VALDOSTA — The Valdosta State Blazers rolled to a 58-10 win over the Edward Waters Tigers Saturday night. The Blazers racked up a school-record seven rushing touchdowns and 535 total yards of offense in the win. VSU is now 3-2 on the year and faces West Georgia next weekend.
David Dean interview
Cayden Cochran postgame interview
Austin Scott postgame interview
Blazer Sports Beat will have more on the Blazers' victory Sunday afternoon.
-Follow me on Twitter at @Ed_Hooper.
Saturday, September 29, 2012
Wednesday, September 26, 2012
2012-13 basketball schedules released
VALDOSTA — College basketball season is quickly approaching, and on Wednesday the Valdosta State basketball schedules were released for the coming season.
Both the Lady Blazers and Blazers open their seasons Nov. 10 at home. The Lady Blazers get the action started at 6 p.m. against Trinity Baptist. The Blazers conclude the night with a game against Point (Ga.) University at 8 p.m.
Both teams have ample home games this season. The Lady Blazers, who reached the Sweet 16 last year, will be at home 14 times and the Blazers, who finished with an 11-16 record last year, will play in the P.E. Complex 16 times.
Both teams open Gulf South Conference play Nov. 29 at Union University. For all GSC matchups, the women's game will be played prior to the start of men's game at the same location.
Following the season opener Nov. 10, the Blazers will host the VSU Classic Nov. 16-17 at the P.E. Complex. The Blazers will face Carver and Florida Memorial in the Classic.The Lady Blazers will visit Fort Valley State Nov. 16 in a rematch of last year's South Region Tournament game, which the Lady Blazers won. VSU visits Georgia Southwestern Nov. 17 before returning home Nov. 20 to face Albany State.
The men conclude their five-game homestand to begin the season with games against Albany State (Nov. 20) and Lynn (Nov. 24). The Blazers' first road game will be at Union University Nov. 29 to open conference play. Both teams Blazers will face North Alabama Dec. 1 before returning home Dec. 4 to face Fort Valley State.
The Lady Blazers will also welcome Eckerd to the P.E. Complex Dec. 14 and Saint Leo on Dec. 19, and will visit Albany State on Dec. 29.
Both Valdosta State teams hold their conference home openers Jan. 3 against rival Alabama-Huntsville. VSU will also face newcomer Shorter during that homestand (Jan. 5).
Valdosta State will then visit West Georgia, West Alabama and West Florida across a 9-day period, all of which will come on the road. All three teams will visit the P.E. Complex later in the season.
The Jan. 26 home games against Delta State (men and women) are scheduled for a noon tip-off (women's) and 2 p.m. (men's). The game's will be carried live on the CBS College Sports Network as part of the Division II Game of the Week.
The Lady Blazers and Blazers conclude regular season play March 3 at Delta State. The conference tournament, for both teams, begins March 7 in Birmingham, Ala.
Complete 2012-12 basketball schedules
Sat., Nov. 10 — vs. Trinity Baptist (6 p.m., women)
Sat., Nov. 10 — vs. Point (8 p.m., men)
Thu., Nov. 15 — at Fort Valley State (7 p.m., women)
VSU CLASSIC (Nov. 16-17)
Fri., Nov. 16 — vs. Carver (8 p.m., men)
Sat., Nov. 17 — vs. Florida Memorial (8 p.m., men)
Sat., Nov. 17 — at Georgia Southwestern (5:30 p.m, women)
Tue., Nov. 20 — vs. Albany State (6 & 8 p.m.)
Sat., Nov. 24 — vs. Lynn (4 p.m.)
Thu., Nov. 29 — at Union (7 & 9 p.m.)*
Sat., Dec. 1 — at North Alabama (2 & 4 p.m.)*
Tue. Dec. 4 — vs. Fort Valley State (3 & 5 p.m.)
Tue., Dec. 11 – at Fort Valley State (7 p.m.)
Fri., Dec. 14 — vs. Eckerd (7 p.m., women)
Sat., Dec. 15 — vs. Saint Leo (7 p.m., women)
Tue., Dec. 18 — vs. Coastal Georgia (7 p.m.)
Sat., Dec. 29 — at Albany State (7 p.m., women)
Thu., Jan. 3 — vs. Alabama-Huntsville (6 & 8 p.m.)*
Sat., Jan. 5 — vs. Shorter (2 & 4 p.m.)*
Thu., Jan. 10 — at West Georgia (5:30 & 7:30 p.m.)*
Sat., Jan. 12 — at West Alabama (2 & 4 p.m.)*
Sat., Jan. 19 — at West Florida (3 & 5 p.m.)*
Thu., Jan. 24 — vs. Christian Brothers (6 & 8 p.m.)*
Sat., Jan. 26 — vs. Delta State (Noon & 2 p.m.)*
Thu., Jan. 31 — vs. Union (6 & 8 p.m.)*
Sat. Feb. 2 — vs. North Alabama (6 & 8 p.m.)*
Thu., Feb. 7 — at Alabama-Huntsville (6:30 & 8:30 p.m.)*
Sat., Feb. 9 — at Shorter (2 & 4 p.m.)*
Thu., Feb. 14 — vs. West Georgia (6 & 8 p.m.)*
Sat., Feb. 16 — vs. West Alabama (6 & 8 p.m.)*
Sat., Feb. 23 — vs. West Florida (2 & 4 p.m.)*
Thu., Feb. 28 — at Christian Brothers (6 & 8 p.m.)*
Sat., March 2 — at Delta State (3 & 5 p.m.)*
GULF SOUTH CONFERENCE TOURNAMENT
Thu., March 7 — GSC Opening Round (Birmingham, Ala.)*
*Denotes Gulf South Conference game
-Follow me on Twitter at @Ed_Hooper.
Both the Lady Blazers and Blazers open their seasons Nov. 10 at home. The Lady Blazers get the action started at 6 p.m. against Trinity Baptist. The Blazers conclude the night with a game against Point (Ga.) University at 8 p.m.Both teams have ample home games this season. The Lady Blazers, who reached the Sweet 16 last year, will be at home 14 times and the Blazers, who finished with an 11-16 record last year, will play in the P.E. Complex 16 times.
Both teams open Gulf South Conference play Nov. 29 at Union University. For all GSC matchups, the women's game will be played prior to the start of men's game at the same location.
Following the season opener Nov. 10, the Blazers will host the VSU Classic Nov. 16-17 at the P.E. Complex. The Blazers will face Carver and Florida Memorial in the Classic.The Lady Blazers will visit Fort Valley State Nov. 16 in a rematch of last year's South Region Tournament game, which the Lady Blazers won. VSU visits Georgia Southwestern Nov. 17 before returning home Nov. 20 to face Albany State.
The men conclude their five-game homestand to begin the season with games against Albany State (Nov. 20) and Lynn (Nov. 24). The Blazers' first road game will be at Union University Nov. 29 to open conference play. Both teams Blazers will face North Alabama Dec. 1 before returning home Dec. 4 to face Fort Valley State.
The Lady Blazers will also welcome Eckerd to the P.E. Complex Dec. 14 and Saint Leo on Dec. 19, and will visit Albany State on Dec. 29.
Both Valdosta State teams hold their conference home openers Jan. 3 against rival Alabama-Huntsville. VSU will also face newcomer Shorter during that homestand (Jan. 5).
Valdosta State will then visit West Georgia, West Alabama and West Florida across a 9-day period, all of which will come on the road. All three teams will visit the P.E. Complex later in the season.
The Jan. 26 home games against Delta State (men and women) are scheduled for a noon tip-off (women's) and 2 p.m. (men's). The game's will be carried live on the CBS College Sports Network as part of the Division II Game of the Week.
The Lady Blazers and Blazers conclude regular season play March 3 at Delta State. The conference tournament, for both teams, begins March 7 in Birmingham, Ala.
Complete 2012-12 basketball schedules
Sat., Nov. 10 — vs. Trinity Baptist (6 p.m., women)
Sat., Nov. 10 — vs. Point (8 p.m., men)
Thu., Nov. 15 — at Fort Valley State (7 p.m., women)
VSU CLASSIC (Nov. 16-17)
Fri., Nov. 16 — vs. Carver (8 p.m., men)
Sat., Nov. 17 — vs. Florida Memorial (8 p.m., men)
Sat., Nov. 17 — at Georgia Southwestern (5:30 p.m, women)
Tue., Nov. 20 — vs. Albany State (6 & 8 p.m.)
Sat., Nov. 24 — vs. Lynn (4 p.m.)
Thu., Nov. 29 — at Union (7 & 9 p.m.)*
Sat., Dec. 1 — at North Alabama (2 & 4 p.m.)*
Tue. Dec. 4 — vs. Fort Valley State (3 & 5 p.m.)
Tue., Dec. 11 – at Fort Valley State (7 p.m.)
Fri., Dec. 14 — vs. Eckerd (7 p.m., women)
Sat., Dec. 15 — vs. Saint Leo (7 p.m., women)
Tue., Dec. 18 — vs. Coastal Georgia (7 p.m.)
Sat., Dec. 29 — at Albany State (7 p.m., women)
Thu., Jan. 3 — vs. Alabama-Huntsville (6 & 8 p.m.)*
Sat., Jan. 5 — vs. Shorter (2 & 4 p.m.)*
Thu., Jan. 10 — at West Georgia (5:30 & 7:30 p.m.)*
Sat., Jan. 12 — at West Alabama (2 & 4 p.m.)*
Sat., Jan. 19 — at West Florida (3 & 5 p.m.)*
Thu., Jan. 24 — vs. Christian Brothers (6 & 8 p.m.)*
Sat., Jan. 26 — vs. Delta State (Noon & 2 p.m.)*
Thu., Jan. 31 — vs. Union (6 & 8 p.m.)*
Sat. Feb. 2 — vs. North Alabama (6 & 8 p.m.)*
Thu., Feb. 7 — at Alabama-Huntsville (6:30 & 8:30 p.m.)*
Sat., Feb. 9 — at Shorter (2 & 4 p.m.)*
Thu., Feb. 14 — vs. West Georgia (6 & 8 p.m.)*
Sat., Feb. 16 — vs. West Alabama (6 & 8 p.m.)*
Sat., Feb. 23 — vs. West Florida (2 & 4 p.m.)*
Thu., Feb. 28 — at Christian Brothers (6 & 8 p.m.)*
Sat., March 2 — at Delta State (3 & 5 p.m.)*
GULF SOUTH CONFERENCE TOURNAMENT
Thu., March 7 — GSC Opening Round (Birmingham, Ala.)*
*Denotes Gulf South Conference game
-Follow me on Twitter at @Ed_Hooper.
