The game is scheduled for Saturday, Sept. 24, at War Memorial Stadium in Little Rock, Ark. The game can be heard live on radio at 95.5 FM.