The Coaching Career Of Jason Cameron: NCAA 12

[JasonForTheWin]

Everything always came easy for Jason Cameron. Always the fastest kid on all levels of football, Jason was sure that he would become the greatest cornerback in the history of the sport. He could keep up with every kid in the PAL and would take great delight in picking off every pass that was thrown his way.

Unfortunately, when he got to Gaither, he found out that his speed didn't translate to the high school level of play. He had great instincts, but he couldn't keep up JR Russell, the top WR at the school.

For his Sophomore season, Jason was on the JV team, no longer the star CB that he had envisioned. Coaches moved him to Strong Safety, where his lack of top flight speed could be hidden by his natural instincts.

By his Junior season, Jason was moved up to the varsity team, and was named starting SS. With the likes of Cameron, JR Russell, RB Lydell Ross, and DT Lee Roy Selmon Jr, that Gaither team would go all the way to the State Championships, losing to Miami Booker.

After the season, Jason was named 2nd Team All State, after he led his team with 88 tackles, 7 interceptions, and 3 sacks. Jason was rated a 2 star recruit by Rivals, and could see his dream of an NFL career coming to fruition. He had always dreamed of going to FSU, however it was quickly realized that the interest from the Seminoles was not mutual.

After a breakout Senior season, where he led the state of Florida with 11 interceptions to go along with 4.5 sacks and 73 tackles, Jason was named Mr. Hillsborough County, and was named 1st Team All State.

However, the offers from top schools never came. Many viewed his lack of speed along with his small stature (5'10 175lbs) as a big negative in the recruiting process.

Jason got only one offer from a Division 1 School - USF, along with a few offers from FCS schools (Mercer, Kentucky Wesleyan, South Carolina State), Jason signed his letter of intent to play at USF. Head Coach Jim Leavitt was not worried about Jason's speed and stature, but loved his instincts and leadership qualities.

Jason would redshirt his freshman year (2000). During his sophomore season, Jason would see action in every game, but mostly on special teams. He did get into 4 games as a Safety, but in mop up duty.

Going into his Junior year, Jason was determined to make his mark at USF and geared up his training and spent countless hours in tape study. However, tragedy struck during the Summer, when he was involved in a car crash on I4 that would end his playing career, after shattering his left ankle.

Coach Jim Leavitt rallied around his injured player, and made sure he would still be apart of the team. He named Cameron a special assistant during his junior and senior seasons, and named Cameron a Grad Assistant going into the 2005 season.

Jason Cameron impressed Coach Leavitt so much during his 2 years as a Grad Assistant that heading into the 2007 season, he was named Defensive Assistant Coach - Safeties.

Jason spent the 2007 and 2008 season in that role, developing Seth Reyerson and Martavius Harris into NFL Draft Picks. After the 2008 season, his old high school and college teammate, Lee Roy Selmon Jr. was named Head Coach at Mercer, and offered Jason the Defensive Coordinator job.

In 2 seasons as Defensive Coordinator, Jason improved Mercer's defense dramatically, peaking at #12 in the nation in pass yardage against. During the 2010 season, Mercer fired HC Lee Roy Selmon Jr. after the team started the season 1-4. Jason was named interim HC, and Mercer ended up the season 4-7.

Mercer named Jason Cameron the permanent Head Coach for the 2011 season, and he led the team to a dramatic turnaround, finishing the season 10-1, the only loss coming in a drubbing to Alabama 65-3.

After the 2011 season, Jason Cameron was looking at the college football landscape, and wanted to move up to the FBS.

Jason Cameron History:
2004 - USF (Grad Assistant)
2005 - USF (Grad Assistant)
2006 - USF (Defensive Assistant Safeties)
2007 - USF (Defensive Assistant Safeties)
2008 - Mercer (Defensive Coordinator)
2009 - Mercer (Interim Head Coach / Defensive Coordinator) (3-3)
2010 - Mercer (Head Coach) (10-1)
2011 - Arkansas State (Head Coach) (9-4) (GoDaddy.Com Bowl Win)
2012 - Arkansas State (Head Coach) (9-4) (GoDaddy.Com Bowl Win)

[JasonForTheWin]

Arkansas State Names Jason Cameron Their Next Head Coach

Jonesboro - Looking to replace Hugh Freeze, who was one and done at the school, Arkansas State has named former Mercer Head Coach Jason Cameron as their next Head Coach.

Looking to safeguard themselves from another coach leaving after a year, with Freeze leaving for Ole Miss, school officials signed Cameron to a 4 year deal, with a massive buyout if Cameron decides to leave the school early.

"We were looking for a commitment to the University. Someone who wants to maintain a legacy here in Jonesboro." said Athletic Director Jeff Purinton.

"We feel we have that with Jason Cameron."

Cameron, 29, comes to Jonesboro after a year and a half at the helm of Mercer, taking them to the FCS Championship game last year after going 10-1.

"I am excited to get to work. We are going to dig in, get dirty, and hopefully win some football games."

What Cameron lacks in experience (13-4 career record), he makes up for in developing swarming defenses.

In his first year at Mercer, he improved the defensive drastically, finishing as a Top 50 unit in the nation, after Mercer was ranked 145th.

'My forte is definitely defense, and I can't wait to work with that unit, but I also want to have an attacking offense."

One of Cameron's first order of business was calling CB James Bradberry, and convincing him to return to the school, after Bradberry was flirting with transferring to Samford.

"James is going to be a leader on the unit. We really envision him being are 1. Our shutdown guy. It was crucial for him to want to come back." Cameron said in his introductory news conference.

"Respect goes a long way with me." Bradberry said.

"He wanted me to come back, build something here. He can just get you excited."

That excitement is permeating through the campus, and was one of Cameron's biggest selling points. The school did have conversations with Gus Malzahn, but the feeling was that Malzahn was looking to use the school to rebuild his reputation, and leave just like Freeze did.


