Tigers fall to undefeated Lane Dragons

Sept. 30, 2006

TUSCALOOSA, AL --- A field goal crossbar is all that separated the Stillman Tigers and the Lane Dragons Saturday evening at Stillman Stadium. Stillman dropped its second home game of the season to the Dragons.

The game started out as a defensive slugfest and ended in a shootout that saw Lane converted a game winning 23-yard field goal. The kick hit the right upright, fell onto the cross bar and was called good to give the Dragons a 24-21 victory with five seconds remaining in the game.

Stillman started the scoring when Charles McCullum connected with Marcus Bryant for a 37-yard touchdown pass at the 3:03 mark in the first quarter.

At the 4:57 mark in the second quarter Lane quarterback Sherard Ellis capped a 67-yard drive with a one yard scoring run. Justin Miranda’s extra point kick gave Lane a 7-6 advantage.

After a third quarter that was dominated by solid defensive play four touchdowns were scored in the fourth. With 11:57 remaining in the game Stillman pulled ahead when Phillip Bryant hauled in a 10-yard pass from McCullum for a TD. The Tigers converted a two-point conversion when McCullum found an open Antoine Autrey in the back of the end zone for a 14-7 lead.

Lane tied the score at the 8:53 mark when Ellis ran 10-yards for a TD. At the 4:18 mark Ellis scored from one-yard out. Miranda’s kick gave Lane a 21-14 lead.

With 1:06 remaining in the game McCullum completed an eight play, 80-yard drive with a 19-yard TD strike to Kenneth Brown. Petar Obradovic’s extra point kick tied the game 21-21. 

Lane (6-0, 3-0) finished the game with 303 total offensive yards and Stillman (1-4, 0-4) recorded 286 total yards. The Dragons rushed for 85-yards and passed for another 218, while Stillman rushed for 65-yards and passed for 221.

McCullum completed 15-of-24 pass attempts for a game high 221 passing yards, three TDs and an interception. Ellis went 20-33 for 218. He also led all rushers with 52-yards and three TDs. Quinn Porter led Stillman with 36-yards. Lane’s Jacoby Jones led all receivers with nine receptions for 90 yards. Edward Williams caught five passes for the Dragons for 57-yards. Marcus Bryant led Stillman with three catches for 39-yards and a TD, Phillip Bryant made three receptions for 32-yards and a TD, and Brown made two catches for 30-yards and a score.

Clifton Stanford recorded a game-high eight tackles for Lane. Denatay Heard, Larry Albert, Sammie Lee Hill and Chad Bryant recorded seven tackles each.

Stillman will return to action Saturday, October 7 when the Tigers host Fort Valley State University at Stillman Stadium for the 5th Annual Druid City Classic. Kick-off is scheduled for 5:00 pm.

-Tigers-

STILLMAN vs. LANE

Stillman Stadium

Broadcast on: AM 790 WTSK (Saturday, Sept. 30 * 5:00 PM)

The Stillman College football team will play only its second game on its campus. Stillman Stadium is normally a refuge for the Tigers, but an undefeated Lane Dragons team (5-0, 2-0) is coming to Tuscaloosa, Alabama Saturday evening.

Since Stillman Stadium opened in 1999 the Tigers have a 21-10 home record. The 1-3 Tigers opened the home season with a 24-6 loss to Tuskegee. Coming off of a tough game against rival the Miles Golden Bears (4-0), who sit atop the SIAC standings, the Tigers now have to face the second ranked team in the conference.

Considering the way the 2006 season is shaping up Saturday's match up is now one of the more anticipated games of the week in the SIAC. Despite the 0-3 conference record Stillman is considered one of the most exciting teams in the conference and the Dragons have dominated their opponents. Lane has several weapons on offense. The Dragons have a very good quarterback who can run and pass equally well and a group of receivers, led by All-Conference performer Jacoby Jones, that can stretch the field.

The Dragons are coming off a 23-15 win over Clark Atlanta. Offensively Lane recorded 260 total yards. Jones opened the game with an 85-yard kick off return. Defensively Lane allowed Clark Atlanta 248 total yards.

In the 6th Annual Steel City Classic the Tigers had solid performances on both sides of the ball. Stillman dominated the game, out gaining Miles 311 to 127 total yards. But poor field position and crucial turnovers kept Stillman from winning. Early in the game Miles blocked a punt and recovered it for a touchdown. Late in the fourth quarter a Stillman receiver bobbled pass, in the end zone, and a Miles defender intercepted it.

Quarterback Charles McCullum had another outstanding performance in the losing effort. He rushed for a team high 41-yards and passed for 249. Wide receiver Marcus Bryant recorded a game high four receptions for 91 yards. Alex Dumeus led Stillman's defense with 12 tackles, five tackles for a loss, and a sack.

Stillman's running game may determine the outcome of Saturday's game. Stillman has the No. 2 ranked pass offense in the SIAC (257 yds/gme), but are ranked No. 10 in rushing (57.5 yds/gme). Lane is ranked first in scoring offense (30.8 pts/gme). The Tigers must do a better job of running the ball to keep the potent Lane offense on the sidelines.

Kick-off is scheduled for 5:00 pm. General admission prices are $15 (adults) and $6 (children 12 years and under). For more ticket information contact the Stillman Business Office at 205-366-8872

Players to Watch:

LC (WR Virgil Union, WR Jacoby Jones, WR Edward Williams, QB Sherard Ellis)

SC (QB Charles McCullum, WR Marcus Bryant, DB Denatay Heard, TE Phillip Bryant)

-Tigers-

Tigers unable to tame Golden Bears in Steel City Classic

Sept. 25, 2006

BIRMINGHAM, AL --- Turnovers and mistakes proved to be Stillman's Achilles heel in Sunday's 6th Annual Steel City Classic against conference rival, the Miles Golden Bears. Miles took advantage of Stillman's mistakes to take a 21-14 victory.

The game got off to a bad start for Stillman. On the first possession of the game Miles' Jessee Bailey intercepted a Charles McCullum pass that set up the Golden Bears' first score of the game. Terrance Standfield and Derrick Hector connected for a 16-yard touchdown pass. Stillman's Denatay Heard blocked the extra point kick, making the score 6-0.

