2015 College Football Preview

SOUTHWEST MISSISSIPPI
at Copiah-Lincoln
COAHOMA*
at Northeast Mississippi*
ITAWAMBA (HC)*
at Jones County
7:00 p.m.
7:00 p.m.
7:00 p.m.
6:30 p.m.
2:00 p.m.
7:00 p.m.
* MACJC North Division game
at Holmes*
NORTHWEST MISSISSIPPI*
at Mississippi Delta*
MACJC State Semifinals
MACJC State Championship
Home games in all CAPS
Thurs., Oct. 8
Thurs., Oct. 15
Thurs., Oct. 22
Sat., Oct. 31
Sat., Nov. 7
7:00 p.m.
7:00 p.m.
7:00 p.m.
TBA
TBA
www.eastms.edu
The Dispatch www.cdispatch.com
Thurs., Aug. 27
Thurs., Sept. 3
Thurs., Sept. 10
Thurs., Sept. 17
Sat., Sept. 26
Thurs., Oct. 1
PLAY HERE
CHAMPIONS
2 Sunday, August 16, 2015

college football preview
Sunday, August 16, 2015
mississippi state bulldogs
Athletic Website: www.hailstate.com; Twitter: @HailStateFB; Facebook: www.facebook.com/HailStateFootball; Instagram: www.instagram.com/HailStateFB
Coaching staff
Head Coach
Dan Mullen
n Tony Hughes Assistant
Head Coach / Safeties /
Recruiting Coordinator
n Manny Diaz
Defensive Coordinator / LBs
n Billy Gonzales
co-Offensive Coordinator/
Passing Game/WRs
n John Hevesy
co-Offensive Coordinator/
Offensive Line /
Running Game
n Greg Knox RBs /
Special Teams Coordinator
n Brian Johnson QBs
n Scott Sallach TEs
n Deshea Townsend
Cornerbacks
n David Turner
Defensive Line
n Rick Court
Head Strength Coach
n Jon Clark Assistant to
Head Coach / Coordinator
of Football Operations
n Rockey Felker Director
of Player Personnel / High
School Relations
n Lee Davis Coordinator
of Football Recruiting
n Sleepy Robinson
Recruiting Specialist
n Neil Stopczynski
Assistant Recruiting
Coordinator
n Albert Poree Defensive
Quality Control
n James Vollono Special
Teams Quality Control
MSU wants to surprise again

Mullen isnt concerned about outside expectations after first No. 1 ranking, 10-win season
BY BEN WAIT
bwait@cdispatch.com
STARKVILLE The
Mississippi State football
team has become accustomed to playing with
something to prove.
The Bulldogs usually
are undervalued by members of the national media.
Earlier this summer, the
Southeastern Conference
media picked MSU to finish seventh last in
the SEC West.
Last season, MSU was
picked to finish fifth in
the division, but it finished
second behind Alabama
with a conference record
of 6-2. MSU had a chance
to win the division, but
it lost to Alabama and to
Ole Miss in the final three
weeks of the regular season. The Bulldogs began
the season with ninestraight victories and were
ranked No. 1 in the national polls for five weeks.
This season, senior
quarterback Dak Prescott
BY THE NUMBERS returns to lead MSU.
Prescott, a first-team AllSEC pick by the media
and coaches last season,
finished higher in the
Heisman Trophy vote than
n Touchdowns for senior
any player in school histoquarterback Dak Prescott.
He has thrown 41, rushed
ry (eighth, 42 points). He
for 31, and caught three.
was an honorable mention
All-American and the first
finalist in school history
for the Maxwell, Davey
OBrien, and Johnny Unitas awards. Prescott is a
n Combined career starts
2015 National Player of
MSU returns on the
the Year candidate and a
offensive line. Justin Malone Preseason All-American
leads the way with 16, while
(Athlon Sports, Phil Steele).
Justin Senior has 14 and
But MSU seventh-year
Devon Desper has two.
Ben Wait coach Dan Mullen and his
staff dont pay much attention to the preseason predictions and accolades.
Its the same thing
with preseason awards,
Mark Wilson/Dispatch Staff
Mississippi State football coach Dan Mullen (top) will

lean on senior quarterback Dak Prescott (below) to
help the Bulldogs build on their 10-win season in 2014.
75
32
INSIDE
Team
Page
MSU ............................. 3-6
East Mississippi C.C. ..... 7
Ole Miss ..................... 9-10
Itawamba C.C. .............. 11
Alabama ................... 12-13
FOOTBALL
2015
A publication of
The Dispatch
Publisher
Birney Imes
none of that means a lot to

me, Mullen said. What
is going to determine it
is so much. I guarantee
you the history of the program over the last 100plus years has something
to do with where we get
picked.
MSU will open the season at 9 p.m. Saturday,
Sept. 5, at Southern Mis-
THANKS / ABOUT US
n The Dispatch would
like to thank the media
relations
and
sports
information
departments at Mississippi
State, East Mississippi
Community
College,
Itawamba C.C., Ole Miss,
and Alabama for their
help in gathering all of the
information in this years
section.
n Each week during
the season, we will have
special features for MSU
and EMCC, as well as
stories about former local
football players who are
playing football at other
state junior colleges. Every
Wednesday or Thursday,
we will spotlight JUCOs.
Every Friday, we will
preview MSUs game that
week.
n A special thanks to
Stacy Clark for designing
the cover.
n
Fans
can
follow
Ben
Waits
coverage of MSUat www.
cdispatch.com and on
his blog, which you can
access on the website. You
can also stay abreast of
the latest MSUnews by
following Ben on Twitter at:
@bcwait.
n
The
Dispatch
encourages all fans to call
us with their comments
and questions. You can
reach us at 662-327-1297
or e-mail information to
sports@cdispatch.com. If
you need to reach sports
editor Adam Minichino,
email him at aminichino@cdispatch.com. If you
need to reach sports writer
Scott Walters, email him at
swalters@cdispatch.com.
If you need to reach MSU
writer Ben Wait, email him
at bwait@cdispatch.com.
n Also, if you know of
any former local high school
athletes playing a sport in
college, call us at 662-3271297 or e-mail us at sports@
cdispatch.com.
Hanks
Sports
Adam Minichino
Scott Walters
Ben Wait
Cover Design
Stacy Clark
Photographers
Mark Wilson
D.A. Williams
Stan Beall
Luisa Porter
Production
Tina Perry
Anne Murphy
5809 Hwy. 45 N. Columbus, MS

662-327-4233
www.hanksbbq.net
The Dispatch
NOT YOUR AVERAGE BBQ!
sissippi. Fox Sports 1 will

broadcast the game live.
MSU defeated USM 49-0
in the 2014 opener for
both teams in Starkville.
After going 10-3 last
season, the Bulldogs were
ranked No. 26 in the USA
Today Coaches Poll, the
sixth highest by a member of the SEC West. MSU
received 164 votes, 15
more than Texas A&M,

which is No. 27.
The media picked Alabama to win the SEC West,
with Auburn, LSU, Arkansas, Ole Miss, and Texas
A&M finishing ahead of
MSU. When the predicted order of finish was released, Prescott tweeted,
Preseason Rankings &
Predictions #LOL.
MSU returns only four
starters on both sides of
the ball, but it has 22 lettermen returning on offense and 20 on defense.
People just look at
the number of returning
starters, Mullen said.
(Senior cornerback) Will
Redmond is not listed as
a returning starter, yet
we just said hes a preseason award candidate.
I dont know what weighs
into everyones idea. It
comes down to who has it
as a team. Who can stay
healthy at key positions.
You have guys youre really going to depend on,
and if you can keep them
healthy, youre going to
have a chance to be successful.
MSUs coaches might
not talk about the lack of
recognition the Bulldogs
have received, but they
have used it as motivation
in practice.
During the first day,
the coaches reminded
senior defensive lineman
Ryan Brown of the medias
perception several times.
I heard someone mention that 10 times at practice, so that is going to
help and motivate us each
and every day, Brown
said. It is all about who is
hungry and who executes
the most. We are trying
to build on that and have
fun.
See MSU, 16
2015 Schedule
Sept. 5 At Southern Miss.

Sept. 12 LSU
Sept. 19 NORTHWESTERN
STATE
Sept. 26 At Auburn
Oct. 3
At Texas A&M
Oct. 10 TROY
Oct. 17 LOUISIANA TECH
Oct. 24 KENTUCKY
Nov. 5 At Missouri
Nov. 15 ALABAMA
Nov. 21 At Arkansas
Nov. 28 OLE MISS
HOME GAMES IN CAPS
2014 Results
Aug. 30 W, 49-0

SOUTHERN MISS
Sept. 6 W, 47-34
UAB
Sept. 13 W, 35-3

At South Alabama
Sept. 20 W, 34-29

At LSU
Oct. 4
W, 48-31

TEXAS A&M
Oct. 11 W, 38-23
AUBURN
Oct. 25 W, 45-31

At Kentucky
Nov. 1 W, 17-10
ARKANSAS
Nov. 8 W, 45-16

UT MARTIN
Nov.15 L, 20-25

At Alabama
Nov. 22 W, 51-0
VANDERBILT
Nov. 29 L, 17-31

At Ole Miss
Dec. 31 L, 34-49

Vs. Georgia Tech
HOME GAMES IN CAPS

Athletic Website: www.hailstate.com; Twitter: @HailStateFB
Dispatch File Photo
Last season, Mississippi State quarterback Dak Prescott set records for rushing
yards by a quarterback (986), total offense (4,435), total offense yards per game
(341.2), touchdowns responsible for (41), passing attempts (396), passing
completions (244), completion percentage (61.6), passing yards (3,449), passing
yards per game (265.3), 200-yard passing games (12), passing touchdowns (27),
and passing efficiency (151.7).
prescott sets sights higher

Senior QB not worried about records, focused on leading MSU to wins
BY BEN WAIT
bwait@cdispatch.com
STARKVILLE Dak
Prescott is the first player
people think about when
they talk about the Mississippi State football team.
The senior quarterback took the country by
storm last season and led
the Bulldogs rise to No. 1
in the nation. As a junior,
the Haughton, Louisiana,
native broke 12 single-season school records en
route to an eighth-place
finish in the Heisman Trophy voting, which was the
highest in school history.
The Heisman Trophy goes
to the top player in college
football.
This season, Prescott
is poised for even bigger
things. But with the NFL
draft in his sights next
April, he isnt worried
about personal accomplishments.
I want to win every
game this year, Prescott
said. I do not care if I
break any records. That
is not what I care about. I
just want to put my team in
the best situation to win.
If I can do that and break
records, I am excited to do
it.
Last season, Prescott
set records for rushing yards by a quarterback (986), total offense
(4,435),
total
offense
yards per game (341.2),
touchdowns responsible
for (41), passing attempts
(396), passing completions (244), completion
percentage (61.6), passing yards (3,449), passing
yards per game (265.3),
200-yard passing games
(12), passing touchdowns
(27), and passing efficiency (151.7).
Prescott has broken
five career records, including touchdowns responsi-
Dont
let
chronic
pain
keep you from
having a ball at the game!

pain management specialist, Dr.
Jack Walters is dedicated to providing state-of-the-art, individualized
care. His goal is to help identify the
underlying cause of the pain, and if it cannot be
remedied, find a way to properly manage the pain
and reduce its impact on your life. n Dr. Walters
and the OCH Center for Pain Management staff are
committed to getting you pain-free so you can be
there to enjoy the game!
Most people suffer from some

type of pain at some point in
their lives, but it is usually easily managed with conventional methods. However, many others suffer from
chronic, intractable pain making it difficult to
work, sleep or participate in routine and leisure
activities. n At the OCH Center for Pain Management, we strive to effectively manage pain
and improve quality of life. A fellowship-trained
107 Doctors Park, Starkville, MS
Dispatch File Photo
Mississippi State quarterback Dak Prescott hopes to

be the center of attention again this season. The senior
has earned a spot on six preseason watch lists in the
preseason. He is up for the Maxwell Award (national
player of the year), the Wuerffel Trophy (community
service), the Davey OBrien Award (top quarterback),
the Walter Camp Award (most outstanding player), the
Manning Award (top quarterback with bowl stats
included), and the Johnny Unitas Golden Arm Award
(top quarterback based on character).
ble for (72), total offense

(7,156), completion percentage (60.1), 200-yard
passing games (17), and
interception percentage
(.0260).
The
6-foot-2,
230-pound right-hander
has accomplished all of
that after splitting snaps
with Tyler Russell in 2012
and 2013. He entered his
junior campaign with a lot
of anticipation surrounding him. Prescott threw
for 283 yards and three
touchdowns and rushed
for another 78 yards and
two more scores in a 44-7
victory against Rice in the
AutoZone Liberty Bowl to
end the 2013 season.
Last season, Prescott
took off. He was a finalist
for the Maxwell, the Davey OBrien, Manning, and

the Johnny Unitas Golden Arm awards. He also
won the Conerly Trophy,
which is given annually
to the best college football player in the state of
Mississippi, was a firstteam
All-Southeastern
Conference pick by the
media and the coaches,
and an honorable mention All-American (Sports
Illustrated).
Despite all of the accolades, Prescotts teammates havent noticed a
big difference in their
leader.
Dak is real humble,
junior wide receiver Fred
Ross said. He puts the
See PRESCOTT, 16
(662) 615-3751
www.och.org

GOOD LUCK!
Mississippi State linebacker Beniquez Brown was second on the team with 62
tackles a season ago, and played in all 13 games (12 starts at outside linebacker).
BROWN HOPES TO MAKE MARK

Junior wants to follow example left by MSUs former standouts at LB
STARKVILLE The Mississippi
State football team has seen some talented linebackers pass through the program
the past few years.
Jamar Chaney, K.J. Wright, Chris
White, Benardrick McKinney, and Matt
Wells were selected in
the NFL draft in the past
five years. McKinney and
Wells most recently left
a solid mark on the program with four strong
seasons. That list doesnt
include Cam Lawrence
Brown
and Deontae Skinner, who
were solid college players
and signed NFL free-agent contracts.
Who will be the next standout at
linebacker for MSU? Many expect junior Beniquez Brown to be that player.
Brown, a 6-foot-1, 238-pound junior from
Florence, Alabama, has 101 tackles (11.5
for loss), two sacks, and two interceptions with the Bulldogs. He was second
on the team with 62 tackles a season
ago, and played in all 13 games (12 starts
Beniquez has
picked up right
where he left off.
His understanding
of the game has
slowed the pace of the game
down compared to what it is
for other guys.
We Wish All
Our Area Teams
A Great Season!
Mississippi State
defensive coordinator Manny Diaz
at outside linebacker).
Filling the shoes left behind from the
likes of McKinney doesnt bother Brown.
Some people would look at it like
pressure, but I dont, Brown said. I
just come in every day and do the same
things I did last year. I just want to be a
more vocal leader than I was last year.
See BROWN, 16
If it crawls, call...
Northeast
Exterminating
Jimmy Linley Richard Linley
The Dispatch
BY BEN WAIT
bwait@cdispatch.com
LLC
ITS MORE
THAN JUST
A PLACE TO
LIVE...ITS A
LIFESTYLE.
Each two, three and four bedroom apartment home at Haven12 Apartments in Starkville
has been thoughtfully designed to ensure that students of Mississippi State University can
experience all of the comforts of home. Thats just the beginning, however; we have also
incorporated the best amenities available to make sure our residents are never bored.
HOME FEATURES
Large open floorplans
All units fully furnished
Large screen HD TVs in every unit
Private bathroom for every bedroom
Full size washer & dryer in every unit
Electronic locks on each unit
9 foot ceilings throughout
All utilities included; generous
consumption cap applies
CLUBHOUSE
Fitness center
Coffee bar
Game room
Study rooms with smart TVs
Student lounge with large TVs
Seating groups for small gatherings
Tanning booth
Cyber lounge
Computer center
COMMUNITY AMENITIES
Blazing fast internet; wired and
wireless
Secured WIFI network throughout the
entire property
Pet friendly
Covered outdoor kitchen w/ built in
grills
Hammock garden
Multiple courtyards w/ benches
Lounge decks/sun shelf
Large covered outdoor TV area
Digitally controlled gated entry
Resident life programs
Large resort style pool
Horseshoe court
Bocce ball court
Large outdoor recreation area
WWW.HAVEN12.COM
500 RUSSELL ST., SUITE 18 | STARKVILLE, MS | 888.415.9426

