42 years later, Tigers reach Title
Without the help of their leader Quarterback Arvell Nelson, the Tigers used a stifling defense to dismiss Alabama State 11-6 Saturday in Birmingham, Alabama. The win caps the best season in the history.
Starting quarterback Nelson was held out by athletic Director Charles McClelland for possible NCAA violations.
The Tiger’s defense made sure that 11 points would be enough to get the job done while holding Hornets under 100 yards of total offense.
Backup Quarterback Riko Smalls led the Tigers 86 yards on their first drive for a 7-0 lead with Martin Gilbert finishing on a two yard touchdown run.
Marcus Wright rushed for 123 yards on 37 carries while setting a school record rushing for 1,212 in a season.
It’s been 42 years since TSU has shared the title, the last coming in 1968.
SWAC defensive player of the year, Dejuan Fulghum shined on defense for Tigers with 10 tackles and two sacks.
The Hornets (7-5) late score was not enough and a little too late as the Tigers ran out the time.