Stillman responded on the very next possession. McCullum led the Tigers on an eight play, 75-yard drive that ended with a 15-yard completion to tight end Phillip Bryant for a touchdown. Petar Obradovic's extra point kick gave Stillman its only lead in the game at 7-6.

At the 4:02 mark in the third quarter Miles' Marcus Byner blocked a Stillman punt and Michael Mason recovered and returned it 11-yards for a touchdown. Miles went for and converted the two-point conversion, giving the Golden Bears a 14-7 lead.

The Tigers tied the game at the 2:50 mark in the third on a 71-yard catch and run by full back Arthur Harris. Obradovic's kick made the score 14-14.

Miles scored the final points of the game when Standfield found Vernon Dozier for a 33-yard completion with 12:38 remaining in the game. With the win Miles improves to a 3-0 SIAC record.

Stillman (1-3 overall; 0-3 SIAC) will return to action Saturday, Sept. 30 when the Tigers host the Lane Dragons at Stillman Stadium in SIAC action. Kick off is scheduled for 5:00 pm.

-Tigers-

STILLMAN vs. MILES

6th ANNUAL STEEL CITY CLASSIC

Televised on ESPNU (Sunday, Sept. 24, 2006)

The Stillman football team will make their third appearance in a nationally televised game when the Tigers travel to Birmingham, Alabama to face rival Miles College in the 6th Annual Steel City Classic on Sunday, Sept. 24.

Fans can expect an exciting game when Stillman and Miles meet. The Tigers (1-2; 0-2 SIAC) are hungry for a win. Stillman is coming off a tough 14-7 loss to Albany State and the Golden Bears are riding high atop the SIAC after beating Fort Valley State 15-7.

Miles has emerged as a top team in the SIAC while Stillman has struggled in the early part of the season. After being shut out in its first game against Division IAA Samford University, Miles bounced back by beating Tuskegee and Fort Valley State. Against FVSU Miles fell behind early, however the defense stepped up and the offense put points on the board thanks to the duo of Terrance Standfield (QB) and Tekino George (WR). Standfield and George connected for two touchdowns. Miles recorded 280 total yards of offense.

In Stillman’s Thursday night loss to ASU Charles McCullum (QB) and Brian Witherspoon (DB) had outstanding individual performances, however mistakes on special teams led directly to ASU’s points. Stillman fell behind early in the first quarter after having a punt blocked a Golden Ram recovered the ball in the end zone for a touchdown. Later in the game ASU took over possession on Stillman’s 20-yard line because of a poor punt and five plays later ASU’s quarterback rushed for a seven-yard touchdown for a 14-0 advantage.

Witherspoon (the SIAC 100 and 200 meter Track & Field Champion) returned a punt 51 yards for a touchdown, cutting the lead in half. McCullum led Stillman’s fourth quarter rally, but his fourth down pass fell incomplete in the end zone. The Tiger offense recorded 296 total yards, with McCullum passing for 218.

The outcome of the 6th Annual Steel City Classic may come down to special teams play. Miles is very sound on special teams and Stillman is looking for consistency in its kicking game.

Players to watch:

SC (QB Charles McCullum, WR Marcus Bryant, DB Denatay Heard, DB Brian Witherspoon, K Petar Obradovic)

MC (QB Terrance Standfield, LB Jasman Necence, WR Tekino George, SS Jesse Bailey)

-Tigers-

Stillman head coach to appear on sports talk show

Sept. 21, 2006

Stillman College head football coach Greg Thompson will be a guest on FROM THE PRESS BOX TO PRESS ROW Saturday evening. Thompson will talk about Stillman's football season to date, as well as Sunday's showdown with rival Miles College.

FROM THE PRESS BOX TO PRESS ROW is a nationally syndicated sports talk show. It is the premiere Historically Black College and Universities (HBCU) sports talk show in the nation. The show airs every Saturday from 4-5 pm CST.

Stillman (1-2) and Miles (2-1) will face off in the 6th Annual Steel City Classic at Legion Field in Birmingham, AL. The game will be the 13th meeting between Stillman and Miles. The game will be broadcast on ESPNU for the consecutive second year. Kick off is scheduled for 5 pm.

The show airs in Birmingham/Tuscaloosa, AL (WAGG-AM 610), Daytona Beach, FL (WELE-AM 1380), Hampton, VA (WHOV 88.1-FM), Milwaukee, WI (WGLB-AM 1560), Raleigh/Durham, NC (WAUG-AM 750), Orangeburg/Columbia, SC (WSSB-FM 90.3), Elizabeth City, NC (WRVS-FM 91.7, tape delayed), Greensboro, NC (WNAA-FM 90.1, tape delayed), Little Rock, AR (KABF-FM 88.3, tape delayed) and live on the Internet at www.boxtorow.com  

-Tigers-

Tigers unable to rally against Albany State

Sept. 15, 2006

ALBANY, GA --- The Stillman Tigers saw their last-chance pass fall incomplete in the end zone with just over 20 seconds remaining after taking three-time defending Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference champion Albany State to the wire before falling 14-7 Thursday night in college football action.

Stillman outgained the Golden Rams, rolling up 296 total yards to Albany State’s 229, and drove to a fourth-and-goal at the host team’s 5-yard line in the game’s final moments. Stillman quarterback Charles McCullum’s pass to Gibril Davies was tipped by a defender and fell incomplete in the end zone.

Albany State took a 7-0 lead with 13:14 to go in the opening period when Marcus Jefferson blocked a Stillman punt and recovered it in the end zone. Matt Hawthorne’s extra-point kick put the Golden Rams up 7-0.

Stillman fell behind 14-0 with 3:47 left in the first half when Albany State quarterback Kisan Flakes scored on a 7-yard run, capping a five play, 20 yard drive.

Stillman cut the lead in half on Brian Witherspoon’s 51-yard punt return for a touchdown with 5:46 to go in the third quarter. Petar Obradovic’s extra-point kick made it 14-7.

McCullum completed 19 of 38 passes for 218 yards with one interception and ran for 48 yards on 11 carries to lead Stillman. Iverson Williams caught six passes for 47 yards and Brown caught five for 59 yards.

Flakes went 7-for-12 for 70 yards with an interception for Albany State. Gary Neavins ran for 55 yards on 15 carries and caught three passes for 38 yards.

