UAPB Notes


Blacknbengal

Blacknbengal

Well-Known Member
VETERANS WELCOME IN NEWCOMERS

By Nate Olson/OF THE COMMERCIAL STAFF

The atmosphere at the K.L. Johnson Sr. HPER Complex on the campus of Arkansas-Pine Bluff was one similar to a family reunion full of long-lost relatives Wednesday afternoon.

A whopping twenty-four football recruits were formally introduced to all of their football brethren while the players underwent physicals and later attended team meetings that evening on the eve of the team's first practice.

"We need name tags or something," said junior cornerback Delvin Knight, who transferred in from Santa Rosa (Calif.) Junior College. "It's been interesting coming from the big city and see how guys from the smaller towns lead a different lifestyle with the southern background. It has been real interesting for me to see how everyone lives and to meet everybody. You are always meeting someone new. It's been a good experience."

This is one of the biggest classes UAPB Coach Lee Hardman has had in his 11 years at UAPB. Twelve players in the group are junior college transfers and many, including true freshmen, are expected to see some playing time this year.

"It's an exciting time, the only uncertainty is you know you have some holes to fill, but you don't know who is going to step up and fill them," Hardman said. "It's a great time because we have the kids coming in. We are looking forward to getting on the field tomorrow."

Those players have had little time to get to know each other and the veteran players before taking to the practice field tomorrow at 7:30 a.m. for the first practice of the season.

"We have to keep up with (the newcomers) and show them how everything goes," said senior tight end Brian Jones, who transferred to UAPB last season from Louisiana-Lafayette. "The coaches are going to have to play a big role, but the veterans are going to have to help out, too."

There will be new faces on the coaching staff as well. Former NFL receiver Willie Davis, who was on hand Wednesday afternoon, will replace Chris Robinson as the wide receiver coach. Also Hardman must find a replacement for Roger Totten, who resigned last week to take a job at Mississippi Valley State.

Jackie Harris was on the staff last year, but he will now be a full-time assistant working with the tight ends.

"It's going to be different because we have a couple of new coaches so everyone is going to be starting even," Hardman said. "Whoever steps up is going to play. We are going to have a lot of competition. That is going to be good for depth.

"The fellas are going to realize they are going to have come out and play. You can't just line up and say, 'I am going to play because I played last year. These junior college players and some of the freshmen coming in want to play. If that's the case that means there is going to be some good competition and everyone is going to get better."

Hardman said today's practice will give him a good idea of what newcomers will be able to contribute this season and hopefully help the Golden Lions rebound from two straight losing seasons.

"I'm going to be very excited," Hardman said. "That's what I have been waiting for since we signed these guys -- getting them on the field and seeing what they can do. It won't take long to see what they can do. You can watch them run and see if they are a football player or not. It's not going to take long to see if what we envisioned is going to come true."
 
LIONS BEGIN TWO-A-DAYS

LIONS BEGIN TWO-A-DAYS

By Nate Olson/OF THE COMMERCIAL STAFF

After four days of just one practice per day, Arkansas-Pine Bluff players could be in for a tough day today.

The Golden Lions will have its first day of two-a-day workouts, and will be in full pads for the first time as well.

Under NCAA rules changes, teams ARE not allowed to have separate workouts with newcomers and also are required to have five days featuring a single, three-hour workout before starting two-a-days.

Also, the rule requires teams follow a two-a-day workout with a single session.

The rule was instituted to combat heat-related injuries.

"I think the four days has helped us," Hardman said. "It has given us a little of time to get in shape and get their wind a little bit. I think that will be good for us. I think that is a positive thing from the NCAA."

Hardman has not been pleased with his players' conditioning and said he is a bit concerned on how his players will deal with two workouts in full pads in the summer heat.

"They have improved, but I don't think they are where they need to be," Hardman said. "I still think we need to pick it up a little more. We have to be in shape. Going one a day, and we are dragging like this concerns me. When we are going two a days can we make it?

"That's a concern. I want to make sure that they are ready to go. It could be a tough day for some of them," Hardman said. "For some of these guys it is hitting for some that haven't been hitting. It could be kind of tough a little bit, but I think they are about ready for it."

The rotation between two-a-days and one-a-days should help make the transition easier.

"I think it will help some," Hardman said. "You work them and rest them and work them and rest them."

Hardman is happy with how his new players are adjusting to the new system and the schemes and plays that come with it.

"I think they are picking it up pretty good," Hardman said. "I think they are picking it up pretty good. We have a lot of new guys and are putting a lot of stuff in. We are putting a lot in early, especially for those guys coming in from JUCO.

"The system we have, once you get the understanding of the basics of it then it will be real easy."

As those 12 junior college players and some of the freshmen get more and more comfortable some position battles should start to get more and more interesting.

Wide receiver, offensive line and the defensive backfield could be positions that will have intense competition for playing time between veterans and newcomers.

"I think it is picking up already, but it will be even heating up even more because they have to start making a decision if they are going to play or not," Hardman said. "It's going to be interesting."

Hardman said so far, injuries have not been a problem. Junior college Terrell Smith set out most of practice Monday due to a stinger in his shoulder. Sophomore defensive end Patrick Okoye will be out most of preseason practice with a separated shoulder he suffered last week.

"We have had some nicks and stuff like that, but you are going to have that at this time of the year," Hardman said. "We have to learn to get through it."
 



LIONS WINDING THINGS DOWN

LIONS WINDING THINGS DOWN

By Nate Olson/OF THE COMMERCIAL STAFF

With its season opener just a little over a week away, Arkansas-Pine Bluff is trying to cover all of its bases.

The last few days have been spent going over different game situations. The Golden Lion offense has worked on executing on third down, as well as working against the clock in the two-minute drill and reading the blitz.

"I didn't think we picked up the blitz as well as we should have today (in the two-minute drill)," UAPB Coach Lee Hardman said. "We did fair, but we didn't do as well as we should have.

"That's a concern because teams are going to try to blitz. They can't blitz like we were today because they can't afford to give up the big play, but we do need to protect better than we did."

During the two practices on Thursday, the UAPB offense also worked extensively on converting on third down.

"We worked on third down -- short, to medium to long," he said. "That is very important. We have to convert on third down to keep drives going and score touchdowns. We have to be able to make the first-and-10. We've been working on it all week, and we have gotten better."

