February 20, 2009

Saint Augustine's College Announces 30 Football Signees

2009 FALCON FOOTBALL SIGNEES

No Stories for March

April 02, 2009

Falcon Blue-White Football Game Set For Saturday

RALEIGH, NC – Saint Augustine’s College will hold its Blue-White football game on Saturday (April 4) on the campus baseball field at 1:30 p.m. The intrasquad game is part of Saint Augustine’s College’s Community Day which will be held on campus the same day from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. The intrasquad game is the culmination of spring football practice which started two weeks ago.

April 04, 2009

Blue Beats White 18-12 In Spring Football Game

RALEIGH, N.C. – Joaquin Green (Freshman/Pittsboro, N.C.) ran for a touchdown and threw for another score to lead the Blue team to an 18-12 victory over the White team on Saturday (April 4) in the Saint Augustine’s College Spring Intra-squad Football Game on campus.

Green tossed a lob pass to a leaping Jone’ Harris (Sophomore/Fairfield, Calif.) for the game-winning touchdown in the fourth quarter. Green also scored on a one-yard run off an option keeper. Ashanti Robinson (Redshirt Freshman/Miami, Fla.) led the White team with two touchdown catches.

The offensive production from both teams pleased Head Coach Michael Costa.

“Overall, we are much better at this point offensively than we were at this time last year,” said Costa, a two-time CIAA coach of the year. “If the offense keeps progressing then it should do well this upcoming season.”

The White team tied the game 6-6 in the first half when Antonio Jones (Freshman/Germantown, Md.) found a wide-open Robinson for a 22-yard touchdown pass.

The Blue team reclaimed the lead 12-6 in the second half on Green’s short run, but the White team tied the score again when Kris Brownlee (Freshman/Philadelphia, Pa.) scrambled and connected with Robinson for a 37-yard touchdown. The score stayed tied 12-12 until Green and White hooked up for the winning touchdown.

Other offensive highlights include runs of 32 and 27 yards from Arnold Mullins (Sophomore/Philadelphia, Pa.). Defensive highlights include interceptions by Jamel Moore (Sophomore/Fayetteville, N.C.) and Isaac Wilson (Freshman/Warner Robins, Ga.).

“Overall, our defense will still be strong,” said Costa, whose defense consistently ranks among the top teams nationally in Division II. “We played well [Saturday] on both sides of the ball.”

The two-hour contest concludes the spring football season.

The Falcons open the 2009 season at home against Catawba on Aug. 29.

May 01, 2009

Saint Augustine’s College Mourns Loss of Football Assistant Antonio Owens

RALEIGH, N.C. – Saint Augustine’s College is saddened to learn of the death of assistant football coach Antonio Owens, who succumbed Friday, May 1, after a long illness.

"Today, the Saint Augustine’s College Athletic Department feels a tremendous sense of loss," Athletic Director George Williams said. "Coach Owens was such a great representative of what we do around here. Together, Coach Owens, along with the entire football coaching staff, made a significant difference in the lives of many Saint Augustine’s College student-athletes. He will always represent, in fullest measure, the spirit of the college."

Owens, 48, was the running backs coach since 2006 at Saint Augustine’s College. During his tenure on the Falcon staff, he developed rising junior Walter Sanders, a 2008 All-CIAA second team selection after finishing second in the league in rushing, and rising junior Arnold Mullins, a 2007 All-CIAA rookie pick.

“It’s a sad day in Falcon land when you lose someone who has worked with you for what seems like a long period of time, though it was just a few years,” said Falcon Head Coach Michael Costa. “Coach Owens had a lot of energy and passion for the game of football. You feel for the kids that he coached because he portrayed that father image with the players. He will be deeply missed.”

A Hallandale, Fla., native, Owens coached 16 years overall at many levels, including Division I-A, Division I-AA, Division II, junior college, high school and Pop Warner football. Prior to arriving at Saint Augustine’s College, Owens coached at Clark Atlanta University, where he served as assistant outside linebackers coach in 2005. Before then, Owens was at Poinciana (Fla.) High School from 2000-2001 where he was defensive coordinator and defensive back coach. Owens also coached at New Mexico Military Institute, University of Central Florida, Norfolk State University and Bowie State University.

Owens played college football at West Virginia University-Potomac, Syracuse University and C.W. Post University after an outstanding high school career in Syracuse, N.Y. He is a former Army officer and Gulf War veteran.

Funeral arrangements are pending.