Alex Dumeus recorded a game high 10 tackles and Harvey Logan followed with nine tackles, two tackles for a loss and an interception. Eric Crosby led Albany State with eight tackles.

Stillman (1-2 overall, 0-2 SIAC) will play rival Miles on Sunday, Sept. 24, at Birmingham’s Legion Field at 5 p.m. in the Steel City Classic. The contest will be televised by ESPNU.

-Tigers-

STILLMAN vs. ALBANY STATE

Televised on CSTV (Thurs. Sept. 14, 2006)

The Stillman Tiger football team will make their second appearance in a nationally televised game this season as the Tigers (1-1; 0-1 SIAC) and the Albany State Golden Rams (1-2, 1-0 SIAC) square off on CSTV Thursday night.

Stillman is looking for its first conference victory to get back in contention for the SIAC crown, while Albany State is looking to make this season worthwhile by getting back atop the SIAC standings and fighting for the SIAC title for their 4th consecutive championship. Stillman is coming off a big win over Concordia College; their impressive victory over the NAIA team gave them some confidence in the offense. The victory was bitter sweet however; as the offense gained only 50 rushing yards and the defense gave up 339 total yards including 270 yards in the air. Turnovers were the name of the game as the Tigers intercepted 3 passes and recovered one fumble.

Albany State finally got a victory over a tough Kentucky State team. The ASU defense held the high-powered KSU offense to only 149 total yards, getting a safety and forcing/recovering 2 fumbles. Offensively, ASU looked like the three-time SIAC champs amassing 356 yards of total offense with 273 coming in the air. ASU’s ground game was also suspect, rushing for 83 yards.

Fans can look for another high powered offensive attack as ASU will have a tough time stopping Stillman’s QB Charles McCullum and the Golden Rams should not have many problems passing either as SC has given up 506 yards passing in the previous two games. Check your local listings for this fantastic SIAC action on CSTV in Albany, GA. For information about replays go to www.cstv.com.

Players to watch:

SC (QB #1 Charles McCullum, WR #3 Marcus Bryant, DB #5 Denatay Heard, DB #8 Brian Witherspoon)

ASU (DL #91 Alton Pettway, CB #14 Marcus Jefferson, OL #66 Michael Livingston)

-Tigers-

McCullum, Logan and Obradovic receive Player of the Week nods

Sept. 12, 2006

TUSCALOOSA, AL --- Charles McCullum (Jr., QB, 6-3, 205, Atlanta, GA),  Harvey Logan (Jr. LB, 6-0, 225, Tuscaloosa, AL),  and Petar Obradovic (Fr., K, 5-11, 180, St. Petersburg, FL) all received Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (SIAC) Player of the Week honorable mentions, coming off of Stillman's 32-13 win over Concordia College last Saturday.

McCullum completed 17 of 28 passes for 289 yds and 4 TDs. He completed at least one pass to seven different receivers. Logan led the Tiger defense with 14 tackles, two and a half tackles for a loss and a quarterback sack. Obradovic made both of his field goal attempts, connecting from 20 and 27 yards.

Stillman will return to action on Thursday, Sept. 14 when the Tigers travel to Albany, Georgia to face the Albany State University Golden Rams. Kick-off is scheduled for 8 PM EST / 7 CST. The game will be televised on CSTV.

-Tigers-

Thompson gets first win as Stillman Head Coach

Sept. 9, 2006

SELMA, AL--- Stillman quarterback, Charles McCullum, threw four touchdown passes as the Tigers beat the Concordia College Hornets 32-13 Saturday evening. Greg Thompson got his first win as Stillman College's head football coach at Memorial Stadium in Selma, AL. With the win Stillman improves to a 1-1 overall record and Concordia falls to 1-2. Thompson earned his 56th career win.

McCullum was 17-28 for 289 yards and completed passes to seven different receivers.

Stillman scored on the first drive of the game. The Tigers capped a 12-play, 55-yard drive with a 27-yard field goal by Petar Obradovic with 8:39 remaining in the first quarter.

The Tigers had their best offensive performance of the season in the second quarter, scoring three touchdowns. Stillman opened the second quarter with an 11-play, 66-yard drive that ended with McCullum's first TD pass of the game. He hooked up with Kenneth Brown for the eight-yard score to give Stillman a 9-0 lead. Obradovic's extra-point kick failed.

"We have to shore up our kicking game," said Thompson.

At the 5:17 mark in the second McCullum completed a 51-yard scoring strike to Daron Clark. Obradovic converted the point-after kick, making the score 16-0. With 31 seconds remaining in the first half Stillman extended its lead to 2-0. McCullum and Marcus Bryant connected for a 62-yard touchdown pass. The play capped a 76-yard drive. Obradovic missed the extra point kick.

Stillman scored only once in the third quarter. On their first drive of the second half Obradovic made a 20-yard field goal at the 11:49 mark. Despite the large deficit the Concordia Hornets continued to fight, scoring two touchdowns. At the 7:59 mark in the third Fernandus Edwards capped an eight-play, 76-yard drive with a tough 11-yard run. Harrison Ellison's extra-point kick cut Stillman's lead to 25-7.

Concordia scored its final touchdown of the game with 7:54 remaining. Ken Johnson connected with John Halman for a 16-yard touchdown reception. Ellison missed the extra-point, making the score 25-13.

With 4:40 remaining in the game Stillman put the game safely out of reach, as McCullum and Bryant hooked up for an 11-yard touchdown strike. Obradovic's kick made the score 32-13.

Through two games McCullum has 544 passing yards and five touchdowns. Concordia's Johnson had a good game as he completed 16 of 25 attempts for 246-yards, a TD and two interceptions.

Johnson also led all rushers with 48-yards on eight attempts. Arthur Harris, in his first start as a tailback, led Stillman with 46-yards on 12 carries. Derrick Rogers led Stillman with five receptions for five-yards. Bryant made four receptions for 105-yards and two TDs. Brown made three receptions for 40-yards and a score and Phillip Bryant caught two for 55-yards. Deangelo Surls led Concordia with five receptions for 58-yards.

Harvey Logan recorded a game-high 14 tackles (six solo, eight assisted), two and a half tackles for a loss and a sack. Larry Albert followed with nine tackles and a forced fumble. Brian Witherspoon finished with two interceptions and DreMail Hardin got his second of the season.

