University of Southern Mississippi Athletics
Football takes part in second preseason scrimmage
8/19/2017 12:00:00 AM | Football
HATTIESBURG, Miss. -- Big plays behind the line-of-scrimmage and stellar quarterback play were the stories of Southern Miss' first scrimmage upon beginning the 2017-18 academic year.
The team has begun shifting its routine since classes started Wednesday, and the latest scrimmage on the turf at The Rock came exactly two weeks before the season opener versus Kentucky.
T'Rod Daniels continued to make an excellent first impression as a Golden Eagle, taking a screen pass from Keon Howard 99 yards to the house early in the scrimmage and just before lightning forced an approximate one-hour delay. Other key Howard strikes were 28 yards to Allenzae Staggers and a 19-yarder to Isaiah Jones who pulled it down in traffic.
Marcelo Rodriguez made several solid throws, one of which a 12-yard scoring connection where Jordan Mitchell circled around the defense and got himself open along the sideline. The freshman also found classmate Jaylond Adams for a fading, over-the-shoulder touchdown pass. Quez Watkins was also on the receiving end of a Rodriguez touchdown from 18 yards out.
The ground game also saw the emergence of Collin Kilcrease, who not only found the endzone but also produced positive yards despite appearing to be stopped by several in the backfield. The converted linebacker showed more than a bruising persona and was able to change directions for solid gains. Freshman Darius Maberry also had a 37-yard run.
Sherrod Ruff made his presence known in back-to-back series, beginning with a burst up the middle that coincided perfectly with a handoff. He also was able to chase down his running back for a four-yard loss on a run toward the sideline.
Rod Crayton even went a step further and made two consecutive tackles in as many snaps, with the first one being a five-yard loss.
JonTe Demby produced two interceptions on deep attempts, both resulting in long returns. Justin Abston and Paxton Schrimsher each had pass breakups near the pylons, and Racheem Boothe also knocked one away.
Season tickets, flex plans, and group tickets for the 2017 Golden Eagle home season are still available and can be purchased by going online at SouthernMissTickets.com, by calling 1-800-844-TICK (8425) or by visiting the Pat Ferlise Ticket Office, weekdays, from 8 a.m. until 5 p.m. Discounts are available for Southern Miss faculty and staff, senior citizens, military personnel, and recent Southern Miss graduates. The Golden Eagles open the 2017 season at home on Saturday, Sept. 2, at 3 p.m. against SEC opponent Kentucky.