SCHEDULE BREAKDOWN
NOTE: Teams 2014 records in parentheses.
Sept. 5 at Southern Mississippi (3-9)
All-time record: USM 14-13-1

Last Season: MSU, 49-0
n The Bulldogs and Golden Eagles met last season for
the first time since 1990. MSU had an easy time in the season
opener for both teams. The Golden Eagles should be better this
season, but the result should be about the same. The only thing
in USMs favor is the game will be in Hattiesburg.
USM returns 10 starters on offense, including quarterback
Nick Mullens. The Hoover, Alabama, native threw for 2,470
yards and 12 touchdowns last season.
The Golden Eagles return five starters on defense, including former Noxubee County High School standout Dylan Bradley, a junior.
The Bulldogs have won the past three meetings, including
the last meeting in Hattiesburg in 1989.
Sept. 12 LSU (8-5)
All-time record: LSU 71-34-3

Last season: MSU, 34-29
n The Bulldogs victory in 2014 was their first in Baton
Rouge, Louisiana, since 1991.
MSU took control of the game early, but it had to hold
on in the fourth quarter, as LSU rallied. Will Redmond had a
game-sealing interception on the games final play.
This seasons matchup will be the first Southeastern Conference game for each team.
The Tigers have questions at quarterback, but sophomore
running back Leonard Fournette is poised for a big year. He led
the team with 1,034 yards and 10 touchdowns as a freshman
last season.
Sept. 19 Northwestern State (6-6)
All-time record: MSU 2-0

Last meeting: MSU, 27-0 (1946)
n The Bulldogs come off their first SEC game to face the
Southland Conference-member Demons. In 2014, Northwestern State went 6-6 for the second-straight season, the first time
since 2003-04 it didnt finish with a sub-.500 mark in a two-year
span.
The Demons will replace quarterback Zach Adkins from
last season. He passed for 2,821 yards and 28 touchdowns.
Junior Daniel Hazlewood threw only four passes for 31
yards last season.
Northwestern State also will have to find a new running
back, as Garrett Atzenweiler is no longer on the team. He
rushed for 739 yards and 10 touchdowns in 2014.
MSU has earned shutouts in the previous meetings in 1945
and 1946.
Sept. 26 at Auburn (8-5)
All-time record: Auburn 61-25-2

n The Bulldogs and Tigers met last season on a day
ESPNs College GameDay made its first trip to Starkville.
The Bulldogs took a 21-0 lead and made plays down the stretch
to stay unbeaten. The next week, the Bulldogs were ranked No. 1 in
the USA Today Coaches and The Associated Press polls.
The Tigers have won the past three meetings in Auburn, Alabama. The Bulldogs beat the Tigers in Auburn in 2007.
Auburn received 108 first-place votes at SEC Media Days, but
was second to Alabama in the preseason voting to pick a champion
for the SEC West. Auburn received 96 points, the most of any school
in voting to pick a SEC champion.
Junior Jeremy Johnson will take over at quarterback. He played
in seven games last season and threw for 436 yards and three
touchdowns.
The Tigers have one of the best wide receivers in the country.
Senior Dhaquille Williams, who played at Mississippi Gulf Coast
Community College, led Auburn with 45 catches and five touchdowns last season. He was second to Sammy Coates (741 yards)
with 730 receiving yards.
Oct. 3 at Texas A&M (8-5)
All-time record: Tied 4-4

n The Bulldogs and the Aggies have played some high-scoring
games the past three years.
Texas A&M won 51-41 in 2013 and 38-13 in 2012. The most
famous game is the 2000 Independence Bowl, when the Bulldogs
won 43-41 in overtime. Its affectionally known as the Snow Bowl.
The Aggies are 2-1 when the teams play as conference opponents. MSU has played twice in College Station, Texas. It won the
1913 meeting 6-0.
Oct. 10 Troy (3-9)

Last meeting: MSU, 62-7 (2013)
n The Bulldogs open a three-game homestand with a
non-conference opponent that is familiar to MSU coach Dan Mullen.
The Bulldogs seventh-year coach is 2-0 against the Trojans.
Troy won the first meeting 21-9 in 2001 in Starkville, but since
then, MSU has reeled off three-straight victories.
The Trojans return their top passer and rusher from a season
ago. Brandon Silvers will be back at quarterback. He threw for 1,836
yards and 11 touchdowns as a freshman. Brandon Burks rushed for
584 yards and three touchdowns as a junior.
See SCHEDULE, 15
POSITION BREAKDOWN
Quarterbacks
Leader: Dak Prescott

n Prescott started every game last season and broke 12
single-season school records en route to an eighth-place finish
in the Heisman Trophy voting, the highest finish in school history. The Heisman Trophy is given annually to the nations top
college football player.
Breakout candidate: Prescott
n Its his last season, and he hopes to play in the NFL, so
he will be poised to take his game to the next level.
Freshman to watch: Nick Fitzgerald
n The redshirt freshman, who enrolled in school early, has
gone through two springs at MSU. He hasnt played in a game,
but all signs point to him being the backup.
Best-case scenario: Prescott stays healthy and builds off
last season.
Running Backs
Leader: Ashton Shumpert

n The 6-foot-2, 218-pound junior from Fulton has the most
experience of anyone at the position. He has rushed for 464
yards and five touchdowns in his career.
Breakout candidate: Dontavian Lee
n The redshirt freshman is 6-1 and weighs 227 pounds. He
had a good spring and many like his chances this fall.
Freshman to watch: Aeris Williams
n Along with Lee, Williams is another redshirt freshman
who could have a big impact. The former West Point High
School standout also had a good spring and will get a chance
to be in the mix.
Best-case scenario: The Bulldogs use all three and keep
their legs fresh for a stretch run.
Wide Receivers
Leader: DeRunnya Wilson

n Wilson led the Bulldogs with 47 catches for 680 yards
and nine touchdowns last season. Since Wilson will be eligible
for the NFL draft after this season, he more than likely will be
playing his last season at MSU.
Breakout candidate: Fred Ross
n The junior has been in a backup role the past two seasons, but he will be a starter this year. He worked hard with
Prescott in the offseason to get his timing down. Ross, who had
30 catches for 489 yards and five touchdowns in 2014, could
help take pressure off Wilson.
Newcomer to watch: Donald Gray
n The junior college transfer has three years of eligibility
remaining. He went through spring and has some of the best
hands on the team. He was an All-American at Copiah-Lincoln
Community College in Wesson last season.
Best-case scenario: The Bulldogs utilize their depth and

Wilson and Ross have major years.
Offensive Line
Leader: Justin Malone

n The senior left guard has the most returning starts (16).
He missed most of the 2013 season after an injury, but he
bounced back nicely last season.
Breakout candidate: Jamaal Clayborn
n The junior is expected to be the starting center. He
played in seven games as a freshman, but he played in only four
games last season.
Newcomer to watch: Martinas Rankin
n The former Mississippi Gulf Coast C.C. standout was the
top junior college offensive lineman in America in 2015. He is
listed at right tackle.
Best-case scenario: The inexperienced Bulldogs get a lot
of repetitions early in the season and come together to form a
solid unit in front of Prescott.
Tight End
Leader: Gus Walley

n Walley is the most experienced player at the position after MSU lost captain Malcolm Johnson. Walley, a 6-4,
242-pound junior, has four catches for 49 yards and one touchdown in his career.
Breakout candidate: Darrion Hutcherson
n The senior appeared in all 13 games last season, but
he didnt have any catches. At 6-7, 260 pounds, he has the size
to be a force.
Freshman to watch: Farrod Green
n The Wesson native might see some playing time this
season to give MSU another option.
Best-case scenario: Walley and Hutcherson come into
their own and give Prescott another weapon in the passing
game.
Radio affiliates
City
Aberdeen
Amory
Batesville
Biloxi/Gulfport
Bude/Brookhaven
Clarksdale
Clarksdale
Columbia
Corinth
French Camp
Greenville
Greenwood/Indianola
Grenada
Hattiesburg
Jackson
Lucedale
Memphis, Tenn.
Meridian
Monticello
Natchez
Philadelphia
Starkville/West Point
Tupelo
Tylertown
Vicksburg
Waynesboro
Winona
Yazoo City
Defensive Line
Leader: Chris Jones

n The junior will be a force at defensive tackle this season.
He and senior defensive back Will Redmond were preseason
second-team All-SEC picks in July. Earlier this month, both
players were named National Defensive Player of the Year
candidates thanks to their inclusion on the watch lists for the
Bednarik Award and the Nagurski Trophy.
Breakout candidate: Ryan Brown
n The senior defensive end is MSUs top returning pass
rusher. He has the length at 6-6 to disrupt SEC backfields.
Freshman to watch: Braxton Hoyett
Station Frequency
WWZQ*
1240 AM
WAMY*
1580 AM
WBLE*
100.5 FM
WBUV#
104.9 FM
WMJU-FM*
104.3 FM
WROX*
1450 AM
WROX*
96.1 FM
WCJU*
104.9 FM
WKCU*
1350 AM
WFCA*
107.9 FM
WDMS*
100.7 FM
WTCD*
96.9 FM
WOHT*
92.3 FM
WMXI*
98.1 FM
WRKS*
105.9 FM
WRBE*
106.9 FM
KQPN*
730 AM
WMOX*
1010 AM
WRQO*
102.1 FM
WWUU-FM*/WNAT-AM 103.9/1450
WWSL*
102.3 FM
WKBB*
100.9 FM
WXWX*
96.3 FM
WTYL*
97.7 FM
WVBG*
105.5 FM
WABO
105.5 FM
WONA*
95.1 FM
WBYP*/WELZ
107.1 FM/1460 AM
# Broadcasts on WBUV-FM in Biloxi/Gulfport that conflict with Ole Miss games will
be aired on WQYZ-FM (92.5)
* Station will carry Mississippi State football coach Dan Mullens weekly call-in show,
DawgTalk, from 7-8 p.m. Thursdays from Sept. 3 to Nov. 26. Fans can call into the show
by dialing 866-998-4893.
See POSITION, 15
2014 STATISTICS

MSU
OPP
SCORING
480
282
Points Per Game
36.9
21.7
Points Off Turnovers
84
82
FIRST DOWNS
334
268
Rushing
160
115
Passing
159
143
Penalty
15
10
RUSHING YARDAGE
3030
1970
Yards gained rushing
3303
2291
Yards lost rushing
273
321
Rushing Attempts
578
472
Average Per Rush
5.2
4.2
Average Per Game
233.1
151.5
TDs Rushing
29
17
PASSING YARDAGE
3649
3547
Comp-Att-Int
261-423-12 264-505-16
Average Per Pass
8.6
7.0
Average Per Catch
14.0
13.4
Average Per Game
280.7
272.8
TDs Passing
31
17
TOTAL OFFENSE
6679
5517
Total Plays
1001
977
Average Per Play
6.7
5.6
Average Per Game
513.8
424.4
KICK RETURNS: #-Yards
27-538 58-1038
PUNT RETURNS: #-Yards 25-149
14-101
INT RETURNS: #-Yards
16-186
12-36
KICK RETURN AVERAGE 19.9
17.9
PUNT RETURN AVERAGE 6.0
7.2
INT RETURN AVERAGE
11.6
3.0
FUMBLES-LOST
21-11
17-7
PENALTIES-Yards
67-513
57-476
Average Per Game
39.5
36.6
PUNTS-Yards
60-2574 88-3574
Average Per Punt
42.9
40.6
Net punt average
39.5
38.2
KICKOFFS-Yards
86-5295 57-3476
Average Per Kick
61.6
61.0
Net kick average
41.9
39.3
TIME OF POSSESSION/Game
29:37
30:21
3RD-DOWN Conversions
91/196
72/205
3rd-Down Pct
46%
35%
4TH-DOWN Conversions
9/21
9/22
4th-Down Pct
43%
41%
SACKS BY-Yards
37-225
23-148
MISC YARDS
87
0
TOUCHDOWNS SCORED 64
35
FIELD GOALS-ATTEMPTS 12-16
13-20
ON-SIDE KICKS
0-2
1-4
RED-ZONE SCORES
(50-61) 82% ( 28-44) 64%
RED-ZONE TDS
(39-61) 64% ( 19-44) 43%
PAT-ATTEMPTS
(60-64) 94% (31-32) 97%
ATTENDANCE
427892 369120
Games/Avg Per Game
7/61127 5/73824
Neutral Site Games

1/58211
BY THE NUMBERS
19.9
n Points Manny Diazs
defense allowed when he
was at MSU in 2010. That
was good for 22nd in the
nation.
n Game-clinching
interceptions Will Redmond
had last season (LSU and
Arkansas).
n Field goals the returning

kickers made last season.
Evan Sobiesk made 12 of
14 tries.
Ben Wait
east mississippi community college lions
Athletic Website: www.emccathletics.com; Radio: WFCA-FM 108; Twitter: @emccathletics; Instagram: @EMCCAthletics; You Tube: www.youtube.com/EMCCAthletics
2015 Schedule
Aug. 27 SOUTHWEST
Sept. 3 At Copiah-Lincoln
Sept. 10 COAHOMA
Sept. 17 At Northeast
Sept. 26 ITAWAMBA
Oct. 1
At Jones
Oct. 8
At Holmes
Oct. 15 NORTHWEST
Oct. 22 At Miss. Delta
HOME GAMES IN CAPS
Mitch Deaver/East Mississippi Community College Athletic Media Relations
TOP: The top-ranked East Mississippi Community College football team celebrates its 34-17 victory against second-ranked Iowa Western in
the National Junior College Athletic Association national title game in Biloxi last season. BELOW (from left): EMCC football coach Buddy
Stephens, NJCAA President Bryce Roderick, and EMCC President Dr. Rick Young pose for a picture with the national championship trophy.
EMCC WILL TRY TO MAKE HISTORY

Stephens Lions will try to overcome key graduation losses as they pursue record third-straight national title
By Scot t Walters
swalters@cdispatch.com
SCOOBA
East
Mississippi Community
College plays its best football when challenged.
Though it has been
rarely been put to the test
in the past 24 months,
EMCC begins another
season favored to finish
on the top of the heap in
the National Junior College Athletic Association
(NJCAA).
EMCC has won its past
24 games and has repeated as back-to-back NJCAA national champions.
Overall, EMCC has won
36 of its past 38 games and
garnered three of the past
four national titles.
It is all about championships here, said EMCC
freshman defensive back
Alex Lipscomb, a former
standout at Columbus
High School. We do everything until we do it
perfectly. There is nothing
more disheartening than
when you reach the end of
a set of drills and you have
to go back and start the
reps all over again because
somebody messed up.
That is the expectation here, though. You go
all out. You go until you
find perfection. That is
why this program has had
this kind of success.
When it comes to winning
championships,
EMCC has the market
cornered.
Mississippi Gulf Coast
C.C. is the only other
Mississippi
Association
of Community and Junior
College (MACJC) member with three national
championships. No team
has won three-straight national titles.
East Mississippi
Community College
sophomore running back
DJ Law will be one of the
teams most
experienced returning
players on offense this
season. Law, who is from
Haines City,
Florida, was second on
the team in rushing to
former Starkville High
School standout Preston
Baker with 561 yards and
five touchdowns.
Dispatch File Photo
EMCC also will be

gunning for the nations
all-time longest winning
streak in junior college
football. Blinn (Texas)
College owns the national record with 26 straight
wins from 1995-97.
This team is highly
motivated, said EMCC
sophomore running back
D.J. Law, a Florida native.
We know what kind of
history we are trying to
make. Everybody wants to
win every time they play.
However, we can take a lot
of pride in the win streak.
We know we are always
going to get the other
teams best shot. To be
able to survive that week
in and week out is a testament to our character and
our will to win.
People expect championships around here. You
arent going to be brought
here to play unless you are
good enough to help us
win championships. That
makes what we are trying
to do very exciting.
Law follows in the long
line of standout running
backs at EMCC. Former
Starkville High standout
Preston Baker, who carried the rushing load a
year ago, has moved on
to Tennessee-Martin. As
a freshman, Law ran for
561 yards and five touchdowns. His value to the
team was underscored by
his dominance in the kick
return game.
D.J. is such a valuable
player because he can assist us in so many ways,
EMCC offensive coordinator Marcus Wood said.
He is a special athlete
with a real knack for the
game. He doesnt think
there is anybody who can
See EMCC, 15
2014 Results
Aug. 28 W, 52-14