Jason Evans led the Hornet defense with eight tackles and David Geeter added six.

Stillman (1-1; 0-1 SIAC) will have a short week. The Tigers will travel to Albany, Georgia to face the Albany State University Golden Rams (1-2; 1-0 SIAC) Thursday, Sept. 14 in SIAC action. The game will be nationally televised on CSTV, Stillman's second nationally broadcast game of the season. Kick-off is scheduled for 7:00 pm CST/8:00 pm EST.

-Tigers-

 Tigers headed to Selma to face Concordia

Sept. 8, 2006

TUSCALOOSA, AL --- Coming off an idle week the Stillman football team will return to action on Saturday, Sept. 9 when the Tigers travel to Selma, Alabama to face the Concordia College Hornets.

Both teams are coming off of losses. Stillman (0-1, 0-1) lost its season opener 24-6 to Tuskegee. Concordia won its season opener against Bethel College, but fell 65-0 to the University of West Alabama last weekend.

Stillman head coach has used the extra week of practice to help his team focus on the upcoming game. Thompson told his team not to look past Concordia because they lost to West Alabama by a large margin.

“We can’t go into this game thinking it is going to be easy. We have to stay focused.”

During the off week Thompson has been working on improving Stillman's running game, which  netted only 40 yards, and shoring up the offensive line.

"To take some of the pressure off our quarterbacks we have worked on our running game. We have worked hard with the offensive line to improve the running game."

Another area for improvement is in penalties. Stillman committed 13 penalties for 82 yards against Tuskegee.

"We are working on minimizing the mistakes that we made in the first game. Penalties killed several of our drives and changed the momentum of the game."

Kick-off for Saturday's game is scheduled for 5 pm at Memorial Stadium in Selma, AL. General admission prices are $10 and $5 for students with current ID.

-Tigers-

Tiger duo receives SIAC honorable mentions

Aug. 28, 2006

TUSCALOOSA, AL --- Harvey Logan (Jr. LB, 6-0, 225, Tuscaloosa, AL) and Marcus Bryant (Sr., WR, 5-11, 185, Akron, AL) both received Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (SIAC) Player of the Week honorable mentions.

Logan, as well as Larry Albert, led the Stillman defense with 10 tackles (6 solo) in loss to the Tuskegee University Golden Tigers, while Bryant led all receivers with six receptions for 140-yards. Bryant also punted twice for 70-yards.

In the Heritage Classic played on Saturday the Golden Tigers beat Stillman 24-6 at Stillman Stadium. The Tigers will have an open date on Saturday, Sept. 2, but will return to action on Sept. 9 when they travel to Selma, Alabama to face Concordia College. Last weekend the Hornets beat Belhaven College 27-24 in overtime.

-Tigers-

Tigers fall to Tuskegee in season opener

Aug. 26, 2006

TUSCALOOSA, AL--- In the first annual Heritage Classic the Stillman Tigers fell 24-6 to the Tuskegee University Golden Tigers at Stillman Stadium in Stillman's season opener on Saturday evening. The game was broadcast on ESPNU and was the first ever sports event televised from Stillman's campus.

Stillman started the game with excellent offensive executions, but untimely penalties and missed opportunities sealed Stillman's doom. Stillman opened the game with an 11 play, 72-yard scoring drive. Charles McCullum (QB, Jr., Atlanta, GA) connected with Phillip Bryant (TE, Sr., Akron, AL) for Stillman's only score of the game. Freshman kicker Petar Obradovic missed the point after kick.

On the ensuing possession Tuskegee capped a seven play, 34-yard drive with a 40 -yard Roosevelt Echeverry field goal, cutting Stillman's lead to 6-3.

The Golden Tigers found their offensive stride in the second quarter and never looked back. Tuskegee scored 14 points in the quarter. At the 13:07 mark Tuskegee's Brian King recovered a McCullum fumble and returned it 32-yards for the touchdown. Echeverry converted the extra point to give Tuskegee a 10-6 lead.

On Stillman’s third drive of the first half the Tigers briefly lost their main offensive weapon. With 3:55 remaining in the half Charles McCullum was taken to the sideline and Quinton Wright (QB, Jr., Mobile, AL) filled in for the remainder of the half. McCullum returned in the third quarter.

On Tuskegee's final drive of the first half a defensive pass interference negated a Denatay Heard (DB, Jr., LaGrange, GA) interception and gave the Golden Tigers a first down on the Stillman 35-yard line with 00:00 remaining on the clock. On the next play Kevin Huff connected with Lorenzo Crawford for a touchdown. Echeverry's kick made the score 17-6.

Tuskegee scored its final points of the game when SaJason Finely capped a nine play, 76 yard drive with a seven yard run. Echeverry's kick made the final score 24-6.

Stillman finished the game with 312 total yards ( 272 passing and 40 rushing) and Tuskegee recorded 360 total yards (236 passing and 124 rushing). The Tigers committed 13 penalties for 82 yards and three turnovers. Tuskegee had nine penalties for 87 yards and three turnovers. Stillman converted eight of its 16 third downs and the Golden Tigers went two for seven.

McCullum led Stillman with 274 total offensive yards. He completed 17 of his 27 pass attempts for 255-yards with a TD and interception. He also rushed for 19 yards. Huff went 15 for 24 for 236 passing yards with a TD and interception.

Tuskegee's Richard Fitzhugh led all running backs with 70 yards. Stillman's Marcus Bryant (Sr., Akron, AL) led all receivers with six receptions for 140-yards. Kenneth Brown (WR, So., Atlanta, GA) followed Bryant with four receptions for 83-yards. Crawford led Tuskegee with five receptions for 91-yards and a score.

Harvey Logan (LB, Jr., Tuscaloosa, AL) and Larry Albert (LB, Jr., Augusta, GA) recorded 10 tackles each. Albert also recorded a sack. Jonathan Hall led Tuskegee with 10 tackles.

Stillman (0-1; 0-1 SIAC) will be idle next week, but will return to action on Sept. 9 when the Tigers travel to Selma, AL to face Concordia. Kick off is scheduled for 5 pm. Tuskegee (1-0; 1-0 SIAC) will also be idle next week and will return to action on Sept. 9 to face Miles in conference play.

