SSU Football News

Savannah State coach sees progress in team after two-win season

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By JONATHAN LANDRUM Jr.

Associated Press Writer

Despite another dismal season, Savannah State's coach sees signs of progress.

The Tigers have been one of the worst teams in college football, winning five games in five seasons since moving from Division II to the Division I Championship Subdivision. Last year, spring practices were canceled as the program was placed on NCAA probation for three years, so it was no surprise when Savannah State went 2-9.

But second-year coach Theo Lemon believes his team played well under the circumstances.

``When you look at the record, you say it didn't work all that well together,'' he said. ``When I look at the overall picture, I see young men who worked hard and gained experience.''

The Tigers are expecting the return 43 players who were mostly sophomores and freshmen last year. During the offseason, between 30-35 players stayed in Savannah for summer workouts.

``We're bigger, stronger and faster,'' Lemon said. ``We can do better. But the biggest way to change is to win.''

It will be an uphill battle for the Tigers offensively, considering they averaged just under 10 points a game last season. The defense didn't do too much better by surrendering 34.5 points a contest.

Lemon said the offense needs to finds an identity to keep the defense off the field.

Receiver Mark Williams could be the solution. He was named the team's most valuable player, leading the Tigers with 42 catches for 522 yards and four touchdowns as a freshman.

``He made great catches for us,'' Lemon said. ``He doesn't have breakaway speed, but he knows how to get open. He brings stability to our offense, being the most effective.''

JaCorey Kilcrease will take over at quarterback after last year's starter, Garrett Williams, transferred to Fort Valley State. Kilcrease saw limited action, attempting only nine passes.

Quinton Beasley and Antonie Edwards will share time in the backfield. Beasley rushed for 186 yards, while Edwards sat out last year.

On defense, the Tigers are led by lineman Dominique Clark. He had 34 tackles, seven for losses and three sacks.

Clark, who has gone through plenty of turbulent times at Savannah State, said the team is determined to prove its doubters wrong.

``We've pushed ourselves to the limit during the offseason, which wasn't the case previously,'' he said. ``With that, expect big things from Savannah State.''