The Grambling State Tigers (7-1 overall, 7-0 in SWAC) travel to Montgomery, Ala., to face the Alabama State Hornets (4-4, 3-4) this weekend. Grambling defeated Texas Southern 57-9 last weekend, while Alabama State lost 13-9 to Alabama A&M in the Magic City Classic.
Grambling’s Clyde Edwards had his second consecutive 100 yard game last week. He had five receptions for 102 yards and three touchdowns.
Brandon Landers had his most complete game as a starting quarterback for Grambling. Landers completed 68 percent of his passes, threw five touchdowns, and had 147.6 quarterback rating.
Frank Warren rushed for 149 yards and a score. Warren is on track to become Grambling’s first running back since Brad Hill in 2001 to have a 1,000 yard season. With all that said, Grambling had all this success against a team that hasn’t won a game at all this season.
Alabama State allowed 406 total yards in their loss to Alabama A&M last week. The Hornets have the leagues 8th ranked defense, giving up 334 yards a game. ASU also ranks 8th in the SWAC against the run.
Richard Johnson leads the team in tackles and ranks 2nd in the conference overall with 73 on the season. Grambling needs to pound the rock and expose ASU’s weakness in defending the run.
Grambling’s defense was very impressive last week. Texas Southern did not have a drive of more than 30 yards until late into the second quarter, in which the drive ended with an interception.
Jeffrey Jack had his second consecutive strong performance as he led Grambling with six tackles and a forced fumble.
On the season, Grambling’s defense ranks 3rd in total defense. Alabama State only had 191 total yards against AAMU last weekend.
Jay Peck ranks second in the SWAC in rushing yards per game as he is averaging 97.1 yards per game. Chris Mitchell was sacked three times and only threw for 98 yards.
This weekend ASU may utilize two quarterbacks, as no quarterback on the roster has really shown why they should be the Hornets starting quarterback.
This game has major implications into Grambling’s post season plans. If the Tigers win, they will clinch a spot in the SWAC Championship game. If GSU looses, they will have to beat Southern in the Bayou Classic to play in Birmingham.
With next week’s game looming against ULM, Grambling can’t afford to look ahead. ASU’s weakness is Grambling’s strength. This should provide Rod Broadway and his staff their first chance at a SWAC Title.
Prediction
Grambling 37
Alabama State 7