There has been a lot of passing being done in UAPB's team drills that pit the offense against the defense this week, and for the entire camp, but Hardman said he is not planning to abandon the running game but is trying to stave off injury instead.

"We are still going to run the football," Hardman said. "We don't run as much when we go in team because we want to bring the running back down. They won't just touch him and let him go. They want to tackle him, so we don't run it a whole lot. We don't want to take a chance on getting someone injured right now.

"It is beneficial in some ways, though, because to win you have to be able to defend the pass and throw the football. We are working on that a lot because we aren't running as much in practice."

Thursday marked the next-to-last day of two-a-day practices. The players got a break in the evening practice because it was cut short by 45 minutes due to lightning in the area. Hardman directed the players to move to the locker room, and after a short wait decided to conclude the workout.

UAPB will work today in one practice from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. before wrapping up its preseason practices with two workouts on Saturday.

Monday UAPB will begin game-week preparation for next Saturday's contest with Alcorn State in Pine Bluff.

Because of injuries and lack of depth, UAPB will not have a major scrimmage this year. Typically, the Golden Lions scrimmage two weeks before the game, and then again a week before the game.

However, that won't be the case this year.

"I don't intend on having a big scrimmage," Hardman said. "I just don't want to take a chance on injuries right now. We are a little thin, and we don't want to take a chance. We might do 15 or 20 plays and situations but not a big scrimmage. I have done this before in the summer of '97 and '98. In '98 we didn't scrimmage 30 minutes the whole summer. It just depends on our injuries and depth."

UAPB is still trying to recover from some of the bumps and bruises that have occurred the last two weeks, but Hardman said it appears that most everyone will be available for the first game.

Virginia Tech transfer Ron Moody is under a doctor's supervision because of a problem with his chest cavity, but Hardman said he should be cleared soon.

Senior cornerback Keith Scott continues to nurse a strained knee.
 
Re: LIONS WINDING THINGS DOWN

Originally posted by Blacknbengal
"We are still going to run the football," Hardman said. "We don't run as much when we go in team because we want to bring the running back down. They won't just touch him and let him go. They want to tackle him, so we don't run it a whole lot. We don't want to take a chance on getting someone injured right now.
Click to expand...

Did he just say that they dont run the football at practice, because the players want to tackle the running back? :confused:
 
They run it in practice, and the defense do hit whoever has the ball. It just crack me up when I hear coach say "hold up! , hold up!" when he is yelling at the defense not to hit the running backs.:lmao:
 
Hardaman is trying to prevent injuries. That's what coaches do in controlled scrimmages. Nothing odd.
 
true robber...but I know the more hits you take the less hits that faze you. He's a running back for cryin out loud not a QB. If the rb cant take a hit then he's at the wrong damn position. Better go out there and punt. Somethin tells me I shouldnt even waste my money on a game this season:(.
 
LIONS READY FOR FINAL WORKOUTS

LIONS READY FOR FINAL WORKOUTS

By NATE OLSON/OF THE COMMERCIAL STAFF

The Arkansas-Pine Bluff football squad wrapped up its scheduled three-hour practice a bit early Friday afternoon and will finish up its preseason workouts with two practices today.

UAPB will play host to Alcorn State next Saturday night in the Arkansas Classic at Golden Lion Stadium.

"It feels good knowing we have worked hard these two weeks, and now it is pretty exciting because we can start taking care of business," said sophomore starting defensive end Pat Okoye. "I think we are ready for Alcorn State. If we just meditate on things, then I think things will be all right."

UAPB Coach Lee Hardman was satisfied after the Golden Lions lone workout late Friday afternoon. Hardman released his players about 45 minutes early. The players were also given the day off from running sprints as well.

It was the second consecutive day the Golden Lions got a break. Thursday night's practice was cut short because of lightning.

"I thought the workout was good today," Hardman said. "We had some players dragging around because of the heat, but the attitude was good. We got a lot done today.

"I think the attitude is good because the kids know it (the season opener) is close. They know we have to be ready."

Like they have been all week, the Golden Lion coaching staff has been fine-tuning the different facets of the game before going into game-week mode on Monday.

"We just did some polishing," Hardman said. "We did some polishing on our pass protection and on our running game and stuff like that -- just polishing up."

Both starting quarterback Antonio Lovelady and backup John Pierce have been nursing sore shoulders from throwing too much, so passing was at a premium Friday afternoon.

"We didn't pass a whole lot because both of their arms were sore," Hardman said. "We didn't throw much, but we still had a good practice."

Hardman wrapped up practice early without conditioning because the practice field on the north side of the armory is hard due to a lack of rain.

The condition of the field has led to several players having to miss practice time with sore ankles and knees.

UAPB has to use that field on occasion because the women's soccer team, who is making its debut this year, was practicing on the field on the other side of the armory.

In an effort to soften up the auxiliary field the Pine Bluff fire department was watering it down.

"We cut it short not so much because of the heat but because the field is so hard," Hardman said. "It doesn't give, and it give the fellas shin splints and hurts their knees and stuff like that."

Junior defensive tackle Jan Yates returned to practice Friday after missing a little over a week after falling ill from the heat.

Senior cornerback Keith Scott (knee) did not practice Friday but will be back on Monday according to Hardman. Also, Virginia Tech transfer receiver Ron Moody (chest) is expected to be back by late next Wednesday and his status for the opener is still up in the air.

UAPB will practice at Golden Lion Stadium today at 7:30 a.m. and 3:30 p.m.
 
HARDMAN NOT WORRIED ABOUT YOUNG SPECIAL TEAMERS

HARDMAN NOT WORRIED ABOUT YOUNG SPECIAL TEAMERS

By Nate Olson/OF THE COMMERCIAL STAFF

When Arkansas-Pine Bluff takes to the field against Alcorn State in the season opener Saturday night they will be doing so with a kicker, punter and deep-snapper who are all true freshmen.

However, UAPB Coach Lee Hardman is not worried. Hardman said special teams work has been an emphasis all week, and he is satisfied his young specialists are up to the task.

"You are definitely concerned because you have all new players there," Hardman said. "Those guys haven't been in the heat yet. You don't really know what they are going to do. You are concerned, but they are kicking the ball well and snapping it good in practice, so that makes you feel good."

Michael Sellers, a Birmingham, Ala., native, will handle the place-kicking duties. Sophomore Joe Webb was the number one kicker this spring, but an injured leg muscle has made it impossible to kick without pain. Webb will rest the leg and possibly return to battle for the job.