Injury update
VALDOSTA — Saturday's 39-28 loss to West Alabama was one of the most physical games of the season for the Valdosta State Blazers. As a result, several players were seen nursing injuries at Tuesday's practice. Below are players, with injuries and the status for Saturday, per head coach David Dean.
QB — Cayden Cochran (shoulder, will start)
WR — Gerald Ford (knee, questionable)
WR — Quin Roberson (knee, probable)
LB — Jeremy Grable (sternum, out)
DL — O'Neil Cohen (broken bone in foot, out indefinitely)
WR — Griffin Roelle (hamstring, status unknown)
Dean also said several other players are nursing minor injuries but would not give specific players or injuries. Dean said all other players will play Saturday against Edward Waters.
-Follow me on Twitter at @Ed_Hooper.
QB — Cayden Cochran (shoulder, will start)
WR — Gerald Ford (knee, questionable)
WR — Quin Roberson (knee, probable)
LB — Jeremy Grable (sternum, out)
DL — O'Neil Cohen (broken bone in foot, out indefinitely)
WR — Griffin Roelle (hamstring, status unknown)
Dean also said several other players are nursing minor injuries but would not give specific players or injuries. Dean said all other players will play Saturday against Edward Waters.
-Follow me on Twitter at @Ed_Hooper.
Events surrounding Saturday's VSU-Edward Waters game
VALDOSTA — Saturday's football game between Valdosta State and Edward Waters,
slated for a 7:00 p.m. kickoff at Bazemore-Hyder Stadium, will provide
fans with an opportunity to come away with a host of free prizes while
also recognizing various groups in our community.
Zeta Tau Alpha sorority and Southern OB/GYN will be hosting their annual Pink Out game working together to stomp out breast cancer, The VSU promo team will be giving out pink t-shirts and pink footballs while they last. So come out and wear pink and be part of the team to end breast cancer!
Saturday is also Military Appreciation Night with all active military personnel and dependents receiving free admission. Moody Air Force Base Commander, Colonel Billy Thompson, will be on hand for the pregame coin toss and all active duty military as well as former military members will be recognized during the game.
It will also be Ladies Night at Bazemore-Hyder Stadium! Local boutiques will be on site with free samples, coupons and giveaways. Make sure to stop by and see Azalea Center for Plastic Surgery, Stella & Dot, Only Options, Steel's Jewelry, Klutch, 109 Central, The Vixen Boutique, The Boutique at City Market, Chey What, Costume Jewelry, and BCB to see what they have to offer!
Mediacom will be hosting a special night at the game as well. Stop by the Blazer Fan Center inside the gate to see how you can win great prizes and t-shirts from MediaCom Cable.
VSU, Second Harvest and Kentucky Fried Chicken are teaming up to end hunger in the Lowndes County Area. Donate 3 canned goods and receive a free ticket to the game, this Saturday- sponsored by KFC and Second Harvest Food Bank.
Zeta Tau Alpha sorority and Southern OB/GYN will be hosting their annual Pink Out game working together to stomp out breast cancer, The VSU promo team will be giving out pink t-shirts and pink footballs while they last. So come out and wear pink and be part of the team to end breast cancer!
Saturday is also Military Appreciation Night with all active military personnel and dependents receiving free admission. Moody Air Force Base Commander, Colonel Billy Thompson, will be on hand for the pregame coin toss and all active duty military as well as former military members will be recognized during the game.
It will also be Ladies Night at Bazemore-Hyder Stadium! Local boutiques will be on site with free samples, coupons and giveaways. Make sure to stop by and see Azalea Center for Plastic Surgery, Stella & Dot, Only Options, Steel's Jewelry, Klutch, 109 Central, The Vixen Boutique, The Boutique at City Market, Chey What, Costume Jewelry, and BCB to see what they have to offer!
Mediacom will be hosting a special night at the game as well. Stop by the Blazer Fan Center inside the gate to see how you can win great prizes and t-shirts from MediaCom Cable.
VSU, Second Harvest and Kentucky Fried Chicken are teaming up to end hunger in the Lowndes County Area. Donate 3 canned goods and receive a free ticket to the game, this Saturday- sponsored by KFC and Second Harvest Food Bank.
Tuesday, September 25, 2012
Getting to know: Edward Waters
VALDOSTA — Saturday, the Valdosta State football team will host the Edward Waters College Tigers at Bazemore-Hyder Stadium for a 7 p.m. kickoff.
The Tigers are an NAIA team that competes as an independent. Based out of Jacksonville, Fla., Edward Waters has 2-2 this season with wins over Point (Ga.) and Livingstone College. The Tigers lost to Lane College and Morehouse College.
In their two wins, the Tigers outscored their opponents 108-70, including a 66-34 win over Point University (Ga.) to begin the season. In their two losses, the Tigers are being outscored 84-46.
The Blazers and Tigers have met just once. The Blazers earned a commanding 70-6 win over the Tigers in 2009. Edward Waters finished the year 0-11.
Offensively, Edward Waters is a primary based rushing attack. Through their first four games, the Tigers are averaging 251.8 yards on the ground and just 115 through the air. Running back Phillip Teamer leads the team with 377 rushing yards this season, although Ralph Shuler leads the team with five rushing touchdowns.
Defensively, the Tigers are allowing 402 yards of offense and have allowed 13 rushing touchdowns and nine passing.
Kickoff is set for 7 p.m. Saturday at Bazemore-Hyder Stadium.
-Follow me on Twitter at @Ed_Hooper or www.twitter.com/Ed_Hooper.
The Tigers are an NAIA team that competes as an independent. Based out of Jacksonville, Fla., Edward Waters has 2-2 this season with wins over Point (Ga.) and Livingstone College. The Tigers lost to Lane College and Morehouse College.In their two wins, the Tigers outscored their opponents 108-70, including a 66-34 win over Point University (Ga.) to begin the season. In their two losses, the Tigers are being outscored 84-46.
The Blazers and Tigers have met just once. The Blazers earned a commanding 70-6 win over the Tigers in 2009. Edward Waters finished the year 0-11.
Offensively, Edward Waters is a primary based rushing attack. Through their first four games, the Tigers are averaging 251.8 yards on the ground and just 115 through the air. Running back Phillip Teamer leads the team with 377 rushing yards this season, although Ralph Shuler leads the team with five rushing touchdowns.
Defensively, the Tigers are allowing 402 yards of offense and have allowed 13 rushing touchdowns and nine passing.
Kickoff is set for 7 p.m. Saturday at Bazemore-Hyder Stadium.
-Follow me on Twitter at @Ed_Hooper or www.twitter.com/Ed_Hooper.
Monday, September 24, 2012
Blazers drop out of top 25 poll
VALDOSTA — For the first time this season, the Valdosta State football team is no longer ranked inside the American Football Coaches' Association Top 25.
The Blazers fell out of the top 25 after dropping to 2-2 on the season following a 39-28 loss to West Alabama to open Gulf South Conference play on Saturday.
Pittsburg State (Kan.) remains the top-ranked team in Division II with a 4-0 record. Minnesota-Duluth, Colorado State-Pueblo, Grand Valley State (Mich.) and Winston Salem State (N.C.) round out the top five.
The Blazers were one of three teams (Colorado School of Mines, Abilene Christian)to drop out of the top 25 this week.
Valdosta State returns to action Saturday when Edward Waters visits Bazemore-Hyder Stadium for a 7 p.m. non-conference kickoff.
-Follow me on Twitter at @Ed_Hooper or www.twitter.com/ed_hooper.
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| Valdosta State quarterback Cayden Cochran. (Ed Hooper | The VDT) |
The Blazers fell out of the top 25 after dropping to 2-2 on the season following a 39-28 loss to West Alabama to open Gulf South Conference play on Saturday.
Pittsburg State (Kan.) remains the top-ranked team in Division II with a 4-0 record. Minnesota-Duluth, Colorado State-Pueblo, Grand Valley State (Mich.) and Winston Salem State (N.C.) round out the top five.
The Blazers were one of three teams (Colorado School of Mines, Abilene Christian)to drop out of the top 25 this week.
Valdosta State returns to action Saturday when Edward Waters visits Bazemore-Hyder Stadium for a 7 p.m. non-conference kickoff.
-Follow me on Twitter at @Ed_Hooper or www.twitter.com/ed_hooper.
Sunday, September 23, 2012
Valdosta State-West Alabama by the numbers
VALDOSTA — West Alabama's 39-28 win over Valdosta State Saturday night at Bazemore-Hyder Stadium was just the program's third-ever win over the Blazers and first in Valdosta. Here, Blazer Sports Beat breaks down Saturday's game by the numbers.
Ford nearing top 10 in TD receptions
With his two touchdown catches on Saturday, Gerald Ford hauled in his sixth and seventh TD receptions of the season. Ford is just four touchdown catches away from breaking into the school's top 10 list for touchdown receptions in a single season. Currently, Mike Bowman is in 10th on the all-time TD list in a single season with 11, a mark he accomplished in 1997. The school-record for touchdown catches in a season is 21, set by Robert Williams in 1994. Stanley Flanders is in second with 20 touchdown catches, which he also accomplished in the 1994 season with Chris Hatcher as the Blazers' quarterback.
Two QBs again
Saturday night, both quarterbacks Cayden Cochran and Graham Craig saw action due to Cochran leaving the game due to shoulder tenderness. Did you know: Since the start of the 2009 season, Valdosta State has played multiple quarterbacks in a game 22 times out of 35 games played.
Fumble recovery for TD
Tyler Josey's third quarter fumble recovery for Valdosta State was the Blazers' first since 2007 when Melvin Black recovered a fumble for a TD against Fort Valley State. It was a span of 58 games.
Smith kicks four FGs
West Alabama kicker Ryne Smith became the first opposing kicker to make four field goals in a game against Valdosta State since Oct. 17, 1998, a span of 162 games.