July 23, 2009

Falcons Earn High Preseason CIAA Football Ranking

PETERSBURG, Va. – Saint Augustine’s College is predicted to finish near the top of the CIAA according to the 2009 preseason football poll, which was released Thursday (July 23) at the CIAA Football Press Conference and Luncheon held in Jones Dining Hall on the campus of Virginia State University.

With 52 lettermen returning, including 16 starters, the Falcons are picked to finish fourth in the conference and third in the CIAA’s Western Division. The Falcons host their season opener against Catawba College at Broughton High School Stadium on Aug. 29. The contest starts at 1:30 p.m.

Head Coach Michael Costa says the ranking is a sign that the Falcon football program is highly respected around the CIAA. The predicted order of finish is selected by the CIAA Football Coaches Association.

“We are a very competitive team and the coaches acknowledged that with the ranking,” Costa said. “We feel good about it, but we have to live up to it.”

The Falcons will be led by defensive stalwarts Phillip Stevenson (Statesville, N.C.) and Marcus Crump (Pittsboro, N.C.), who were selected to the 2009 Pre-season All-CIAA football team, which was also announced Thursday. Stevenson, a 6-foot-3, 270-pound junior defensive tackle, led the CIAA and tied for eighth nationally with 10 sacks last season. Both Stevenson and Crump, a 6-foot-6, 240-pound redshirt senior defensive end, combined for 17 of the Falcons’ 33 sacks a year ago.

In 2008, Stevenson made the All-CIAA first team, and Crump was chosen for the All-CIAA second team. Stevenson is a Human Performance & Wellness major and Crump majors in engineering.

With the selection of both Stevenson and Crump, the Falcons grabbed two of the four defensive linemen spots on the preseason team.

The 2009 All-CIAA Pre-Season Team and Predicted Order of Finish are listed below:

Predicted Order of Finish

**As selected by the CIAA Football Coaches Association

1 Fayetteville State University
**2 Elizabeth City State University
Shaw University
4 St. Augustine's College
5 Virginia Union University
6 Virginia State University
7 Bowie State University
8 St. Paul's College
9 Livingstone College
10 Chowan University
11 Johnson C. Smith University
12 Lincoln University
**Tied for Second Place
2009 ALL-CIAA PRESEASON FOOTBALL TEAM OFFENSIVE TEAM

NAME SCHOOL CLASS HT WT MAJOR HOMETOWN

TIGHT END
Karvin Gwaltney ECSU JR 6'4 230 Physical Education Ivor, VA

LINEMEN
Dylan Stivers ECSU SR 6'6 305 Criminal Justice Guerneville, CA
Larry McDonald FSU SO 6'2 315 Physical Education Mebane, NC
Dillon Kestner FSU JR 6'2 295 Business Durham, NC
Markus Copeland VSU JR 6'4 270 N/A Lynchburg, VA
Chauncey Perry VUU SR 6'2 320 CIS Rocky Mount, NC

WIDE RECEIVERS
Dexter Manley ECSU JR 6'3 200 Sports Mgt. Chesapeake, VA
Jeremy Franklin JCSU JR 6'3 200 Business Mgt. Casselberry, FL

QUARTERBACK
CJ Westler Chowan SR 5'10 195 Physical Education Marion, OH

RUNNING BACKS
Raymond Williams Shaw JR 6'0 195 Recreation Cleveland, OH
Tarian Donaldson VUU SR 5'9 180 Mathematics VA Beach, VA

KICK RETURNER
Richard Medlin FSU JR 5'11 185 Criminal Justice Garner, NC

PLACE KICKER
Justin Parker VSU JR 5'9 170 Sports Management Petersburg, VA

DEFENSIVE TEAM

LINEMEN
Marcus Crump SAC SR 6'6 240 Engineering Pittsboro, NC
Phillip Stevenson SAC JR 6'3 270 Perfor. & Wellness Statesville, NC
Jarvis Stokes SPC JR 6'3 220 Criminal Justice Ft. Lauderdale, FL
Dewayne Moss Shaw SR 6'3 270 Recreation Petersburg, VA

LINE BACKERS
Marcos Esquivel FSU SR 6'2 235 Sociology Kearny, AZ
Hurley Hemphill VUU SR 6'1 240 Business Management Kannapolis, NC
Stevie Johnson VUU SR 6'3 240 Criminal Justice Spotsylvania, VA