Hardman said Sellers, who was injured coming into summer drills, has kicked the ball well in the last week and is fully recovered.

Sellers' kicks were low Wednesday night after practice, but most were going through the uprights from around 30 yards, or slightly farther out.

"He can kick it," Hardman said. "We saw on film he could do it, and we are seeing that now."

Sellers was a three-year starter at Birmingham Minor High School and was a preseason all-state pick last year. He garnered recruiting attention from many NCAA Division I schools, but after missing a few big kicks early last year most of those schools backed off.

Andrew Bergeron, a New Orleans native, has beaten out sophomore John Lajb for the starting punting duties. Bergeron moved into that role this week according to Hardman.

Lajb was listed as the number one punter during spring.

"(Bergeron) can get it off fast, and that is what you want," Hardman said. "He looks really good in practice."

Snapping to Bergeron and Sellers will be former Helena-West Helena Central quarterback Michael Hawkins.

Hawkins is a defensive back at UAPB, but will also handle the deep-snapping responsibilities because freshman Prince Whitmore, who was penciled in as the number one snapper, was ruled academically ineligible this week.

"I think (Hawkins) will do good job," Hardman said. "He has shown in practice he can do it. He just has to do it in a game."

Hardman said that despite having new personnel his approach to special teams will not change. Hardman said he will not hesitate to kick a field goal or punt if that is what he feels his team needs. He will not take the conservative approach to shield his young players because he has confidence in them.

"It won't change how I look at it at all," Hardman said. "Both of those guys can do it in a game. Sellers can really kick it. He is a big-time kicker and was a big-time soccer player.

"He doesn't think about what he is doing. He says, 'Coach, just move it back,' in practice. He just wants to go out there and kick the football. I don't think he thinks or cares about (the pressure). He wants to kick the football."

Hardman also said the special teams coverage and protection is looking better than last year. UAPB had four punts blocked last year and gave up a big play on a fake punt as well.

UAPB concluded its 2-hour workout Wednesday night working on special teams play.

Hardman said he wasn't totally pleased with practice.

"I don't think we were intense as we (should be)," Hardman said. "Maybe because it was hotter today. We need to get more intense."

Hardman added a new quarterback to the mix Wednesday. Sophomore Joe Creal became the number three QB.

Creal had been serving as a trainer after playing tight end for the Golden Lions in a reserve role last year.

The Long View, Texas, native was activated because former Pine Bluff High School star Omar Blunt was declared academically ineligible late last week.

That left just three quarterbacks, including true freshman David Wallace.

Hardman said Creal will be the number three quarterback and Wallace will probably redshirt.

UAPB will practice hard today before gearing down Friday in preparation for Saturday's game.
 
JONES MAKES RETURN TO PINE BLUFF

JONES MAKES RETURN TO PINE BLUFF

By Nate Olson/OF THE COMMERCIAL STAFF

Tomorrow night will be an especially emotional night for Alcorn State defensive coordinator La'Traia Jones, as he takes the field to face Arkansas-Pine Bluff in the Arkansas Classic at Golden Lion Stadium.

"It is going to be a very emotional game for me," said Jones, a former UAPB assistant coach. "It's always emotional come back and coach against UAPB. It is going to feel good to be back coaching in college again. It will be emotional."

Jones served as defensive coordinator for UAPB Coach Lee Hardman from 1993 to 1998.

Both men are close friends, so meeting as opponents as they have for three of the last four years is tough.

At the same time, Jones will be relieved to be on the field in the college coaching ranks again.

After his stint at UAPB, Jones took the head coaching job at Mississippi Valley State in 1999. Jones was let go after a dismal 2001 season.

Last year the former University of Wyoming standout running back took a break from coaching and volunteered on Joe Hart's staff at Pine Bluff High School.

"Jones is a worker," Hardman said. "He is a very good coach. "I am glad he is back in college coaching. I wish him

See JONES on Page 3B

all the luck, but not too much luck against us."

After a draining three years in Itta Bena, Miss. Jones decided he needed a break, so he moved back to Pine Bluff with is wife Corrine, a Pine Bluff native.

"I had been married to my wife for five years, and I hadn't gotten to spend a lot of time with her," Jones said. "I wanted to take a little time to spend with her.

"I volunteered for coach Hart, but I still had enough time to spend with her. It was a good experience for me. I got to take a break, but I had a good time working with all of the coaches and players at Pine Bluff High School. We had a great season."

The relationships Jones made in that season with the Zebras are everlasting the coach said.

One of the friendships he will remember most was the one he harbored with the late Billy Bock, a football special teams coach and the legendary baseball coach for the Zebras.

Jones visited Bock in the hospital, but was out of town when he died and regrettably did not get to attend his funeral.

Jones had hopes of landing a job as a quality control manager for an NFL team, but two opportunities fell through.

One door closed, but another door opened.

Alcorn State Coach Johnny Thomas had an opening on his staff after defensive coordinator Karl Morgan took a job as the defensive coordinator at Hampton University.

Thomas met Jones while working on the UAPB staff as well. Thomas didn't hesitate to call his friend and offer him the position.

"Getting him on the staff has been a real blessing for me as a head football coach," Thomas said. "He is a very knowledgeable defensive coordinator, and he has been a head coach before.

"I got to know him when we were coaching together at UAPB and our styles jive together. He is a perfect fit on our staff."

Jones, who is known for his aggressive play calling, said Thomas has allowed him to do what he wants with the defensive unit.

"He has been great," Jones said. "He gave me full autonomy of the defense. He has let me run the defense and do the things I want to do. I love it here, it feels good to be wanted."

Jones said he is comfortable off the field as well at Alcorn State and is happy with his decision.

"It reminds me a lot of Wyoming," Jones said. "We don't have the big Rockies, but it reminds me of Wyoming. It is a nice place."
 