Next up for Jason Cameron is filling out his coaching ranks.

"I've made some calls. Stay tuned."

[JasonForTheWin]

Coach Cameron Hires Tee Martin and Jim Leavitt as OC and DC

Jonesboro - Arkansas State Head Coach has named Tee Martin and Jim Leavitt as Offensive Coordinator and Defensive Coordinator.

Tee Martin, the former Tennessee great QB, has spent the past 2 seasons at Kentucky where he was the passing game coordinator and WR coach.



"Coach Martin has proven to be an innovative play caller, and I can't wait to see him get to work with our QBs" Cameron said.

Martin will be tasked with the development of Ryan Aplin, the schools starting QB, who could do down as the schools all time leader in numerous passing categories.

"Aplin is an exciting player, and I am enamored with his arm strength and his footwork." Martin said.


Coach Cameron didn't have to search far for his first choice to be Defensive Coordinator. He made one call to his former college head coach, and convinced him to come to Jonesboro.

"Coach Leavitt is my mentor. I wouldn't be here without him. It's that simple."

It may seem simple for Cameron, but for Leavitt, it's about trying to repair his image after being fired as head coach at USF (95-57 record) is disgrace after allegations of punching a player during halftime.

"I wasn't there, but I know Jim Leavitt as a man and as a coach. That is not who he is. He built USF from the ground up, and deserves this chance to get back in the college game" Cameron said.

Leavitt spent the last year in the NFL, coaching linebackers for the 49ers. While he did find success in that role, Leavitt's heart has always been in college.

"I cherish my time with San Francisco, and I thank Jim Harbaugh for taking that chance with me. For me, I love developing kids and making them see their true potential." Leavitt said.

Working side by side with Leavitt, HC Jason Cameron will look to develop a defense, that on paper is the weak link of the team. However, there are some bright spots.

"I feel like our front four is going to be solid, anchored by John Gandy. I am excited to meet with Herrold and work with him at linebacker. Then, of course, there is Bradberry, who we are really high on" Leavitt said.

[JasonForTheWin]

Anthlon Sports 2011 Outlook - Arkansas State


Coming off a Sun Belt Conference Championship, the Red Wolves were informed that head coach Hugh Freeze would be leaving after only a year, to take the top job at Ole Miss, Arkansas State had to look for a successor who would maintain the success that this veteran laden team has.

They chose inexperienced Jason Cameron, who has only one full year of head coaching experience, taking FCS Mercer 10-1. They are banking on Cameron's youthful energy to keep the Red Wolves atop the Sun Belt, with the likes of Troy and Western Kentucky improving year over year.



Offense:

New Offensive Coordinator Tee Martin has the tools to make this team a juggernaut.

Redshirt Junior QB Ryan Aplin has the eyes of NFL scouts with his strong arm, that can connect on deep throws, as well as the quickness to avoid pressure. The staff believe so much of Aplin, they confidently say that he could be a Heisman hopeful.

Behind him on the depth chart is Redshirt Sophomore Phillip Butterfield, who the staff believe could even surpass Aplin with a little more seasoning. While, he doesn't seem to have the arm strength of Aplin, he is faster and could give the offense a jolt with his ability to run.

Redshirt Freshman Fredi Knighten is the 3rd man on the QB depth chart, and is unproven.

The team believes they have a strong stable of running backs with Seniors Anthony Kincy and Kendrick Daniels. Kincy, while listed at the starter, brings more value as a kick returner. Daniels (5'11 230) has the build of an every day back, but hasn't been used much in his career at Jonesboro. The staff is high on Redshirt Freshman JD McKissic, and plans to use him as their third down back, and rave about his ability to make catches out of the backfield.


The Receiving Corps are highlighted by burner DeKeathen Williams, who can use his speed to allow QB Aplin to throw the ball deep and have confidence that Williams will be able to locate the ball. Behind Williams are two skyscrapers in Juniors Taylor Stockemer and Allen Muse (both 6'4). The team plans to utilize the speed of Williams with the size of Muse and Stockemer to create mismatches, and give defenses nightmares. Rounding out the receivers are Carlos McCants, Warren Leapheart, and Kelsey Collins. While McCants coild be a dynamic playmaker, he is still unproven.

Starting Tight End Kedric Murray (6'3 265) doesn't seem to be a threat in the passing game, but should be counted on to open up space for the running backs

The Offensive Line returns only one starter in LT Devin Mondie, and will need some time to gel as a unit. The line does have some size and bulk to be successful, but new starters Alan Wright (So), Eric Allen (Jr), Cliff Mitchell, and Jake Campbell have to play above their abilities if they want to succeed in a tough Sun Belt conference.

Grade: C

Defense:

This is a veteran bunch, that features 8 starting seniors. DC Jim Leavitt has been salivating over this unit, and made coming back to the college coaching ranks easier for the former disgraced head coach.

Before the season started, the ends of the line only featured one underclassman in Timothy Starson. The team was able to convince Senior Ryan Carrethers to take a redshirt year, so that next year he and Starson could provide the leadership for the ends.

LE John Gandy has been gearing up all offseason to lead this team, and was seen in the on campus weight room and training facilities. The staff raves about his preparation, and forsee a huge year from the senior.

Redshirt Sophomore Amos Draper will be moving into a starting DT role, with Darius Rosser coming in when the team uses a 4-3 front. Both Draper and Rosser are under-sized by DT standards (270 and 256 pounds respectively), but plan to use multiple fronts to showcase their athleticism.

The team returns all three starting linebackers in Nick Nelms, Nathan Herrold, and Eddie Porter. Depth within the linebacker room does cause some concerns, as the two top backups are true freshman Darius Buckley and redshirt freshman Jason Card. The team does see big things for MLB Nathan Herrold, and are high on his tackling ability and rave about his leadership.