DEFENSIVE BACKS
Terrence Peete BSU JR 6'3 225 Pedology Memphis, TN
Justin Hamilton ECSU SR 5'10 170 Sports Management Washington,DC
Jeff Gowdy FSU SR 5'11 175 Mathematics Jacksonville,NC
Andre Leblanc II VUU JR 6'1 205 Business Management Lithonia, GA

PUNTER
Daniel Mendez ECSU SR 5'11 195 Pre-Med Riverside, CA

PUNT RETURNER
Robert Brown Shaw SR 5'9 175 Public Administration Miami, FL

Back to Top

August 4, 2009

Falcons Begin Football Practice Friday

RALEIGH, N.C. – Saint Augustine’s College kicks off the 2009 football season with its first practice on Friday, Aug. 7 at 6:30 p.m. at Emery Field on campus.

The opening practice will start what is expected to be a satisfying season for the Falcons, who host Catawba College in their first game on Aug. 29 at Broughton High School Stadium. The contest, designated as Faculty/Staff Day, begins at 1:30 p.m.

The Falcons are picked to finish near the top of the CIAA, according to the 2009 CIAA preseason coaches poll. They are predicted to finish fourth in the CIAA and third in the Western Division.

The Falcons return 52 lettermen, including 16 starters, this season. They will be led by defensive tackle Phillip Stevenson (Jr./Statesville, N.C.) and defensive end Marcus Crump (Sr./Pittsboro, N.C.). Both players were named to the 2009 Preseason All-CIAA football team.

Practice is open to the public. The media can conduct interviews with players and coaches after practice. For more information regarding interviews, contact the Office of Sports Information at (919) 516-4141.

Saint Augustine’s College Pre-Season Football Practice Schedule

August 06, 2009

Kelly Selected To NCAA Div. II Track and Field Committee

Saint Augustine’s College’s Associate Athletic Director Kristene Kelly has been named to the NCAA Division II Men’s and Women’s Track and Field Committee.

Kelly will serve on the committee for four years from Sept. 1, 2009 to Sept. 1, 2013. Her primary responsibility as a committee member will be to help supervise the conduct of the cross country, indoor and outdoor track and field championships.

"It's a tremendous honor to be able to represent Saint Augustine's College and the CIAA on this prestigious NCAA committee," Kelly said. "Not only is it great for myself and Saint Augustine's College, but it gives the CIAA [Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association] a voice on the committee. I must admit I have a slight advantage by having the opportunity to work daily with legendary track and field coach George Williams. I look forward to serving four years and continuously enhancing the experience of our athletes at the championships."

Athletic director George Williams of Saint Augustine’s College says Kelly is a great addition to the committee.

“After being on the committee for eight years, I know Mrs. Kelly has what it takes to be a positive committee member and has what it takes to support all Division II programs in the NCAA,” said Williams, whose Falcon track and field teams have won 31 NCAA national championships. “I have no doubt that the committee did a great job in selecting Mrs. Kelly. We here at Saint Augustine’s College are very proud of her.”

Kelly is currently in her first year as Associate Athletic Director at Saint Augustine’s College. As the Associate AD, Kelly serves on the senior management team and assists with the administration and governance of the department of athletics. She joined the Falcon family after serving nearly seven years as the Sports Information Director at Johnson C. Smith University.

Kelly earned a bachelor of science degree in sports management and a bachelor of arts degree in public relations from Johnson C. Smith University in 2000. Upon graduation, she served as an adjunct instructor in the health and physical education department.

Before working at Johnson C. Smith University full time, Kelly worked at The University of Tennessee, where she served as the graduate assistant/academic counselor for the Lady Volunteer rowing and tennis teams. Her duties included determining initial and continuing eligibility of student-athletes, serving as a liaison between coaches and faculty, and monitoring student-athlete's academic progress toward a degree.

While at Johnson C. Smith University, Kelly was awarded the John Holley Sports Information Director of the Year award in 2005, becoming only the second female to receive that honor. In addition, she graduated from the NCAA's Leadership Institute for Ethnic Minority Females in 2007. She is a member of several professional organizations and prior to her appointment at Saint Augustine’s College, she served as one of the contest coordinators for CoSIDA publications, vice-president of the CIAA-Sports Information Director’s Association and secretary of the Black College Sports Information Director’s Association.

The St. Croix, Virgin Islands native received her master's degree in human performance and sport studies from The University of Tennessee and is currently a doctoral student at the United States Sports Academy. She is a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. Kelly has been married to Jonathan for five years and together they have one son, Jonathan, Jr. (6).