Yellow flags all over
Valdosta State committed 13 penalties for 124 yards Saturday, the majority of which were holding or unsportsmanlike conduct penalties. West Alabama committed 12 penalties for 69 yards, including an offside penalty on the opening kickoff that overturned a recovered fumble.
Blazers run for season-low in yards
Valdosta State rushed for a season-low 133 yards in Saturday's loss. VSU had eclipsed the 200-yard rushing mark in the previous two games. In the season opening loss to Saginaw Valley State, the Blazers rushed for 144 yards.
Around the Gulf South Conference
In other GSC action from Saturday, Delta State defeated North Alabama, 20-12, in Cleveland, Miss. Shorter dropped its home opener to Division I-FCS opponent Charleston Southern, 23-20. West Georgia was idle.
Up next
Valdosta State hosts NAIA opponent Edward Waters next Saturday at Bazemore-Hyder Stadium for a 7 p.m. kickoff. West Alabama hosts West Georgia.
— Follow me on Twitter at @Ed_Hooper for more Valdosta State sports news.
Ford nearing top 10 in TD receptions
With his two touchdown catches on Saturday, Gerald Ford hauled in his sixth and seventh TD receptions of the season. Ford is just four touchdown catches away from breaking into the school's top 10 list for touchdown receptions in a single season. Currently, Mike Bowman is in 10th on the all-time TD list in a single season with 11, a mark he accomplished in 1997. The school-record for touchdown catches in a season is 21, set by Robert Williams in 1994. Stanley Flanders is in second with 20 touchdown catches, which he also accomplished in the 1994 season with Chris Hatcher as the Blazers' quarterback.
Two QBs again
Saturday night, both quarterbacks Cayden Cochran and Graham Craig saw action due to Cochran leaving the game due to shoulder tenderness. Did you know: Since the start of the 2009 season, Valdosta State has played multiple quarterbacks in a game 22 times out of 35 games played.
Fumble recovery for TD
Tyler Josey's third quarter fumble recovery for Valdosta State was the Blazers' first since 2007 when Melvin Black recovered a fumble for a TD against Fort Valley State. It was a span of 58 games.
Smith kicks four FGs
West Alabama kicker Ryne Smith became the first opposing kicker to make four field goals in a game against Valdosta State since Oct. 17, 1998, a span of 162 games.
Yellow flags all over
Valdosta State committed 13 penalties for 124 yards Saturday, the majority of which were holding or unsportsmanlike conduct penalties. West Alabama committed 12 penalties for 69 yards, including an offside penalty on the opening kickoff that overturned a recovered fumble.
Blazers run for season-low in yards
Valdosta State rushed for a season-low 133 yards in Saturday's loss. VSU had eclipsed the 200-yard rushing mark in the previous two games. In the season opening loss to Saginaw Valley State, the Blazers rushed for 144 yards.
Around the Gulf South Conference
In other GSC action from Saturday, Delta State defeated North Alabama, 20-12, in Cleveland, Miss. Shorter dropped its home opener to Division I-FCS opponent Charleston Southern, 23-20. West Georgia was idle.
Up next
Valdosta State hosts NAIA opponent Edward Waters next Saturday at Bazemore-Hyder Stadium for a 7 p.m. kickoff. West Alabama hosts West Georgia.
— Follow me on Twitter at @Ed_Hooper for more Valdosta State sports news.
Saturday, September 22, 2012
VSU post game reaction
VALDOSTA — Postgame reaction of VSU's 39-28 loss to West Alabama.
David Dean
Chris Pope
David Dean
Chris Pope
Thursday, September 20, 2012
Valdosta State-Delta State basketball games to air nationally on CBS College Sports
VALDOSTA — The Jan. 26 basketball games between Gulf South Conference opponents Delta State and Valdosta State will air in front of a national television audience.
Both the women's and men's games have been picked up by the CBS College Sports Network and tabbed as the Division II Games of the Week.
According to the release by the conference office, the games are scheduled to begin at 12:30 p.m. on Jan. 26. The men's game would be scheduled for a 2:30 p.m. start.
Neither the men's or women's basketball teams at Valdosta State has released their 2012 schedules to media or the public, although that is expected to happen within the coming weeks.
The Blazers finished last year with a 11-16 record, the worst under head coach Mike Helfer. The Lady Blazers finished the year with a 22-8 record, losing by two points in the South Region Championship Game (Sweet 16) to host Rollins College, who made an appearance in the Final Four.
Follow me on Twitter at @Ed_Hooper.
Both the women's and men's games have been picked up by the CBS College Sports Network and tabbed as the Division II Games of the Week.
According to the release by the conference office, the games are scheduled to begin at 12:30 p.m. on Jan. 26. The men's game would be scheduled for a 2:30 p.m. start.
Neither the men's or women's basketball teams at Valdosta State has released their 2012 schedules to media or the public, although that is expected to happen within the coming weeks.
The Blazers finished last year with a 11-16 record, the worst under head coach Mike Helfer. The Lady Blazers finished the year with a 22-8 record, losing by two points in the South Region Championship Game (Sweet 16) to host Rollins College, who made an appearance in the Final Four.
Follow me on Twitter at @Ed_Hooper.
Blazer soccer to red out game Friday
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All children wearing their Azalea City Soccer Club or South Georgia United Academy/Select uniform will be let in free of charge to support the Blazers.
In 2011, just its inaugural season, Valdosta State went all the way to the Gulf South Conference Championship match against North Alabama. After beating North Alabama, 1-0, during the regular season, the Blazers fell to the Lions, 5-3.
Friday night is Valdosta State's first chance to get North Alabama back in this championship rematch. It's an important conference match for Valdosta State and the Blazers need the support of their fans.
Bring everyone out to pack the stands at the VSU Soccer Complex and wear plenty of red to back your Blazers against North Alabama.
For those not familiar with parking for VSU Soccer matches, please read the following:
Valdosta State will run shuttles, starting approximately an hour before the match (6 p.m. Friday) that will be on a regular path from the Sustella Parking Lot (the lot between the Centennial Residence Hall and the VSU Student Recreational Center) to the VSU Soccer Complex. The shuttles will run until the start of the match and will resume at the conclusion of the match.
Wednesday, September 19, 2012
With no catches this season, Dean says Roelle is growing frustrated
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| Roelle |
"I'm sure he is (frustrated)," Dean said. "Anybody that is a wide receiver wants to catch the football."
Roelle missed the Blazers' season opener Sept. 1 with a hamstring and quad injury that has continued to nag him through this point of the season. He has dressed in both the Blazers' last two games, seeing minimal action and failing to record a catch.
"He missed the first game so he has really only played two (games)," Dean said. "But yeah, he doesn't have a catch right now."
At Tuesday's practice, Roelle was not seen participating in passing skeleton, a portion of practice that features the starting offensive skill players competing against the defensive skill players. Instead, Dean said Roelle was working "mental reps" on the sideline because of his nagging injury.
"It is one of those deals where with his injury, you can't do a whole bunch," Dean said. "He kind of took a lot of mental reps on the sideline."
Along with his injury, Roelle is also seeing limited action because he plays the same position as fellow junior wide receiver Gerald Ford, the two-time Gulf South Conference Offensive Player of the Week, that has stepped up and become the go-to target for quarterback Cayden Cochran.
Through the first three games, Ford has hauled in a team-high 17 catches for a team-leading 331 yards and five touchdowns, which also leads the team.
"Well right now, (Roelle) is playing behind a guy that has been, for two weeks in a row, the Gulf South Conference Player of the Week," Dean said. "It is hard to step up in front of a guy that is playing that well."
Roelle joined the Blazers in 2010. As a freshman, he recorded nine catches for 133 yards with a touchdown in just five games. He missed the final six games of the year with a broken collarbone. Last year, Roelle implemented himself into the offense, making himself a viable weapon for the Blazers. He led the team with 35 catches for 395 yards with a pair of touchdowns. He also returned five kickoffs for 55 yards with no touchdowns.
Tuesday, September 18, 2012
1-on-1 with UWA HC Will Hall
VALDOSTA — The Valdosta State Blazers open Gulf South Conference play Saturday against West Alabama. Kickoff is set for 7 p.m. at Bazemore-Hyder Stadium. On Tuesday, Blazer Sports Beat had a 1-on-1 phone interview with West Alabama head coach Will Hall.
The Blazers and Tigers were picked to finish 1-2 in the conference this season. Last year, the Blazers edged out a 22-21 win over the Tigers.
BSB: Have you brought up the finish to last year's game and how close it was?
WH: "Last year, it was disappointing we lost. As far as bringing up last year's game, I think our team is obviously well aware of last year's game and Valdosta State. I think we have to bring it up that much. We want to get where we are a perennial power that Valdosta has been for a long time. That is what we are trying to get to."
BSB: Would a win Saturday over Valdosta State put your team in that elite class?
WH: "Well we would be 1-0 in the conference. If you're 1-0 in the conference and you've beaten Valdosta, you have to feel good about your chances moving forward. Certainly it isn't going to make your season, if you win it or lose it, but taht would put us in a really good situation."
BSB: Last year, Matt Willis was able to dominate with 219 yards on 31 carries with a touchdown. This year, VSU has been able to hold opponents to 97.3 yards per game. Are you going to try and give Matt the ball early and see if the Blazers can slow him down?
WH: "Well Matt is our best player. So we are definitely going to hand him the ball. I will try to get him as many touches as I can. I think, in big games, you have to think about calling the right players, not the right plays. So we are definitely going to get Matt the ball. We definitely don't want to be driving home from Valdosta and Matt Willis hasn't touched the ball enough.
BSB: Speaking of big players, Valdosta State has a wide receiver who didn't play last year. Gerald Ford has come out extremely hot this year with 16 receptions. What are your plans to slow down Gerald this weekend? He has five touchdowns the past two games,. Is there something special you do to slow him down?
WH: "Gerald is a really good player. We've known about him for some time. He had to sit out last year, but he has been a great player in this conference for a long time. One reason I think he has been able to have a big season is because the quarterback play has been much-improved than the past two years. Cayden (Cochran) is really playing well and (Graham) Craig played well when he got to play. I think that has been the biggest reason for the improvement in their team this year over the last two years, is they are just really better at quarterback."