It was no secret that James Bradberry was considering transferring this offseason, but Coach Cameron was able to talk him into staying for his senior year. He gives the defense a huge boost, as many scout seem to think Bradberry could be playing on Sundays.

The other starting corner, Chris Humes, is also a senior but he is best talents lie in the return game, and will be splitting those duties with RB Anthony Kincy. Behind Bradberry and Humes are a trio of Juniors (Ryan Jacobs, Chaz Scales, and Cole Lorigan). All three aren't experienced, but the staff will be rotating them to see who could lead this unit after Bradberry and Humes graduate. The staff is high on redshirt Freshmen Artez Brown and Taurean Holmes, but they face long odds to see any game action this year.

Five out of the 6 Safeties are all Seniors, with only Sterling Young an underclassman. As they did with Ryan Carrethers, they asked Johnathan Victorian to take a redshirt year so that they could have some stability in the future.

For the present, the unit is highlighted by Don Jones and Andrew Tryon as the starters. Coach Cameron, who knows a thing or two about the safety posistion has been very involved with coaching up both men. While not a starter, the team does love Brock Barnhill's versatility and plan to use him in different formations.



Grade: B-



Specialists:

Max Coffin battled Ryan Wilbourn in camp for the starting kicker job, with Coffin winning out. The team wasn't happy with either, and confidence is low with the two.

Starting Punter Neely Sullivent is a senior, but never showcased an amazing leg, having the lowest net punting average amongst punters in the conference.

Grade: D





Overall: C





Schedule:

Week 1: vs Slippery Rock
Week 2: at Illinois
Week 3: vs Memphis
Week 4: at #24 Virginia Tech
Week 5: Bye
Week 6: at Western Kentucky
Week 7: at UL Monroe
Week 8: Bye
Week 9: vs FIU
Week 10: vs North Texas
Week 11: at FAU
Week 12: vs Louisianna
Week 13: at Middle Tennessee State
Week 14: Bye
Week 15: vs Troy


Prediction: 9-3

Arkansas State Red Wolves 2012 Roster
#	OFFENSE	POS	HT	WT	CLASS	HOMETOWN
16	Ryan Aplin	QB	6'1	205	Jr (R)	Pompano Beach, FL
11	Phillip Butterfield	QB	6'2	215	So (R)	Van Buren, AR
13	Fredi Knighten	QB	6'2	205	Fr (R)	Magee, AR
22	Anthony Kincy	HB	5'11	210	Sr (R)	Springdale, AR
43	Kendrick Daniels	HB	5'11	230	Sr (R)	Mountain Brook, AR
27	JD McKissic	HB	5'11	190	Fr (R)	Lynchburg, TN
6	Frankie Jackson - Redshirt	HB	5'9	185	So	Ponchatoula, LA
45	Christian Flewellen	HB	5'11	190	So (R)	Soddy - Daisy, TX
88	Kenneth Rains	FB	6'4	250	So	Bryant, AR
17	Allen Muse	WR	6'4	215	Jr	DeRidder, LA
9	DeKeathan Williams	WR	5'9	180	Sr	Alahambra, CA
2	Taylor Stockemer	WR	6'4	210	Jr (R)	Morrilton, AR
1	Carlos McCants	WR	5'11	185	So (R)	Tuskegee, AL
82	Warren Leapheart	WR	5'10	170	So	Hazelhurst, MS
3	Josh Jarboe - Redshirt	WR	5'11	165	Fr	Forrest City, AR
81	Kelsey Collins	WR	5'10	175	Jr (R)	West Memphis, AR
83	Earl Lucas - Redshirt	WR	5'10	185	Fr	Anniston, AL
80	William Boyd	WR	5'10	175	Fr (R)	Cherokee Village, AR
85	Kedric Murray	TE	6'3	265	Jr (R)	Pell City, AL
18	Darrion Griswold	TE	6'1	215	Jr (R)	Southlake, TX
86	Steven Reid	TE	6'2	225	So (R)	Gibson, AR
70	Devin Mondie	LT	6'5	305	Sr (R)	Cocoa, FL
71	Steven Stevens	LT	6'5	315	So	Camden, AR
58	Tyler Greve	LT	6'3	290	Fr (R)	North Little Rock, AR
69	Alan Wright	LG	6'4	295	So	Van Buren, AR
64	John Roach	LG	6'5	280	So (R)	Cherokee Village, AR
61	Colton Jackson - Redshirt	LG	6'3	265	Fr	Piedmont, AL
55	Eric Allen	C	6'1	300	Jr (R)	Talladega, AL
75	Chris Tolbert	C	6'5	275	So (R)	Selma, AL
63	Cliff Mitchell	RG	6'5	305	Jr	Levelland, TX
68	Bryce Giddens	RG	6'6	319	So	Horn Lake, MS
59	Jake Campbell	RT	6'6	320	So (R)	Urbana, IL
78	Tyler Mckee	RT	6'2	315	So (R)	Clarksville, AL
#	DEFENSE	POS	HT	WT	CLASS	HOMETOWN
96	John Gandy	LE	6'5	250	Sr (R)	Greenville, AL
91	Timothy Starson	LE	6'5	255	Jr (R)	Sherwood, AR
47	Dexter Blackman	RE	6'2	250	Sr (R)	Powell, TN
99	Julian Green	RE	6'3	255	Sr	Big Spring, TX
98	Ryan Carrethers - Redshirt	RE	6'5	249	Sr	Deer Park, TX
97	Amos Draper	DT	6'3	270	So (R)	Hamilton, AL
92	Darius Rosser	DT	6'3	265	Sr (R)	Affton, MO
79	Shevarius Jackson	DT	5'11	305	Sr	Fort Rucker, AL
65	Ryan Eustace	DT	6'2	310	So (R)	Bristol, TN
94	Markell Owens	DT	6'2	280	Fr (R)	Erwin, TN
23	Nick Nelms	LOLB	6'3	230	Sr (R)	Winona, MS
50	Darius Buckley	LOLB	6'0	215	Fr	Daleville, AL
40	Nathan Herrold	MLB	6'3	235	Jr (R)	Ferguson, MO
52	Quanterrio Heath	MLB	6'0	235	Sr (R)	Pocahontas, AR
30	Cade Oliver	MLB	6'0	230	Sr	Jasmine Estates, FL
32	Eddie Porter	ROLB	5'11	225	Jr	Cookeville, TN
48	Jason Card	ROLB	5'11	210	Fr (R)	Texarkana, AR
41	La'Angelo Albright	ROLB	5'11	205	So (R)	Foley, AL
39	James Bradberry	CB	5'11	175	Sr	North Pontiac, MD
29	Chris Humes	CB	5'11	185	Sr	North Las Vegas, NV
31	Ryan Jacobs	CB	5'10	190	Jr	Soddy - Daisy, TN
25	Chaz Scales	CB	5'9	170	Jr	Mount Juliet, TN
20	Cole Lorigan	CB	5'10	170	Jr (R)	Maumelle, AR
2	Terrious Triplett - Redshirt	CB	5'10	185	So	Maumelle, AR
1	Artez Brown	CB	6'2	185	Fr (R)	Haleyville, AL
8	Taurean Holmes	CB	5'11	195	Fr (R)	Demopolis, AL
4	Don Jones	FS	6'2	200	Sr (R)	Etowah, TN
35	Rocky Hayes	FS	6'2	185	Sr (R)	Manteca, CA
33	Johnathan Victorian - Redshirt	FS	6'0	185	Sr	Affton, MO
21	Andrew Tryon	SS	6'2	195	Sr (R)	Decatur, GA
37	Brock Barnhill	SS	6'0	190	Sr	Zephryhills, FL
7	Sterling Young	SS	6'0	190	So (R)	Dunlap, TN
#	SPECIAL TEAMS	POS	HT	WT	CLASS	HOMETOWN
88	Max Coffin	K	5'8	160	So	Pleasanton, CA
89	Ryan Wilbourn - Redshirt	K	5'11	160	So	Gallatin, TN
15	Neely Sullivent	P	6'0	190	Sr (R)	Cherokee Village, AR

