Jackson State Football: 3 takeaways from blowout loss to Southern
By Dante Pryor
3. Jackson State struggled in the trenches again
The Tigers have struggled in the trenches all season. Whether it is offensive linemen finishing blocks or defensive linemen shedding them, Jackson State has had its share of inconsistencies along the offensive and defensive lines. In their blowout win against Edward Waters, the Tigers had too many negative runs against an inferior opponent.
The running game needed big plays in the second and fourth quarters but could not run the football consistently. Once again, in a blowout win against Mississippi Valley State, the offensive line struggled to block and pass protect.
The defensive line has not gotten much pressure on opposing quarterbacks and has given up an average of 250 rushing yards in their last two games. This afternoon was no different. The defensive staff knew that Southern was fairly one-dimensional, and still, the Jaguars had their way with the Tigers’ defensive line.
Southern wanted to run the football and control the clock. 59 carries and 294 yards later, mission accomplished. The Jags were more physical and beat the Tigers up front. Offensively, Jackson State could not block Southern’s front seven. Tigers’ quarterback Jalon Johson was harassed all game long, and JSU could not move the ball on the ground.