BSB: These two teams were tabbed to finish 1-2 in the conference this year. Is this the conference championship game?
WH: "Well it is too early to say that. I haven't seen anybody else in the conference, on tape. So I couldn't tell you. It is so early. I tell you, in this league, everyone is going to be pretty good. That is the way it always is. Obviously, us and Valdosta have the most returners coming back. It is a big game. Like I said, it sets you up to be in the driver's seat moving forward for the rest of the year." -Folloiw me on Twitter at @Ed_Hooper.
The Blazers and Tigers were picked to finish 1-2 in the conference this season. Last year, the Blazers edged out a 22-21 win over the Tigers.
BSB: Have you brought up the finish to last year's game and how close it was?
WH: "Last year, it was disappointing we lost. As far as bringing up last year's game, I think our team is obviously well aware of last year's game and Valdosta State. I think we have to bring it up that much. We want to get where we are a perennial power that Valdosta has been for a long time. That is what we are trying to get to."
BSB: Would a win Saturday over Valdosta State put your team in that elite class?
WH: "Well we would be 1-0 in the conference. If you're 1-0 in the conference and you've beaten Valdosta, you have to feel good about your chances moving forward. Certainly it isn't going to make your season, if you win it or lose it, but taht would put us in a really good situation."
BSB: Last year, Matt Willis was able to dominate with 219 yards on 31 carries with a touchdown. This year, VSU has been able to hold opponents to 97.3 yards per game. Are you going to try and give Matt the ball early and see if the Blazers can slow him down?
WH: "Well Matt is our best player. So we are definitely going to hand him the ball. I will try to get him as many touches as I can. I think, in big games, you have to think about calling the right players, not the right plays. So we are definitely going to get Matt the ball. We definitely don't want to be driving home from Valdosta and Matt Willis hasn't touched the ball enough.
BSB: Speaking of big players, Valdosta State has a wide receiver who didn't play last year. Gerald Ford has come out extremely hot this year with 16 receptions. What are your plans to slow down Gerald this weekend? He has five touchdowns the past two games,. Is there something special you do to slow him down?
WH: "Gerald is a really good player. We've known about him for some time. He had to sit out last year, but he has been a great player in this conference for a long time. One reason I think he has been able to have a big season is because the quarterback play has been much-improved than the past two years. Cayden (Cochran) is really playing well and (Graham) Craig played well when he got to play. I think that has been the biggest reason for the improvement in their team this year over the last two years, is they are just really better at quarterback."
BSB: These two teams were tabbed to finish 1-2 in the conference this year. Is this the conference championship game?
WH: "Well it is too early to say that. I haven't seen anybody else in the conference, on tape. So I couldn't tell you. It is so early. I tell you, in this league, everyone is going to be pretty good. That is the way it always is. Obviously, us and Valdosta have the most returners coming back. It is a big game. Like I said, it sets you up to be in the driver's seat moving forward for the rest of the year." -Folloiw me on Twitter at @Ed_Hooper.
Monday, September 17, 2012
Ford named Player of the Week; Blazers move up in polls
VALDOSTA — Valdosta State wide receiver Gerald Ford was named the Gulf South Conference Offensive Player of the Week for the second straight time Monday.
Ford guided the Blazer offense to 520 yards in a 43-10 rout of Angelo State Saturday at Cowboys Stadium. Ford was the go-to target for quarterback Cayden Cochran, recording a team-high seven passes for 110 yards and two touchdowns. The 100-yard performance was the second straight week Ford eclipsed the century mark in receiving yards.
With the Blazers leading 10-3 in the second quarter Saturday, Ford connected with Cochran on a 24-yard touchdown pass. Ford eluded the entire defense on the play to score the touchdown. In the third quarter, the two connected again. This time, Cochran found Ford in the back of the end zone for a 26-yard touchdown that put the Blazers ahead 29-10 in the third quarter.
The junior, who missed the entire 2011 season due to academic issues, has been nearly unstoppable this season for the Blazers. Through VSU's first three games, Ford leads the Blazers in receptions (17), receiving yards (331) and touchdowns (5). Currently, he is averaging 110 yards receiving per game.
Blazers move up two spots in polls
The Valdosta State Blazers moved up two spots in the latest American Football Coaches Association Poll, released on Monday. The Blazers are now ranked 16th following the win over Angelo State.
Pittsburg State (Kan.) remains the top-ranked team after a 52-9 win over Southwest Baptist last weekend. Minnesota-Duluth is ranked second, followed by Colorado State-Pueblo, Grand Valley State and Winston-Salem State (N.C.).
VSU's opponent this week, West Alabama, is ranked 23rd. Delta State dropped out of the poll, along with Texas A&M-Kingsville — the Blazers' final opponent of the regular season.
Saginaw Valley State, the only team to beat the Blazers this season, fell 10 spots to 20th after suffering its first loss of the season on Saturday. The Cardinals lost to Findley (Ohio) 29-27.
-Follow me on Twitter at @Ed_Hooper.
Ford guided the Blazer offense to 520 yards in a 43-10 rout of Angelo State Saturday at Cowboys Stadium. Ford was the go-to target for quarterback Cayden Cochran, recording a team-high seven passes for 110 yards and two touchdowns. The 100-yard performance was the second straight week Ford eclipsed the century mark in receiving yards.
With the Blazers leading 10-3 in the second quarter Saturday, Ford connected with Cochran on a 24-yard touchdown pass. Ford eluded the entire defense on the play to score the touchdown. In the third quarter, the two connected again. This time, Cochran found Ford in the back of the end zone for a 26-yard touchdown that put the Blazers ahead 29-10 in the third quarter.
The junior, who missed the entire 2011 season due to academic issues, has been nearly unstoppable this season for the Blazers. Through VSU's first three games, Ford leads the Blazers in receptions (17), receiving yards (331) and touchdowns (5). Currently, he is averaging 110 yards receiving per game.
Blazers move up two spots in polls
The Valdosta State Blazers moved up two spots in the latest American Football Coaches Association Poll, released on Monday. The Blazers are now ranked 16th following the win over Angelo State.
Pittsburg State (Kan.) remains the top-ranked team after a 52-9 win over Southwest Baptist last weekend. Minnesota-Duluth is ranked second, followed by Colorado State-Pueblo, Grand Valley State and Winston-Salem State (N.C.).
VSU's opponent this week, West Alabama, is ranked 23rd. Delta State dropped out of the poll, along with Texas A&M-Kingsville — the Blazers' final opponent of the regular season.
Saginaw Valley State, the only team to beat the Blazers this season, fell 10 spots to 20th after suffering its first loss of the season on Saturday. The Cardinals lost to Findley (Ohio) 29-27.
-Follow me on Twitter at @Ed_Hooper.
Reid to have ACL surgery Tuesday
VALDOSTA — Injured Valdosta State football player Greg Reid will undergo ACL reconstructive surgery Tuesday, according to a post on his Twitter account.
Reid tore his ACL a week before the regular season while returning a punt in a team scrimmage. The injured occurred less than two weeks after the former Lowndes High standout was kicked off the Florida State team and then joined the Blazers.
Reid is eligible to play for the Blazers next season. If he is granted a release from VSU, Reid would not have to sit out a year if he transferred back to a Division I program. It is unclear what Reid's plans for the future are at this time.
Follow me on Twitter at @Ed_Hooper.
Reid tore his ACL a week before the regular season while returning a punt in a team scrimmage. The injured occurred less than two weeks after the former Lowndes High standout was kicked off the Florida State team and then joined the Blazers.Reid is eligible to play for the Blazers next season. If he is granted a release from VSU, Reid would not have to sit out a year if he transferred back to a Division I program. It is unclear what Reid's plans for the future are at this time.
Follow me on Twitter at @Ed_Hooper.
Saturday, September 15, 2012
Valdosta State-Angelo State analysis
 |
| Valdosta State wide receiver Seantavious Jones. |
ARLINGTON, Texas — The 18th-ranked Valdosta State football team cruised to a 43-10 win over unranked Angelo State Saturday on the final day of the Lone Star Football Festival at Cowboys Stadium.
Here are notes and stats from the Blazers’ win on Saturday.
Getting it done on the ground Valdosta State racked up the fifth most yards in school history Saturday with 292 yards on the ground. The freshman trio of Austin Scott, Eric Scott and Cedric O’Neal accounted for all but 28 of those yards. Austin Scott led the way with 126 yards on 17 carries, while O’Neal added 74 and Eric Scott added 73. Coming into the game, Angelo State was allowed just over 106 yards on the ground per game.
Ford is in a zone After being academically ineligible in 2010, junior wide receiver Gerald Ford has come back with a lot to prove in 2012. Ford’s seven catch, 110-yard and two TD performance Saturday gives him 16 catches for more 320 yards and five touchdowns this season. All five of his touchdowns have come in the last two weeks, both Blazer victories.
Roelle without a catch again After being hampered by a hamstring and quad injury throughout training camp, which forced him to miss the season opener at Saginaw Valley State, junior wide receiver Griffin Roelle has yet to record a catch since returning to the line up, largely because of the production by Ford (the two share a position). Roelle led the Blazers in receptions last season.
Stat of the day
Valdosta State forced Angelo State to seven punts Saturday night, including four three-and-outs. More impressively, the Blazers held the Rams to just 262 yards of offense, while the VSU offense racked up 520 yards of total offense. The Blazers were also a perfect 4-for-4 in the red zone.
Defense finally records a sack After being held without a sack in the first two games, the Blazer defense recorded its first sacks of the season Saturday. Ryan Smith got things started with a sack in the first quarter. Tyler Josey and O’Neil Cohen also recorded sacks later in the game. Altogether, six Blazers recorded tackles for loss, including Lawrence Virgil, whose tackle for a loss resulted in a safety.
Looking ahead After three games in three different states to begin the regular season, the Blazers will finish the year with 6 of their last 7 games in the state of Georgia, including the next two. The Blazers host West Alabama in the Gulf South Conference opener next weekend at Bazemore-Hyder Stadium. VSU hosts Edward Waters the following week before visiting West Georgia Oct. 6. Kickoff for the next two home games are set for 7 p.m. while kickoff at UWG is set for 3 p.m.
