Who dat think their beating them tigers, who dat who dat?’ Well as of last season, there was no one in the SWAC. After a devastating loss to Washington State during the season’s opener, the Tigers went on to defeat their remaining opponents in proper fashion, including a convincing championship victory over Alabama A&M 45-6.
When asked, what role does being defending champs play in the team’s confidence going into a new season, senior running back Ab Kuuan said, “It’s motivation to play harder, because we are the team everyone wants to knock off. We have to move on now.”
After countless hours of workouts and practices, after all the sweat, blood, and tears, the Tigers are ready to defend their title.
The running game has become more of a factor in the Tigers’ offense than in recent seasons. “Running backs are responsible for knowing checks that may help quarterbacks chose an audible, and our runs are what establish the pass, so we are indeed a factor,” said sophomore RB Mike Rainey. Returning to the backfield for the Tigers is senior full back Ruben Mayes who has fully recovered from knee surgery last December. He expects to contribute to the high-powered offense.
However, another key return for the Tigers is at the cornerback position with Greg Fassitt coming off a groin injury that enabled him to practice this spring. The senior corner back said, “This is the best secondary unit and the best coaching staff we’ve had since I’ve been here.”
Although the Tigers are known for their “big play” aerial attack, fans should expect to be entertained by both the defense and the special teams.
The team as a whole looks great and plans to live up to all expectations. When questioned about a particular strength of the team the defensive back Coach Lewis stated, “The strength is the team, but of course there are players that stand out.” Key players: Dimitri Carr LB, Ab Kuuan RB, Greg Fassitt CB, Melvin Matthews DL, Brandon Landers QB, Mayes Ruben FB, Zaire Wilborn DB, Henry Tolbert WR, and DeMichael Dizer CB.
Anticipated games are the State Fair Classic on Sept. 30, Homecoming on Nov. 4 and, of course, the Bayou Classic on Nov. 25. There are only three home games this year including “Homecoming”, so get out and support the G-men with pride.