At Southwest CC
Sept. 4 W, 46-10

Co-Lincoln CC
Sept. 11 W, 83-7

At Coahoma CC
Sept. 18 W, 65-7

Northeast CC
Sept. 25 W, 51-0

At Itawamba CC
Oct. 4
W, 55-0

Jones JC (HC)
Oct. 9
W, 49-0

Holmes CC
Oct. 16 W, 49-0

At Northwest CC
Oct. 23 W, 65-0

Miss. Delta CC
Nov. 1 W, 42-21

GULF COAST CC
Nov. 8 W, 54-15

At Co-Lincoln CC
Dec. 7 W, 34-17

Vs. Iowa West. CC
HOME GAMES IN CAPS
Coaching staff
Head Coach
Buddy Stephens
n Clifton Collins
Defensive backs
n Davern Williams
Defensive Line
n Clint Trickett
Quarterbacks
n Jordan Lesley
Defensive Coordinator /
Linebackers
n Marcus Wood
Offensive Coordinator /
Wide receivers
n Cade Wilkerson
Recruiting Coordinator
2014 Statistics
EMCC
National
Games
12
1
Scoring
645
2
Points per game
53.8
4
Total offense
6445
2
Yards per game
537.1
5
Passing yards
4381
1
Comp-Att-Int
342-506-8
1
Passing yards per game
365.1
2
Passing yards per attempt
8.7
8
Passing yards per completion 12.8
32
Passing touchdowns
52
1
Rushing yards
2064
12
Rushing attempts
366
34
Rushing yards per game
172.0
25
Yards per rush
5.6
8
Rushing touchdowns
27
10
1st downs
314
3
Rushing 1st downs
115
7
Passing 1st downs
179
2
Penalty 1st downs
20
31
1st downs per game
26.2
5
3rd-down conversions
74-144
7
3rd down %
51%
10
4th-down conversions
11-18
16
4th down %
61%
12
Kick returns (No.-Yards)
25-571
45
Kick return average
22.8
12
Punt returns (No.-Yards)
24-313
9
Punt return average
13.0
15
Field goals
5-6
29
Field goal %
83.3%
7
PATs
78-85
2
PAT %
91.8%
22
Punts (No.-Yards)
41-1452
48
Average per punt
35.4
34
Red zone scores
13-16
12
Red zone touchdowns
12-16
9
Fumbles-lost
6-4
55
Fumbles recovered
15
6
Defensive INTs
21
3
Interception returns (No.-Yds) 21-547
1
Interception return average
26.0
6
8 SUNDAY, AUGUST 16, 2015
COLLEGE FOOTBALL PREVIEW
Starkville
WHEN EVERY DOLLAR COUNTS
12249 Hwy. 182 | Starkville, MS 39759 | 662-323-1900
www.StarkvilleFordSales.com
Add a New Car To Your

Lineup This Season!
COLUMBUS
ABERDEEN
hosts
at
at
hosts
at
hosts
at
hosts
hosts
at
hosts
Corinth
New Hope
Amory
Calhoun City
Itawamba AHS
Shannon
**Mooreville
**Hatley
**South Pontotoc
**North Pontotoc
**Nettleton
COLUMBUS CHRISTIAN
ACADEMY
Aug. 21
Aug. 28
Sept. 4
Sept. 11
Sept. 18
Sept. 25
Oct. 2
Oct. 9
Oct. 16
Oct. 23
at
hosts
hosts
at
at
hosts
at
at
hosts
hosts
Heritage Academy
Sylva-Bay Academy
Kirk Academy
Tupelo Christian Prep
**Winona Christian
**Carroll Academy
**Oak Hill Academy
Newton County Academy
**Deer Creek
Wayne Academy
CALEDONIA
Aug. 21
Aug. 28
Sept. 4
Sept. 11
Sept. 18
Sept. 25
Oct. 2
Oct. 9
Oct. 16
Oct. 23
Oct. 30
Aug, 21
Aug. 28
Sept. 4
Sept. 11
Sept. 18
Sept. 25
Oct. 2
Oct. 9
Oct. 16
Oct. 23
Oct. 30
Nov. 6
at
Shannon
hosts Mooreville
OPEN DATE
hosts Okolona
at
New Hope
at
Tishomingo County
at
**Houston
hosts **Louisville
hosts **Kosciusko
at
**Noxubee County
hosts **Leake Central
at
hosts
at
hosts
at
hosts
at
hosts
at
hosts
at
hosts
at
hosts
at
hosts
at
hosts
at
at
hosts
hosts
at
hosts
Park Place Christian

North Sunflower Aca.
Sharkey-Issaquena
**Hebron Christian
Unity Christian Aca.
OPEN DATE
Calvary Christian
Delta Academy
**Kemper Academy
**Calhoun Academy
**Strider Academy
South Pontotoc
East Union
Hatley
OPEN DATE
**Coffeeville
**Thrasher
**Biggersville
**Coldwater
**Falkner
**West Lowndes
**Smithville
**Vardaman
Aug. 21
Aug. 28
Sept. 4
Sept. 11
Sept. 18
Sept. 25
Oct. 2
Oct. 9
Oct. 16
Oct. 23
Oct. 30
hosts
at
hosts
at
at
hosts
hosts
hosts
at
at
Aug. 21
Aug. 28
Sept. 4
Sept. 11
Sept. 18
Sept. 25
Oct. 2
Oct. 9
Oct. 16
Oct. 23
Oct. 30
Nov. 6
hosts
at
hosts
at
hosts
at
hosts
at
hosts
at
at
Kemper County
Noxubee County
New Hope
West Point
OPEN DATE
**DeSoto Central
**Tupelo
**Horn Lake
**Southaven
**Olive Branch
**South Panola
**Hernando
HERITAGE ACADEMY
Sharkey-Issaquena Aca.
Delta Streets Academy
**Strider Academy
**Central Academy
Delta Academy
Park Place Christian
OPEN DATE
Marvell Academy
**Calhoun Academy
Calvary Christian
**Kemper Academy
Aug. 21
Aug. 28
Sept. 4
Sept. 11
Sept. 18
Sept. 25
Oct. 2
Oct. 9
Oct. 16
Oct. 23
hosts
at
hosts
at
at
hosts
at
hosts
hosts
at
Columbus Christian Aca.

Lamar School
Oak Hill Academy
Lee Academy
Pisgah
**Winston Academy
West Lowndes
**Starkville Academy
Indianola Academy
**Leake Academy
Aug. 21
Aug. 28
Sept. 4
Sept. 11
Sept. 18
Sept. 25
Oct. 2
Oct. 9
Oct. 16
Oct. 23
hosts
hosts
at
at
hosts
hosts
at
at
hosts
at
Marshall Academy
West Lowndes
Magnolia Heights
Lamar School
Pillow Academy
Washington School
French Camp Academy
**Heritage Academy
**Leake Academy
**Winston Academy
NOXUBEE
COUNTY
NEW HOPE
Aug. 21
Aug. 28
Sept. 4
Sept. 11
Sept. 18
Sept. 25
Oct. 2
Oct. 9
Oct. 16
Oct. 23
Oct. 30
Nov. 6
at
hosts
at
hosts
at
HEBRON
CHRISTIAN
HAMILTON
hosts
hosts
at
CENTRAL ACADEMY
Aug. 21
Aug. 28
Sept. 4
Sept. 11
Sept. 18
Sept. 25
Oct. 2
Oct. 9
Oct. 16
Oct. 23
Oct. 30
Louisville
Aberdeen
Columbus
OPEN DATE
Caledonia
**Clarksdale
**Center Hill
**Lake Cormorant
**Oxford
**Lewisburg
**West Point
**Saltillo
Aug. 21
Aug. 28
Sept. 4
Sept. 11
Sept. 18
Sept. 25
Oct. 2
Oct. 9
Oct. 16
Oct. 23
Oct. 30
hosts
hosts
at
at
hosts
at
hosts
at
hosts
hosts
at
STARKVILLE
HIGH
Aug. 21
Aug. 28
Sept. 4
Sept. 11
Sept. 18
Sept. 25
Oct. 2
Oct. 9
Oct. 16
Oct. 23
Oct. 30
Nov. 6
at
Noxubee County
hosts Oxford
at
West Point
hosts KIPP Collegiate
OPEN DATE
at
**Callaway
hosts **Northwest Rankin
at
**Greenville
hosts **Madison Central
at
**Murrah
at
**Warren Central
hosts **Clinton
Starkville
Columbus
Aledo
Meridian
West Point
Kemper County
**Kosciusko
**Leake Central
**Louisville
**Caledonia
**Houston
hosts
hosts
at
at
at
hosts
hosts
hosts
at
at
WEST
LOWNDES
VICTORY
Aug. 21
at
Durant
Aug. 28CHRISTIAN
at
Starkville Academy
Sept. 4
hosts McAdams
Aug. 11
28 At Tabernacle
Sept.
hosts **Biggersville
Sept. 18
4 NEWatLIFE CHRISTIAN
Sept.
**Coldwater
Sept. 25
11 CAHAWBA
CHRISTIAN
Sept.
hosts **Falkner
Sept.218 At East
Memorial
Oct.
hosts
Heritage Academy
Sept.925 NORTH
Oct.
at RIVER
**Smithville
Oct. 16
2 MEADOWVIEW
CHRISTIAN
Oct.
hosts **Vardaman
Oct. 23
9 OPENat
Oct.
**Hamilton
Oct. 30
15 TUSCALOOSA
CHRISTIAN
Oct.
hosts **Coffeeville
Oct. 623 At Gunn
Nov.
at Christian
**Thrasher
EMCC
III. LOCATIONS
Aug. 21
Aug. 28
Sept. 4
Sept. 11
Sept. 18
Sept. 25
Oct. 2
Oct. 9
Oct. 16
Oct. 23
Aug. 27 SOUTHWEST
Sept. 3 At Copiah-Lincoln
Sept. 10 COAHOMA
Sept. 17 At Northeast
Sept. 26 ITAWAMBA
Oct. 1 At Jones
Oct. 8 At Holmes
Oct. 15 NORTHWEST
Oct. 22V. ATHLETICS
At Miss. Delta
Aug. 27
Sept. 3
Sept. 10
Sept. 17
Sept. 26
Oct. 3
Oct. 8
Oct. 15
Oct. 24
SOUTHERN MISS.
Newton County Academy

Tupelo Christian Prep
Heritage Academy
West Memphis Christian
Marshall Academy
Leake Academy
**Columbus Christian Aca.
**Carroll Academy
**Winona Christian Aca.
**Deer Creek Academy
WEST
POINT
Aug. 21
Aug. 28
Sept. 4
Sept. 11
Sept. 18
Sept. 25
Oct. 2
Oct. 9
Oct. 16
Oct. 23
Oct. 30
Nov. 6
at
hosts
hosts
at
at
hosts
at
hosts
hosts
at
hosts
COPIAH-LINCOLN
JONES
At Holmes
NORTHWEST
At East Miss.
COAHOMA
At Northeast
MISS. DELTA
At Gulf Coast
OPEN DATE
Louisville
Starkville
Columbus
Noxubee County
**Oxford
**Clarksdale
**Center Hill
**Lake Cormorant
**Saltillo
**New Hope
**Lewisburg
HOME GAMES IN ALL CAPS.
VI. STUDENT ORGANIZATIONS
Sept. 5
Sept. 12
Sept. 19
Sept. 26
Oct. 3
Oct. 10
Oct. 17
Oct. 24
Nov. 7
Nov. 14
Nov. 28
Sept. 5
vs. Wisconsin
Sept. 12
(Arlington, TX)
Sept. 19
MIDDLE TENN. STATE
Sept. 26
OLE MISS
IV. STUDENT AFFAIRS/SERVICES Oct. 3
LOUISIANA-MONROE
Oct. 9
At Georgia
Oct. 17
ARKANSAS
Oct. 24
At Texas A&M
Oct. 31
TENNESSEE
Nov. 14
LSU
Nov. 21
At Mississippi State
Nov. 28
At Auburn
MISSISSIPPI STATE
AUSTIN PEAY
Texas State
Nebraska
NORTH TEXAS
Marshall
UTSA
Charlotte
VII. 501c3
FOUNDATIONS
UTEP
A
A
F
Rice
OLD DOMINION
Louisiana Tech
LUM NI
F OU N DAT
T H LET IC
ION
R ESEAR
CH
OU N DAT I O N
F OU N DAT
ION
Sept. 5
Sept. 12
Sept. 19
Sept. 26
Oct. 3
Oct. 10
Oct. 17
Oct. 24
Nov. 5
Nov. 15
Nov. 21
Nov. 28
At Southern Miss.
LSU
NORTHWESTERN STATE
At Auburn
At Texas A&M
TROY
LOUISIANA TECH
KENTUCKY
At Missouri
ALABAMA
At Arkansas
OLE MISS
Sept. 5
Sept. 12
Sept. 19
Sept. 26
Oct. 3
Oct. 10
Oct. 17
Oct. 24
Oct. 31
Nov. 7
Nov. 21
Nov. 28
UT MARTIN
FRESNO STATE
At Alabama
VANDERBILT
At Florida
NEW MEXICO STATE
At Memphis
TEXAS A&M
At Auburn
ARKANSAS
LSU
At Mississippi State
The Dispatch
Aug. 21
Aug. 28
Sept. 4
Sept. 11
Sept. 18
Sept. 25
Oct. 2
Oct. 9
Oct. 16
Oct. 23
Oct. 30
OLE miss rebels
Athletic Website: www.olemisssports.com; Twitter: @OleMissFB; Facebook: www.facebook.com/olemisssports; Blog: www.olemisssports.com/blog
Coaching staff
Head Coach
Hugh Freeze
n Tom Allen Special
Teams Coordinator/
Linebackers
n Maurice Harris Tight
Ends/Recruiting Coordinator
For Offense
n Grant Heard Wide
Receivers
n Jason Jones CoDefensive Coordinator/
Cornerbacks
n Chris Kiffin Defensive
Line/Recruiting Coordinator
For Defense
n Matt Luke Co-Offensive
Coordinator/Offensive Line
n Derrick Nix Running
Backs
n Dan Werner CoOffensive Coordinator/
Quarterbacks
n Dave Wommack
Defensive Coordinator/
Linebackers
n Corey Batoon Special
Teams Coordinator/Safeties
n Barney Farrar
Assistant A.D./High School
and Junior College Relations
n Paul Jackson Head
Strength and Conditioning
Coach
n Tom Luke Assistant
A.D./Player Development
n John Miller Assistant
A.D./Football Operations
n Christian Robinson
Graduate Assistant,
Defense
n Chris Buttgen
Director of Football Media
n Ken Crain Equipment
Manager
n Pat Jernigan Head
Athletic Trainer
n Bruce Johnson
Coordinator of Recruiting
Development
n Davis Merritt
Graduate Assistant,
Defense
n Sean Patterson
Assistant Director of
Recruiting Operations
n Lee Wilbanks
Coordinator of Recruiting
Development
n Robert Ratliff
Graduate Assistant, Offense
n Will Reid
Assistant Coordinator of
Video Services
n Branden Wenzel
Assistant Recruiting Director
Radio affiliates
City
Station Frequency
Amory*
WAFM-AM
1580 AM
Brookhaven* WBKN-FM
92.1 FM
Columbus*
WNMQ-FM 103.1 FM
Corinth*
WXRZ-FM
94.3 FM
Greenwood* WYMX-FM
99.1 FM
Hattiesburg* WFMM-FM
97.3 FM
Hazlehurst* WDXO-FM
92.9 FM
Jackson*
WFMN-FM
97.3 FM
Laurel*
WLAU-FM
99.3 FM
Lexington, Tenn. WZLT-FM
99.3 FM
Louisville*
WLSM-FM
107.1 FM
McComb*
WAZA-FM
107.7 FM
Memphis, Tenn. WHBQ-AM*
560 AM
Meridian
WZKR-FM 103.3 FM
Natchez*
WKSO-FM
97.3 FM
Ocean Springs* WOSM-FM 103.1 FM
Oxford
WQLJ-FM
93.7 FM
Oxford/WValley* WTNM-FM
105.5 FM
Philadelphia* WHOC-AM 1490 AM
Prentiss*
WJDR-FM
98.3 FM
Tupelo*
WWMR-FM 102.9 FM
Vicksburg*
WVBG-AM 1420 AM
Water Valley WTNM-FM 105.5 FM
Waynesboro WABO-AM
990 AM
Yazoo City* WBYP-FM
107.1 FM
Nationwide Satellite
Sirius XM
Worldwide OleMissSports.com
Mobile
Ole Miss Sports Gameday
app
* Carries RebTalk live at 7-8 p.m. Tuesdays
NOTE: The Season: Ole Miss Football

will appear on the following television stations: Fox Sports South (TBA), Cox Cable
(TBA), WCBI-Columbus (10 p.m. Thursday),
WMDN-Meridian & Hattiesburg (6 p.m.
Thursday)
2015 Schedule
Sept. 5 UT MARTIN
Sept. 12 FRESNO STATE
Sept. 19 At Alabama
Sept. 26 VANDERBILT
Oct. 3
At Florida
Oct. 10 NEW MEXICO
STATE
Oct. 17 At Memphis
Oct. 24 TEXAS A&M
Oct. 31 At Auburn
Nov. 7 ARKANSAS
Nov. 21 LSU
Nov. 28 At Mississippi
State
HOME GAMES IN CAPS
Dispatch File Photo
Laquon Treadwell breaks away from Memphis Fritz Etienne in Ole Miss 24-3 victory on Sept. 2, 2014, in Oxford.
The junior wide receiver is expected to return after he suffered a broken fibula and a dislocated ankle at the end
of the Auburn game and missed the rest of the season.
Rebels have plenty of options, even at QB