VSU beats Angelo State, 43-10
ARLINGTON, Texas — The 18th-ranked Valdosta State Blazers blew out the Angelo State Rams 43-10 on the final day of Lone Star Football Festival at Cowboys Stadium on Saturday afternoon to win their second-straight game.
“I was really proud with the way our kids handled all of the distractions that go along with this incredible place,” Valdosta State head coach David Dean said.
“We talked all week about coming out here and concentrating on playing well against a very good football team. To our kids’ credit, that is exactly what they did.”
Led by strong performances from quarterback Cayden Cochran, wide receiver Gerald Ford, and freshman running back Austin Scott, the Blazers racked up 520 yards of total offense, scored five touchdowns, including four in the red zone, to blew out the Rams and improve to 2-1 on the season. The Blazer defense was impressive, too.
The Black Swarm held the Rams to seven punts, four three-and-outs and just 262 yards of total offense on the day. Cochran finished the game 16 of 28 passing for 173 yards with two touchdowns, both of which went to Ford, who hauled in seven catches for 110 yards with his two scores.
Austin Scott finished with his first-career 100-yard rushing performance, tallying 131 yards on the day. Cedric O’Neal finished with 77 yards and Eric Scott added 75 yards on the ground as the Blazers ran for 292 yards.
The Blazers return to action next Saturday against West Alabama. Kickoff from Bazemore-Hyder Stadium is set for 7 p.m. More on Saturday's win at Cowboys Stadium will be available in Sunday's print and online edition of The Valdosta Daily Times. Postgame video is available online at www.blazersportsbeat.com.
“We talked all week about coming out here and concentrating on playing well against a very good football team. To our kids’ credit, that is exactly what they did.”
Led by strong performances from quarterback Cayden Cochran, wide receiver Gerald Ford, and freshman running back Austin Scott, the Blazers racked up 520 yards of total offense, scored five touchdowns, including four in the red zone, to blew out the Rams and improve to 2-1 on the season. The Blazer defense was impressive, too.
The Black Swarm held the Rams to seven punts, four three-and-outs and just 262 yards of total offense on the day. Cochran finished the game 16 of 28 passing for 173 yards with two touchdowns, both of which went to Ford, who hauled in seven catches for 110 yards with his two scores.
Austin Scott finished with his first-career 100-yard rushing performance, tallying 131 yards on the day. Cedric O’Neal finished with 77 yards and Eric Scott added 75 yards on the ground as the Blazers ran for 292 yards.
The Blazers return to action next Saturday against West Alabama. Kickoff from Bazemore-Hyder Stadium is set for 7 p.m. More on Saturday's win at Cowboys Stadium will be available in Sunday's print and online edition of The Valdosta Daily Times. Postgame video is available online at www.blazersportsbeat.com.
VSU-ASU postgame reaction from Cowboys Stadium
ARLINGTON, Texas — The Valdosta State football team blew out Angelo State University 43-10 Saturday afternoon at Cowboys Stadium in Arlington, Texas. The Blazers racked up 520 yards of total offense and held the Rams to just 262 yards on the day.
VSU improved to 2-1 on the season, while the Rams fell to 1-2 with the loss.
Here are postgame reactions from VSU head coach David Dean, quarterback Cayden Cochran and wide receiver Gerald Ford.
David Dean postgame
Cayden Cochran, Gerald Ford postgame
Friday, September 14, 2012
Friday football notes
ARLINGTON,
Texas — The 18th-ranked Valdosta State Blazers face the unranked
Angelo State Rams Saturday at 12 p.m. Central from Cowboys Stadium. For a
complete game preview, read Saturday’s edition of The Valdosta Daily Times.
Cochran listed as starting QB
After
telling media Tuesday that quarterback Cayden Cochran would “definitely” start
in Saturday’s game against Angelo State at Cowboys Stadium, Valdosta State head
coach David Dean seems to be following his word. The first glimpse of
Saturday’s depth chart has Cochran listed as the starter followed by Graham
Craig, who started VSU’s game last weekend against Fort Valley State.
Cochran
missed last week’s game with a separated non-throwing shoulder that he suffered
in the Blazers’ week 1 loss to Saginaw Valley State.
OC Brown not with team
Valdosta state Offensive coordinator is not with the team this weekend in Dallas. Brown is in Valdosta with his wife as the couple is expecting the birth of their first child.
Three weeks, three games, three states
Saturday’s
game at Cowboys Stadium in Arlington, Texas will mark the Blazers’ third
different game in a third different state this season. Following this week’s
game, the Blazers will play just one more game out of their home state — Oct.
13 at North Alabama. The Blazers host West Alabama next weekend and Edward
Waters Sept. 29.
Friday’s flight delayed
Valdosta
State’s flight to Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport was delayed Friday
morning by close to an hour and a half. The Blazers were left sitting on the
tarmac at the Valdosta Regional Airport due to weight balance issues with the
airplane. The airplane was left without air conditioning during the delay. The
Blazers arrived in the Dallas area around 2 p.m. Central time, nearly two hours
behind the original schedule.
Saturday’s media
The Blazers
and Rams game can be seen on Mediacom channel 20 (VSU-TV) in Valdosta on
Saturday. The game broadcast will begin at 1 p.m. Eastern. The game will also
be carried throughout the entire Blazer Radio Network, including the flagship
station Talk 92.1 FM. The game can also be heard on 92.9 FM (Valdosta), 1150 AM
and 96.1 FM (Valdosta), 107.5 (Jasper, Fla.), 97.7 FM/AM (Quitman), 1240 AM
(Fitzgerald), 920 AM (Hazelhurst) and 1500 AM (Macon). Live stats for Saturday’s
game can be found through the Valdosta State athletic Web site (www.vstateblazers.com).
On a personal note
Sometimes I
like to add a little flavor into my columns and blog posts. Today I can report
that my pen exploded on my hand and all over my game notes during my flight to
Dallas. My right thumb looks like I have been working on the hood of a car all
week.
— Make sure
to follow me on Twitter at @Ed_Hooper for updates throughout the trip in Dallas
and from Saturday’s game, which is set for a 1 p.m. Eastern kickoff from
Cowboys Stadium.
GSC weekend preview
As the Valdosta State football team heads to Dallas, Texas today, here is a breakdown of the Gulf South Conference action for this weekend.
No. 18 Valdosta State (1-1) vs. Angelo State (1-1)
When: Saturday, 1 p.m. Eastern
Where: Cowboys Stadium in Arlington, Texas
Series: 0-0-0
Last meeting: First-ever meeting
TV: VSU-TV, Mediacom channel 20 in Valdosta
Radio: 92.1 FM, 92.9 FM, 1150 AM, 96.1 FM
Notes: The Rams' defense is allowing just 228 yards per game, but still sits with a 1-1 record after a 19-7 loss to Chadron State last week. Valdosta State is 1-1 after losing to Saginaw Valley State and bouncing back with a win over Fort Valley State last weekend.
Shorter (1-1) at Chowan (1-1)
When: Saturday, 6 p.m. Eastern
Where: Garrison Stadium, Murfreesboro, N.C.
Series: 0-0-0
Last meeting: First-ever meeting
Notes: The Shorter Hawks start its probation season into the Division II ranks with a third-straight road game. Last week, the Hawks fell to Newberry. Chowan is a member of the CIAA conference.
Kentucky Christian (2-0) at North Alabama (1-1)
When: Saturday, 7 p.m. Eastern
Location: Braly Municipal Stadium, Florence, Ala.
Series: 0-0-0
Last meeting: First-ever meeting
Notes: After escaping a thriller with Miles week 1, North Alabama was blown out by Harding, ending a 20-game win streak against non-GSC teams, last week. UNA is looking to avoid back-to-back home losses since 2004.
Mississippi Colleg (1-1) at No. 24 West Alabama (1-1)
When: Saturday, 7 p.m. Eastern
Where: Tiger Stadium, Livingston, Ala.
Series: Mississippi College leads 19-18-2
Last meeting: West Alabama won 38-10 in 1997
Notes: West Alabama opens its home schedule looking for a bounce back win after a loss to Division I Samford last week. Saturday's meeting will feature Mississippi College, a former member of the GSC, visiting the Tigers for the first time since 1997.
West Georgia (2-0) at Miles (1-1)
When: Saturday, 7 p.m. Eastern
Where: Albert J. Sloan-Alumni Stadium, Fairfield, Ala.
Series: West Georgia leads 4-0
Last meeting: West Georgia won 23-20 in 2011
Notes: West Georgia is the last undefeated team in the GSC and takes to the road for the first time this year. Last week, West Georgia beat Tusculum, 38-29, while Miles bounced back from its loss to North Alabama.
No. 18 Valdosta State (1-1) vs. Angelo State (1-1)When: Saturday, 1 p.m. Eastern
Where: Cowboys Stadium in Arlington, Texas
Series: 0-0-0
Last meeting: First-ever meeting
TV: VSU-TV, Mediacom channel 20 in Valdosta
Radio: 92.1 FM, 92.9 FM, 1150 AM, 96.1 FM
Notes: The Rams' defense is allowing just 228 yards per game, but still sits with a 1-1 record after a 19-7 loss to Chadron State last week. Valdosta State is 1-1 after losing to Saginaw Valley State and bouncing back with a win over Fort Valley State last weekend.
Shorter (1-1) at Chowan (1-1)
When: Saturday, 6 p.m. Eastern
Where: Garrison Stadium, Murfreesboro, N.C.
Series: 0-0-0
Last meeting: First-ever meeting
Notes: The Shorter Hawks start its probation season into the Division II ranks with a third-straight road game. Last week, the Hawks fell to Newberry. Chowan is a member of the CIAA conference.
Kentucky Christian (2-0) at North Alabama (1-1)
When: Saturday, 7 p.m. Eastern
Location: Braly Municipal Stadium, Florence, Ala.
Series: 0-0-0
Last meeting: First-ever meeting
Notes: After escaping a thriller with Miles week 1, North Alabama was blown out by Harding, ending a 20-game win streak against non-GSC teams, last week. UNA is looking to avoid back-to-back home losses since 2004.
Mississippi Colleg (1-1) at No. 24 West Alabama (1-1)
When: Saturday, 7 p.m. Eastern
Where: Tiger Stadium, Livingston, Ala.