[JasonForTheWin]

*** I forgot to say that I haven't played this game since 2011. I am playing on the basic Heisman skill level, but will adjust the sliders as needed, because I want to make this as realistic as possible. I will be playing with 8 minute quarters.

Red Wolves Pulverize The Rock; Coach Cameron Wins In Debut

Jonesboro - The Red Wolves of Arkansas State easily defeated Slippery Rock 49-19 in Head Coach Jason Cameron's debut in Jonesboro.

Although happy with the win, the coach wasn't thrilled the the Red Wolves overall performance Saturday. "We didn't execute how I would have liked to see. (QB Ryan) Aplin is still getting used to Coach Martin's schemes, but he turned the ball over on some throw we'd like to have back" Coach Cameron said, referring to Ryan Aplin's 2 interceptions, one of which occured on the very first play from scrimmage, as he underthrew Dekeathan Williams on a go route.

"We also need to execute better in the ground game, especially with some tough defenses coming up on the schedule"

The Red Wolves offense did start the night on a roll, taking an early 14-0 lead on the backs of two Aplin TDs, the first to RB Anthony Kincy and the second on a deep 73 yard pass to DeKeathan Williams.

Williams would also score on a 11 yard reverse in the second quarter. He ended the game with 2 catches for 81 yards to go along with the 11 yard scamper.

'We love DeKeathan's speed that he brings to our offense. We just need to find a way to get him more involved, because he can take it to the house any time he touches the ball." said Offensive Coordinator Tee Martin, referring to Williams only seeing 4 balls thrown his way, bringing down 2 of them.

While QB Ryan Aplin's stat line at the end of the night (16-32, 226 yards, 3 TDs, 2 INT) looks decent, it looks pedestrian when you factor in the quality of the opponent in Slippery Rock.

"I thought I saw the game good today, but it's on me to put us in position to score more." Aplin said.

"Look, we won the game by 30. That's some damn good football. We just need to tighten it up. Not make these little mistakes." Coach Cameron said.

Some of those mistakes include starting WR Taylor Stockemer dropping 3 passes, one of which was intercepted after it bounced off his shoulder pad.

Although HB Anthony Kincy didn't get going in the run game (38 yards on 12 carries), he did haul in a pass for a TD and took a kick return back 91 yards for a TD, ending the game with 216 all purpose yards.

On the defensive side of the ball, Coach Cameron and Defensive Coordinator Jim Leavitt saw some good things to be happy about (8 sacks, 1 INT, 1 TD), they said that improvement is needed after allowing 308 yards.

"We aren't trying to devalue our opponent, because they are a darn good team." Leavitt said.

"But, we have to tighten up. Our coverages broke down too many times, and that is going to be on me to fix before next week." he continued.

When asked about the game, Coach Cameron said "Overall, I am very happy. We just have to dig in, get dirty, and get to work for next week. I am excited to see how we perform against some great competition."

The game, while never in question, does leave some question marks for the team, as they prepare for a decidedly more talented Iliinois team next week.