Former EMCC standout Kelly figures to compete with Buchanan, Kincade for starting job
BY BEN WAIT
bwait@cdispatch.com
HOOVER, Ala. The

Ole Miss football team has
plenty of experienced skill
players.
Junior wide receiver
Laquon Treadwell led the
team with
48
catches for 632
yards
in
nine games
last season.
He suffered
a broken fibBuchanan
ula and dislocated ankle against
Auburn on
Nov. 1 that
ended his
sophomore
campaign.
The Crete,
Kelly
Illinois, native also had
five touchdowns. Senior
wide
receiver
Cody Core
and junior
tight
end
Kincade
Evan
Engram combined for 79 catches, 1,220
yards, and eight touchdowns last season.
Senior running back
Jaylen Walton rushed for
586 yards and five touchdowns. He also caught 19
passes for 206 yards and
two touchdowns.
The Rebels biggest
concern on offense is who
will be the teams quarterback for the season opener
against Tennessee-Martin
at 11 a.m. on Saturday,
Sept. 5, in Oxford.
Ole Miss fourth-year
head coach Hugh Freeze
will have to decide between sophomores Ryan
Buchanan and DeVante
Ole Miss Athletic Media Relations
Quarterback Chad Kelly throws on the move in Ole Miss Grove Bowl on April 11.
Kelly had a touchdown pass to lead the Blue team past the Red team 17-7.
Kincade and East Mississippi Community College

transfer Chad Kelly.
I dont think theres a
fair sampling yet for any
of the three, Freeze said
in July at Southeastern
Conference Media Days.
Thats why I have not put
I will not put myself in
a box on when that decision will be made. I think
all three have earned the
right to compete for it.
Buchanan and Kincade
earned playing time last
season, but former EMCC
Lion Bo Wallace started
all 13 games and led Ole
Miss (9-4) to an appearance against TCU in the
Chick-fil-A Peach Bowl
in Atlanta. The Horned
Frogs won 42-3.
Buchanan was 12 of 22
for 75 yards in 13 games. He
threw one interception. Kincade played in eight games
and was 16 of 20 for 127
yards and one touchdown.
Sophomore quarterback Ryan Buchanan went 5-for-16
See OFFENSE, 10 for 49 yards with an interception in the Grove Bowl.
The Dispatch
Were More Than

A Weight Room!
NO EXCUSES - JUST RESULTS!

TRAINING SYSTEMS
Towne Square Center 327-6348 www.fitnessfactor.net
2014 Results
Aug. 28 W, 35-13

Vs. Boise St.
(Atlanta)
Sept. 6 W, 41-3

At Vanderbilt
Sept. 13 W, 56-15

UL LAFAYETTE
Sept. 27 W, 24-3
MEMPHIS
Oct. 4
W, 23-17
ALABAMA
Oct. 11 W, 35-20

At Texas A&M
Oct. 18 W, 34-3
TENNESSEE
Oct. 25 L, 7-10

At LSU
Nov. 1 L, 31-35
AUBURN
Nov. 8 W, 48-0
PRESBYTERIAN
Nov. 22 L, 0-30

At Arkansas
Nov. 29 W, 31-17

MISS. STATE
Dec. 31 L, 3-42

Vs. TCU
HOME GAMES IN CAPS
2014 Statistics

UM

OPP
SCORING
368
208
Points Per Game
28.3
16.0
110
87
FIRST DOWNS
265
239
Rushing
97
106
Passing
149
118
Penalty
19
15
RUSHING YARDAGE
2021
1780
2358
2178
Yards lost rushing
337
398
Rushing Attempts
476
513
Average Per Rush
4.2
3.5
Average Per Game
155.5
136.9
TDs Rushing
21
9
PASSING YARDAGE
3427
2497
Comp-Att-Int
258-428-15 240-402-22
Average Per Pass
8.0
6.2
Average Per Catch
13.3
10.4
Average Per Game
263.6
192.1
TDs Passing
24
12
TOTAL OFFENSE
5448
4277
Total Plays
904
915
Average Per Play
6.0
4.7
Average Per Game
419.1
329.0
32-629
42-893
19-66
22-371
15-190
21.3
3.5
INT RETURN AVERAGE
16.9
12.7
FUMBLES-LOST
19-10
18-10
PENALTIES-Yards
69-549
78-696
Average Per Game
42.2
53.5
PUNTS-Yards
68-2943 89-3878
Average Per Punt
43.3
43.6
Net punt average
41.7
40.7
KICKOFFS-Yards
71-4402 48-2942
Average Per Kick
62.0
61.3
Net kick average
40.6
39.9
TIME OF POSS/Game
28:14
31:46
72/183
65/197
3rd-Down Pct
39%
33%
9/20
8/15
4th-Down Pct
45%
53%
SACKS BY-Yards
28-216
31-171
MISC YARDS
-24
0
24
13-19
ON-SIDE KICKS
0-0
0-1
RED-ZONE SCORES
(29-41) 71% ( 25-34) 74%
RED-ZONE TDS
(23-41) 56% ( 14-34) 41%
PAT-ATTEMPTS
(47-49) 96% ( 23-23) 100%
ATTENDANCE
430829 320724
Games/Avg Per Game
7/61547 4/80181
OLE miss rebels
Athletic Website: www.olemisssports.com; Twitter: @OleMissFB; Facebook: www.facebook.com/olemisssports; Blog: www.olemisssports.com/blog
Johnson has grown comfortable with move to linebacker
Bowl to tell him the move

was coming
Coach Freeze said
they were going to experiment with me at (line-
backer), Johnson said. I

told him immediately that
that would be something I
want to do. I will do anything to help the team win
football games.
This isnt Johnsons
first experience at linebacker. He played the
position at Philadelphia
High School, and had 149

tackles as a senior and
151 as a junior.
As a result, Johnson was
one of the top lineback-
ers in the 2011 recruiting

class, but the transition
back hasnt been seamless
for Johnson.
Its been an adjustment at times, he said.
Although
Johnson
has had to adjust to the
new position, he said the
spring was a big help, and
that he feels good about
the move as the season
gets closer.
Im getting pretty
comfortable,
Johnson
said. Its just a matter
of going out every day
and making sure youre
getting the reps to be
the best you can be and
continue to grow and just
dont make the same mistakes twice.
Johnson wont have to
carry the defense. The
Rebels have several talented players, including
senior Denzel Nkemdiche
and junior Terry Caldwell
(outside linebacker) and
sophomore
Demarquis
Gates (middle linebacker), set to help him.
Johnson also will go
up against Ole Miss top
skill position players every day in practice to get
See Johnson, 13
member Jim Kelly, spent

two seasons at Clemson
(redshirt in 2012) before
transferring to EMCC
in Scooba. He helped
lead the Lions to a second-straight
National
Junior College Athletic
Association
(NJCAA)
national championship.
He threw for 3,906 yards
and 47 touchdowns as the
Lions finished the season
unbeaten. He also rushed
for 446 yards and four
touchdowns for coach
Buddy Stephens.
Last year, we really
didnt have a consistent
deep threat ball, and he
has a really strong arm,
Engram said. He knows
how to throw deep balls.
He knows how to look
for the pre-snap

ble, staying away
(reads), and hes
from
possible
real big on makthings that could
get him in trouble.
ing that big play. I
Engram will be a
think he can bring
focal point of the ofthat aspect to the
fense. Freeze said
game this year.
Engram is a diffiKelly was arrest- Treadwell
cult matchup for
ed in his hometown
defenses, and that
of Buffalo, New
York, last December and he likes the guidance he
charged with resisting brings to the team, espearrest, menacing, and cially to Kelly.
Hes one of the guys
several other counts. He
pled guilty to a non-crim- that you look at and say,
inal charge of disorderly Man, I wish we could
conduct and agreed to model this young man as a
50 hours of community
service. Teammates have
seen a mature Kelly in the
past eight months.
Hes making good
decisions, Engram said.
Hes staying out of trou-
student-athlete, both in the

classroom, on the field, in
his personal life, Freeze
said. Hes just an outstanding leader that brings
it every day.
With the SEC West being so tough, the Rebels
cant afford to fall behind
at quarterback. Freeze
has focused on that in the
offseason to make sure it
doesnt happen early in
the season.
I really believe the
SEC West has seven top25 teams, Freeze said. I
think the team or teams

that will emerge to be
the top will be the teams
whose defense is the most
stingy in the red zone and
whose quarterback plays
the best. I dont know that
I can overstate the importance of our quarterback
situation, us finding the
guy that can hopefully
make us efficient.
Follow Dispatch sports
writer Ben Wait on Twitter
@bcwait
BY BEN WAIT
bwait@cdispatch.com
HOOVER, Ala. C.J.

Johnson knew what was
expected of him at defensive line last season.
But the senior moved
to linebacker in the
spring and
is expected
to face new
responsibilities and
pressures
in his fifth
season as
Johnson
a member
of the Ole
Miss football program.
With junior Robert
Nkemdiche, senior Issac
Gross, senior Woodrow
Hamilton, junior Fadol
Brown, sophomore Marquis Haynes, junior college
transfer D.J. Jones, and
redshirt freshman Breeland Speaks already on the
defensive line and after the
loss of linebackers Keith
Lewis, Deterrian Shackelford, and Serderius Bryant, Ole Miss coach Hugh
Freeze knew the Rebels
had to make a move.
Freeze
approached
Johnson following a 42-3
loss to TCU in the Peach
Offense
Dispatch File Photo
C.J. Johnson gives the sign for the Landshark in the Ole Miss football teams 31-17 victory against Mississippi
State in the Battle for the Golden Egg on Nov. 29, 2014, in Oxford. Johnson had six tackles (four solo) and a
sack in the win.
Continued from Page 9

I said after spring, I
thought Ryan was a little
ahead of the other two,
but the margin was so
small it could be overcome, Freeze said. It
may be two weeks into
fall camp that its obvious,
or it may be two games
into the season before its
made.
Freeze said before
preseason camp started
that all three quarterbacks were going to take
repetitions with the first
string. He said Buchanan would get more snaps
than the other two, but
many believe Kelly will
be Ole Miss opening-day
starter.
Kelly, the nephew of
Pro Football Hall of Fame
Hanks
DeVante Kincade was 1-for-3 for 11 yards and had three rushes for 5 yards in Ole
Miss 42-3 loss to TCU in the Peach Bowl on Dec. 31, 2014. Kincade is competing
with Ryan Buchanan and Chad Kelly for the starting quarterback job this season.
5809 Hwy. 45 N. Columbus, MS

662-327-4233
www.hanksbbq.net
The Dispatch
NOT YOUR AVERAGE BBQ!
11
itawamba community COLLEGE INDIANS
Athletic Website: www.letsgoicc.com; Twitter: @LetsGoICC; Instagram: @LetsGoICC; Vine: @LetsGoICC; Facebook: LetsGoICC
Radio: WAFM 95.7 FM. Pregame show starts 20 minutes prior to game; TV: Online at www.LetsGoICC.com
LOCAL FLAVOR
n The 2015 Itawamba

Community College football
team will look to former
Aberdeen High School
standout Josh Williams and
other former local standouts
this season. In addition to
Williams, Noxubee County
Highs Eric Hunt, West Point
Highs Kadarius Forside,
Tyler Logan, and Ladarius
Gallion, and Starkville Highs
Keyon Higgins and Stanley
Higgins will compete for
playing time.
K. Higgins
Coaching staff
Head Coach
Sean Cannon
n Nick Coleman
Offensive Coordinator /
Quarterbacks
n Ray Williams Defensive
Line
n Tyrone Fox Defensive
Backs
n Cody Woodiel
Offensive Line
Hunt
2015 Schedule
JucoWeekly.org
Itawamba Community College quarterback Kwadra Griggs scrambles during the Indians game against Jones
County last season.
S. Higgins
Logan
ICC will rely on experience to pass tests

From Special Reports
Forside
Gallion
Williams
JuCo Schedule
WEEK ONE
Thursday, Aug. 27
Gulf Coast at Northeast, 6:30 p.m.
Holmes at Hinds, 6:30 p.m.
Mississippi Delta at East Central, 6:30 p.m.
Copiah-Lincoln at Itawamba, 7 p.m.
Pearl River at Coahoma, 7 p.m.
Southwest at East Mississippi, 7 p.m.
Saturday, August 29, 2015
Northwest at Jones, 7 p.m.
WEEK TWO
Thursday, Sept. 3
Coahoma at East Central, 6:30 p.m.
Gulf Coast at Northwest, 6:30 p.m.
Northeast at Hinds, 6:30 p.m.
East Mississippi at Copiah-Lincoln, 7 p.m.
Jones at Itawamba, 7 p.m.
Pearl River at Holmes, 7 p.m.
Southwest at Mississippi Delta, 7 p.m.
FULTON
The
Itawamba
Community
College football team returns 26 sophomores,
including four All-State
performers, from a team
that went 4-5 and tied for
second in the Mississippi
Association of Community
and Junior Colleges North
Division last season.
ICC, which went 4-2
in the MACJC North in
2014, will look to MACJC
All-State selections Grant
Kimberlin, a wide receiver from Olive Branch; Levarious Varndao, a defensive back from Calhoun
City; Ladarius Gallion, a
defensive lineman from
West Point; and Naquez
Pringle, a defensive linemen from Georgetown,
South Carolina; to lead
the way.
These guys have
picked up where they left
off from spring practice,
said Sean Cannon, who is
entering his second year
as ICCs coach. We are
going to rely heavily on
our sophomores to help
bring our freshmen up to
speed in a hurry because
on this level you dont
have a lot of time to sit
back and watch.
Other key returnees
include
quarterback
Kwadra Griggs (Greenwood), defensive end Trev
Miller (Noxapater), and
defensive backs Quinn
Tiggs (Tupelo) and Antonio Clifton (Tupelo).
I have been real impressed with Kwadra
throwing the ball in practice, Cannon said of the
Southern
Mississippi
commit. Our defensive

line has proven to be a
bright spot with depth,
and our defensive backs
have made some big plays
in camp and have shown a
lot of leadership.
ICC will look to dual-sport freshman Zach
Ellis (Tupelo) to replace
NJCAA All-America kicker Jeb Millender (Pontotoc).
ICC will be tested early and often throughout
the season. It will open
the campaign Thursday,
Aug. 27, at home against
top-ranked Copiah-Lincoln C.C. It also will play
host to traditional power
Jones County Junior College on Sept. 3 before going on the road Sept. 10 to
open North Division play
against Holmes C.C.
Things wont get eas-
ier for ICC when it plays

host to nationally ranked
Northwest
Mississippi
C.C. for Military Appreciation Night on Sept. 17.
It will travel to Scooba to
face nationally ranked
and reigning national
champion East Mississippi C.C. on Sept. 26 for the
Lions homecoming.
ICC will play host to
North Division foe Coahoma C.C. on Oct. 3
for Homecoming before
traveling to Booneville to
take on rival Northeast
Mississippi C.C. It will
close North Division play
against Mississippi Delta
C.C.
ICC will end the regular season with the
longest road trip in the
league against nationally
ranked Mississippi Gulf
Coast C.C.
Aug. 27 COPIAH-LINCOLN
Sept. 3 JONES
Sept. 10 At Holmes
Sept. 17 NORTHWEST
Sept. 26 At East Miss.
Oct. 3
COAHOMA
Oct. 8
At Northeast
Oct. 15 MISS. DELTA
Oct. 24 At Gulf Coast
HOME GAMES IN CAPS
2014 Results
Aug. 28 L, 37-13