Series: Mississippi College leads 19-18-2
Last meeting: West Alabama won 38-10 in 1997
Notes: West Alabama opens its home schedule looking for a bounce back win after a loss to Division I Samford last week. Saturday's meeting will feature Mississippi College, a former member of the GSC, visiting the Tigers for the first time since 1997.
West Georgia (2-0) at Miles (1-1)
When: Saturday, 7 p.m. Eastern
Where: Albert J. Sloan-Alumni Stadium, Fairfield, Ala.
Series: West Georgia leads 4-0
Last meeting: West Georgia won 23-20 in 2011
Notes: West Georgia is the last undefeated team in the GSC and takes to the road for the first time this year. Last week, West Georgia beat Tusculum, 38-29, while Miles bounced back from its loss to North Alabama.
Thursday, September 13, 2012
VSU-ASU game to be carried on channel 20
All Mediacom customers within the Valdosta area are eligible to view the game.
Channel 20 is the university television channel ran through Valdosta State University's Mass Media Department.
Fans going to the game in Arlington, Texas may purchase tickets for the Lone Star Football Festival at the venue or through the Valdosta State ticket office prior to making the trip out west.
-Follow me on Twitter at @Ed_Hooper.
Tuesday, September 11, 2012
Cochran should start Saturday
After missing last Saturday's blowout 62-14 win over Fort Valley State with a separated shoulder, redshirt junior quarterback Cayden Cochran will likely return to the starting line up Saturday for the Valdosta State Blazers, says head coach David Dean.
"(Cayden) looked good out here today," Dean said after Tuesday's practice. "He threw the ball well. He is will have a little bit of trouble moving side-to-side, but I think that is just a little bit of soreness. I think with about three more days before we play, he is going to be fine. He threw the ball very well today, he had good reads. So, I look for him to be able to play."
When asked if Cochran will be the starter if healthy enough to play Saturday, Dean said "he is going to start. No doubt about it."
With Cochran out last week. sophomore Graham Craig made his first-career start for the Blazers. Craig completed 10 of 22 passes for 314 yards and five touchdowns. He was intercepted twice, one that was returned for a touchdown.
Cochran separated his non-throwing shoulder in VSU's season opening loss to Saginaw Valley State when he diving into the end zone during the Blazers' first touchdown of the season. He attempted to play with the hurt shoulder the following series but fumbled the ball away. He was replaced by Craig on the following drive.
Bringing into question of what quarterback will start for the Blazers is nothing new. After last season's starter Austen Roberts injured his shoulder in a game against Ouachita Baptist and was replaced by Cochran, who later earned Gulf South Conference Player of the Week honors for his performance in the win, Dean told reporters that Roberts would remain the starter, even though it was later learned Roberts had suffered a season-ending injury.
In 2010, Dean did much of the same when he closed practice to hide Roberts leg injury, and hide the fact that then-freshman Brett Whitmire was going to start that week's game against Arkansas Tech.
“I’d do a little bit of both because you can probably split screen it,” senior offensive lineman Jake Thomas laughed. “You can probably watch football on one and play video games on the other side”
“I’d probably Madden,” wide receiver Seantavious Jones said.
To help prepare for the distractions that come with playing in Cowboys Stadium, the Blazers will visit Cowboys Stadium Friday once they arrive in the Dallas area. Although they are unable to hold a walk-through at the stadium, due to high school games scheduled throughout Friday, the Blazers will watch a portion of a game and walk throughout the stadium to help better learn their surroundings before warmups on Saturday.
Head coach David Dean also said Valdosta State will extend its warm up period by a few minutes so players can get used to playing inside a dome stadium.
“What I am more concerned with is when we are out here (on the practice field), we are looking up at the sky and when we play we see sky,” Dean said. “When we look up there, we are going to see stands and a roof. So that is going to be a little bit different, so we are going to take some extra time and go out catching kicks and to be sure we get the depth perception of all that. It is a little different.”
-Follow me on Twitter at @Ed_Hooper.
"(Cayden) looked good out here today," Dean said after Tuesday's practice. "He threw the ball well. He is will have a little bit of trouble moving side-to-side, but I think that is just a little bit of soreness. I think with about three more days before we play, he is going to be fine. He threw the ball very well today, he had good reads. So, I look for him to be able to play."
When asked if Cochran will be the starter if healthy enough to play Saturday, Dean said "he is going to start. No doubt about it."
With Cochran out last week. sophomore Graham Craig made his first-career start for the Blazers. Craig completed 10 of 22 passes for 314 yards and five touchdowns. He was intercepted twice, one that was returned for a touchdown.
Cochran separated his non-throwing shoulder in VSU's season opening loss to Saginaw Valley State when he diving into the end zone during the Blazers' first touchdown of the season. He attempted to play with the hurt shoulder the following series but fumbled the ball away. He was replaced by Craig on the following drive.
Bringing into question of what quarterback will start for the Blazers is nothing new. After last season's starter Austen Roberts injured his shoulder in a game against Ouachita Baptist and was replaced by Cochran, who later earned Gulf South Conference Player of the Week honors for his performance in the win, Dean told reporters that Roberts would remain the starter, even though it was later learned Roberts had suffered a season-ending injury.
In 2010, Dean did much of the same when he closed practice to hide Roberts leg injury, and hide the fact that then-freshman Brett Whitmire was going to start that week's game against Arkansas Tech.
Players weigh in on video board
Saturday's game will allow players the ultimate experience of playing under one of the largest video boards ever built. Following Tuesday's practice, some players weighed in with what they would do if they owned a video board of that size. The main response was watch football and play video games.“I’d do a little bit of both because you can probably split screen it,” senior offensive lineman Jake Thomas laughed. “You can probably watch football on one and play video games on the other side”
“I’d probably Madden,” wide receiver Seantavious Jones said.
To help prepare for the distractions that come with playing in Cowboys Stadium, the Blazers will visit Cowboys Stadium Friday once they arrive in the Dallas area. Although they are unable to hold a walk-through at the stadium, due to high school games scheduled throughout Friday, the Blazers will watch a portion of a game and walk throughout the stadium to help better learn their surroundings before warmups on Saturday.
Head coach David Dean also said Valdosta State will extend its warm up period by a few minutes so players can get used to playing inside a dome stadium.
“What I am more concerned with is when we are out here (on the practice field), we are looking up at the sky and when we play we see sky,” Dean said. “When we look up there, we are going to see stands and a roof. So that is going to be a little bit different, so we are going to take some extra time and go out catching kicks and to be sure we get the depth perception of all that. It is a little different.”
-Follow me on Twitter at @Ed_Hooper.
Monday, September 10, 2012
Ford, Roberson named GSC Players of the Week
Ford, a 6-foot-3 junior wide receiver, was named the conference's Offensive Player of the Week after hauling in three touchdowns on just five receptions for 152 yards in the Blazers' 62-14 win over Fort Valley State Saturday night at Bazemore-Hyder Stadium.
A 50-yard touchdown connection from quarterback Graham Craig to Ford highlighted the day for Ford, who averaged 30.4 yards per reception.
Roberson, a 6-foot wide receiver/returner from Colquitt County High School, collected his first GSC honor of the season by being named the Special Teams Player of the Week after averaging 32.3 yards per punt return in Saturday's win. Roberson's day was highlighted by a school-record 94-yard punt return with 9:27 remaining. Roberson's 129 punt return yards ranked 10th on the all-time GSC single game list.
West Georgia linebacker Bobby Liggins was named the GSC Defensive Player of the Week after recording 11 tackles in the Wolves' 38-29 win over Tusculum.
Follow me on Twitter at @Ed_Hooper.
Saturday, September 8, 2012
Fort Valley State postgame reactions
The Valdosta State football team ended its four-game losing streak,
dating back to the end of the 2011 season, with a commanding 62-14 win
over Fort Valley State Saturday night at Bazemore-Hyder Stadium.
VSU quarterback Graham Craig, who started the game in the abscense for injured starter Cayden Cochran, tossed five touchdown passes and ran for another to lead the Blazers to the win. Wide receiver Gerald Ford caught three touchdown passes and freshman Cedric O'Neal ran for 131 yards to lead the Blazers.
The Blazer defense forced five turnovers, all of which were interceptions. Matt Pierce led the way with two, giving him three on the season.
Valdosta State faces Angelo State next Saturday at Cowboys Stadium in Arlington, Texas.
The complete game story for Saturday can be found in Sunday's edition of The Valdosta Daily Times.
VSU quarterback Graham Craig, who started the game in the abscense for injured starter Cayden Cochran, tossed five touchdown passes and ran for another to lead the Blazers to the win. Wide receiver Gerald Ford caught three touchdown passes and freshman Cedric O'Neal ran for 131 yards to lead the Blazers.
The Blazer defense forced five turnovers, all of which were interceptions. Matt Pierce led the way with two, giving him three on the season.
Valdosta State faces Angelo State next Saturday at Cowboys Stadium in Arlington, Texas.
The complete game story for Saturday can be found in Sunday's edition of The Valdosta Daily Times.
Blazers looking for bounce back win, face Wildcats tonight
VALDOSTA — After
four-straight fourth quarter losses, the Valdosta State football team is
looking to get back on the winning track tonight when in-state foe Fort Valley
State visits Bazemore-Hyder Stadium for a 7 p.m. kickoff.
The Blazers, who last won Oct. 15, 2011 in a 22-21 win over West Alabama, are looking to avoid the school’s first five-game losing streak since 1984-85, when VSU dropped the final four games of the 1984 season and its season opener of the ’85 season, a 17-3 loss to Fort Valley State.
“We’ve had a good week of practice,” Valdosta State head coach David Dean said. “Anytime you play at home, it is exciting. The thing is, we haven’t done anything over at the stadium besides Meet the Blazers. That is a little concerning for me, we haven’t ran around at full-speed. So the first time we will do that is warm-ups. A lot of our guys have been there before, but some guys are doing it for the first time.
“I think they are excited about playing at home, they like sleeping in their own beds,” Dean continued. “I know this, (Fort Valley) is going to bring a good crowd and they are going to bring that band down here and they are going to play. Somehow or another, bands always seem to get kids motivated, so with having two very good bands there, I think you are going to see a lot of excitement in the stadium.”