Slippery Rock The Rock at Arkansas State Red Wolves
Aug 28, 2011	1ST	2ND	3RD	4TH	SCORE
Slippery Rock The Rock (0-0)	0	10	0	9	19
Arkansas State Red Wolves (0-0)	14	14	7	14	49

Team Stats Comparison
		ARST
Total Offense	308	387
Rushing Yards	42	161
Passing Yards	266	226
First Downs	16	17
Punt Return Yards	1	53
Kick Return Yards	153	145
Total Yards	462	585
Turnovers	2	3
3rd Down Conversion	2-14-14%	5-12-41%
4th Down Conversion	2-2-100%	2-3-66%
2-Point Conversion	0-1-0%	0-0
Red Zone Touchdowns/Field Goals	4-2-2	4-3-0
Penalties	2-10	0
Possession Time	21:09	15:35

Scoring Summary
FIRST QUARTER SCORING			ARST
5:42	(ARST) Kincy 11 yd pass from Aplin (Coffin XP)	0	7
4:14	(ARST) Williams 73 yd pass from Aplin (Coffin XP)	0	14
SECOND QUARTER SCORING			ARST
7:29	(ARST) Williams 11 yd run (Coffin XP)	0	21
4:30	() Robert Tyler 39 yd FG	3	21
4:18	(ARST) Kincy 91 yd kick return (Coffin XP)	3	28
3:07	() Shawn King 19 yd pass from Jeff Zacek (Robert Tyler XP)	10	28
THIRD QUARTER SCORING			ARST
0:46	(ARST) McCants 6 yd pass from Aplin (Coffin XP)	10	35
FOURTH QUARTER SCORING			ARST
5:21	() Robert Tyler 40 yd FG	13	35
3:15	(ARST) Herrold 18 yd fumble recovery (Coffin XP)	13	42
1:53	() Dejuan Hawkins 9 yd pass from Jeff Zacek (2pt failed)	19	42
1:37	(ARST) Daniels 37 yd run (Coffin XP)	19	49

Slippery Rock The Rock

Arkansas State Red Wolves PASSING C/A YDS TD INT Ryan Aplin 16-32 226 3 2 Phillip Butterfield 0-3 0 0 1 RUSHING ATT YDS AVG TD Kendrick Daniels 5 55 11.0 1 Anthony Kincy 12 38 3.1 0 Ryan Aplin 8 27 3.3 0 Allen Muse 1 16 16.0 0 JD McKissic 3 14 4.6 0 DeKeathan Williams 1 11 11.0 1 RECEIVING REC YDS AVG TD Anthony Kincy 5 28 5.6 1 Allen Muse 3 31 10.3 0 Carlos McCants 3 30 10.0 1 DeKeathan Williams 2 81 40.5 1 Kedric Murray 2 35 17.5 0 Taylor Stockemer 1 21 21.0 0 DEFENSE TACK SACK INT TD Nathan Herrold 6 0.5 0 1 Ryan Jacobs 6 2.0 0 0 James Bradberry 3 0 0 0 Andrew Tryon 3 0 1 0 Nick Nelms 2 1.0 0 0 Darius Rosser 2 2.0 0 0 Amos Draper 1 1.5 0 0 Dexter Blackmon 0 0.5 0 0 John Gandy 0 0.5 0 0 KICKING FG XP PTS LONG Max Coffin 0-1 6-6 6 0 PUNTING NO YDS AVG IN20 Neely Sullivent 1 32 32.0 0 KICK RETURN RET YDS AVG TD Anthony Kincy 1 91 91.0 1 Chaz Scales 2 53 26.5 0 Darion Griswold 1 1 1.0 0 PUNT RETURN RET YDS AVG TD Anthony Kincy 6 49 8.1 0 Chaz Scales 1 4 4.0 0

[JasonForTheWin]

Arkansas State Obliterated By Illinois; Lose 58-10

Champaign, IL - Outmatched. Outperformed. Outlandish.

That's how Red Wolves Head Coach Jason Cameron described Saturday's loss to Illinois at Memorial Stadium. The Arkansas State defense gave up 262 yards on the ground as Roderick Grant gashed the defense for 189 yards and 4 touchdowns.

"Quite simply. We got outerformed on all phases of the game, coaching included." Coach Cameron said.

"We knew they are a talented team, and we had some good practices during the week. But, when it came to gameday, we looked lost."

For the second consecutive week, heralded QB Ryan Aplin looked confused with Tee Martin's offense, and was benched at halftime. Aplin had a paltry stat line of 8-18, 77 yards, and 2 INTs. Backup Philip Butterfield didn't fare any better as he finished with 7-14, 75 yards, and 2 INTs.

Illinois defense was swarming all night, led by consensus All American Whitney Mercilus, who provided continuous pressure from the edge, finishing with a sack.

Due to the pressure from the front 7, including Akeem Spence (1 sack), the QBs had no time to find the open receivers, leading to miscues. Illinois LB Stephen McCoy led the team with 2 picks, while SS Travis Clark took a Kendrick Daniels fumble 33 yards back for a score.

The stagnant Arkansas State offense did get a burst from Anthony Kincy when he scored on a 66 yard run in the first. Kincy ended the game with 80 yards rushing.

For the second consecutive week, a running back led the team in the passing game, with JD McKissic catching 5 balls for 59 yards.

"We have got to get the passing game going. We have too much talent. Aplin is obviously struggling with picking some things up." Offiensive Coordinator Tee Martin said.

Martin said that they may have to simplify the offense to give Aplin more confidence, something that is quite alarming for Red Wolves fans, as the expectations were high that Aplin would really shine this year under Tee Martin's guidance.

On the defense, the team couldn't muster any pressure, ending the game with one sack a week after they got 8.

The fact that Roderick Grant ran the ball at will on the defense is a bad sign for the team. "We are going to get that fixed. Believe me." said Defensive Coordinator Jim Leavitt.

CB James Bradberry, who Coach Cameron made a priority to bring back this year, allowed Illinois WR Joe Moore to get behind him at crucial times, allowing Moore to score 2 times. Despite that, the coaching staff isn't worried.

"We believe in Brads." Coach Cameron said.

"He did struggle a bit, but on the whole, we think he did alright. He held their top wideout to under 75 yards, which is impressive with a great QB they have in Scheelhaase. He even managed to grab a pick himself."

The team will be home next week as they welcome the Memphis Tigers. The team will look to get the passing game going as their top 3 wideouts have a combined 14 catches through two weeks.