THE HEAT IS ON

Heat on Hardman
Football holds key to unlocking deficit in UAPB athletics
BY BECK CROSS ARKANSAS DEMOCRAT-GAZETTE

PINE BLUFF ? Craig Curry didn?t entirely know what he was getting himself into when he agreed to become Arkansas-Pine Bluff?s first full-time athletic director one year ago.
Within weeks of settling in and examining the books, Curry soon realized he had inherited a program that was hemorrhaging red ink and facing a bleak future to remain solvent.
"The job is more challenging than I thought it would be," said Curry, 52, who formerly served as assistant athletic director for compliance at the University of South Carolina. "But we will get back on the right track."
Football has been the primary culprit. Gate receipts have lagged at Golden Lion Stadium thanks to consecutive losing seasons, leaving a $300,000 budget deficit.
And football accounts for about onethird of the $2 million athletic budget.
Former UAPB player Lee Hardman is set to begin his 11th season as head coach at 6:30 tonight when the Golden Lions host Alcorn State in a Southwestern Athletic Conference game.
Hardman said he knows his job could be in jeopardy.
"I know we?ve got to win," said Hardman, 7-15 the past two seasons. "I don?t think there?s any outside pressure that is greater than what I put on myself. I?m not overly concerned with what people are saying outside."
Hardman has overcome greater obstacles in his career at UAPB. Hired in 1992 after the program was disbanded for two years because of death penalty sanctions by the NCAA, Hardman brought the team back to immediate respectability with winning seasons from 1994-2000 and is 60-50 overall.
"We?ve faced tougher times," Hardman said. "I know we?re capable of winning and that we?ve got some talent, but it?s all about putting all the pieces together and getting some breaks early."
Curry declined to address specifics involving Hardman?s job security. He acknowledged that Hardman was "presently under contract" and that his job performance would be evaluated at the end of the season.
"Every team has to win this year," Curry said. "The expectations have gone up for every team at UAPB. We have not been in the middle of the pack [in the SWAC] with any sport except for track and golf and each coach has been notified that they have to set their sights higher.
"I will not be satisfied with mediocrity."
Curry said success in football was crucial in keeping the entire athletic program afloat.
"Football drives everything," he said. "The more games we win and the more people we get into the stadium, the better off other sports will be. ... People have to understand this is a business and you have to increase your revenues."
Curry said the ultimate measuring stick will be how UAPB fares against Grambling State, Southern and Jackson State, which have long been the top programs in the SWAC.
The men?s basketball team was mired in the nation?s longest losing streak before first-year head Coach Van Holt earned a one-year contract extension with late-season victories against Southern and Jackson State.
"You have to beat the champions to become champions," Curry said.
Winning cures all ills, but Curry hopes to stop the financial bleeding in the interim. The four-year contract to play Central Arkansas at the Capital City Classic at Little Rock?s War Memorial Stadium could generate $250,000 for the program annually.
"Depending on how it goes this year, we hope to get a major sponsor and make it almost like a bowl game," Curry said. "We hope in the future the game could generate as much as $500,000 for each school. There is great potential there."
Curry also finalized the deal in luring three-time SWAC champion Grambling State to Pine Bluff for the first time Oct. 18. The teams had previously met each season at not-so-neutral Shreveport in the Bayou Classic.
"That game has never been profitable for us [in Shreveport]," Curry said. "Now that we have our own stadium, we thought it should be in Pine Bluff after 30 years.
"With this schedule we have this season, we hope to erase this deficit."
Curry said fund-raising is another avenue he is pursuing to increase revenues.
"There was not an organized way of marketing the program," Curry said. "If I get over $100,000 of new revenue this year, it will help. My goal is to get $200,000 before basketball starts. There?s not a lot of time, but it is doable."
Curry said he hopes to see a major turnaround in five years.
"There?s no reason why we can?t be at the top of the SWAC," Curry said. "The reason I?m here and the reason I plan to stay here is because UAPB has so much potential."
 
STORMY OPENER: GOLDEN LIONS SURVIVE THUNDERSTORM, NOT MISTAKES

STORMY OPENER: GOLDEN LIONS SURVIVE THUNDERSTORM, NOT MISTAKES

By Nate Olson/OF THE COMMERCIAL STAFF

A pre-game lightning-filled deluge that delayed the game 30 minutes was a preview of things to come for UAPB in its 37-10 loss to Alcorn State Saturday night in front of a crowd of 6,810.

When it rained, it poured for the Golden Lions.

Alcorn State took advantage of a multitude of UAPB miscues and missed opportunities to cruise to the win with a 24-point second-half burst.

ASU led 13-3 at halftime and added to its advantage early in the third quarter. The Braves took over near midfield after a UAPB punt.

A few moments later Andrew Burks danced in from six-yards out. ASU kicker David McConnell nailed the point after to give the Braves a commanding 20-3 lead with 10:12 to play in the third quarter.

The Braves put the game on ice when ASU cornerback Tyrone Parsons intercepted UAPB quarterback Atonio Lovelady on the UAPB 10-yard line and waltzed in for the easy six points.

McConnell followed with the PAT to make the score 27-3 with 3:45 to go in the stanza.

On the ensuing kickoff Cedric Bowen had the kick bounce off of him into the end zone. Bowen hesitated and thought abou taking a touchback. At the last minute, the speedster from California took off and zigged and zagged his way 100 yards to the end zone.

Michael Sellers added the point after to cut the lead to 27-10 with 3:21 to play in the third.

McConnell added tacked on three more points to its lead when McConnell hit a 24-yard field goal with 5:49 to go to give ASU a 30-10 lead.

James Bolden capped off the scoring for ASU with a short TD with just over six minutes to go in the game. McConnell added the PAT to make the score 37-10.

UAPB's first half was hampered by missed opportunities following big plays.

Sellers, a true freshman, missed a 37-yard field goal and 24-yard try after drilling a 37-yarder, his first as a collegiate.

The Golden Lions also wasted a 45-yard kick-off return by Bowen that landed the Golden Lions in ASU territory. UAPB went three-and-out.

UAPB had another scoring chance squandered when wide receiver Adelras Johnson fumbled on the Alcorn State 23-yard line. Johnson caught a pass and was churning for more yardage when he was stripped of the football. UAPB moved into ASU territory when Lovelady hooked up with Brian Jones on a 57-yard pass play.

UAPB struck first after senior safety Terrell Hammond hauled in his first of two interceptions in the first half at the Alcorn State 41 on the Braves' first play from scrimmage.

UAPB picked up a first down, but Alcorn State halted the drive at the 17-yard line and UAPB settled for a 36-yard field goal by Sellers with 9:20 to play in the quarter.

ASU countered on its next possession with a 27-yard field goal by David McConnell with 9:20 to go in the stanza.

McConnell added another field goal with 6:13 to go to give ASU a 6-3 advantage.

The Braves led 6-3 going into the second stanza.

