Remnants of Tropical Storm Humberto made quite a mess in Jackson, MS during the Thursday night SWAC match-up between Jackson State and Texas Southern at Mississippi Veterans Memorial Stadium.
J-State’s 28-7 win over Texas Southern gives the Blue Bengals their first win of the season after losses to Tennessee State and “Okra”. TSU, still batting 1.000 in the loss column with a 0-3 record, is likely done for the season with all of its losses coming from SWAC teams.
David Brandt provides a recap in the Clarion-Ledger. TSU sports information provides its recap below.
The wet weather and missed opportunities washed away hopes of the Texas Southern Tigers capturing their first win of the season against Jackson State.
Despite the constant rain, TSU’s first drive of the game looked promising. The Tigers got to Jackson State’s 21 yard line with ease. But TSU offense stalled and couldn’t get into the end zone. Their field goal attempt was blocked. This was the beginning of a long night for Texas Southern. It was also the only time the TSU Tigers threatened to score in the first half.
Jackson State put up a quick 21 points in the first quarter. Their first score was a 23 yard pass from Jimmy Oliver (#9) to Kethonne McLaurin (#10). J-State’s second touchdown came on a 75 yard punt return by Jaymar Johnson (#83). Johnson found the end zone again when Oliver hit him on a 24 yard pass for six. The kick was good and Jackson State lead 21 – 0 at the end of the first quarter. That score stayed the same as the first half came to an end.
Both teams went four and out to begin the third quarter. Jackson State got a 42 yard punt return to start their second possession of the half. Two plays later, E. Haw (#3) scored on an 11 yard rush to give J-State a 28 – 0 lead.
TSU finally got on the score board when Cornelius Harmon (#7) hit William Osborne (#2) for an 18 yard gain. That pass set up a two yard touchdown run by Brent Wilson (#24). The extra point was good. Texas Southern now trailed 7-28.
Play in the fourth quarter got as messy as the weather. Neither team could put a drive together and both teams fell prey to numerous turnovers.
The game ended with Jackson State winning 28–7.
Texas Southern heads to El Paso next Saturday to face UTEP.