Arkansas State Red Wolves at Illinois Fighting Illini
Sep 3, 2011	1ST	2ND	3RD	4TH	SCORE
Arkansas State Red Wolves (1-0)	7	3	0	0	10
Illinois Fighting Illini (0-0)	10	14	31	3	58

Team Stats Comparison
	ARST	ILL
Total Offense	200	490
Rushing Yards	48	262
Passing Yards	152	228
First Downs	9	17
Punt Return Yards	0	23
Kick Return Yards	233	74
Total Yards	433	587
Turnovers	5	2
3rd Down Conversion	3-13-23%	4-9-44%
4th Down Conversion	1-1-100%	0-0
2-Point Conversion	0-0	0-0
Red Zone Touchdowns/Field Goals	1-0-1	3-3-0
Penalties	0	1-15
Possession Time	15:31	16:29

Scoring Summary
FIRST QUARTER SCORING		ARST	ILL
6:18	(ILL) Roderick Grant 63 yd run (Derek Dimke XP)	0	7
3:30	(ILL) Derek Dimke 42 yd FG	0	10
0:58	(ARST) Kincy 66 yd run (Coffin XP)	7	10
SECOND QUARTER SCORING		ARST	ILL
6:26	(ILL) Roderick Grant 1 yd run (Derek Dimke XP)	7	17
0:54	(ARST) Coffin 18 yd FG	10	17
0:14	(ILL) Roderick Grant 8 yd run (Derek Dimke XP)	10	24
THIRD QUARTER SCORING		ARST	ILL
6:40	(ILL) Joe Moore 35 yd pass from Nathan Scheelhaase (Derek Dimke XP)	10	31
5:12	(ILL) Derek Dimke 39 yd FG	10	34
3:07	(ILL) Joe Moore 5 yd pass from Nathan Scheelhaase (Derek Dimke XP)	10	41
1:04	(ILL) Roderick Grant 33 yd run (Derek Dimke XP)	10	48
0:51	(ILL) Travis Clark 33 yd fumble recovery (Derek Dimke XP)	10	55
FOURTH QUARTER SCORING		ARST	ILL
2:02	(ILL) Derek Dimke 44 yd FG	10	58

Arkansas State Red Wolves PASSING C/A YDS TD INT Ryan Aplin 8-18 77 0 2 Phillip Butterfield 7-14 75 0 2 RUSHING ATT YDS AVG TD Anthony Kincy 6 80 13.3 1 JD McKissic 4 12 3.0 0 Kendrick Daniels 2 5 2.5 0 Taylor Stockemer 2 -2 -1.0 0 Phillip Butterfield 2 -10 -5.0 0 Ryan Aplin 8 -37 -4.6 0 RECEIVING REC YDS AVG TD JD McKissic 5 59 11.8 0 DeKeathan Williams 5 38 7.6 0 Allen Muse 3 15 5.0 0 Kedric Murray 1 30 30.0 0 Carlos McCants 1 10 10.0 0 DEFENSE TACK SACK INT TD Andrew Tryon 5 0 0 0 Nathan Herrold 5 0 0 0 Jason Card 4 0 0 0 Nick Nelms 3 0 0 0 Don Jones 3 0 0 0 James Bradberry 2 0 1 0 Darius Rosser 1 1.0 0 0 KICKING FG XP PTS LONG Max Coffin 1-1 1-1 4 19 PUNTING NO YDS AVG IN20 Neely Sullivent 6 221 36.8 1 KICK RETURN RET YDS AVG TD Anthony Kincy 6 126 21.0 0 Chaz Scales 5 107 21.4 0

Illinois Fighting Illini PASSING C/A YDS TD INT Nathan Scheelhaase 11-20 184 2 1 RUSHING ATT YDS AVG TD Roderick Grant 25 189 7.6 4 RECEIVING REC YDS AVG TD Joe Moore 4 75 18.7 2 DEFENSE TACK SACK INT TD Travis Clark 5 0 0 1 Nathan White 4 2.0 0 0 Stephen McCoy 3 0 2 0 Jonathan Smith 2 0 1 0 Shawn White 2 0 1 0 Akeem Spence 1 1.0 0 0 Whitney Mercilus 1 1.0 0 0 KICKING FG XP PTS LONG Derek Dimke 3-3 7-7 16 45

[JasonForTheWin]

Phillip Butterfield Sparks Team; Red Wolves Down Memphis 21-18

Jonesboro, AR - For the second consecutive week Arkansas State's star QB Ryan Aplin's poor performance led to a halftime benching, paving the way for backup QB Phillip Butterfield to secure a much needed win against the Memphis Tigers.

Aplin looked good early on, leading the Red Wolves down the field on the opening possession, connecting on all 5 passing attempts, before finding TE Kedric Murray in the endzone.

However, as the game went on, Aplin began to unravel. To end the first half, the offense turned the ball over on 3 consecutive downs. Aplin first fumbled the ball away in the redzone, before throwing 2 picks.

Down 10-7 at halftime, Head Coach Jason Cameron inserted QB Phillip Butterfield into the game, believing the quarterback would provide a spark to a listless offense.

With Butterfield under center, the team was able to move the ball downfield, getting WR DeKeathan Williams involved in the game. Williams hauled in 6 catches, going 711 yards, and scoring the go-ahead touchdown.

With Aplin at QB, Williams only managed one catch for 4 yards.

"DeKeathan is a special player. In order to win games, we have to get him involved, no matter who is behind center." said Offensive Coordinator Tee Martin, who has to be asking himself if Ryan Aplin is able to lead the type of up-tempo style of offense that he wants to implement.

"I still believe in Ryan." Martin said. "Ryan just needs to believe in Ryan."

With Virginia Tech and conference games on the horizon, one has to wonder if Ryan Aplin is a lost cause.

"There is no controversy here. Ryan Aplin is our starter." Head Coach Jason Cameron said after the game.