While the Blazers are looking to rebound and get back on track, the Wildcats are already there, knocking off then-12th-ranked Delta State last weekend in Cleveland, Miss.
Tonight’s meeting will be the first between the Blazers and Wildcats since the 2008 season opener, which featured the Blazers hammering the Wildcats, 56-3.
Valdosta State currently owns an eight-game winning streak against Fort Valley State, winning by an average of 37 points per game. But this is a different Wildcat team coming to Bazemore-Hyder Stadium, one that is looking for a second-straight win over a ranked Gulf South Conference team, a rare accomplishment for teams that compete in the Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (SIAC).
“We knew they were going to be a good football team,” said Dean of the Wildcats. “The last couple of the years, they have kind of been in the hunt to make the playoffs. This year, I don’t think is going to be any different. They have a really good football club.”
In their 31-23 win over Delta State last week, the Wildcats scored 22-unanswered points and held the Statesmen to just five total yards of offense in the fourth quarter, the same quarter that has been the Achilles heel to the Blazers during their four-game losing streak.
“The big thing is, they are going to bring six-man pressure on every snap and play man-to-man coverage,” said Dean of FVSU’s defensive scheme. “It is just the matter of what six they are going to bring. They are going to put all 11 guys about five or six yards from the ball and stack the box. It is going to be very difficult to run.
“They are a feast or famine defense. They are going to make a lot of big plays against us, we know that. But what we have to be able to do it hit them with big plays. If we can crease the line, we can make big plays on them. They are big up front and are hard to move and they have good speed on the corner.”
Offensively, the Wildcats received a dominating performance from running back Seth Hill, who finished last week’s game with 144 yards on 17 carries with a pair of touchdowns. Despite the dominating week, Dean says he thinks the Wildcats will throw more this week because of the Blazers’ struggles in stopping the pass against Saginaw Valley State.
“I wouldn’t be surprised, with as much yardage as we gave up throwing the ball last week,” Dean said.
VSU allowed 378 yards passing to Cardinals’ quarterback Jonathan Jennings, along with four touchdowns passes, including the 24-yard game-winner with 1:01 remaining.
Fort Valley State’s quarterback is senior Antonio Henton, a fifth-year senior. Henton, who played for current Valdosta High head coach Rance Gillespie at Peach County High School, completed 19 of 42 passes for 234 yards with two touchdowns and two interceptions last week against the Statesmen. Henton is a former Division I quarterback, who enrolled at Ohio State his freshman year, where an arrest sent him to Georgia Southern then to Fort Valley State.
“Henton has a very strong arm and he has good receivers around him,” Dean said.
Sophomore Graham Craig will make his first career start at quarterback for the Blazers, filling in for injured junior Cayden Cochran. Craig played the entire second half of last week’s game against SVSU after Cochran left the game with a separated non-throwing shoulder. Craig completed 12 of 19 passes for 183 yards and a touchdown.
For Craig, nothing has change in his preparations for this week.
“It has been the same thing, just getting the game plan, watching a bunch of film and getting the reps on the field to prepare,” Craig said. “(Fort Valley) has some great athletes on defense. Their defense played real well (against Delta State). We are looking forward to playing against them.”
One of Craig’s top receivers will be junior Gerald Ford, who hauled in a team-high five catches for 69 yards last week. Ford is appearing in his first home game with the Blazers since 2010, and couldn’t be happier about it.
“It is just surreal,” Ford said. “I know it is going to be everything I expect and more. I am just glad to be back. I know it will be great and we will get a great turnout from the crowd.”
The Blazers, who last won Oct. 15, 2011 in a 22-21 win over West Alabama, are looking to avoid the school’s first five-game losing streak since 1984-85, when VSU dropped the final four games of the 1984 season and its season opener of the ’85 season, a 17-3 loss to Fort Valley State.
“We’ve had a good week of practice,” Valdosta State head coach David Dean said. “Anytime you play at home, it is exciting. The thing is, we haven’t done anything over at the stadium besides Meet the Blazers. That is a little concerning for me, we haven’t ran around at full-speed. So the first time we will do that is warm-ups. A lot of our guys have been there before, but some guys are doing it for the first time.
“I think they are excited about playing at home, they like sleeping in their own beds,” Dean continued. “I know this, (Fort Valley) is going to bring a good crowd and they are going to bring that band down here and they are going to play. Somehow or another, bands always seem to get kids motivated, so with having two very good bands there, I think you are going to see a lot of excitement in the stadium.”
While the Blazers are looking to rebound and get back on track, the Wildcats are already there, knocking off then-12th-ranked Delta State last weekend in Cleveland, Miss.
Tonight’s meeting will be the first between the Blazers and Wildcats since the 2008 season opener, which featured the Blazers hammering the Wildcats, 56-3.
Valdosta State currently owns an eight-game winning streak against Fort Valley State, winning by an average of 37 points per game. But this is a different Wildcat team coming to Bazemore-Hyder Stadium, one that is looking for a second-straight win over a ranked Gulf South Conference team, a rare accomplishment for teams that compete in the Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (SIAC).
“We knew they were going to be a good football team,” said Dean of the Wildcats. “The last couple of the years, they have kind of been in the hunt to make the playoffs. This year, I don’t think is going to be any different. They have a really good football club.”
In their 31-23 win over Delta State last week, the Wildcats scored 22-unanswered points and held the Statesmen to just five total yards of offense in the fourth quarter, the same quarter that has been the Achilles heel to the Blazers during their four-game losing streak.
“The big thing is, they are going to bring six-man pressure on every snap and play man-to-man coverage,” said Dean of FVSU’s defensive scheme. “It is just the matter of what six they are going to bring. They are going to put all 11 guys about five or six yards from the ball and stack the box. It is going to be very difficult to run.
“They are a feast or famine defense. They are going to make a lot of big plays against us, we know that. But what we have to be able to do it hit them with big plays. If we can crease the line, we can make big plays on them. They are big up front and are hard to move and they have good speed on the corner.”
Offensively, the Wildcats received a dominating performance from running back Seth Hill, who finished last week’s game with 144 yards on 17 carries with a pair of touchdowns. Despite the dominating week, Dean says he thinks the Wildcats will throw more this week because of the Blazers’ struggles in stopping the pass against Saginaw Valley State.
“I wouldn’t be surprised, with as much yardage as we gave up throwing the ball last week,” Dean said.
VSU allowed 378 yards passing to Cardinals’ quarterback Jonathan Jennings, along with four touchdowns passes, including the 24-yard game-winner with 1:01 remaining.
Fort Valley State’s quarterback is senior Antonio Henton, a fifth-year senior. Henton, who played for current Valdosta High head coach Rance Gillespie at Peach County High School, completed 19 of 42 passes for 234 yards with two touchdowns and two interceptions last week against the Statesmen. Henton is a former Division I quarterback, who enrolled at Ohio State his freshman year, where an arrest sent him to Georgia Southern then to Fort Valley State.
“Henton has a very strong arm and he has good receivers around him,” Dean said.
Sophomore Graham Craig will make his first career start at quarterback for the Blazers, filling in for injured junior Cayden Cochran. Craig played the entire second half of last week’s game against SVSU after Cochran left the game with a separated non-throwing shoulder. Craig completed 12 of 19 passes for 183 yards and a touchdown.
For Craig, nothing has change in his preparations for this week.
“It has been the same thing, just getting the game plan, watching a bunch of film and getting the reps on the field to prepare,” Craig said. “(Fort Valley) has some great athletes on defense. Their defense played real well (against Delta State). We are looking forward to playing against them.”
One of Craig’s top receivers will be junior Gerald Ford, who hauled in a team-high five catches for 69 yards last week. Ford is appearing in his first home game with the Blazers since 2010, and couldn’t be happier about it.
“It is just surreal,” Ford said. “I know it is going to be everything I expect and more. I am just glad to be back. I know it will be great and we will get a great turnout from the crowd.”
Thursday, September 6, 2012
GSC review and preview
Week 1 of the Division II college football season saw the Gulf South Conference, as a whole, struggle. Here is a team-by-team breakdown of last week's action and what is ahead this weekend. All times are eastern.First, the standings:
West Alabama 1-0, 0-0
West Georgia 1-0, 0-0
North Alabama 1-0, 0-0
Delta State 0-1, 0-0
Valdosta State 0-1, 0-0
**Shorter 1-0, 0-0 (not eligible for conference championship or playoffs)
Valdosta State (0-1)
The Blazers dropped their fourth consecutive game, dating back to the end of the 2011 season, with a 28-24 loss to Saginaw Valley State. The loss dropped the Blazers from eighth to 20th in the latest Division II rankings. Quarterback Cayden Cochran will miss this week's game with Fort Valley State with a separated shoulder. Sophomore Graham Craig will start in his absence after completing 12 of 19 passes in the second half of the season opening loss to SVSU. Wide receiver Griffin Roelle is expected to return after missing last week's game with a quad injury. Saturday's meeting between the Blazers and Wildcats will meet for the first time since 2008. Kickoff is set for 7 p.m.Delta State (0-1)
The Statesmen were outscored by Fort Valley State 22-0 in the fourth quarter to fall 31-23. Delta State was out-gained 353 to 306 in the game, but was held to just five yards of offense in the fourth quarter. Trevor Wooden made his first start at quarterback for the Statesmen. He completed 13 of 25 passes and tossed two touchdowns and one interception in the loss. Delta State visits Elizabeth City State this weekend. Kickoff is set for 1 p.m.North Alabama (1-0)
The Lions withstood a massive scare from Miles College Sunday night. After scoring a potential game-winning touchdown with less than two minutes to play, the Lions allowed a Miles touchdown with less than a minute to play, which brought Miles within one-point (31-30). Instead of kicking the tying extra point, Miles went for a two-point conversion and was unsuccessful, giving UNA the week 1 victory. North Alabama rushed for 266 yards on 52 rushes in the win. The Lions host Harding this weekend. Kickoff is set for 7 p.m.West Alabama (1-0)
After a sluggish offensive start, the Tigers pounded Clark Atlanta 44-0 in the season opener last week in Atlanta. Matt Willis rushed for 163 yards with a pair of touchdowns to earn the GSC Offensive Player of the Week honors to lead the Lions, who moved up to the 13th ranking in the latest AFCA Poll. The Tigers face a tough test against Division I-FCS Samford this weekend. Kickoff is set for 7 p.m.West Georgia (1-0)
The Wolves pounded Point University 55-3 Saturday. Led by Seth Hinsley's 111 yards on the ground, Austin Trainor's 151 yards through the air and 590 yards of offense, the Wolves improved to 1-0 on the young season. Defensively, West Georgia allowed just 190 yards of total offense. West Georgia hosts Tusculum this weekend in Carrolton. Kickoff is set for 3 p.m.**Shorter (1-0)
Shorter defeated Division I-FCS Campbell University last Thursday. The Hawks racked up 454 yards on the ground, led by Bradley Moon's 102 yards and two touchdowns. Quarterback Eric Dobson completed 9 of 17 passes for 191 yards and a touchdown. The Hawks visit the Newberry Wolves Saturday. Kickoff is set for 6:30 p.m.