However, ASU didn't take long to get on the board. Carrie found Corvin Johnson in the end zone on a 40-yard touchdown pass with 14:51 to go in the half. McConnell hit the PAT to give the Braves a 13-3 lead, and that is where the score stood at halftime.

ASU out-gained UAPB 228-182 in total offense.
 
UAPB CORRECTING ITS MISTAKES

UAPB CORRECTING ITS MISTAKES

By Nate Olson/OF THE COMMERCIAL STAFF

Arkansas-Pine Bluff has been busily trying to correct mistakes the last two days that led to a 27-point loss to Alcorn State in the season opener last Saturday.

UAPB (0-1, 0-1 Southwestern Athletic Conference) has a chance for redemption Saturday night when the Golden Lions play host to Mississippi Valley State (0-1, 0-1) at 6:30 at Golden Lion Stadium.

"The main thing we have to do is just correct mistakes," UAPB Coach Lee Hardman said. "The mistakes we made, we think are correctable mistakes.

"We just have to get in there and make sure the guys are working and still have their heads up and are working. We would have won the ballgame if we didn't make the mistakes. What we have to make sure is we don't get down, correct the mistakes and drive."

UAPB committed six turnovers in the 37-10 loss to Alcorn State and missed two field goals as well. However, the Golden Lions only trailed 13-3 at halftime.

"We have to work on everything but the turnovers really hurt us," Hardman said. "If we had hung on to the football we would have still been in the ballgame. We were there early in the ballgame but we just gave it to them. That hurt us."

Besides the turnovers, the other telling stat of the game was UAPB's 1 for 13 conversion rate on third down.

"We worked on that a lot this summer," Hardman said.

"That really hurt us. We have to convert on third down, and we didn't do it. It was a combination of things. A couple of times we just didn't make the block. One time the running back turned up in the hole, but he should have stayed outside. It was just little things that hurt us."

Mississippi Valley State is much the same boat as UAPB is. The Delta Devils were ruined by turnovers and miscues in a 29-0 loss to Southern in Jackson, Miss. Saturday.

"Turnovers really hurt them," Hardman said. "Southern ran the kickoff back, and the next play Valley turned the ball over and Southern scored. It was stuff like that.

"They are a better team than the score indicated, and we have to understand that. We are by no means in a position to look at someone and say they are not good. We can't do that. We have to go to work."

Hardman said he expects Valley and second-year Coach Willie Totten to arrive in Pine Bluff with a chip on their shoulder, much the way he hopes his squad reacts.

"They are going to come in here fired up," Hardman said. "They are going to want to come in here and win this ballgame and turn their season around. They are going to come in here fired up -- there isn't any doubt about that."
 
MCKAY DEEMED INELIGIBLE DAY BEFORE UCA'S SEASON OPENER

MCKAY DEEMED INELIGIBLE DAY BEFORE UCA'S SEASON OPENER

By Nate Olson/OF THE COMMERCIAL STAFF

On the eve of his debut as a member of the University of Central Arkansas football team, former Arkansas-Pine Bluff wide receiver Korea McKay was informed his collegiate football career was over.

"It's disappointing," UCA Coach Clint Conque said. "He was with us all the way through training camp. I am disappointed for (McKay). There isn't a lot we can do.

"I'm surprised it happened so late. We knew this was a high-profile case, and we dotted our i's and crossed our t's."

McKay, who could not be reached for comment Thursday, was expected to play Thursday night in UCA's season opener with Abilene Christian in Conway.

The second game of McKay's UCA career was to be against his old team, UAPB, in Little Rock next Thursday night in the Capital City Classic.

"I said from the beginning I didn't want to play against him," said UAPB Coach Lee Hardman, who met with McKay in Pine Bluff Thursday morning. "I'm glad we don't have to play against him. It's tough for him, but he will bounce back. He is a good receiver. He may get a chance in the NFL. He is a good kid, and he works hard. He will be OK."

McKay, a third-team NCAA Division I-AA All-American a year ago, transferred to the NCAA Division II school because he had exhausted his eligibility at UAPB's 1-AA level.

Division I and I-AA athletes are given 10 semesters (5 years) to finish four athletic seasons once they enroll in college.

McKay's 10th semester came last spring, meaning that he could no longer play for UAPB.

However, McKay discovered through reading the NCAA rulebook that at the Division II level he could play one more season because one of the semesters at Coahoma (Miss.) Junior College, where he attended before coming to UAPB, he was a part-time student.

McKay lost another semester because he was kicked out of the school, but then was readmitted.

UCA reviewed McKay's UAPB transcript and agreed with the Robinsonville, Miss. native.

The appropriate paperwork was sent to the NCAA in May, and a few weeks later McKay was ruled eligible and arrived in Conway.

McKay competed in preseason drills and then enrolled in class.

However, on Wednesday UCA received a letter from the NCAA that was addressed to UAPB and forwarded on to UCA.

The letter said that an athlete at any level that had taken 10 semesters of full-time classes was ineligible to compete.

UAPB compliance officer Vannette Johnson wrote the letter of inquiry after speaking with an NCAA representative about the matter at a convention in Chicago.

The letter was sent in July, but Johnson didn't receive the reply until last week. Johnson said the NCAA explained that a change in office personnel was the reason for the late response.

Johnson said he gave the letter to UAPB athletic director Craig Curry, who faxed it to UCA athletic director Vance Strange.

UCA assistant athletic director Laura Clayton was aware of the information in the letter and felt that the school was abiding by the rules, but decided to double-check McKay's records.

She received McKay's official transcript from Coahoma on Wednesday and after viewing it for the first time found out that it differed from the version UAPB had a part of its official record.

UAPB did not accept a psychology class that McKay had taken. Without that psychology class it appeared McKay was a part-time student. However, he did take the class and therefore was a full-time student, which counted as a full-time semester and equaled 10 total semesters.

"There was a mistake made, it was an error," Clayton said. "That's all I can say."

Hardman said he wasn't shocked by the news.

It could have been a costly mistake for UCA if McKay had played. Most likely, the Bears would have had to forfeit all of the games McKay played in, according to Conque.

Conque said McKay was going to play in a reserve role and was going to run back kicks. The receiver's progress was hampered due to an ankle injury Conque said.

McKay's football future is now up in the air. Hardman said McKay might have a tryout with the Seattle Seahawks next week.

He could sign with a team now, or wait and sign with an agent and train and get ready for workouts with NFL scouts in the winter and spring and declare for the 2004 NFL Draft.

