Jackson State University aiming to knock off FBS squad in opener

Jackson State University (JSU) football is gearing up for a major challenge as it prepares to face off against an FBS opponent in Louisiana-Monroe (ULM) on Thursday night. Jackson State Head Coach T.C. Taylor emphasized key strategies during the SWAC Football Coaches media session that could pave the way for an upset victory.

Taylor highlighted the importance of controlling the line of scrimmage on both sides of the ball.

“The game is going to be decided in the trenches,” Taylor said.

JSU’s defensive line, led by seasoned players like Jeremiah Williams and Florida State transfer Tru Thompson must disrupt the Louisiana-Monroe offense by pressuring their quarterback and maintaining physicality throughout the game. Jackson State’s ability to control the line of scrimmage will be crucial in trying to keep ULM’s offense in check.

On the offensive side, Taylor stressed the need to control the clock using his offensive line and a deep running back room.

“That group right there with Ahmad Miller, Irv Mulligan, you got JD Martin and Travis Terrell — just some guys that can move the ball and grind up some clock,” Taylor said. “And that’s what you gotta you gotta try to have the mindset of trying to control the football game. Don’t let it get out of hand and get it to the fourth quarter. If we can get to the fourth quarter once we get there we’ll see, you know, where the chips fall.

Jackson State University football is coming off a 7-4 season in 2023 in Taylor’s first season as head coach. Before that, he was part of the staff that nearly knocked off the FBS squad under Deion Sanders back in 2021 in a 12-7 loss, as were a few of the players who will follow him on to the field on Tuesday. He says that game laid a blueprint for how his team can compete and possibly pull off the upset.

“Guys know that we had the opportunity to win (in 2021) and that’s how they’re looking at this game going into Thursday night,” Taylor said. “You know if we go down there and play good football don’t turn the football over, and create some turnovers as a defense. We got a great chance to go win this football game.”

Key Points:

• Control the line of scrimmage on both offense and defense.
• Establish a strong ground game to control the clock.
• Minimize turnovers and make quick in-game adjustments.

Kickoff for this HBCU vs FBS matchup is set for 8 PM EST/7 PM CST.

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