-Tigers-

Heritage Classic Opens ABC/ESPN 2006 College Football Schedule

Aug. 23, 2006

The 2006 college football schedule for ABC, ESPN, ESPN2, ESPNU and ESPN Classic has been released and the Heritage Classic (Tuskegee at Stillman) will be the first televised college football game of the season.

Stillman and Tuskegee will square of in Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference action at Stillman Stadium on Saturday, August 26. Kick off is scheduled for 3 pm CST/4 pm EST. The Heritage Classic will be aired on ESPNU (one of ESPN’s newest networks). The game marks the first time that an athletic contest will be nationally televised from the Stillman campus.

Stillman will play a second game on ESPNU when the Tigers travel to Birmingham, Alabama to face the Miles College Golden Bears in the Steel City Classic. Stillman made its national television debut last season during the Steel City Classic at Legion Field.

-Tigers-

Tigers to face #8 Tuskegee in Heritage Classic

Aug. 23, 2006

TUSCALOOSA, AL --- With only two days remaining before the 2006 season opener the Stillman football team is gearing up for the Tuskegee University Golden Tigers. The Golden Tigers are the # 19 ranked team in NCAA Division II, according to Don Hansen's Football Gazette Preseason Top 40 Poll. Tuskegee was selected as the #8 team in Black College football (Black College Sports Page).

Tuskegee finished 2005 with an 11-1 overall record.  The Tigers finished with a 6-4 overall record. The Golden Tigers were predicted to finish the season as the #2 team in the Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference and Stillman was ranked as the #7 team.

Another Stillman opponent, Albany State, is also highly ranked. The Golden Rams are #3 in the Football Gazette ranking and #7 in the BCSP poll. Stillman will face Alabany State on Thursday, September 14 in Albany, Georgia.

Stillman will open the season at Stillman Stadium on Saturday, August 26 at 3 pm against Tuskegee for the "Heritage Classic". Stillman's last home season opener was in 2002 and the Tigers finished with an 8-2 record.  In last years season opener Tuskegee beat Stillman 32-20 at Abbott Stadium (Tuskegee, AL).

-Tigers-

Preseason Report Day 5

Aug. 7, 2005

TUSCALOOSA, AL --- The Stillman College football team had its fifth day of preseason practice. Players wore helmets and shoulder pads and concentrated further on fundamentals.

“We get a little better every day,” said head coach Greg Thompson.

The Tigers will start two-a-days on Tuesday. The morning practice will start at 5:30 am and the evening session will start at 4 pm.  Stillman will open the season on Saturday, August 26 when the Tigers host the Tuskegee University Golden Tigers for the Heritage Classic at Stillman Stadium. Kick-off is scheduled for 3:00 pm.

-Tigers-

Preseason Report Day 3

 Aug. 5, 2006

 TUSCALOOSA, AL --- A downpour of rain and lighting strikes forced the Stillman College football team indoors for its third practice.

 A brief thunderstorm forced the team to practice inside Birthright Hall, the schools gymnasium. The players wore shorts and helmets.

 "Despite the bad weather we still have to continue forward and teach as much as possible," said Stillman coach Greg Thompson.

 Stillman will open the season on Saturday, August 26 in a home game against Tuskegee University. Kick-off is scheduled for 3:00 pm at Stillman Stadium. The Tuskegee Golden Tigers are the # 2 team in SIAC preseason rankings and the Stillman Tigers are predicted to finish the season as the seventh ranked team in the conference.

-Tigers-

Preseason Report Day 2

Aug. 4, 2006

TUSCALOOSA, AL --- The Stillman football team took to the field on a very hot Friday afternoon. In the second day of practice the Tigers continued with the second day of the five-day acclimatization period, where the only protective equipment players can wear are helmets. Practice lasted for about an hour and thirty minutes.

Preseason training camp will continue at 3 p.m. on Saturday, Aug. 5 with day three of the acclimatization period. Stillman will open the 2006 season in 22 days when the Tigers host the Tuskegee University Golden Tigers at Stillman Stadium. Kick-off is scheduled for 3 pm. The game is scheduled to be broadcast on ESPNU.

For more information about Stillman Athletics contact sports information at 205-247-8101.

-Tigers-

Preseason Report Day 1

Aug. 3, 2006

TUSCALOOSA, AL --- The STILLMAN College football team took the field for the first practice session of the 2006 season Thursday afternoon. The Tigers are in day one of a mandatory five-day acclimatization period, where for the first two days players can work out in only helmets, shirts and shorts.

“The five-day period helps the players get used to the hot weather conditions before putting on other protective equipment,” said STILLMAN head coach Greg Thompson. “Protecting the players as much as possible from the heat is priority number one.”

On days three and four shoulder pads will be added to the practice sessions and on the fifth day players can wear full pads.

STILLMAN will continue with preseason training on Friday, August 5 at 3 pm with day two of the acclimatization period. STILLMAN will open the season with a home game against Tuskegee University on Saturday, August 26. Kick-off is scheduled for 3 pm. The game will broadcast on ESPNU.

For more information about Stillman Athletics contact the office of sports information at 205-247-8101.

-Tigers-

Tiger Football Players Report To Campus

July 31, 2006

TUSCALOOSA, AL -- New recruits and returning players reported to the Stillman College campus Monday morning to report to their residential halls. Over the next two days the players will take physicals and sign paperwork.

The 2006 season should be an exciting one for the players and the coaching staff because the 2006 Stillman football season will have new elements added to it. The Tigers are under the guidance of a new head coach for the first time since the program was revived in 1999. Former offensive coordinator, Greg Thompson, is at the helm for Stillman. Thompson has been Stillman's offensive coordinator since 2004.

"We had a good spring and we look forward to meeting our opponents on the field of competition," said Thompson.

The Tigers' game against Tuskegee University, on August 26, will be Stillman's first home season opener since the 2002 season. Stillman finished that season with an 8-2 record. The Stillman football program will also receive an upgrade in national television exposure. The Stillman-Tuskegee game, named the Heritage Classic, and the Steel City Classic (vs. Miles College) will be broadcast on ESPNU. When the Tigers travel to Albany, GA to face the Albany State University Rams that game will be shown on CSTV.

Stillman will hold its first practice of the 2006 season on Thursday, August 3. In accordance with NCAA guidelines the Tigers will start out in shorts and helmets for the first few days of the pre-season.