At Co-Lincoln CC
Sept. 6 L, 35-14

At Jones JC
Sept. 11 W, 19-3

Holmes CC
Sept. 20 L, 45-31

At Northwest CC
Sept. 25 L, 51-0

EMCC
Oct. 4 W, 47-14

At Coahoma CC
Oct. 9 W, 38-19

Northeast CC
Oct. 18 W, 52-48

At Miss. Delta CC
Oct. 25 L, 49-3

Gulf Coast CC
HOME GAMES IN CAPS
WEEK THREE
Thursday, Sept. 10
North Northeast at Northwest, 6:30 p.m.
North Coahoma at East Mississippi, 7 p.m.
North Itawamba at Holmes, 7 p.m.
South East Central at Gulf Coast, 7 p.m.
South Hinds at Pearl River, 7 p.m.
South Jones at Southwest, 7 p.m.
Copiah-Lincoln at Mississippi Delta, 7 p.m.
WEEK FIVE
Thursday, Sept. 24
North Holmes at Mississippi Delta, 7 p.m.
North Northeast at Coahoma, 7 p.m.
South Copiah-Lincoln at East Central,
6:30 p.m.
South Jones at Gulf Coast, 7 p.m.
South Southwest at Pearl River, 7 p.m.
Hinds at Northwest, 6:30 p.m.
Saturday, Sept. 26
North Itawamba at East Mississippi, 2 p.m.
JucoWeekly.org; Lee Adams/ICCImages.com
TOP: Itawamba Community College wide receiver

DAndre Belton (3) runs past a Mississippi Delta C.C.
defender in a 52-48 road victory last season. MIDDLE:
ICC wide receiver Grant Kimberlin (26) runs past a
Northeast Mississippi C.C. defender in a 38-19 victory.
WEEK SIX
Thursday, Oct. 1
North Mississippi Delta at Northeast, 7 p.m.
South Hinds at East Central, 6:30 p.m.
South Gulf Coast at Southwest, 7 p.m.
East Mississippi at Jones, 7 p.m.
Saturday, Oct. 3
North Holmes at Northwest, 2 p.m.
North Coahoma at Itawamba, 3:30 p.m.
South Pearl River at Copiah-Lincoln,
2:30 p.m.
Low Testerone can cause:

Low sex drive
Increase in body fat
Lower energy
Feeling depressed
Reduced muscle mass
WEEK SEVEN
Thursday, Oct. 8
North Itawamba at Northeast, 6:30 p.m.
North East Mississippi at Holmes, 7 p.m.
South Copiah-Lincoln at Hinds, 6:30 p.m.
South Pearl River at Gulf Coast, 7 p.m.
Saturday, Oct. 10
North Northwest at Mississippi Delta, 2 p.m.
South East Central at Jones, 2 p.m.
Coahoma at Southwest, 5 p.m.
Call today to
schedule an appointment!
WEEK EIGHT
Thursday, Oct. 15
North Holmes at Coahoma, 7 p.m.
North Northwest at East Mississippi, 7 p.m.
North Mississippi Delta at Itawamba, 7 p.m.
South Gulf Coast at Copiah-Lincoln, 7 p.m.
South Jones at Hinds, 7 p.m.
Saturday, Oct. 17
South Southwest at East Central, 2:30 p.m.
Northeast at Pearl River, 2 p.m.
WEEK NINE
Thursday, Oct. 22
North Coahoma at Northwest, 6:30 p.m.
North East Mississippi at Mississippi Delta,
7 p.m.
South Copiah-Lincoln at Jones, 7 p.m.
South East Central at Pearl River, 7 p.m.
South Hinds at Southwest, 7 p.m.
Saturday, Oct. 24
Itawamba at Gulf Coast, 3:30 p.m.
North Northeast at Holmes, 4 p.m.
e
v
a
H
u
o
Y
Do
?
e
n
o
r
e
t
s
Low Te
Joshua G. Griffin, MD
JucoWeekly.org
Itawamba Community College quarterback Kwadra

Griggs rolls out of the pocket during a game last season.
Ben Woodson, MD
662.327.2921
321 Hospital Drive
Columbus, MS 39705
www.columbusurologygroup.com
The Dispatch
WEEK FOUR
Thursday, Sept. 17
North East Mississippi at Northeast,
6:30 p.m.
North Northwest at Itawamba, 7 p.m.
South Gulf Coast at Hinds, 6:30 p.m.
South Pearl River at Jones, 7 p.m.
South Southwest at Copiah-Lincoln, 7 p.m.
East Central at Holmes, 7 p.m.
Saturday, Sept. 19
North Mississippi Delta at Coahoma, 3 p.m.
alabama crimson tide
Athletic Website: www.rolltide.com; Twitter: http://twitter.com/UA_Athletics
Coaching staff
Head Coach
Nick Saban
n Greg Brown Secondary
Coach
n Burton Burns
Associate Head Coach /
Running Backs
n Mario Cristobal
Offensive Line
n Bo Davis Defensive
Line
n Lane Kiffin Offensive
Coordinator / Quarterbacks
n Tosh Lupol Outside
Linebackers
n Billy Napier Wide
Receivers
n Kirby Smart Defensive
Coordinator / Linebackers
n Mel Tucker Assistant
Head Coach / Defensive
Backs
n Bobby Williams Tight
Ends / Special Teams
Coordinator
n Scott Cochran Director
of Strength and Conditioning
n Justin Dickens Director
of Football Operations
n Jody Wright Director of
Player Personnel
2014 Statistics

UA

OPP
SCORING
517
258
Points Per Game
36.9
18.4
77
67
FIRST DOWNS
340
234
Rushing
154
81
Passing
170
141
Penalty
16
12
RUSHING YARDAGE
2893
1433
3161
1823
Yards lost rushing
268
390
Rushing Attempts
567
452
Average Per Rush
5.1
3.2
Average Per Game
206.6
102.4
TDs Rushing
35
5
PASSING YARDAGE
3890
3165
Comp-Att-Int
290-451-10 268-493-11
Average Per Pass
8.6
6.4
Average Per Catch
13.4
11.8
Average Per Game
277.9
226.1
TDs Passing
32
19
TOTAL OFFENSE
6783
4598
Total Plays
1018
945
Average Per Play
6.7
4.9
Average Per Game
484.5
328.4
49-1006 60-1291
12-83
11-84
10-124
21.5
6.9
INT RETURN AVERAGE
7.6
12.4
FUMBLES-LOST
18-12
20-9
PENALTIES-Yards
69-562
61-516
Average Per Game
40.1
36.9
PUNTS-Yards
55-2640 88-3790
Average Per Punt
48.0
43.1
Net punt average
44.7
38.4
KICKOFFS-Yards
93-5741 63-3685
Average Per Kick
61.7
58.5
Net kick average
40.3
37.8
TIME OF POSS/Game
31:45
27:41
102/198 82/217
3rd-Down Pct
52%
38%
10/13
7/18
4th-Down Pct
77%
39%
SACKS BY-Yards
32-206
16-108
MISC YARDS
0
0
27
23-25
ON-SIDE KICKS
0-1
0-0
RED-ZONE SCORES
(55-64) 86% (37-44) 84%
RED-ZONE TDs
(45-64) 70% (17-44) 39%
PAT-ATTEMPTS
(63-65) 97% (23-25) 92%
ATTENDANCE
785418 338939
Games/Avg Per Game
8/98177 4/84735
Neutral Site Games

2/72014
Neutral Site Games
3/82052
Saban will try to find right option at QB

Florida State transfer Coker likely to be front-runner in five-man race to replace Sims
BY BEN WAIT
bwait@cdispatch.com
HOOVER, Ala.
Alabama football coach
Nick Saban brought in
Lane Kiffin to lead his
offense last season.
It turned out to be a
good move.
The Crimson Tide averaged 36.9 points, 206.6
rushing
yards, and
277.9 passing yards
per game
en route to
the Southeastern
Coker
Conference
Championship and a
spot in the
inaugural
College
Footba ll
Playoff.
Kiffin
Barnett
arrived at
Alabama after having
coached in
the
NFL
with
the
Jacksonville
Jaguars (defenCornwell
sive quality
control assistant) and the Oakland
Raiders (head coach)
and at Tennessee (head
coach) and Southern California (head coach).
Following a season
in which Saban and Kiffin had plenty of veteran
playmakers, the Crimson
Tide will have to replace
their top passer (Blake
Sims), their top three receivers (Amari Cooper,
DAndrew White, and
Christion Jones), and
their second-best running
back (T.J. Yeldon).
In college football,
Jake Coker appeared in seven games last season as

a backup for Blake Sims, and threw for 403 yards and
four touchdown passes.
Alabama Athletic Media Relations
Alec Morris served as Alabamas No. 3 quarterback

last season. In 2014, he played in four games
(Southern Mississippi, Florida, Texas A&M, and
Western Carolina), but he didnt attempt a pass. The
junior from Allen, Texas, is expected to challenge for
the quarterback job this season.
BY THE NUMBERS
3
n Alabamas ranking in
the USA Today Preseason
Coaches Poll.
Radio affiliates
City
Station Frequency
Anniston
WHMA
95.5
Apalachicola, Fla. WFCT
105.5
Arab
WAFN
92.7
Ashland
WCKF
100.7
Auburn
WMXA
96.7
Birmingham
WJOX 690/94.5
Brewton
WKNU
106.3
Centre
WEIS 990/100.5
Chattanooga, Tenn. WUUQ 97.3/99.3
Clanton, Ala.
WHPH
97.7
Columbia, Tenn. WMRB
910
Columbus, Ga.
WIOL 1580/95.7
Corinth, Miss.
WADI
95.3
Cullman
WFMH
1340
Decatur
WWTM
1400
Dothan
WBBK
93.1
Florence
WYTK
93.9
Fort Payne
WFPA
1400
Ft. Wltn. Beach, Fla. W TKE
98.1
Gadsden
WAAX
570
Georgiana
WFXX
107.7
Haleyville
WWWH
92.7
Huntsville WUMP, WVNN 730, 92.5
Jackson, Ala.
WHOD-FM 94.5
Jackson, Miss.
WJQS
1400
Jasper
WJLX 1240/101.5
Lewisburg, Tenn. WAXO
1220
Linden
WINL
98.5
McComb, Miss. WHNY
1250
Meridian, Miss.
WALT 910/102.1
Mobile
WZEW
92.1
Monroeville
WMFC
99.3
Montgomery, Prattville, W
DXX, WXFX,
WLWI Selma (all 3 for these 3)

100.1, 95.1, 1440
Nashville, Tenn. WPRT
102.5
Opp
WAMI
102.3
Panama City, Fla. WBPC
95.1
Pensacola, Fla.
WBSR
1450
Rome, Ga.
WSRM
93.5
Russellville
WGOL
920
Scottsboro WKEA, WWIC 98.3, 1050
Spartanburg, S.C. WASC
1530
Tallassee
WTLS 1300/106.5
Tupelo, Miss.
WZLQ
98.5
Tuscaloosa
WFFN, WDGM, WTSK

95.3, 99.1, 790
Vernon
WJEC
106.5
West Point, Ga. WCJM
100.9
Winfield
WKXM 1300/97.7
you probably lose 25 percent of your team every

year, which is what makes
it great, makes it fun to rebuild, Saban said. This
year, especially on offense, were going to have
a lot of new faces, and we
have some talented players. They dont have a
lot of experience, so how
rapidly they develop is
going to be a key to how
well we come together on
offense.
Sims threw for 3,487
yards and 28 touchdowns,
while Cooper had 124
catches for 1,727 yards
and 16 touchdowns, all
school records. Yeldon
rushed for 979 yards and
tied for the team-high
with 11 touchdowns.
Sims and Florida State
transfer Jake Coker split
playing time early last
season, but Sims earned
most of the repetitions as
the season wore on. Coker
played in seven games
and threw for 403 yards
and four touchdowns.
Many expect Coker
to be the starting quarterback this season, but
Saban said he didnt have
any idea as the team
prepared for preseason
camp.
Thats going to be one
of the keys to the drill in
terms of somebody taking the bull by the horns
at that position, being
assertive, playing with
confidence, distributing
the ball, and executing
in a positive way, being
a good decision-maker,
and showing leadership
at the same time, Saban
said. I think we have several guys that are capable
of it. I dont think anybodys come to the forefront, and I dont think its
See OFFENSE, 13
2015 Schedule
Sept. 5 Vs. Wisconsin

(Arlington, TX)
Sept. 12 MIDDLE TENN.
STATE
Sept. 19 OLE MISS
Sept. 26 LOUISIANA MONROE
Oct. 3
At Georgia
Oct. 10 ARKANSAS
Oct. 17 At Texas A&M
Oct. 24 TENNESSEE
Nov. 7 LSU
Nov. 14 At Mississippi
State
Nov. 28 At Auburn
HOME GAMES IN CAPS
2014 Results
Aug. 30 W, 33-23

Vs. West Va.
(Atlanta)
Sept. 6 W, 41-0
FLORIDA
ATLANTIC
Sept. 13 W, 53-12

SO. MISS
Sept. 20 W, 42-21
FLORIDA
Oct. 4
L, 17-23

At Ole Miss
Oct. 11 W, 14-13

At Arkansas
Oct. 18 W, 59-0

TEXAS A&M
Oct. 25 W, 34-20

At Tennessee
Nov. 8 W, 20-13

At LSU
Nov. 15 W, 25-20

MISS. STATE
Nov. 22 W, 48-14
WESTERN
CAROLINA
Nov. 29 W, 55-44
AUBURN
Dec. 6 W, 42-13

Vs. Missouri
The Dispatch
12
n Starters Alabama returns
after last seasons 12-2
record.
Insert Season Is Fast Approaching!!
9
n Players Alabama has
placed on 11 preseason
watch lists. Senior
linebacker Reggie Ragland
and junior defensive lineman
AShawn Robinson received
the most nominations, with
four apiece.
12
n Players Alabama had
named to Southeastern
Conference Media Days AllSEC Team. The list included
six first-team members, two
second-team honorees, and
four third-team selections.
Classic
Contemporary
Traditional
modern
Southern Fireplaces
Building Remodeling Upgrading
205-658-1043 Office 662-251-3077 Cell Paul & Melanie Dill
3138 Co. Rd. 30 Ethelsville Old Hwy 82 3 Miles Across The AL State Line
Hours: Tuesday - Friday 9:00 - 5:00 Monday & Saturday By Appointment Only
w w w. va l o r f i re p l a ce s. co m
13
alabama crimson tide
Athletic Website: www.rolltide.com; Twitter: @UA_Athletics; Facebook: www.facebook.com/AlabamaAthletics
Kenyan Drake, shown above against Florida Atlantic, had 22 carries for 112 yards and four touchdowns and five catches for 159 yards and two touchdowns in five games
last season. He caught a 39-yard touchdown pass from Blake Sims and ran for a 3-yard touchdown against Florida Atlantic in a 41-0 victory on Sept. 6, 2014.
Return to form for versatile Drake will be key

BY BEN WAIT
bwait@cdispatch.com
HOOVER, Ala. Nothing

has been easy for Alabama running back Kenyan Drake the past
10 months.
Drake suffered a broken left
leg Oct. 4, 2014,
when
Alabama
lost to Ole Miss in
Oxford. The injury ended his junior
season and left
him wondering if
he would play footDrake
ball again.
The
6-foot1, 210-pounder from Powder
Springs, Georgia, said he is
100 percent as Alabama works
through preseason camp in
preparation for its season opener against Wisconsin at 7 p.m.
Saturday, Sept. 5, in Arlington,
Texas. Drake said he is back at
full strength thanks to the people
who pushed him every day.
It was definitely very difficult, Drake said. It took a
Offense
lot eventually to overcome that

because I was never injured to
such an extent. We have the best
coaching staff, the best rehab
staff, the best players to help with
that type of situation. They definitely helped me get through the
toughest time of my injury. Sometimes when I didnt feel like working, they would push me.
Prior to the injury, Drake was
one of Alabamas most explosive
and versatile players. Through
four games, he had five catches
for 159 yards and two touchdowns
and had rushed for 112 yards and
four more scores.
But the promising start to the
season ended on a third-and-8
conversion attempt in the second
quarter at Vaught-Hemingway
Stadium. Drake caught a short
pass from quarterback Blake
Sims and looked toward the
middle. He was ready to make
a cut when two defenders hit
him and put too much pressure
on his foot. The gruesome sight
brought tears to his eyes. As he
was being carted off the field, he

had a million thoughts running
through his mind.
I had to really realize this
wouldnt be a two- or three-week
injury, Drake said. Its going to
be a four- or five-month injury. I
still kind of have aches and pains
a little bit, but its all about your
mind-set, and Im ready to get
back on the field with my teammates.
The injury might have set him
back a year on the field, but it
helped him gain perspective.
The older you get, the more
knowledge youll receive from
older individuals who have been
in similar situations, Drake said,
especially in the situation where
Ive gotten hurt. I feel like there
was nothing for me to do but grow
physically and mentally. Ive just
being trying to continue to grow
and improve as an individual on
and off the field.
Alabama hopes Drake can return to form because it will have
to replace several key skill play-
ers from last season.

