Sports

GSU vs. ASU SWAC title game preview

Grambling State University is aiming for its first SWAC title since 2011 as they take on the Alcorn State University Braves in a highly anticipated rematch for the conference championship Saturday.

The Tigers continued to roll through conference opponents as they extended their conference-winning streak to nine games with a 34-23 win over Southern University in the 42nd Annual Bayou Classic in New Orleans. The last time the Tigers went undefeated in the conference was 2008.  The winner of the SWAC championship will take on North Carolina A&T State University in the Celebration Bowl on Dec. 19 in Atlanta.

The last time the two teams met, GSU defeated ASU on Oct. 17 at the Braves' homecoming with a last second blocked extra point, 35-34. It was a dramatic ending to a good matchup.

GSU defense will be challenged by ASU's leading rushers Darryan Ragsdale, a running back, and Lenorris Footman, the team's quarterback. ASU averages a total of 299 yards per game.

Grambling gives up 126 yards per game and has held four opponents to under 100 yards rushing in a single game this season.

GSU offense will likely start fast, or Alcorn State might control time of possession. Alcorn was successful in their last matchup with Grambling State with a total of 39 minutes compared to Grambling's 20. The Tigers must take care of the ball and eliminate turnovers just as well as they did against Southern in the Bayou Classic.

Kick off is set for 3 p.m. at NRG Stadium in Houston, Texas, on Dec. 5. The game will air on ESPNU.