For more information about Stillman Athletics contact 205-247-8101.

-Tigers-

Heard Named Preseason All-American

July 31, 2006

TUSCALOOSA, AL--- Stillman College junior defensive back, Denatay Heard, has been named to the Don Hansen's Football Gazette 2006 NCAA Division II Preseason All-American Team.

Heard's outstanding play last season earned the LaGrange, GA native the preseason recognition. Among D-II players he was ranked 13th in passes defended, 62nd in interceptions, and as a kick returner he was 14th in the nation. In the Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference he was third in passes defended and sixth in INT. Heard finished the season with 41 tackles, four INT (1 returned for TD), 11 pass breakups, one forced fumble, and 498 kick return yards (1 TD).

Kevin Huff (QB/Tuskegee), Marcus Jefferson (DB/Albany State), Roosevelt Echeverry (K/Tuskegee), and Rashod Molton (KR/Ft. Valley State) were the only other players from the SIAC to be selected.

Stillman will open the 2006 season against the Tuskegee University Golden Tigers at Stillman Stadium on Saturday, Aug. 26. Kick-off is scheduled for 3:00 p.m. For more information about Stillman athletics contact the Sports Information Office at 205-247-8101.

-Tigers-

Stillman Picked Seventh In SIAC Preseason Rankings

July 27, 2006

TUSCALOOSA, AL --- During the 2006 Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference Football Kick-Off Luncheon the Stillman College football team was predicted, by the by the SIAC Football Coaches Association, to finish the 2006 season as the seventh ranked team in the conference.

In 2005 the Tigers were selected to finish as the seventh ranked team and ended the season with a 5-4 conference record (6-4 overall) and a fourth place finish.

Defending SIAC champions, Albany State University, was selected as the favorite to win the Conference Title for the 3rd consecutive year. Tuskegee University followed with a second place nod and Fort Valley State was predicted to take third place.

Below is the complete predicted order of finish:

1. Albany State University 

2. Tuskegee University 

3. Fort Valley State University 

4. Kentucky State University, 

5. Miles College 

6. Benedict College 

7. Stillman College 

8. Clark Atlanta University

9. Morehouse College 

10. Lane College

-Tigers-

Three Tigers Named to 2006 SIAC Preseason Team

July 26, 2006

 ATLANTA, GA --- The Stillman College football team placed three players on the 2006 Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference Preseason All-SIAC Football Team, announced Wednesday afternoon during the Football Kick-Off Luncheon, held in Atlanta, GA.

The Tigers had two offense players and one defensive player selected to the preseason team. Junior quarterback Charles McCullum (6-2, 205, Atlanta, GA) and senior tight end Phillip Bryant (6-2, 230, Akron, AL) were selected as second team members. Junior defensive back Denatay Heard (6-0, 190, LaGrange, GA) represented the Stillman defense as a second team selection.

Highlighting the preseason all-conference list is the 2005 Offensive Player of the Year and SIAC MVP Kevin Huff of Tuskegee University and also the 2005 Defensive Player of the Year Alton Pettway of Albany State University. 

Seven Tuskegee Golden Tigers were named to the list including four who were named to the 1st team.  Albany State University and Benedict College also lead the conference with seven players named to the All Conference Team (each with three named to the 1st team).  Fort Valley State University and Lane College (five 1st team selections) finished a close second with six players named to the list. 

-Tigers-

Stillman Football To Open Season Against Tuskegee On ESPNU

July 14, 2006

TUSCALOOSA, AL --- When the Stillman College football team hosts Tuskegee University on Saturday, Aug. 26 to open the 2006 football season, Tiger fans will be able to watch Stillman play on national television on ESPNU.

The Stillman-Tuskegee game, named the Heritage Classic, will be the second time that Stillman's football team has played on ESPNU and the first game to be televised live from Stillman Stadium. Last year's Steel City Classic, broadcast by ESPNU from Legion Field in Birmingham, Alabama, was the first time Stillman played in a nationally televised game.

The Heritage Classic broadcast will be the first of three nationally televised games for Stillman. The 2006 Steel City Classic between Stillman and Miles College will again be aired on ESPNU on Sunday, Sept. 24 and the Stillman - Albany State University game played on Thursday, Sept. 14 will be aired on CSTV.

Kick-off for the Heritage Classic is scheduled for 3:00 p.m. CST. Stillman fell 32-20 to Tuskegee in last year's season opener in Tuskegee.

For ticket information contact the Athletics Department at 205-366-8980.

-Tigers-

2006 Tiger Football Schedule

July 13, 2006

 TUSCALOOSA, AL --- The Stillman College Athletics Department has released the 2006 Tiger football schedule. Stillman will have a tough 2006 season from the opening kick-off to the final game of the season. The Tigers will open with the Tuskegee University Golden Tigers on August 26 at Stillman Stadium. The outcome of the season opener will have an early affect on Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference standings. The game will be the second meeting between the two schools on the gridiron.

 After the opener Stillman will have to travel for the next three weeks. On Sept. 9 Stillman will face Concordia College for the first time in Selma, Alabama in non-conference play. In Stillman’s only Thursday game of the season the Tigers will face the 2005 SIAC champion Albany State University Rams on Sept. 14 in Albany, Georgia. This will also be the first meeting between the to schools. On Sunday, Sept. 24 the Tigers will face the Miles College Golden Bears in the sixth annual Steel City Classic in Birmingham, Alabama.

 Stillman will return to Tuscaloosa on Sept. 30 when the Tigers host Lane College in conference play. On Oct. 7 the Tigers will welcome Fort Valley State University to Stillman Stadium for the fifth annual Druid City Classic. For the remainder of the month the Tigers will stay on the road. Stillman will face the Alabama A&M University Bulldogs on Oct. 14 for their homecoming in Huntsville. On Oct. 21 Stillman will make its longest trip of the season when the Tigers visit Jefferson City, Missouri to face Lincoln University and on Oct. 28 the Tigers will face Benedict College in Columbia, South Carolina.

 For the final two games of the season Stillman will face Kentucky State University on Nov. 4 at Stillman Stadium and the Langston University Lions will be the 2006 homecoming opponent for the Tigers on Nov. 11.

 For ticket information please contact the Stillman Athletics Office at 205-366-8980 or 366-8987.