Tuesday, September 4, 2012
Cochran to miss Saturday's home opener
VALDOSTA — When the Valdosta State Blazers take the field Saturday night in their home opener against Fort Valley State, they will be looking to end a four-game losing streak, VSU’s first since the end of the 1990 season. They’ll also be without some key weapons. Quarterback Cayden Cochran and senior linebacker Chas Matthews will both miss Saturday’s game due to separated shoulders, according to Dean. “Cayden and Chas will both be out this week,” he said. “They will not be able to play. I think Cayden is getting better, but he is not going to be ready. Hopefully, we are going to get him back for the Angelo State game.” Matthews and Cochran are the only players expected to miss Saturday’s game due to injury, other than cornerback Greg Reid, who will miss the entire season. Cornerback Alex Webster and linebacker Trokon Gaye will also miss Saturday’s game as both continue to serve two-game suspensions. Sophomore Graham Craig will start in the absence of Cochran. Craig played the entire second half in Saturday’s loss to Saginaw Valley State, after it was determined that Cochran was unable to play. Craig completed 12 of 19 passes for 183 yards and a touchdown. “We have three or four really good quarterbacks,” Dean said. “I felt really good about Graham going into the ball game. As you can see, we didn’t change our game plan. He does the things that Cayden does very well, it’s just one is a lefty and one is a righty. I feel comfortable with (Graham) this week. He had a good day. He is a smart kid, he understands what we are trying to do and he understands our system. I mean, you’d like to have your starter, but if you don’t have your starter, he is a good one to have.”
Cochran suffered his separated shoulder when diving into the end zone on a quarterback keeper, the Blazers' first score of the season. He attempted to play with the injury, but later fumbled and was pulled from the game. He completed 8 of 16 passes before being pulled.
Cochran, and Matthews, was seen in a sling at Tuesday's practice.
The Blazers will receive the addition of wide receiver Griffin Roelle back into the lineup, pending no major setbacks this week at practice. Roelle missed the season opener with a quad injury.
Monday, September 3, 2012
Blazers fall in poll
Following their 28-24 loss to Saginaw Valley State on Saturday, the Valdosta State Blazers dropped 12 spots in the latest Division II American Football Coaches' Association Poll. The Blazers dropped from eighth to 20th in the latest poll, released Monday.
Fellow Gulf South Conference schools West Alabama and Delta State are both ranked. West Alabama climbed two spots to 13th following a season opening win at Clark Atlanta. Delta State dropped eight spots to No. 22 following a loss to Fort Valley State.
Valdosta State faces Fort Valley State Saturday at 7:30 p.m.
The complete poll can be found here: http://www.afca.com/article/article.php?id=2237
Fellow Gulf South Conference schools West Alabama and Delta State are both ranked. West Alabama climbed two spots to 13th following a season opening win at Clark Atlanta. Delta State dropped eight spots to No. 22 following a loss to Fort Valley State.
Valdosta State faces Fort Valley State Saturday at 7:30 p.m.
The complete poll can be found here: http://www.afca.com/article/article.php?id=2237
Sunday, September 2, 2012
Blazers fall to Saginaw Valley in season opener
UNIVERSITY CENTER, Mich. — It happened again.
 |
| Austin Scott shakes a tackler. (Bubba Thomas | Special) |
After three-straight final-minute losses to closeout the
2011 season, the Valdosta State football team lost another heartbreaker
Saturday to open their 2012 season.
The Blazers allowed a game-winning 27-yard touchdown pass
from Saginaw Valley State quarterback Jonathon Jennings to Michael Albrecht
with 1:01 remaining to fall to the Cardinals, 28-24.
The loss is the fourth straight for Valdosta State, dating
back to the end of last season. All four game-winning touchdowns scored by the
opposing teams came with a combined 2 minutes and 43 seconds remaining in the
fourth quarter. Saturday’s 1:01 was the largest margin of time remaining in a
game.
Saturday, September 1, 2012
Blazers open season against Saginaw Valley today
SAGINAW VALLEY, Mich. —
Valdosta State football officially returns today when the eighth-ranked
Blazers visit the unranked Saginaw Valley State Cardinals at Randall
Harvey Wickes Stadium.The meeting will be the first-ever meeting between the two schools in a rare non-region contest at the Division II level.
“I think our guys are ready to get on the plane and get up there,” Valdosta State head coach David Dean said following Thursday’s practice.
Tonight’s game is important for both teams. The Blazers are favorites to win the Gulf South Conference and make a deep run in the playoffs this season, while Saginaw Valley is looking to return to the playoffs behind an experienced team.
Both the Blazers and Cardinals return 16 starters this season, although both will be without players tonight.
Valdosta State will be without transfer cornerback Greg Reid, who tore his ACL in a scrimmage last Friday, and fellow senior cornerback Alex Webster, who is suspended for the first two games of the season. Wide Receiver Griffin Roelle will miss the game due to a nagging quadricep injury.
Saginaw Valley will be without five players, who were suspended after a hazing incident during training camp. Four of the five players forced to sit out tonight’s game were starters, including three from the offensive line and one from the defensive line. All five players could face charges from the Saginaw Valley Prosecutor's Office.
“I’m sure their guys behind them are just as good,” Dean said of the suspensions. “For us, we’ve played that game before. We’ve had guys that we didn’t know if they were going to play or not and that ended up suiting up on the field. So we are preparing like they are going to be out on the field. It has not changed our preparation at all.”
After three-straight final-minute losses to end the 2011 season with a 6-4 record, Valdosta State players know tonight’s game with the Cardinals is the first step in moving on and towards this season’s goal of winning the national championship.
“We know what we are capable of doing,” junior wide receiver Quin Roberson said. “Everyone is really in tune with what happened last year. Nobody wants what happened last year to happen this year. You can go 4-0, you can win the first four games, but look what happened to us — you can lose the last three and not go to the playoffs.
“Our goal is to win a national championship,” Roberson continued. “We feel like we have the team to do it, so that is our focus right now.”
The Blazers are 4-1 in season openers under Dean. Their only loss was a 31-24 defeat to Newberry in 2009. Since the loss, VSU has back-to-back wins over Wingate in the two previous season openers, including a 34-28 double overtime win last season.
This will be the longest distance trip for the Blazers in a season opener under Dean.
“At least we are going (to Michigan) the day before the game,” said Dean of the travel. “The good news about our trip is at least we are flying. Last year, we opened in Wingate. It was a seven-hour bus ride. This year, it is a two-hour flight. So it is a longer distance trip, but it is a shorter trip for our players.”
Saginaw Valley has a lot of speed at key positions. That speed starts with duel-threat junior quarterback Jon Jennings, who tossed for 2,614 yards with 26 touchdowns and just seven interceptions last season. He also added 389 yards and seven scores on the ground for the Cardinals.
Jennings' favorite go-to wide receiver is fellow junior Jeff Janis. In 2011, Janis led the Cardinals in catches (46), receiving yards (902) and touchdowns (13). Jennings and Janis clearly found a rhythm with one another.
“I’m just ready to get out there and compete,” said senior cornerback Matt Pierce. “You prepare all preseason long for this. I’m glad it is finally here. (Saginaw Valley) is real disciplined. They do a lot of things good. With that, we have to make sure we are even more focused to play them. They are a tough opponent with what they do offensively. We have to make sure we are ready to play.”
Tim Hogue, who is listed as a wide receiver, is the Cardinals' leading returning rusher. Hogue rushed for a team-high 637 yards on 99 rushes in 2011. He scored twice.
One plus for the Blazer defense is the loss of the three suspended offensive lineman for the Cardinals. It will be up to the stout defensive line of VSU to get into the Cardinal backfield and disrupt Jennings.
“You always have to keep (Jennings) under control,” Dean said. “So, we are going to have a guy, that if he does his job, that has his eyes on (Jennings) the whole time, in case he pulls that thing. We can’t afford to let him pull that thing down and get loose. He is a good runner when he has the ball in his hands.”
If Jennings is able to get the ball out of his hand, he still faces the daunting task of passing over the VSU secondary, which features preseason All-American Pierce and safeties Chris Caspari and Lance Holder, along with fellow corner Dominique Wheeler.
Last season, the Blazers allowed just 214 yards passing per game.
Defensively, linebacker Grant Caserta returns to the lead Saginaw Valley after racking up a team-high 73 tackles, including 5 1/2 for loss, in 2011. As a unit, the Cardinals allowed 359.4 yards per game, 185.7 through the air.
For Valdosta State, there is little questions about what to expect, especially offensively. The Blazers have more depth than in recent seasons. Junior Cayden Cochran returns for his first full season as the starting quarterback after starting the final four games last season.
Cochran will have a bevy of receivers to throw the ball to this season. Last seasons touchdown receptions leader Seantavious Jones is back, along with Roberson and Gerald Ford, who led the Blazers in receiving in 2009 and 2010. Reggie Lewis will also be a go-to target this week, while Roelle, who led the team in catches last season, misses this week’s game.
Five seniors return on the offensive line as the offense looks to build on the improvement made in 2011, when the Blazers averaged 391.5 yards per game.
Tonight's game will mark just the second season the Cardinals are able to play night games at home, following a stadium renovation in the summer of 2011. Saginaw Valley State fans are encouraged to wear red tonight for a "Red Out" game.
Blazer fans unable to attend the game can listen to the broadcast on Talk 92.1 FM or www.talk921.com. Game day coverage begins at 4:30 p.m.
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