The 6-foot-2, 190-pound McKay worked out for scouts in the spring before transferring and had some interest but most scouts agreed he could use one more year of collegiate experience.
 



Whew, UAPB dodge a bullet. McKay would have lite us UP. This kids has not had the best of luck in college. He turned it around last year at UAPB. At one point, he lead the nation total yards per game, recieving yards, and yards per catch. I'm sure he will make a NFL squad, he is loaded with talent. He would be a great NFL reciever because he has a knack for find the 'Window' in coverages.
 
Originally posted by Da_Sperm
Whew, UAPB dodge a bullet. McKay would have lite us UP. This kids has not had the best of luck in college. He turned it around last year at UAPB. At one point, he lead the nation total yards per game, recieving yards, and yards per catch. I'm sure he will make a NFL squad, he is loaded with talent. He would be a great NFL reciever because he has a knack for find the 'Window' in coverages.
Click to expand...

I'm glad that mofo is gone. Any NFL team would be lucky to get him.
 
UAPB HAS FIELD DAY WITH VALLEY

UAPB HAS FIELD DAY WITH VALLEY

By Nate Olson/OF THE COMMERCIAL STAFF

After a nagging knee injury forced Arkansas-Pine Bluff quarterback Antonio Lovelady to the sideline Saturday night, the Arkansas-Pine Bluff defense looked to be down and out and needed a lift.

The UAPB defense was glad to lend a hand.

The Golden Lions' defense held Mississippi Valley State to just 105 yards of total offense and thoroughly dominated the second half, shutting out the Delta Devils in a 27-7 win.

"The defense came up big for us tonight," UAPB Coach Lee Hardman said. "We put them in some bad situations sometimes, but they hung in there and held them and everything. The defense played great. I am so proud of them."

UAPB forced five turnovers on the night, including four fumbles. UAPB sacked Valley quarterbacks seven times. UAPB defensive end Maurice Troutman had four of those sacks, which was second to the single-game record held by former Arkansas AM&N and Pittsburgh Steeler great, L.C. Greenwood.

"Last week we came out with first-game jitters, and we really worked hard this week to get better," Troutman said. "We knew we were a lot better than they were, even though they are a good team. But we are better. The offense is still trying to gel together. Defense wins championships, and that is what we are going to do."

The game was tied at seven at halftime, but it was the Delta Devils that started to gain momentum midway through the second half while the UAPB offense struggled and kept a tired UAPB defense on the field.

Mississippi Valley State threatened late in the third quarter on a drive that was aided by a facemask penalty. The Delta Devils faced a 4th-and-2 play from UAPB 30-yard line. Mississippi Valley State quarterback Carey Weaver was flushed out of the pocket and heading toward the down marker on the sideline when UAPB cornerback Tyrone Walker lowered the boom on Weaver. The ball popped loose, and went out of bounds short of the first down.

UAPB took over on downs.

"That was a big play for Tyrone," Hardman said. "The defense just came up big tonight. That's what we expect from them. That's what they have to do for us every week. If the defense does their job every week we have a chance to be a good football team."

Weaver was slow to get up and didn't play the rest of the night.

On the next play, Calvin Thomas rumbled through a huge hole on the right side and sprinted 61 yards for a touchdown.

UAPB's Michael Sellers added the PAT to give UAPB the 14-7 lead with 4:15 to go in the quarter.

That is where the score stood until UAPB rattled off two touchdowns in the final 1:48 of the game.

Pierce, who was 8-for-20 for 83 yards with two touchdowns and two interceptions, hit Brian Jones on a 24-yard touchdown, which featured a bruising run by Jones after the catch and ended in the end zone to cap off a 9-play, 81-yard drive.

Sellers added the PAT and UAPB led 21-7 with 1:48 to play in the game.

The UAPB defense added one more big play on Valley's next possession . Cornerback Zachery Barnett picked off Weaver on the Valley 30-yard line. Two runs by running back Billy Moody put UAPB on the Delta Devils' one-yard line with 11 seconds to play in the game.

Instead of taking a knee, UAPB hurriedly lined up, and Pierce ran the naked bootleg play into the end zone untouched to give UAPB the 27-7 win.

"We didn't capitalize on the turnovers when we got them," Mississippi Valley Coach Willie "Satellite" Totten said. "My hat is off to their defense for keeping us from capitalizing on their offense's mistakes. Their defense came up big for them."

Arkansas-Pine Bluff got on the board after taking over on a punt on its own four-yard line. Ten plays later the Golden Lions completed a 96-yard scoring drive when Pierce hit Brian Thomas-Miller on a 15-yard scrambling, off-balance pass in the corner of the end zone.

Sellers added the PAT to give UAPB a 7-0 lead with 12:57 to go in the half.

Valley countered later in the quarter. The Delta Devils marched 74 yards in 14 plays. Brandon Dawson culminated the drive with a 1-yard plunge by running back Brandon Dawson.

Joseph Blanco hit the PAT to tie the score at 7.

That is where the score stood going into halftime.

Both team's missed scoring opportunities in the first half. Sellers missed a 37-yard field goal, and Blanco missed one from 34-yards out.
 
RIVALRY BACK IN BUSINESS AFTER NINE-YEAR HIATUS

RIVALRY BACK IN BUSINESS AFTER NINE-YEAR HIATUS

By Nate Olson/OF THE COMMERCIAL STAFF

LITTLE ROCK -- After nine years of lying dormant the Arkansas-Pine/Central Arkansas rivalry will come alive tonight in Little Rock in the Capital City Classic.

Things have changed, however, since the last time the in-state rivals met in 1994 during a rain-soaked 7-6 Bears' win.

For many of the series' 10 games, both schools were members of the old Arkansas Intercollegiate Conference of the NAIA.

UAPB is now a member of the Southwestern Athletic Conference that competes at the NCAA Division I-AA level.

UCA is now a member of the Gulf South Conference, which is an NCAA Division II organization.

If recent history is any indication, that could spell bad news for UAPB. In the past three years they are 2-3 against D-II schools.

"I think the attitude we have this year is different than the other years," said senior cornerback Keith Scott, a Watson Chapel High School alum. "We have a better attitude, and we have confidence after winning last week. We just have to go out there and stop them."

Last season, UAPB fell to Kentucky State in four overtimes, and to Lane College. Kentucky State has won two of its last three over the Golden Lions and spoiled the inaugural game in Golden Lion Stadium in 2000 with a win.