-Tigers-

2006 Stillman Football Tickets To Go On Sale

June 9, 2006

TUSCALOOSA, AL --- Stillman College will begin accepting ticket orders from the general public Tuesday, June 13 at 9 a.m. for the 2006 football season.

The Tigers will open the season against Tuskegee University on Saturday, August 26 at Stillman Stadium. Stillman will play a total of five games in Tuscaloosa. After facing Tuskegee the Tigers will host Lane College (Band Day) on Sept. 30, Fort Valley State University (5th Druid City Classic) on Oct. 7, Kentucky State University (Tiger Fever Day) Nov. 4, and Langston University (Homecoming 2006) Nov. 11.

Season ticket prices are $38 for children 12 yrs and under, $85 for adult general admission and $155 for reserved seats. Stillman fans will also receive a 10% discount on either adult general admission or reserved seat season tickets if purchased before August 18. Tickets may be ordered by calling 205-366-8980.

-Tigers-

Former Tiger Back With Former Team

May 25, 2006

Odessa, TX: Many may warn, "If it ain't broke, don't fix it." Odessa Roughnecks head coach Mike Esposito says, "You can always better your best!"

This was stated today at Hollywood Theater in Odessa just before the premier of the movie "X-Men III, The Last Stand". Esposito introduced his own X-Men, a second generation of 2006 Roughnecks including four new players so talented, they are nearly Mutant-Like!

The head liner is an X-Neck in defensive lineman Jermaine Blakley. Blakley was a two season starter with Odessa and an original member of the team. At 6' 4", 295 lb, the Stillman College star won over the Odessa fan base with his aggressive attitude and on-field antics. "I am excited about his rejoining us", stated team president Tommy Benizio, "We wanted him here from the beginning and can't wait to see what he can do with this new Roughnecks team." Jermaine played 7 games with the Tennessee Valley Vipers of the Af2 earlier in the season before returning to Odessa.

Equally exciting, former Indiana University star Levron Williams will be in uniform this Saturday. The 6' 3" 220 lb WR/DB was All Big-10 two straight seasons and an All-American his senior year. His performance in college earned him time in the San Diego Chargers training camp in 2004. "Levron completes our accusation of the entire Indiana University backfield except for Antwan Randall-El.", explained coach Esposito.

Also part of the team's new X-Men squad are Offensive Lineman Dominique Steamer and Defensive Specialist Andre Burns. Steamer was a two-year starter at Texas A&M and is 6' 4" and 310 lbs. Burns is a very fast and aggressive product of Missouri Western University and at 5' 11", 180 lbs, has great speed for this league.

Each of these players is expected be in the lineup on Saturday versus San Angelo where the first 1,000 fans will receive a free Roughnecks Travel Bag compliments of NewsWest 9.

Further information on these or any other Roughnecks topics can be obtained by calling the teams office at (432) 332-PASS (7277) or by logging on to www.RoughnecksIFL.com

-Tigers-

2006 Stillman Football Signees

Apr. 5, 2006

TUSCALOOSA, AL- The Stillman College football program ended the 2006 National Letter of Intent signing period with eight prospective student-athletes headed to Tuscaloosa in the fall. The Tigers have added depth along the offensive line, special teams and in the defensive secondary.

"Despite the late start we are confident that we have addressed our immediate needs, said Thompson." We will have additions to this list prior to the start of fall practice for the 2006 season."

This signing period is the first, as head coach at Stillman, for Greg Thompson. Thompson was named Stillman's head football coach on February 17. Thompson has served as the offensive coordinator for the last two seasons.

The 2006 class includes three players from the state of Alabama, three from Georgia and two from Florida. Below is the list of Stillman's signees:

Name/POS/HT/WT/Hometown/School

Cedric Harris DB/WR 6-0 178 Montgomery, AL G.W. Carver HS

Michael Wilson LB 6-1 240 East Point, GA/New Orleans, LA Tri Cities HS/St. Augustine HS

Kyshan Johnson OL 6-5 360 Tampa, FL Butte Comm. Coll.

Devon Waller OL 6-4 365 Atlanta, GA Douglass HS

Nicholas Wiggins OL 6-3 280 Atlanta, GA Douglass HS

Brian Johnson OL 6-2 260 Selma, AL Selma HS

Justin Andrews RB/DB 6-1 175 Birmingham, AL John Carroll HS

Petar Obradovic K 6-0 175 St. Petersburg, FL/Croatia Gibbs HS

-Tigers-

Stillman football seeking to fill open date

Apr. 3, 2006

TUSCALOOSA, AL -- The Stillman College Athletics Department is seeking a football opponent to fill one of two open home dates for the 2006 season. Stillman has September 2 and 9 open on its schedule for games to be played at Stillman Stadium in Tuscaloosa, AL.

Stillman would like to negotiate a two year contract with the first game being played at Stillman (2006) and a return game the following season. A one year contract, with a guarantee, is also possible.

The Tigers recently named Greg Thompson as head coach and currently have a 10 game schedule.

Interested parties should contact Dr. W. Curtis Williams, Stillman College Athletics Director, at office number 205-366-8987 or at email address wcwilliams@stillman.edu.

-Tigers-

Defense outshines offense in first spring game

Mar. 18, 2006

TUSCALOOSA, AL --- The Blue squad turned in a solid performance as the Stillman Tigers wrapped up their spring football drills in the first annual Blue and Gold game. The Blue team defeated the Gold, 8-6. Stillman's defense wore the blue uniforms and the offense was in white and gold.

Because the scrimmage was the offense versus the defense scoring followed this point system: offense - TD (6), extra point (2), defense - TD (6), INT (3), fumble (2), forced punt on first series (1).

The Stillman offense was able to move the ball against the defense, but could muster only one score. The offense ran 71 total plays for 356 yards, rushing for 167 yards and passing for 189.

The defense got on the scoreboard first by forcing a punting situation on the first series of the game. With 31 seconds remaining before halftime backup quarterback Cedric Harris recorded the games only touchdown as he connected with Quinn Porter for a 33-yard strike. The offense failed to convert the extra-point pass attempt.

The defense dominated the remainder of the game. On the first offensive possession of the second half the Blue team forced another punt. At the 1:34 mark in the third quarter a Sean Reck pass was picked off by Jetone Jones. At the 3:35 mark in the fourth Sylvester Campbell intercepted a Charles McCullum pass.