Aplin, who on the season is 35-71, 401 yards, 4 TDs to go with 6 INTs, might have to get used with Phillip Butterfield looming over his shoulder.

"We will continue to go with Ryan as our 1. Phillip has proven to us that he is a gamer, but for our team to be successful, Ryan has got to be the man." Coach Cameron reiterated.

With a running game that hasn't had a 100 yard rusher all year, the QB is the most important element to the teams success.

RB Anthony Kincy rushed for 84 yards on 13 carries, while backups Kendrick Daniels and JD Mckissic combined for 76 yards in relief.

The Offensive Line was able to provide both Aplin and Butterfield with time, not allowing a sack for the first time this year.

On Defense, the Red Wolves stood strong, only allowing 34 yards on the ground after last weeks disastrous performance.

Through the air, they allowed to TDs, but generally held up, with James Bradberry snagging two interceptions and LB Nathan Herrold getting one as well.

Defensive Coordinator Jim Leavitt would like to see more pressure up front, but was happy with the teams 3 sacks on the day (Gandy, Herrold, and Rosser all getting to QB Alex Kelly)

"Happy by the performance today, but I think we can get so much more." Coach Leavitt said.

"We live by Coach Cameron's mantra of digging in and getting dirty."

If the team has any chance of winning next week, that's exactly what they will have to do, as they face a Virginia Tech team that was embarrassed last week by a 34-27 loss to East Carolina that knocked them out of the Top 25.

Memphis Tigers at Arkansas State Red Wolves
Sep 10, 2011	1ST	2ND	3RD	4TH	SCORE
Memphis Tigers (0-1)	3	7	0	8	18
Arkansas State Red Wolves (1-1)	7	0	7	7	21

Team Stats Comparison
	MEM	ARST
Total Offense	317	340
Rushing Yards	34	159
Passing Yards	283	181
First Downs	13	21
Punt Return Yards	17	41
Kick Return Yards	85	74
Total Yards	419	455
Turnovers	3	3
3rd Down Conversion	8-18-44%	5-14-35%
4th Down Conversion	1-3-33%	1-2-50%
2-Point Conversion	1-1-100%	0
Red Zone Touchdowns/Field Goals	3-1-1	4-3-0
Penalties	2-5	0
Possession Time	12:56	19:04

Scoring Summary
FIRST QUARTER SCORING		MEM	ARST
5:38	(ARST) Murray 6yd pass from Aplin (Coffin XP)	0	7
4:38	(MEM) Paul Williams 33 yd FG	3	7
SECOND QUARTER SCORING		MEM	ARST
6:47	(MEM) Chris Frazier 82 yd pass from Alex Kelly (Paul Williams XP)	10	7
THIRD QUARTER SCORING		MEM	ARST
2:15	(ARST) Williams 5 yd pass from Butterfield (Coffin XP)	10	14
FOURTH QUARTER SCORING		MEM	ARST
6:22	(ARST) Butterfield 4 yd run (Coffin XP)	10	21
0:48	(MEM) Charles Felder 1 yd pass from Alex Kelly (2PT Good)	18	21

Memphis Tigers PASSING C/A YDS TD INT Alex Kelly 21-39 283 2 3 RUSHING ATT YDS AVG TD Ernest Lewis 19 66 3.4 0 RECEIVING REC YDS AVG TD Charles Felder 4 58 14.5 1 Chris Frazier 3 98 32.6 1 DEFENSE TACK SACK INT TD Jack Harrell 12 0 0 0 Edwin Woodard 6 0 1 0 Jacob Daughtery 3 0 1 0 KICKING FG XP PTS LONG Paul Williams 1-1 1-1 4 33

Arkansas State Red Wolves PASSING C/A YDS TD INT Ryan Aplin 11-21 98 1 2 Philip Butterfield 7-14 83 1 0 RUSHING ATT YDS AVG TD Antony Kincy 13 84 6.4 0 JD McKissic 13 44 3.3 0 DeKeathan Williams 1 2 2.0 0 Philip Butterfield 2 0 0.0 1 Ryan Aplin 3 -3 -1.0 RECEIVING REC YDS AVG TD DeKeathan Williams 6 71 11.8 1 Taylor Stockemer 3 41 13.6 0 Kedric Murray 3 17 5.6 1 Anthony Kincy 3 17 5.6 0 Allen Muse 2 32 16.0 0 Kendric Daniels 1 3 3.0 0 DEFENSE TACK SACK INT TD Andrew Tryon 6 0 0 0 John Gandy 4 1.0 0 0 Nathan Herrold 3 1.0 1 0 Darius Rosser 2 1.0 0 0 James Bradberry 2 0 2 0 KICKING FG XP PTS LONG Max Coffin 0-1 3-3 3 0 PUNTING NO YDS AVG IN20 Neely Sullivent 4 160 40.0 2 KICK RETURN RET YDS AVG TD Anthony Kincy 3 74 24.6 0 PUNT RETURN RET YDS AVG TD Anthony Kincy 4 24 6.0 0 Chaz Scales 1 17 17.0 0

[JasonForTheWin]

Logan Thomas and Hokies Cruise To Easy Victory; Defeat Arkansas State 66-17

Blacksburg, VA - The Red Wolves of Arkansas State showed up to Blacksburg. That's about all you can say for their performance on Saturday. Outside of a 96 yard kick return by Anthony Kincy, there wasn't a lot to get excited about for Red Wolves fans.

"We got our *expletive* handed to us today. We have next weekend off, and we are going to use that time to work on all facets of the game." Head Coach Jason Cameron said.

"We are going to use this as motivation as we head into the real meat of the schedule."

Virginia Tech QB Logan Thomas had a career best day, throwing 364 yards for 5 touchdowns. In the 4th Quarter, Thomas gave way to backup JuJu Clayton, who added 2 more touchdown passes.

"We need to tighten up." Defensive Coordinator Jim Leavitt said.