"Last year was last year," UAPB Coach Lee Hardman said. "We aren't even thinking about what we did last year. We believe we have a team that can compete with anybody. We are going in there thinking we have an excellent chance to win the ballgame, and we are going in there to win."

Even though UCA, which is ranked No.15 in D-II, is a talented team, they refuse to feel the pressure in this game since they are a level below the Golden Lions and have half as many scholarships to give.

"We feel like we don't have any pressure at all on us," said junior linebacker FuQuan Harris, a Little Rock J.A. Fair High School product. "We're not picking them because they are a I-AA school. We are looking at them like they are a regular opponent.

"But (UAPB) has the pressure. They have a lot to lose. There is more media pressure on (UAPB) if they lose. If we lose, people will say they lost to a I-AA school, but if they lose then they have lost to a D-II team."

UAPB Coach Clint Conque said you can debate whether classification matters or not, but there is no disputing it is a big game for both schools.

"I leave that (the debate) for the pundits and everyone else to discuss," Conque said. "I do know this. They are a Historically Black College and we are a primarily white institution. The game is on a Thursday night and is the only game in the state, and it will honor the veterans and a really tough moment in our nation's history.

"What a great event for college football in our state. The state of Arkansas wins no matter who wins the game. You have heard about Arkansas State not wanting to play UAPB and Arkansas not wanting to play Arkansas State. We have put that aside and are the only game in the state. We are on statewide TV, and we will have all of the print and broadcast media in Central Arkansas at the game. It is a good situation financially for both teams and is a win/win situation for both teams. They may not agree."

Conque added that while he feels confident about the starters he has on the field, depth could be an issue since UAPB plays 12 defensive linemen, and UCA plays just six offensive linemen.

It remains to be seen if the Bears' lack of line depth will be a factor, but both coaches agree that UAPB's defensive linemen could disrupt the flow of the game.

Junior defensive end Maurice Troutman collected four sacks last week against Mississippi Valley State.

Troutman, sophomore end Pat Okoye, senior tackle Rodney Washington and Jan Yates all played well against the Delta Devils and paved the way for the Golden Lions 'D' to hold MVSU to just over 100 yards of total offense.

"There is no question about it, their defensive front is a special group," Conque said. "Those guys are quality football players. They're impact players."

The Golden Lion defensive linemen will be chasing junior quarterback Henry Young (5-11, 204), who's style is similar to that of the SWAC quarterbacks the Golden Lions are used to.

Young was 19 of 31 for 139 yards, with an interception and three touchdowns in UCA's 30-12 season opening win over Abilene Christian.

Sophomore running back Kentrel Rogers, a Fordyce native, ran 10 times for 101 yards and a touchdown.

UCA will likely continue to run the ball more until senior quarterback Zak Clark, a former Razorback, returns from a broken finger on his throwing hand. Clark threw for more than 3,000 yards last year.

"I think it is our goal to bring as much balance to the offense as we can," Conque said. "We want to throw the football and everyone knows that. UAPB knows that. What we want is people to come after us, so we can get one-on-one coverage.

"Abilene Christian wouldn't do that, so we used our running game and kicking game to get the win. That is fine with me. I don't care how we get the win. A win is a win."

Hardman said he expects more offensively from the Bears than they showed in their easy win.

"They got control of Abilene Christian, and they didn't have to show a whole lot," Hardman said. "They didn't show a lot because they didn't have to. I wouldn't doubt if we see some trick plays or some throw backs or something like that."

UAPB will be going up against a Bear defense that did not give up a TD while their first-string unit was on the field last week.

Quarterback could be the question mark tonight, as UAPB will not know who its starter is until game time.

Junior starter Antonio Lovelady has been battling knee stiffness all week on his surgically repaired knee.

Hardman said Lovelady will test the knee during the pregame, and if he can't go, backup QB, sophomore John Pierce will get the nod.

Pierce played part of the first half and the entire second half last week when Lovelady was unable to go, finishing 8 for 20 for 83 yards with two touchdowns and two interceptions.

UAPB may turn to its running game as well. Senior Calvin Thomas broke off a 61-yard run last week on his way to 128 yards rushing. Juniors Billy Moody and Cedric Bowen, who started last week's game, will share the load.

"I think one of the keys to the game comes down to what we can do offensively," Hardman said. "We have to move the ball and keep their offense off the field."

Lovelady's status, along with the kicking game, have been two of Hardman's biggest concerns this week.

Hardman revealed Wednesday that Joe Webb, a North Little Rock native, will handle the place-kicking chores. Freshman Michael Sellers, who has missed three out of four field goals and an extra point, left Pine Bluff Tuesday night for his native Birmingham, Ala. because of a death in the family.

Webb, who has hobbled with a hamstring injury the last three weeks, will handle the kickoffs and field goals. If he is injured or is ineffective, freshman punter Andrew Bergeron will take up the slack, according to Hardman.

UAPB will also be without the services of starting senior safety Randy Caldwell, who has an injured Achilles tendon.

After watching game film, Conque said he thinks UAPB has plenty of big-play threats. He added that limiting those big plays will be the key to running UAPB's losing streak to Division II opponents to three.

"We can't give up the big play," he said. "We can't give up the 100-yard kickoff returns or the 80-yard passes off a scrambling play or blocked punts. If we do that we can hang in there and be competitive."

Hardman can sum up the key to a UAPB win in one word.

"Patience. We have to show patience. We can't try to kill them on one play. It's just being patient on offense and defense. That's what we have to do. If we can do that, we can win the game."
 
Originally posted by Blacknbengal
Hardman revealed Wednesday that Joe Webb, a North Little Rock native, will handle the place-kicking chores. Freshman Michael Sellers, who has missed three out of four field goals and an extra point, left Pine Bluff Tuesday night for his native Birmingham, Ala. because of a death in the family.

Webb, who has hobbled with a hamstring injury the last three weeks, will handle the kickoffs and field goals. If he is injured or is ineffective, freshman punter Andrew Bergeron will take up the slack, according to Hardman
Click to expand...


