Homecoming just couldn’t get any better as the Alcorn State University (ASU) Braves (5-2, 3-0) competed against the Savannah State University (SSU) Tigers (3-2, 2-0). The Braves were adamant about not letting the crowd down on their Homecoming as they put their feet on the gas and didn’t let up all night at Spinks-Casem Stadium on Saturday, October 12th, at 2:00 pm.
Alcorn State wasted no time as they were taking over the game early, ending the first quarter 14-2 with a 16 yard touchdown from Juan Anthony and a 28 yard touchdown from Deshawn Waller. The Tigers tried to make a comeback in the second quarter as they scored 14 points to the Braves’ 14 points, ending the half with a 28-17 score. The Braves realized that they were in reach and came back out in the 3rd quarter with a new mindset. Scoring 14 more points in the 3rd quarter tipped them over the edge as Alcorn’s defense was a big aid, giving up no points. The Braves were victorious in a 42-17 final score. With this being done, the Braves have tallied up their fourth consecutive win and seventh consecutive home game winning streak.
Sophomore, Juan Anthony Jr. led the Braves in receiving yards with 140 yards and a touchdown. Senior, Chris Blair wasn’t too far behind as he chipped in 108 yards and two touchdowns. Alcorn’s LeCharles Pringle also poured in 53 yards and two touchdowns. In rushing yards, De’Shawn Waller led with 90 yards, followed by Sophomore, Trey Turner, with 35 yards. Alcorn’s defense was better than ever in this game as Sophomore, Keyron Kinsler led with a game-high 10 tackles. Daylon Burks and Allen Bruce both got their hands wrapped around Pick-6’s as they both grabbed one interception a piece. On the flip side, Savannah State was led by D’Angelo Durham and D’Vonn Gibbons as Durham rushed for 94 yards and Gibbons threw for 87 yards and a touchdown.
Alcorn’s quarterback, Felix Harper has been coming in clutch when it’s his time to step up. He approached this opportunity head-on as he has been exceptional for the Braves. In this game, Harper was 16-for-21 passing with no interceptions. To add to that, he has thrown for 1,146 yards, 16 touchdowns and no interceptions in the past 4 competitions the Braves have competed in. He was also recognized on ESPN’s Helmet Stickers for his outstanding achievements.
The Braves have a bye week next weekend and will be back in business in two weeks against the Southern University Jaguars (3-3, 2-0) on October 26th, at 2:00 pm at Spinks-Casem Stadium.