"We were outmatched and outcoached. That's on me. We didn't get any pressure, and set up our defensive backs up for failure."

For the first time this season, the Arkansas State defense didn't register a sack.

"We didn't win any one-on-one battles, and that dictated how they played against us." DE John Gandy said.

"We will fix that, best believe."

The offense couldn't get moving on the Hokies stout defense. It was also hampered when early on when their star WR DeKeathan Williams exited the game with a pulled groin. Williams will be evaluated tommorrow, and if he misses any time, it will be a blow to the offense.

QB Ryan Aplin showed improvement, even without Williams on the field, throwing for 204 yards. He connected with Allen Muse late in the game on a 20 yard touchdown. Aplin was able to move the team downfield, but two costly interceptions in the red zoned doomed the team.

In 5 times in the Red Zone, the team only manage 3 points, on a 24 yard FG from Max Coffin.


The team will be off next week, as they prepare for Sun Belt Conference play, begining with a trip to Western Kentucky.

"We are 2-2 right now. This is the heart of the season. We have got to get off to a great start in the conference." Head Coach Jason Cameron said.

"It's time to dig in, and get dirty."

Arkansas State Red Wolves at Virginia Tech Hokies
Sep 17, 2011	1ST	2ND	3RD	4TH	SCORE
Arkansas State Red Wolves (2-1)	7	3	0	7	17
Virginia Tech Hokies (1-1)	17	21	14	14	66

Team Stats Comparison
	ARST	VT
Total Offense	272	623
Rushing Yards	68	184
Passing Yards	204	439
First Downs	12	23
Punt Return Yards	24	83
Kick Return Yards	184	51
Total Yards	480	757
Turnovers	2	0
3rd Down Conversion	2-16-12%	5-15-33%
4th Down Conversion	0-0	1-1-100%
2-Point Conversion	0-0	0-0
Red Zone Touchdowns/Field Goals	5-0-1	8-4-0
Penalties	4-35	8-70
Possession Time	13:58	18:02

Scoring Summary
FIRST QUARTER SCORING		ARST	VT
7:10	(VT) Jarrett Boykin 56 yd pass from Logan Thomas (Jason Myer XP)	0	7
6:33	(VT) David Wilson 24 yd run (Jason Myer XP)	0	14
3:56	(VT) Jason Myer 44 yd FG	0	17
3:52	(ARST) Anthony Kincy 96 yd kick return (Coffin XP)	7	17
SECOND QUARTER SCORING		ARST	VT
3:56	(VT) David Wilson 6 yd run (Jason Myer XP)	7	24
1:33	(VT) Dyrell Roberts 30 yd pass from Logan Thomas (Jason Myer XP)	7	31
0:46	(ARST) Max Coffin 24 yd FG	10	31
0:00	(VT) Jarrett Boykin 41 yd pass from Logan Thomas (Jason Myer XP)	10	38
THIRD QUARTER SCORING		ARST	VT
5:53	(VT) Dyrell Roberts 24 yd pass from Logan Thomas (Jason Myer XP)	10	45
3:52	(VT) Jarrett Boykin 12 yd pass from Logan Thomas (Jason Myer XP)	10	52
FOURTH QUARTER SCORING		ARST	VT
4:34	(VT) Danny Coales 14 yd pass from JuJu Clayton (Jason Myer XP)	10	59
3:41	(ARST) Muse 20 yd pass from Aplin (Coffin XP)	17	59
2:22	(VT) Dyrell Roberts 5 yd pass from JuJu Clayton (Jason Myer XP)	17	66

Arkansas State Red Wolves PASSING C/A YDS TD INT Ryan Aplin 17-39 204 1 2 Phillip Butterfield 0-3 0 0 0 RUSHING ATT YDS AVG TD Anthony Kincy 16 59 5.6 0 Ryan Aplin 1 5 5.0 0 JD McKissic 2 2 1.0 0 Kendrick Daniels 2 2 1.0 0 Allen Muse 1 2 2.0 0 Taylor Stockemer 1 -2.0 -2.0 0 RECEIVING REC YDS AVG TD Allen Muse 5 64 12.8 1 Carlos McCants 3 62 20.6 0 Kedric Murray 2 16 8.0 0 Anthony Kincy 2 8 4.0 0 Taylor Stockemer 1 26 26.0 0 DeKeathan Williams 1 10 10.0 0 JD McKissic 1 9 9.0 0 Darion Griswold 1 7 7.0 0 Kenneth Rains 1 2 2.0 DEFENSE TACK SACK INT TD Darius Rosser 5 0 0 0 Nick Nelms 4 0 0 0 Chris Humes 4 0 0 0 Ryan Jacobs 3 0 0 0 KICKING FG XP PTS LONG Max Coffin 1-1 2-2 5 24 PUNTING NO YDS AVG IN20 Neely Sullivent 13 582 44.7 1 KICK RETURN RET YDS AVG TD Anthony Kincy 4 166 41.5 1 Chaz Scales 1 18 18.0 0 PUNT RETURN RET YDS AVG TD Anthony Kincy 3 24 8.0

Virginia Tech Hokies PASSING C/A YDS TD INT Logan Thomas 21-35 364 5 0 JuJu Clayton 7-10 75 2 0 RUSHING ATT YDS AVG TD David Wilson 21 108 5.1 2 RECEIVING REC YDS AVG TD Jarrett Boykin 8 171 21.3 3 Dyrell Roberts 7 128 18.2 3 Danny Coale 6 77 12.8 1 DEFENSE TACK SACK INT TD Martin Manis 5 1.0 0 0 Antone Hopkins 4 2.0 0 0 Kris Harley 3 1.0 0 0 JR Collins 3 1.0 0 0 Chris Hill 1 0 1 0 Tariq Edwards 1 0 1 0 KICKING FG XP PTS LONG Jason Myer 1-1 9-9 12 44