I think Kenyan Drake has
tremendous diversity as a player,
Alabama coach Nick Saban said.
He has so many things he does
well. He has great speed. He has
very good running skills and running instincts, but hes a fantastic
receiver.
Lane Kiffin took over the offense last season and he immediately used Drake in a variety
of options. Drake liked the new
and different roles he played last
season.
I felt very comfortable,
Drake said. I feel like Im a very
versatile player. Put me in a position to help the team in any way
possible. Whether thats me having the ball in my hand or not, I
definitely accept those roles. I
was very thankful for Kiffin putting the trust in me.
Saban thinks Drake creates
mismatches when he lines up
at receiver and could be one of
the teams best wideouts, but he
doesnt want to use Drake exclu-
sively at wide receiver because

his versatility sets him apart.
I think this is one of the assets hes going to possess moving forward thats going to make
him a very, very effective player
in the future for us, as well as
probably being a really good
professional player, Saban said.
We need playmaker types like
him, especially this year when
weve lost so many players who
were playmakers.
Drake has worked hard to
improve as a running back, wide
receiver, and as a punt or kick
returner. As a sophomore, he
rushed for 694 yards and eight
touchdowns and caught 12 passes for 135 yards. As a freshman,
he rushed for 281 yards and five
touchdowns.
I try to give coaches the ability to put myself in a position to
really help my team in any way
I can, Drake said. I try to pride
myself on my ability to do so.
Follow Dispatch sports writer
Ben Wait on Twitter @bcwait

something we can force to
happen. I think weve got to
let it happen.
The roster lists five
quarterbacks, including
Coker. Junior Alec Morris, sophomore Cooper
Bateman, redshirt freshman David Cornwell, and
freshman Blake Barnett
also will compete for the
starting job.
Alabama will open the
season against Wisconsin
at 7 p.m. Saturday, Sept.
5, in Arlington, Texas.
Senior offensive lineman
Ryan Kelly is ready for
Alabama to compete for
Johnson
another national title regardless who leads it on

the field for the first offensive series.
There are five great
candidates, Kelly said.
They are great guys,
great leaders in the locker room. We like to be
around them. Regardless
of who ends up starting
when we are in Dallas, I
know they are going to
do a great job, be a great
team leader, and have
great energy.
Coker is the only one
to see playing time last
season. He transferred to
Alabama before the start

of last season and didnt
go through spring drills
with the Crimson Tide.
He spent this spring with
Alabama.
I think hes made a
tremendous amount of improvement, Saban said. I
think that a better understanding, better knowledge of the system, better
knowledge of what we expect, whats expected of
him in our offense are all
things that have contributed to his confidence and
his performance level.
Cooper, who is a rookie

him ready for the season
opener against Tennessee-Martin at 11 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 5, in Oxford.
Its good to play around
talent and to have talent
push you, Johnson said.
When you have the quality of talent, it also raises
the level of play from the
competitors and the guys
who are out on the field.
Because they have to compete at another higher level than what theyve been
competing to beat out the
guy behind them.
In his first four years at
Ole Miss, Johnson started 29 games at defensive
end and appeared in 41
games. He has 137 career
tackles (24 for loss) and
11.5 sacks. Ankle surgery
cut his 2013 campaign
short.
Johnson plans to add to
that total this season, even
if switching positions has
presented him with a new
(Middle linebacker) requires a lot

more patience, a lot more thought.
You have to read everything before
the play even starts. I have learned to
react instead of attack.
with the NFLs Oakland

Raiders, finished third in
the Heisman Trophy race
and won the Biletnikoff
Award, which is given
to the nations most outstanding receiver.
Alabamas top returning pass catcher is junior
tight end O.J. Howard.
The Prattville, Alabama,
native caught 17 passes
for 260 yards, but he didnt
have a touchdown.
This years group of
wide receivers features
only one senior: Parker Barrineau. He didnt
have a catch last season.
Six wide receivers will be

sophomores, and many
think junior Chris Black
and sophomore Robert
Foster will emerge as the
top options. They combined for 21 catches and
232 yards last season but
failed to find the end zone.
We have some talented guys at the receiver position, Saban said. They
dont have the experience
some of our players have
had in the past, including
Amari Cooper. I think
its an interesting challenge to try to get those
guys to develop the con-
AC WORK OIL CHANGES

TUNE UPS BRAKES
fidence and the attention

to detail thats necessary
to develop the chemistry
and the passing between
the quarterback, the pass
protection, the receiver
running the route, so that
people can have the kind
of success theyd like to
have.
Derrick Henry led the
Crimson Tide with 990
rushing yards as a sophomore last season. He and
senior Kenyan Drake will
lead the rushing attack.
@bcwait
Magnolia
FULL SERVICE
662-630-5178 or 662-329-0012
Ole Miss senior linebacker C.J. Johnson

set of circumstances. He
plans to follow the lead
of the defensive line and
continue to be aggressive.
(Middle
linebacker) requires a lot more
patience, a lot more
thought, he said. You
have to read everything
before the play even
starts. I have learned to
react instead of attack.
In addition to learning
to react to the football,
Johnson said he is learning how to balance that
aggressiveness with pa-
tience at middle linebacker. He feels he has a good

understanding of the defense, and he is eager to
show Freeze and the defensive coaches they made
the right decision moving
him to another position.
I know he can run
and tackle, Freeze said.
I know he is smart and
really understands the defense. It is a different role
playing there.
@bcwait
FOR ROUTINE MAINTENANCE

COMPLIMENTARY PICK UP & DELIVERY
WITHIN CITY LIMITS ONLY * This Excludes Standard Towing Needs*
24 HOUR
WRECKER SERVICE
662-251-9004
INSURED AND BONDED
The Dispatch
501 Highway 45 North Columbus, MS

www.championstowing-repair.com
SOUTHEASTERN CONFERENCE
Athletic Website: www.secdigitalnetwork.com; Twitter: @SEC; Facebook: www.facebook.com/TheSECDN; Instagram: @secsports
Schedule
WEEK ONE
Thursday, Sept. 3
North Carolina vs. South Carolina (Charlotte), 5 p.m.
(ESPN)
Western Kentucky at Vanderbilt, 7 p.m. (SEC Network)
Saturday, Sept. 5
Louisiana-Monroe at Georgia, 11 a.m. (SEC Network)
Tennessee-Martin at Ole Miss, 11 a.m. (SEC Network)
UTEP at Arkansas, 2:30 p.m. (ESPNU)
Louisville vs. Auburn (Atlanta), 2:30 p.m. (WCBI)
SE Missouri State at Missouri, 3 p.m. (SEC Network)
Bowling Green vs. Tennessee (Nashville), 3 p.m.
(SEC Network)
Arizona State vs. Texas A&M (Houston), 6 p.m. (ESPN)
Louisiana-Lafayette at Kentucky, 6 p.m. (ESPNU)
McNeese State at LSU, 6:30 p.m. (SEC Network)
New Mexico State at Florida, 6:30 p.m. (SEC Network)
Wisconsin vs. Alabama (Dallas), 7 p.m. (WTVA-ABC)
Mississippi State at Southern Mississippi, 9 p.m.
(Fox Sports 1)
WEEK TWO
Saturday, Sept. 12
Missouri at Arkansas State, 11 a.m.
Jacksonville State at Auburn, 11 a.m. (SEC Network)
Fresno State at Ole Miss, 2:30 p.m. (ESPN2 or
ESPNU)
Georgia at Vanderbilt, 2:30 p.m. (WCBI)
Middle Tennessee at Alabama, 3 p.m. (SEC Network)
Toledo vs. Arkansas (Little Rock), 3 p.m.
(SEC Network)
Oklahoma at Tennessee, 5 p.m. (ESPN)
Ball State at Texas A&M, 6 p.m. (ESPNU)
East Carolina at Florida, 6 p.m. (ESPN2)
Kentucky at South Carolina, 6:30 p.m. (SEC Network)
LSU at Mississippi State, 8:15 p.m. (ESPN)
WEEK THREE
Saturday, Sept. 19
Connecticut at Missouri, 11 a.m. (ESPN, ESPN2 or
ESPNU)
Nevada at Texas A&M, 11 a.m. (SEC Network)
Auburn at LSU, 2:30 p.m. (WCBI)
Northwestern State at Mississippi State, 3 p.m. (SEC
Network)
Austin Peay at Vanderbilt, 3 p.m. (SEC Network)
South Carolina at Georgia, 5 p.m. (ESPN)
Texas Tech at Arkansas, 6 p.m. (ESPN2)
Western Carolina at Tennessee, 6 p.m. (ESPNU)
Florida at Kentucky, 6:30 p.m. (SEC Network)
Ole Miss at Alabama, 8:15 p.m. ESPN
WEEK FOUR
Saturday, Sept. 26
Louisiana-Monroe at Alabama
Texas A&M vs. Arkansas (Arlington)
Mississippi State at Auburn
Tennessee at Florida
Southern University at Georgia
Missouri at Kentucky
Vanderbilt at Ole Miss
Central Florida at South Carolina
LSU at Syracuse
WEEK FIVE
Saturday, Oct. 3
San Jose State at Auburn
Ole Miss at Florida
Alabama at Georgia
Eastern Kentucky at Kentucky
Eastern Michigan at LSU
South Carolina at Missouri
Arkansas at Tennessee
Mississippi State at Texas A&M
Vanderbilt at Middle Tennessee, 6 p.m.
(CBS Sports Network)
WEEK SIX
Saturday, Oct. 10
Arkansas at Alabama
Troy at Mississippi State
Florida at Missouri
New Mexico State at Ole Miss
LSU at South Carolina
Georgia at Tennessee
WEEK SEVEN
Thursday, Oct. 15
Auburn at Kentucky, 6 p.m. (ESPN)
Saturday, Oct. 17
Missouri at Georgia
Florida at LSU
Ole Miss at Memphis
Louisiana Tech at Mississippi State
Vanderbilt at South Carolina
Alabama at Texas A&M
WEEK EIGHT
Saturday, Oct. 24
Tennessee at Alabama
Auburn at Arkansas
Western Kentucky at LSU
Kentucky at Mississippi State
Texas A&M at Ole Miss
Missouri at Vanderbilt
WEEK NINE
Saturday, Oct. 31
Tennessee-Martin at Arkansas
Ole Miss at Auburn
Vanderbilt at Houston
Tennessee at Kentucky
South Carolina at Texas A&M
Florida at Georgia (Jacksonville), 2:30 p.m. (WCBI)
WEEK TEN
Thursday, Nov. 5
Mississippi State at Missouri, 8 p.m. (ESPN)
Saturday, Nov. 7
LSU at Alabama
Vanderbilt at Florida
Kentucky at Georgia
Arkansas at Ole Miss
South Carolina at Tennessee
Auburn at Texas A&M
WEEK ELEVEN
Saturday, Nov. 14
Georgia at Auburn
Arkansas at LSU
Alabama at Mississippi State
Florida at South Carolina
North Texas at Tennessee
Western Carolina at Texas A&M
Kentucky at Vanderbilt
BYU vs. Missouri (Kansas City)
WEEK TWELVE
Saturday, Nov. 21
Charleston Southern at Alabama
Mississippi State at Arkansas
Idaho at Auburn
Florida Atlantic at Florida
Georgia Southern at Georgia
Charlotte at Kentucky
Tennessee at Missouri
LSU at Ole Miss
The Citadel at South Carolina
Texas A&M at Vanderbilt
WEEK THIRTEEN
Friday, Nov. 27
Missouri at Arkansas, 1:30 p.m. (WCBI)
Saturday, Nov. 28
Alabama at Auburn
Florida State at Florida
Georgia at Georgia Tech
Louisville at Kentucky
Texas A&M at LSU
Ole Miss at Mississippi State
Clemson at South Carolina
Vanderbilt at Tennessee
League will try to regain top spot

Alabama one of many contenders that will try to survive SEC West to play for national title
By JOHN ZENOR
The Associated Press
The
Southeastern
Conference is the unquestioned king of college
football leagues.
Maybe in some circles.
That mind-set has become practically a mantra
for SEC coaches, fans, and
media in the past decade,
but other leagues have
won the national crown
the last two seasons.
As usual, this season
the SEC has no shortage
of solid candidates to
crack the four-team College Football Playoffs, including Alabama despite
an unsettled quarterback
situation. Thats a familiar
refrain for other would-be
contenders like Georgia,
Ole Miss, LSU and perhaps even Auburn, which
doesnt expect to miss a
beat with Jeremy Johnson
replacing Nick Marshall.
Its still hard to argue
against the top-to-bottom strength of a league
where Mississippi State
is picked to finish last in
the SEC West a year after spending five weeks
ranked No. 1 in the land.
And the Bulldogs Dak
Prescott is the leagues
only established standout
quarterback.
I feel like we werent
satisfied with the No. 1
ranking because we wanted to be No. 1 at the end
of the year, Mississippi
State defensive back Taveze Calhoun said.
That sums up the ambitions of the leagues
top powers since Ohio
State pounded away at
Alabamas defense in the
Sugar Bowl, a semifinal
game.
But the SEC has its
work cut out.
The league didnt even
lead the way into the NFL
draft either with the Atlantic Coast Conference and
the Pacific-12 Conference
having more first-rounders if fewer overall picks.
If the case for No. 1
league isnt quite so open
and shut these days,
theres little question the
SEC West stacks up as
the most compelling, cannibalistic division. All seven programs are led by
Alabama football coach Nick Saban has plenty of questions to answer about the
2015 team, but the Crimson Tide still are considered to be one of the favorites to
win the Southeastern Conferences Western Division and the overall league crown.
coaches making at least

