Defending SWAC West champion Southern is preparing to open their season against North Carolina Central in the annual Cricket MEAC/SWAC Challenge in Atlanta this Saturday.
As far as who will be leading the Jaguar offense into battle, head coach Terrence Graves says everyone will know at the same time.
“As far as naming a starting quarterback, you’ll find out on Saturday,” Graves said during Monday’s MEAC/SWAC coaches’ conference.
The two quarterbacks dueling for the starting job each have substantial SWAC experience. Jalen Woods is the returning QB from Southern’s 2024 SWAC West championship team, competing in six games last season. Woods completed 38 of 66 passes (57.58%, best on the team) for 541 yards and four touchdowns.
The newcomer is Jackson State transfer Cam’Ron McCoy, who saw significant action for the Celebration Bowl champion Tigers a season ago.
In 2024, McCoy completed 18 of 38 passes for 310 yards and four touchdowns while rushing 24 times for 163 yards and two touchdowns.
“Those two guys are really battling and doing a great job,” Graves said.
North Carolina Central head coach Trei Oliver says his team will be prepared for either quarterback come Saturday.
“We’ve watched film on the transfers they’ve brought in,” Oliver said of Southern’s roster. “Both quarterbacks, we’ve developed a game plan for each of them.”
The 20th anniversary (and 20th game overall) of the MEAC/SWAC Challenge will kick off Saturday Aug. 23 at 7:30 pm on ABC.