We might be in trouble, this guy couldn't kick a lick in the spring:rolleyes:
 
CAPITAL CITY CLASSIC : UAPB pulls rank, UCA has ranking
BY CHRIS GIVENS ARKANSAS DEMOCRAT-GAZETTE

The opponents are in different classifications, making the game an apparent mismatch, but for which team?
NCAA Division II Central Arkansas faces NCAA Division I-AA Arkansas-Pine Bluff tonight in the inaugural Capital City Classic at Little Rock?s War Memorial Stadium at 7 p.m. The game is the first of what will become a yearly matchup through at least 2006.
The Bears (1-0) are ranked 15th in the latest Division II poll, while the Golden Lions (1-1) were ranked 106 out of 121 Division I-AA teams in the most recent Dunkel Index, a power ratings measurement. The same index lists Central Arkansas as a 12-point favorite.
UCA won the last meeting between the teams in 1994, 7-6. There have been 11 meetings in all, but this is the first meeting since UAPB moved to Division I-AA.
Neither coach is putting much stock in the different classifications, even though UAPB is allotted 63 scholarships in I-AA while Division II UCA gets 36.
"We haven?t talked about that a lot," Central Arkansas Coach Clint Conque said. "What we have talked about is getting better as a football team."
"We?re not necessarily looking at this as a Division I-AA vs. II," UAPB Coach Lee Hardman said. "If you look at it they [Central Arkansas] have as many students ? 8,500 ? as Arkansas State. They play under Division II banner but enrollment-wise they?re Division I." Both teams will be playing with confidence after victories last week.
Central Arkansas beat Division II No. 25 Abilene Christian 30-12, while the Golden Lions defeated Mississippi Valley State 27-7.
UAPB held the Delta Devils to 105 total yards and minus-36 rushing yards, and again the defensive front seven for the Golden Lions will be key.
"I?m assuming their secondary is very good, but no quarterback has had time to challenge their secondary," Conque said. "They rotate 12 defensive linemen, and they all play hard. Offensively we?ll be very challenged."
One thing that does leave both teams on a level playing field is their quarterback situation. Both team?s backups will likely get the start.
Central Arkansas? Zak Clark is out with a broken hand. In the Mississippi Valley State game, UAPB?s Antonio Lovelady injured the same knee that ended his season last year.
Hardman said it will be a gametime decision whether Lovelady or John Pierce starts, but said both will see playing time.
Central Arkansas? Henry Young filled in for Clark and was 19 for 31 for 139 yards and 3 touchdowns in his first collegiate start last week. Pierce subbed for Lovelady and completed 8 of 20 passes for 83 yards and 2 interceptions.
Passing might not be Pierce?s greatest strength.
"Yeah, and that scares me," Conque said. "He?s very mobile. We?ve prepared for both of them. They?re very talented at running back. They go three deep at running back. Their offensive line is massive. Pierce is very athletic."
One target Young won?t have to throw to is Korea McKay, a former UAPB receiver who was with the Bears until last week.
McKay was a 1,000-yard receiver for the Golden Lions during the 2002 season, after which his Division I eligibility was exhausted.
A eligibility quirk appeared to possibly allow McKay to play one year in Division II. But it was discovered last Wednesday, before the Bears? first game, that McKay was in fact not eligible, and he has since left the school.
"I hated it turned out the way it did," Hardman said. "He?s very good kid, a good person, but I didn?t want to face him."
Young does have running back Kentrell Rogers, who had 101 yards rushing last week.
Three running backs, led by Calvin Thomas, who averages 71 yards a game, will spearhead the Golden Lions? attack.
Conque called the game a win-win situation, since even a loss means more exposure and experience for his team.
For UAPB, the game is against an instate rival in the state?s largest city in a stadium that seats more than 50,000 fans. Other than that, this game is no different than any other, whatever classifications are involved.
"There?s no more pressure," Hardman said. "We just want to come out and play a good ballgame, no matter who we?re playing."
 
UAPB TRYING TO FORGET LAST SEASON'S DEFEAT TO SOUTHERN

UAPB TRYING TO FORGET LAST SEASON'S DEFEAT TO SOUTHERN

By Nate Olson/OF THE COMMERCIAL STAFF

Even a year later there is still at least a twinge of bitterness over Arkansas-Pine Bluff's 14-13 loss to Southern last year at Golden Lion Stadium.

Late in the game the Golden Lions were marching deep into Jaguar territory, but the Jags' defense held and UAPB was missed a 25-yard go-ahead field goal.

The Jaguars went on to win 14-13.

That was not what had UAPB Coach Lee Hardman upset. It was the fact that game film revealed that Southern had 12 men on the field for the final three plays leading up to the kick.

The penalty for illegal participation is an automatic first down and UAPB would have set up shop just inside the Jaguar 10-yard line, with four more downs to punch the ball in the end zone or kick an even shorter field goal.

"There's just no way that should have happened three plays in a row," Hardman said. "That is inexcusable. But that's last year. There is nothing we can do about that. We can't get upset about last year.

"We have to go down there and play hard and smart. What happened last year happened last year. We have to go down there and play smart and aggressive football and take this thing."

UAPB will meet No. 21-ranked Southern (4-0) in Baton Rouge, La. at A.W. Mumford Stadium Saturday night at 7.

Hardman said he has not, or will not, use what happened in last year's meeting to hype his team up.

"I have not used that as motivation," Hardman said. "What we are trying to do is focus on what we need to be doing this year and cut down on mental mistakes and not beating ourselves.

"If we do that, then we can forget about last year. We aren't talking about last year. This year is 2003, and we are focused on 2003 and trying to get it right."

Still, some players have a good memory.

"We remember what happened, and it is in the back of our minds, and it is going to make us come out and fight harder" senior safety Tyrone Walker said. "But every game we never get calls. We just have to learn to come out and play against the other teams and the referees."

Senior tight end Brian Jones said he is hoping UAPB won't have to rely on the officials' help this year.

"It shouldn't have mattered if they had 12 guys out there or not -- we shouldn't have lost that game," Jones said. "It wasn't anything to get mad about. As far as this game, I don't want it to be close enough to where it would matter if they have 12 guys out there or not."

UAPB will have its hands full. The Southern defense has given up just 33 points in four games and is carving up opposing defenses to the tune of 42 points per game.

Still, Hardman feels confident about his team's chances after a confidence-boosting 36-9 win over NCAA Division II Kentucky State last week. Hardman said the glow of the win has carried over to practice this week.

"We had a very good day of practice today (Tuesday)," Hardman said. "We worked hard and were very focused. If we can keep working eliminating the turnovers and mistakes I feel good about our chances."
 
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