$4 million a year.
The league media
picked Auburn to win
the SEC, but Alabama received more points in the
West voting, illustrating
the lack of a consensus
favorite even within that
state.
Some things to watch
in the SEC this season:
n
UNPROVEN
QUA R T ER BACK S:
More than half of the
teams still had open
competition going into
training camps, with two
more graduate transfers
joining the mix. Former
Virginia starter Greyson
Lambert is competing at
Georgia and ex-Clemson
quarterback Chad Kelly, who helped lead East
Mississippi Community
College to a National Junior College Athletic Association national title, is
battling for the starting
job at Ole Miss. South
Carolina receiver Pharoh
Cooper completed more
passes (five) last season
than any quarterback on
the Gamecocks roster.
Auburns Jeremy Johnson and Tennessees Josh
Dobbs could be rising
stars, while Prescott and
Arkansas Brandon Allen
have the most experience.
n
RUNNERS
GALORE: The leagues
backfields still pack plenty of starpower despite

the loss of Georgias Todd
Gurley, Alabamas T.J. Yeldon, and Auburns Cameron Artis-Payne. The Bulldogs return Nick Chubb,
who had a huge freshman
season. Alabama returns
240-pound back Derrick
Henry. Arkansas has
1,000-yard rushers Jonathan Williams and Alex
Collins, and Leonard
Fournette returns at LSU
after starring as a freshman.
n
NEW
COOR DINATORS:
There are 14 in the
league, counting Vanderbilt coach Derrick Mason,
who has added running
the defense to his duties. Auburn hired Will
Muschamp as defensive
coordinator, while Texas
A&M lured John Chavis
from LSU in an attempt to
get those defenses up to
speed with the offenses.
Both are raking in at least
$5 million for three years.
n ROAD TESTS:
There are no easy roads
to Atlanta or the College
Football Playoffs, especially in the loaded Western Division. Some paths
are harder than others.
Alabama not only opens in
a neutral-site game with
Wisconsin but visits East
Division favorite Georgia,
Texas A&M, Mississippi

State, and Auburn. Maybe Arkansas is poised for
a breakthrough season,
but it has only three SEC
home games and faces
Texas A&M in Arlington,
Texas. Arkansas also visits Alabama, Ole Miss,
LSU, and Tennessee.
n AGING ICONS:
You never know when a
coach will decide to call
it quits, and that includes
South Carolinas 70-yearold Steve Spurrier and Alabamas Nick Saban, who
turns 64 on Oct. 31. That
time might be years away
since both appear to still
be going strong. Spurrier
draws plenty of attention
for his workout regimen,
and Saban still rounds up
his assistants for hoops
games. Missouris Gary
Pinkel, who has won two
straight SEC East titles, is
63. LSUs Les Miles turns
62 in November.
Predicted order of
finish:
EAST Georgia, Tennessee, Missouri, South
Carolina, Florida, Kentucky, Vanderbilt.
WEST Auburn, Alabama, Mississippi, LSU,
Arkansas, Texas A&M,
Mississippi State.
2015 Preseason Media Days

All-SEC team
(Total points earned in parenthesis)

OFFENSE
First-Team
QB Dak Prescott, Mississippi St. (170)
RB
Nick Chubb, Georgia (189)
RB
Leonard Fournette, LSU (180)
WR Laquon Treadwell, Ole Miss (169)
WR Dhaquille Williams, Auburn (154)
TE
Evan Engram, Ole Miss (128)
OL
Cam Robinson, Alabama (167)
OL
Laremy Tunsil, Ole Miss (159)
OL
Vadal Alexander, LSU (131)
OL
John Theus, Georgia (129)
C
Ryan Kelly, Alabama (144)
Second-Team
QB Jeremy Johnson, Auburn (89)
RB
Derrick Henry, Alabama (151)
RB
Jonathan Williams, Arkansas (82)
WR Pharoh Cooper, S. Carolina (147)
WR DeRunnya Wilson, Miss. St. (59)
TE
Hunter Henry, Arkansas (97)
OL Germain Ifedi, Texas A&M (124)
OL
Dan Skipper, Arkansas (95)
OL
Denver Kirkland, Arkansas (85)
OL
Greg Pyke, Georgia (83)
C
Mike Matthews, Texas A&M (108)
Third-Team
QB Joshua Dobbs, Tennessee (62)
RB
Alex Collins, Arkansas (80)
RB
Kenyan Drake, Alabama (34)
WR Malcolm Mitchell, Georgia (50)
WR Josh Reynolds, Texas A&M (39)
TE
O.J. Howard, Alabama (87)
OL
Sebastian Tretola, Arkansas (72)
OL
Alex Kozan, Auburn (69)
OL
Avery Young, Auburn (57)
OL Brandon Shell, South Carolina (50)
C
Evan Boehm, Missouri (81)
DEFENSE
First-Team
DL Robert Nkemdiche, Ole Miss (173)
DL AShawn Robinson, Alabama (160)
DL
Myles Garrett, Texas A&M (155)
DL
Carl Lawson, Auburn (131)
LB
Reggie Ragland, Alabama (181)
LB
Jordan Jenkins, Georgia (121)
LB
Curt Maggitt, Tennessee (102)
DB Vernon Hargreaves, Florida (186)
DB Cyrus Jones, Alabama (126)
DB Jonathan Jones, Auburn (122)
DB Jalen Mills, LSU (118)
Second-Team
DL
Jonathan Bullard, Florida (115)
DL
Derek Barnett, Tennessee (105)
DL
Jonathan Allen, Alabama (99)
DL Chris Jones, Mississippi State (93)
LB
Kendell Beckwith, LSU (93)
LB
Leonard Floyd, Georgia (92)
LB
Cassanova McKinzy, Auburn (80)
DB Tony Conner, Ole Miss (117)
DB Cameron Sutton, Tennessee (115)
DB Will Redmond, Mississippi St. (79)
DB TreDavious White, LSU (61)
Third-Team
DL
Montravius Adams, Auburn (90)
DL
Jarran Reed, Alabama (60)
DL
Davon Godchaux, LSU (40)
DL
Marquis Haynes, Ole Miss (34)
LB
Kris Frost, Auburn (77)
LB
Antonio Morrison, Florida (66)
LB
Kentrell Brothers, Missouri (61)
DB A.J. Stamps, Kentucky (59)
DB Eddie Jackson, Alabama (58)
DB Jamal Adams, LSU (56)
DB Johnathan Ford, Auburn (52)
SPECIALISTS
First-Team
P
JK Scott, Alabama (161)
PK
Marshall Morgan, Georgia (100)
RS
Speedy Noil, Texas A&M (117)
AP Pharoh Cooper, S. Carolina (112)
Second-Team
P
Drew Kaser, Texas A&M (92)
PK
Elliott Fry, South Carolina (87)
RS Pharoh Cooper, S. Carolina (75)
AP
Third-Team
P
Jamie Keehn, LSU (52)
PK
Austin MacGinnis, Kentucky (59)
RS
AP
Speedy Noil, Texas A&M (84)
2014 The Associated Press All-SEC team

The 2014 Associated Press All-Southeastern Conference
football team, with players position, name, school, height,
weight and class (u-unanimous selection to first team; t-tied at
a position):
FIRST TEAM
Offense
WRu-Amari Cooper, Alabama, 6-1, 210, Jr.
WRt-Pharoh Cooper, South Carolina, 5-11, 201, So.
WRt-Bud Sasser, Missouri, 6-2, 220, Sr.
LLael Collins, LSU, 6-5, 321, Sr.
LBen Beckwith, Mississippi State, 6-3, 306, Sr.
LArie Kouandjio, Alabama, 6-5, 315, Sr.
LLaremy Tunsil, Mississippi, 6-5, 305, So.
CReese Dismukes, Auburn, 6-3, 295, Sr.
TEEvan Engram, Mississippi, 6-3, 227, So.
QBDak Prescott, Mississippi State, 6-2, 230, Jr.
RBCameron Artis-Payne, Auburn, 5-11, 210, Sr.
RBNick Chubb, Georgia, 5-10, 228, Fr.
PKAustin MacGinnis, Kentucky, 5-10, 168, Fr.
All-PurposeMarcus Murphy, Missouri, 5-9, 190, Sr.
Defense
EShane Ray, Missouri, 6-3, 245, Jr.
EBud Dupree, Kentucky, 6-4, 264, Sr.
TRobert Nkemdiche, Mississippi, 6-4, 280, So.

TJohnathan Allen, Alabama, 6-3, 272, Sr.
LBMartrell Spaight, Arkansas, 6-2, 231, Sr.
LBReggie Ragland, Alabama, 6-2, 254, Jr.
LBAmarlo Herrera, Georgia, 6-2, 231, Sr.
CBu-Senquez Golson, Mississippi, 5-9, 176, Sr.
CBVernon Hargreaves III, Florida, 5-11, 195, So.
Su-Landon Collins, Alabama, 6-0, 222, Jr.
SCody Prewitt, Mississippi, 6-2, 217, Sr.
PJK Scott, Alabama, 6-4, 185, Fr.
SECOND TEAM
Offense
WRJosh Reynolds, Texas A&M, 6-4, 190, So.
WRSammie Coates, Auburn, 6-2, 201, Jr.
LGreg Pyke, Georgia, 6-6, 321, So.
LA.J. Cann, South Carolina, 6-4, 311, Sr.
LCedric Ogbuehi, Texas A&M, 6-5, 305, Sr.
LAustin Shepherd, Alabama, 6-5, 320, Sr.
CDavid Andrews, Georgia, 6-2, 294, Sr.
TESteven Scheu, Vanderbilt, 6-5, 250, Jr.
QBBlake Sims, Alabama, 6-0, 208, Sr.
RBJosh Robinson, Mississippi State, 5-9, 215, Jr.
RBJonathan Williams, Arkansas, 6-0, 223, Jr.
PKJosh Lambo, Texas A&M, 6-0, 220, Sr.

All-PurposePharoh Cooper, South Carolina, 5-11, 201, So.
Defense
EPreston Smith, Mississippi State, 6-6, 270, Sr.
EDerek Barnett, Tennessee, 6-3, 267, Fr.
TMyles Garrett, Texas A&M, 6-5, 255, Fr.
TDarius Philon, Arkansas, 6-2, 272, So.
LBBenardrick McKinney, Mississippi State, 6-5, 249, Jr.
LBt-Kwon Alexander, LSU, 6-2, 227, Jr.
LBt-Kentrell Brothers, Missouri, 6-1, 240, Jr.
LBt-Antonio Morrison, Florida, 6-1, 225, Jr.
LBt-Curt Maggitt, Tennessee, 6-3, 251, Jr.
LBt-Ramik Wilson, Georgia, 6-2, 237, Sr.
CBt-Cyrus Jones, Alabama, 5-10, 194, Jr.
CBt-Damian Swann, Georgia, 5-11, 180, Sr.
CBt-Jonathan Jones, Auburn, 5-10, 182, Jr.
SBraylon Webb, Missouri, 6-0, 200, Sr.
St-Ronald Martin, LSU, 6-2, 220, Sr.
St-Tony Conner, Mississippi, 6-0, 217, So.
PKyle Christy, Florida, 6-3, 198, Sr.
HONORABLE MENTION
Offense
Vadal Alexander, L, LSU, 6-6, 320, Jr.; Daniel Carlson, PK,
Auburn, 6-4, 215, Fr.; Andre Debose, All-Purpose, Florida, 6-0,

195, Sr.; Hunter Henry, TE, Arkansas, 6-5, 250, So.; Ryan Kelly,
C, Alabama, 6-5, 296, Jr.; Denver Kirkland, L, Arkansas, 6-5,
337, So.; Marshall Morgan, PK, Georgia, 6-3, 200, Jr.; Speedy
Noil, All-Purpose, Texas A&M, 5-11, 185, Fr.; Dan Skipper, L,
Arkansas, 6-10, 326, So.; John Theus, L, Georgia, 6-6, 313, Jr.
Defense
Harold Brantley, T, Missouri, 6-3, 290, So.; Trey DePriest, LB,
Alabama, 6-2, 250, Sr.; Trey Flowers, E, Arkansas, 6-3, 270,
Sr.; Leonard Floyd, LB, Georgia, 6-4, 230, So.; Dante Fowler
Jr., E, Florida, 6-3, 260, Jr.; Markus Golden, E, Missouri, 6-3,
260, Sr.; A.J. Johnson, LB, Tennessee, 6-2, 245, Sr.; Quincy
Mauger, S, Georgia, 6-0, 199, So.; Jarran Reed, T, Alabama,
6-4, 315, Jr.; AShawn Robinson, NG, Alabama, 6-4, 320, So.;
Gabe Wright, T, Auburn, 6-3, 284, Sr.
OFFENSIVE PLAYER OF THE YEAR
Amari Cooper, Alabama
DEFENSIVE PLAYER OF THE YEAR
Shane Ray, Missouri
COACH OF THE YEAR
Dan Mullen, Mississippi State
FRESHMAN OF THE YEAR
Nick Chubb, Georgia
Columbus Foot Clinic

Dr. Aaron Owens
2221 5th St. N. Columbus, MS
662-244-8585
www.falconlairapts.com
625 31st Avenue North

(Behind K-Mart Off Hwy. 45 North)
662-329-2544
Office Hours Mon-Fri 8-5
Good Luck
To All Our
Local Teams!
The Dispatch
Specializing in
Diabetic Foot Care,
Ingrown Nails,
Plantar Warts,
Heel Pain,
Hammertoes,
and much more.
The Dispatch
COLLEGE FOOTBALL PREVIEW
Position

n The redshirt freshman could add
depth at defensive tackle that the Bulldogs need.
Best-case scenario: Jones has a
monster year and others blossom around
him.
Linebackers
Leader: Beniquez Brown
n The junior was the vocal leader
of the defense last season. He is the unequivocal leader of the defense this season. He was second on the team with 62
tackles in 2014.
Breakout candidate: Richie Brown
n The junior will get his first shot at
being a regular starter. He has played
alongside Beniquez Brown the past two
seasons and could develop into his own
player this fall.
Freshman to watch: Gerri Green
n The 6-4, 243-pound redshirt
freshman was physical in the spring,
which could make it hard for the coaches
to find him playing time.
Best-case scenario: Several guys
emerge and give the Bulldogs depth to
stay fresh and attack.
Defensive Backs
Leaders: Taveze Calhoun and
Redmond
n The seniors are considered the
nations best cornerback duo. They have
a ton of experience and talent.
Breakout candidate: Cedric Jiles
n The junior cornerback missed last
season after suffering a hamstring injury
in preseason camp. He has three career
starts.
Freshmen to watch: Jamal Peters
and Mark McLaurin
n The safeties stand 6-2 and could
see playing time immediately because the
Bulldogs lack depth and experience at the
position.
Best-case scenario: Calhoun
and Redmond continue to play well and
Peters and McLaurin adjust quickly.
Special Teams
Leader: Devon Bell
n The senior primarily has been a
punter the past two seasons, but he was a
place kicker as a freshman. He could return to field goal duty this season. He has
the most experience of any of the kickers.
Breakout candidate: Logan Cooke
n The sophomore was supposed
to redshirt last season, but he was thrust
into action after Bell suffered an injury. He
has a big leg and will be a factor in kickoffs and punts.
Freshman to watch: Bryce Brown
n He is battling with Bell and Westin
Graves for field goal duties.
Best-case scenario: The Bulldogs
find a consistent field goal kicker.
Ben Wait
Schedule
Last meeting: MSU, 26-20 in
overtime (2011)
n This is MSUs last non-conference game. It also will be the Homecoming game.
MSU needed overtime the last time
the teams met in Starkville. Before that,
Louisiana Tech had won two in a row.
MSU is 8-2 all-time against Louisiana
Tech in Starkville.
Louisiana Tech finished strong last
season, beating Illinois 35-18 in the
Heart of Dallas Bowl.
Former Florida quarterback Jeff
Driskel will call the plays for Louisiana
Tech this season. He transferred in as a
graduate student and will have one year
of eligibility.
Senior Kenneth Dixon led Louisiana
Tech with 1,299 rushing yards and 22
touchdowns.
Oct. 24 Kentucky (5-7)

All-time record: Tied 21-21
n The Bulldogs celebrated their
first No. 1 ranking with a road victory last
season.
The Wildcats gave them a scare,
but former linebacker Christian Holmes
recovered an onside kick in the fourth
quarter and returned it for a touchdown.
Josh Robinson nearly rushed for 200
yards in the game.
MSU has won the past six meetings.
Kentuckys last win against MSU came in
2008 in Starkville.
Kentucky will lean on quarterback
Patrick Towles, who threw for 2,718 yards
and 14 touchdowns last season.
The Wildcats started last season
5-1 and needed one win to become bowl
eligible, but they lost the final six and
missed the postseason.
Nov. 5 at Missouri (11-3)

All-time record: Missouri 2-0
Last meeting: Missouri, 47-30
(1984)
n The Bulldogs will travel to Columbia, Missouri, for a Thursday night game.
It will be the first time the teams will
meet as conference opponents. The Tigers beat the Bulldogs 47-30 in Columbia
in 1984 and 14-3 in Jackson in 1981.
Missouri has won the SEC East the
past two seasons, and is poised to do it
again. However, many experts dont believe the Tigers will.
Missouri returns quarterback Maty
Mauk, who threw for 2,648 yards and 25
touchdowns as a sophomore.
Russell Hansbrough rushed for
1,084 yards and 10 touchdowns as a
junior.
15
EMCC
Oct. 17 Louisiana Tech (9-5)
SUNDAY, AUGUST 16, 2015