Tracy Eatmon led the running backs with 41 rushing yards on eight attempts. Derrick Rogers followed with seven carries for 29 yards.

McCullum, the starting signal caller in 2005, led the offense's air attack. He completed 11-of-19 attempts for 146 yard and had an interception. Harris finished the day by going 1-for-6 for 33-yards. Reck finished 1-for-5 for 10-yards and an interception.

Jeremie Parham caught two passes for 47 yards. Kenny Brown made three receptions for 28-yards and Porter hauled in two for 43-yards.

Joe Biggs, Jr., Alex Dumeus, and Larry Albert led the defensive effort by recording six tackles each. The Blue team also recorded three sacks, as Brandon Johnson, Irving McGuire, and Ansharn Glenn each found the quarterbacks.

Today’s scrimmage game marked the culmination of spring practice for the Tigers. The next on-the-field action for the team will come in the heat of August when two-a-day practices begin.

-Tigers-

Stillman Football Readies For Blue & Gold Game

Mar. 17, 2006

TUSCALOOSA, AL - The Stillman College football team completed its 14th practice Friday evening in an hour and a half shorts and helmets work out at the Tiger practice field.

The squad's last football action of the spring will be the Blue & Gold game on Saturday at 5 pm at Stillman Stadium.

"Even though it's just spring practice we want to go out and put on a good show for the community," said Stillman head coach Greg Thompson. "This is our first spring game and everyone on our campus is very excited. The players, students and employees are looking forward to Saturday."

"We won't run all of our plays and won't do any blitzing, but we want to let these guys go play and see who can come out and play a little better with a few more people watching. We have gotten better everyday so far and I hope we'll take that into next fall."

The first annual Blue & Gold game will be held as part of the 2006 Tiger Fest. The day will start with a Stillman - Miles baseball double-header at noon. The Stillman softball team will host the Miles Lady Bears at 1 pm and the Blue & Gold game will start at 5 pm. The Blue Pride Marching Band and the Tigerrettes Dance Team will perform during the scrimmage.

Prior to the start of the Blue & Gold game the Stillman Athletics Department will honor the cheerleaders, dance team and the men's basketball team for their excellence during the 2005-06 year.

Tiger Fest Schedule:

* 11 a.m. Alumni Tailgating (All Day)

* Noon Stillman vs. Miles Baseball Game (Stillman Stadium Baseball/Softball Complex)

* 1 p.m. Stillman vs. Miles softball Game (Stillman Stadium Baseball/Softball Complex)

* 4:30 p.m. Dinner On The Grounds

* 5 p.m. Blue Pride Marching Band Performance

* First Annual BLUE & GOLD Spring Football Game (Stillman Stadium) (Adult Admission $5/ Children 17 & under free)

-Tigers-

Stillman To Have First Spring Game

Mar. 1, 2006

TUSCALOOSA, AL --- The Stillman football team will begin spring practice on Wednesday, March 1 and conclude on Saturday, March 18 with the Blue & Gold practice game, as part of the first annual Tiger Fest.

Tiger Fest activities include: Stillman vs. Miles baseball and softball double-headers, an alumni cookout, the spring game and a performance by the Blue Pride Marching Band. The Tigers are planning to practice on the following dates: Mar. 1-10, 13-17, and play the Spring game on the 18th.

Below is the Tiger Fest schedule:

Saturday, March 18, 2006
12 noon - Baseball vs. Miles (Stillman Stadium Baseball/Softball Complex)
1:00 p.m. - Softball vs. Miles (Stillman Stadium Baseball/Softball Complex)
5:00 p.m. - Spring Game (Stillman Stadium)

For more information about Tiger Fest contact the Stillman Athletic Department at 205-366-8987 or the Office for Marketing and Public Relations at 205-366-8886

-Tigers-

Thompson Named Head Football Coach at Stillman

February 16, 2006

(TUSCALOOSA)--Stillman College has selected current offensive coordinator Gregory Thompson as the school’s new head football coach. Thompson, who also serves as assistant athletics director, will take over the helm as leader of the Tiger gridiron.

With a candidate pool exceeding 40 applicants, the job of filling Stillman’s top spot was not an easy task. Applicant credentials included current head coaches and defensive and offensive coordinators. The list was trimmed down to six finalists, with four interviews. Thompson’s record and experience were the deciding factors that landed him the top spot.

“I compliment Dr. Williams on an excellent job of reviewing and analyzing the applicants,” commented Stillman President Ernest McNealey. “Coach Thompson reflects our values in terms of personal discipline and team excellence.” Thompson, a native of Atlanta, Ga., is no stranger to football at Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), or the Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (SIAC). Before coming to Stillman in 2004, he served as head football coach at Morris Brown College located in Atlanta. He also served as assistant football coach and offensive coordinator at Clark Atlanta University and as assistant coach at Southern A&M University in Baton Rouge, La. He was chairman of football coaches for the SIAC for 10 years.

“We are confident that he (Thompson) will do an excellent job as our head football coach,” said Dr. Curtis Williams, Stillman athletics director.

Thompson will continue to serve as assistant athletics director for the college.

“I am extremely pleased and excited for the opportunity to serve as head football coach for Stillman,” said Thompson. “The foundation has been set for a successful program. I have the opportunity to coach in a community where football never ends.”

“Tuscaloosa was once considered the mecca of college football. I am elated to be a part that tradition.” He went on to further explain, “Discipline, hardwork and a burning desire to win will be traits of the football program at Stillman. This will be our blueprint for success.” When asked about his outlook on recruiting new players Thompson said, “We are confident that we will have excellent prospects in the fold by spring practice. We are on a fast track, but not at the expense of a winning program. We already have and will recruit quality and competitive athletes.” Upholding the College’s mission will be a very important part of Thompson’s football motto. “We will make sure our players remain focused on their reason for coming to Stillman, that is, to obtain a college degree.” “We will become a dominant team in the SIAC,” said Thompson. “I have respect for the level of play in this conference.”

Thompson will be formally introduced at a press conference on Friday, February 17 at the Stillman Stadium and Athletic Complex.

Dennis Conner, Stillman’s defensive coordinator, has been selected as assistant head football coach