Many believe this is a toss-up game
for the Bulldogs.
Nov. 14 Alabama (12-2)

All-time record: Alabama 78-18-3
Last season: Alabama, 25-20
n Alabama is the only SEC West
team Mullen hasnt beaten. He came
close last season in Tuscaloosa, Alabama, but a late comeback fell short. The
loss was the Bulldogs first of the season.
MSU hasnt beaten Alabama since
winning back-to-back games in 2006
and 2007.
The Crimson Tide will replace several pieces on offense, including All-American Amari Cooper, who caught 124 passes for 1,727 yards and 16 touchdowns
last season. Jake Coker is expected to
be the starting quarterback, while tight
O.J. Howard will be the top target in the
passing game.
In the past three meetings in
Starkville, MSU has only scored 17
points.
Nov. 21 at Arkansas (7-6)

All-time record: Arkansas 15-9-1
n The Bulldogs have won the past
three meetings, including a 24-17 overtime game in 2013 in Little Rock, Arkansas. MSUs win in 2013 was its first in the
state of Arkansas.
This years game will be in Fayetteville, Arkansas. MSU is 0-3 in Fayetteville.
The Razorbacks were playing well
when the teams met last season. A late
interception by Redmond sealed MSUs
victory.
Arkansas is expected to make a big
jump in Bret Bielemas third season.
Nov. 28 Ole Miss (9-4)

All-time record: Ole Miss 62-43-6
Last season: Ole Miss, 31-17
n The home team has won the past
four meetings in the Battle for the Golden
Egg.
The Bulldogs are the last team to win
on the road. They beat the Rebels 31-23
in 2010 in Oxford. Ole Miss hasnt won in
Starkville since a 31-0 shutout in 2003.
MSUs loss was part of a slide that
saw it lose to Georgia Tech in the Orange Bowl and drop three of its final four
games.
The Rebels will bring a new quarterback to Starkville, as former East Mississippi C.C. standout Bo Wallace played
his last season at Ole Miss in 2014.
Chad Kelly, Ryan Buchanan, and
DeVante Kincade are in competition to
be the teams starting quarterback.
Ben Wait
stop him or who can catch

him. He fits the mold of
what we look for in a running back.
With the offense putting
up
such high
numbers,
sometimes
the
running game
gets lost in
the
shufBurroughs
fle. From a
kick-return
standpoint,
D.J.
can
change
a
game
on
one play.
Fo r m e r
L ou i s v i l l e
High standRoberts
out Wyatt
Roberts is
the most exper ienced
returnee
at quarterback. Roberts threw
for
317
Law
yards and
four touchdowns last season as an
understudy to current Ole
Miss quarterback Chad
Kelly.
EMCC also acquired
the services of quarterback James Franklin III,
who has transferred from
Florida State. At EMCC,
Franklin will be tutored
by first-year quarterbacks
coach Clint Trickett. A
former standout at West
Virginia, Trickett is the
son of current Florida
State offensive line coach
Rick Trickett.
At receiver, EMCC
will look at several new
faces after its top five
pass-catchers from a year
ago have moved on to senior colleges. The Lions
should receive a big lift
from former Aberdeen
standout Sammie Burroughs, who was injured
early last season.
On defense, the Lions
will look to continue their
The main thing

is everybody is
good. You cant
let up for one
play.
East Mississippi
Community College
freshman
Alex Lipscomb,
a former standout at
Columbus High School
recent dominance. A year
ago, EMCC allowed 6.7
points per game. The 24game winning streak includes 10 shutouts. A year
ago, five of the shutouts
came in succession.
The mind-set is if 10
guys are flying to the ball,
then something good is
not happening for the offense, Lipscomb said.
The defensive coaches
preach that every day in
practice. They preach being physical and flying to
the ball. Its a lot of fun to
play in this system. The
main thing is everybody
is good. You cant let up
for one play. You are being pushed by teammates
who are really good.
Again the competition
is strong on the defense.
The top seven tacklers
from last season are all
gone.
The main thing is everybody is hungry on this
level, Lipscomb said. Everybody wants to play Division I ball. Receivers are
going to go just as hard
as the defensive players.
They want to make those
catches that will get them
noticed. You have to go
100 percent because they
are. If you go 99 percent
on one play that might be
the play where the other
guy beats you. He is trying to make his highlight
reel, so you have to match
that intensity.
EMCC has had little

trouble matching that intensity of late. Buddy Stephens begins his eighth
season with six MACJC
North Division championships, four state titles,
three national championships, and a perfect bowl
record.
EMCC could match
the nations longest winning streak Sept. 3 with a
victory at Copiah-Lincoln
C.C. A year ago, EMCC
won 54-15 at Co-Lin to win
the state championship.
The Sporting News
ranked EMCC No. 1 in
its preseason poll. Rivals
went the other way, giving Copiah-Lincoln the
nod. The official MACJC
national rankings werent
available at press time.
Regardless of which
team gets the preseason
nod at No. 1, there will be
a lot of intrigue for that
matchup at Stone Stadium. Success there could
be a foreshadowing of the
dynasty continuing its
run.
writer Scott Walters on
Twitter @dispatchscott
LOCAL FLAVOR
n As of Aug. 7, the 2015
East Mississippi Community
College football team had a
solid local presence on its
roster. The final roster for
the first game of the
season wasnt completed
at press time. Joshua
Hibbler and Alexander
Lipscomb (Columbus High
School), Jeremy Newton
(New Hope High), Sammie
Burroughs (Aberdeen High),
Alonzo Flowers, Jacquez
Horsley, and Jawon Johnson
(Starkville High), Ronnie
Gray Jr., Edrieon Hopkins,
and Antraveon Jamison
(Noxubee County High), and
Dason Thomas (West Point
High) will compete for spots
on the final roster.
Ameriprise Financial
and Stevan Black would
like to wish best of luck
to all area teams on
having a great season!
Stevan L. Black, Jr.

Financial Advisor
512 Main Street P.O. Box 1276

Columbus, MS 39703
Tel: 662.798.0031
Cell: 662.574.3770
www.ameripriseadvisors.com/stevan.black
Brokerage, invenstment and financial advisory services are made

available through Ameriprise Financial Services, Inc. Member
FINRA and SIPC.
2013 Ameriprise Financial, Inc. All rights reserved.
MSU
First Metropolitan

Brown played in all
13 games last season (12
starts). The New Orleans
native had 39 tackles,
including seven for loss,
and 3.5 sacks in 2014.
Mullen said MSU
might have used the lack
of recognition as a rallying cry this year if it
wasnt historically picked
to finish at the bottom.
Either way, Mullen knows
players will use it as motivation.
If youre picked first,
you get real motivation
to stay there, he said. If
youre picked last, youve
got motivation to prove everybody wrong. If youre
picked fourth, youre kind
of like, Well, they didnt
pick us last.
Many of MSUs players were passed over
by other SEC schools,
so they are used to the
lack of recognition. Former Bulldog Benardrick
McKinney, who is a rookie with the NFLs Houston Texans, had only one
SEC offer and was rated
a two-star prospect out of
Rosa Fort High School in
Tunica. The Texans selected him in the second
round of the NFL draft in
April.
Senior safety Kendrick
Market heard numerous
times he wouldnt play
football at this level, so
MSUs predicted finish
isnt new to him.
I like it. I tweeted it.
I like being last, Market
said. Im nothing but 5-9.
Everybody said I couldnt
play in the SEC. Were going to prove them wrong
Prescott
FINANCIAL SERVICES
NEVER MISS A GAME!
Ask Us About Personal Loans Today!
YOUR LOCAL
MONEY SOURCE.
again.
Market suffered a ruptured Achilles tendon in
last seasons regular-season finale against Ole
Miss, but he participated
in the first day of practice
earlier this month and is
expected to play a major
role in the secondary this
season.
The SEC West is regarded as one of the nations toughest divisions.
Many believe this season
that any team can win the
division and any team can
finish last.
Mullen agrees.
I dont think theres
any team in the West that
doesnt think they can win

it, he said. I know every
school in the country has
the coach talk, Hey we
feel great. Were going to
find a way to win. I bet if
you took a poll in the Big
Ten of people, do they
think anyone could win
the championship in that
league? Probably, theyre
not going to say that.
When you look at the
SEC West, you probably
can make an argument
of how every team could
win.
@bcwait
team before himself. Thats just the type

of person he is. Hes just a hard-working
leader.
Prescott has graced the cover of three
national sports magazines since last fall.
It started with an Oct. 20, 2014, appearance on Sports Illustrated after the Bulldogs moved to No. 1 in both major polls.
He also was on the front of ESPN The
Magazine on Nov. 10, 2014.
Most recently, Prescott made another
appearance on the front of Sports Illustrated. The cover photo shows Prescott
holding MSU mascot Bully XXI Jax. It
was one of four college football preview
covers the publication released earlier
this month.
Its humbling, Prescott said of the
newest magazine cover. (As a child),
you look at Sports Illustrated and imagine being on the cover. It was definitely a
humbling experience.
Prescott wasnt a highly sought after
recruit coming out of high school, but
MSU football coach Dan Mullen and his
coaches saw something in him, offered
him a scholarship, and he committed.
LSU eventually came calling, but
Prescott stuck with his commitment and
came to MSU in the fall of 2011.
For Mullen, its a sense of pride to see
everything Prescott has accomplished and
for him to receive the national attention.
Its a huge honor for our university
and for an individual like Dak who chose

Mississippi State because we believed
in him, Mullen said. We saw what he
could become, and to see him accomplish those goals, well, thats why you
coach.
Prescott hopes to stay in the national spotlight. He has earned a spot on six
preseason watch lists in the preseason.
He is up for the Maxwell Award (national
player of the year), the Wuerffel Trophy
(community service), the Davey OBrien
Award (top quarterback), the Walter
Camp Award (most outstanding player),
the Manning Award (top quarterback
with bowl stats included), and the Johnny Unitas Golden Arm Award (top quarterback based on character).
With all of the national attention,
Prescott said naturally its hard to go
anywhere in Starkville without being noticed, but he takes his time with the fans
to make sure he can autograph something for them or he can take a picture
with them.
Thats part of his humility.
Its just a lot more pictures, a lot more
autographs, a lot more awkward stares,
Prescott said. A year ago, I could go to
a store and get out with no problem. Its
time consuming when I go out, but I try
to be ready to smile.
Follow Dispatch sports writer Ben Wait
on Twitter @bcwait

A four-star prospect
by Scout.com, 247Sports,
and ESPN.com, Brown
redshirted as a freshman in 2012. He took
advantage of that season
by learning from juggernauts like Lawrence,
Skinner, and McKinney.
I had guys like Cam
Lawrence and Deontae
Skinner to lead the way,
Brown said. It was a process knowing that when
they left, the opportunity
was going to be there for
me to lead. I feel like it is
my time now.
Brown is MSUs only
returning starting linebacker this season, but
he has several other veterans surrounding him.
Junior Richie Brown and
senior Zach Jackson have
seen a lot of playing time.
Jackson has lettered for
the past three seasons,
while Richie Brown has
earned a letter in the past
two seasons.
The Browns and Jackson will be counted on to
be leaders at a young position group, but Beniquez
Brown expects to shoulder most of that responsibility.
Hes really developed
as a leader, Richie Brown

said. Hes stepping it up
and he really embraces
that role, and I think everybody on the team respects him a lot.
Beniquez spent the
past three seasons under
defensive coordinator and
linebackers coach Geoff
Collins, but he will play for
Manny Diaz this season.
After Collins took the same
position at Florida last December, MSU seventh-year
head coach Dan Mullen
hired Diaz away from Louisiana Tech to lead his defense and to coach the linebackers. Diaz and Mullen
worked together at MSU
in 2010 before Diaz left to
become defensive coordinator at Texas.
The transition for Brown
has been fairly easy.
Beniquez has picked
up right where he left off,
said Diaz, who was hired
Jan. 5, 2015, after spending one season in Ruston,
Louisiana. His understanding of the game has
slowed the pace of the
game down compared to
what it is for other guys.
Diaz spent the spring
with the Bulldogs and
installed his defensive
philosophies. Brown said

Diazs concepts slowly
have become second nature to him.
At first I was kind
of pushing myself kind
of hard to hurry up and
learn the defense so I
could teach everybody
else, Brown said. In the
spring, it was kind of fast,
trying to learn and get
out of old habits in coach
Collins way. Now Ive got
coach Diazs ways under
my wing.
A big season could help
Brown improve his stock
for the NFL draft, but
he hopes to leave a legacy behind in Starkville.
Just like the guys before
him, Brown wants to be a
positive influence on the
younger linebackers so
they can carry on the tradition of great linebackers
at MSU.
Our young guys are
great listeners, he said.
If the coach tells them
to do something, they do
it. It is great to have guys
like that. They follow us,
and when it is their time to
lead, they will be ready.
@bcwait
COLUMBUS
STARKVILLE
Sheila Vance, Manager

Brandie Denney
Cassandra Brownlee, Manager

Montresyal Warren, Lora Chandler
1906 - B Hwy. 45 N.
662.245.1527
Mississippi State football coach Dan Mullen talks to

members of the media Aug. 7 at the teams annual
gathering at the Seal Complex.
Brown
The Dispatch
122 Hwy. 12 W.
662.324.7526

2015 College Football Preview

Enviado por

Dados do documento

Direitos autorais

Formatos disponíveis

Compartilhar este documento

Compartilhar ou incorporar documento

Opções de compartilhamento

Você considera este documento útil?

Este conteúdo é inapropriado?

Direitos autorais:

Formatos disponíveis

2015 College Football Preview

Enviado por

Direitos autorais:

Formatos disponíveis

SOUTHWEST MISSISSIPPI

* MACJC North Division game

Home games in all CAPS

The Dispatch www.cdispatch.com

2 Sunday, August 16, 2015

The Dispatch www.cdispatch.com

college football preview

Sunday, August 16, 2015

mississippi state bulldogs

Athletic Website: www.hailstate.com; Twitter: @HailStateFB; Facebook: www.facebook.com/HailStateFootball; Instagram: www.instagram.com/HailStateFB

MSU wants to surprise again

Mark Wilson/Dispatch Staff

Mississippi State football coach Dan Mullen (top) will

none of that means a lot to

5809 Hwy. 45 N. Columbus, MS

NOT YOUR AVERAGE BBQ!

sissippi. Fox Sports 1 will

more than Texas A&M,

Sept. 5 At Southern Miss.

The Dispatch www.cdispatch.com

4 Sunday, August 16, 2015

college football preview

mississippi state bulldogs

Dispatch File Photo

prescott sets sights higher

having a ball at the game!

Most people suffer from some

Mississippi State quarterback Dak Prescott hopes to

ble for (72), total offense

for the Maxwell, the Davey OBrien, Manning, and

The Dispatch www.cdispatch.com

college football preview

Sunday, August 16, 2015

mississippi state bulldogs

Mark Wilson/Dispatch Staff

BROWN HOPES TO MAKE MARK

Jimmy Linley Richard Linley

The Dispatch www.cdispatch.com

6 Sunday, August 16, 2015

mississippi state bulldogs

Sept. 5 at Southern Mississippi (3-9)

All-time record: USM 14-13-1

Sept. 12 LSU (8-5)

All-time record: LSU 71-34-3

Sept. 19 Northwestern State (6-6)

All-time record: MSU 2-0

Sept. 26 at Auburn (8-5)

All-time record: Auburn 61-25-2

Oct. 3 at Texas A&M (8-5)

All-time record: Tied 4-4

Oct. 10 Troy (3-9)

All-time record: MSU 3-1

Leader: Dak Prescott

Leader: Ashton Shumpert

Leader: DeRunnya Wilson

Best-case scenario: The Bulldogs utilize their depth and

Leader: Justin Malone

Leader: Gus Walley

Leader: Chris Jones

n Field goals the returning

college football preview

The Dispatch www.cdispatch.com

college football preview

Sunday, August 16, 2015

Aug. 28 W, 35-13