August 07, 2009

Falcons Start Season With Spirited Practice

Saint Augustine’s College officially opened the 2009 football season Friday (Aug. 7) with a spirited evening practice on campus.

The 114 players at practice showed plenty of energy and hustle. Wearing helmets, jersey and shorts, they ran individual and team drills crisply during the two-hour workout, which satisfied Head Coach Michael Costa.

“They showed a lot of enthusiasm and desire,” Costa said. “It wasn’t too hot so that helped a little bit.” With 52 lettermen returning including 16 starters, the Falcons are predicted to be CIAA contenders in 2009. They are picked to finish fourth in the conference and third in the CIAA’s Western Division.

Costa says the players have their sights set for a higher finish. “We have a lot of upperclassmen and our freshman class is super,” Costa said. “The team is working hard and ready to start the season.”

The Falcons host their season opener against Catawba College on Aug. 29. The game will be held at Broughton High School Stadium at 1:30 p.m.

August 13, 2009

Falcons Set To Hold First Football Scrimmage

RALEIGH, N.C. - Saint Augustine’s College will hold its first intrasquad football scrimmage of the 2009 season on Aug. 15 (Saturday) at Emery Field on campus. The scrimmage is scheduled to start at 10 a.m.

The Falcons, picked to finish fourth overall in the CIAA, host their season opener against Catawba College on Aug. 29. The game will be held at Broughton High School Stadium at 1:30 p.m.

August 17, 2009

Meet the Falcons Day Set For Saturday

RALEIGH, N.C. – Saint Augustine’s College will hold its final intrasquad football scrimmage Saturday (Aug. 22) at Emery Field on campus starting at 1 p.m. The scrimmage, designated as Meet the Falcons Day, is open to the public. Head Coach Michael Costa and the football players will be available for autographs after the scrimmage.

This is the second scrimmage of the 2009 season for the Falcons, who host Catawba College in their season opener at Broughton High School Stadium on Aug. 29. Game time is 1:30 p.m.

August 17, 2009

D2football.com Honors Stevenson, Crump

Defensive tackle Phillip Stevenson (Jr./Statesville, N.C.) of Saint Augustine’s College was named 2009 Preseason CIAA Defensive Player of the Year by D2football.com on Monday (Aug. 17).

Stevenson joins teammate Marcus Crump (Redshirt Sr./Pittsboro, N.C.) on the 2009 Preseason All-CIAA team chosen by D2football.com, which is a website devoted to covering NCAA Division II football. Both players helped the Falcons rank 13th in Division II total defense last season.

Stevenson is one of the top returning linemen in the country. In 2008, he was named to the All-CIAA first team after leading the league with 10 sacks, which tied for eighth in NCAA Division II. Stevenson stands 6-foot-3 and weighs 270 pounds.

Crump, who plays defensive end, was named to the All-CIAA second team in 2008. He ranked fifth in the CIAA with 7 sacks last year despite missing two games. Crump stands 6-foot-6 and weighs 240 pounds.

The duo combined for 17 of the Falcons’ 33 quarterback sacks in 2008.

This is the second time in two months that Stevenson and Crump have earned all-conference honors during the preseason. In July 2009, the CIAA Football Coaches Association released its Preseason All-CIAA team, which included both Falcon players.

August 18, 2009

Stevenson Named D2football.com Preseason All-American

Defensive tackle Phillip Stevenson (Jr./Statesville, N.C.) of Saint Augustine’s College was named to the 2009 Preseason D2football.com Division II All-America second team on Tuesday (Aug 18).

Stevenson is the second Falcon player in school history to make the D2football.com preseason All-America team. Former Falcon defensive end Alex Hall, who currently plays for the Cleveland Browns, was a two-time selection on the squad in 2006-07.

Stevenson, who stands 6-foot-3 and weighs 270 pounds, is one of the top returning defensive linemen in the country. In 2008, he was named to the All-CIAA first team after leading the league with 10 sacks, which tied for eighth in Division II.

On Monday, Stevenson was named D2football.com Preseason CIAA Defensive Player of the Year, and he joined teammate Marcus Crump (Redshirt Sr./Pittsboro, N.C.) on the 2009 D2football.com Preseason All-CIAA team. The duo combined for 17 sacks to help the Falcons rank 13th in Division II total defense last season. Crump, a defensive end who stands 6-foot-6 and weighs 240 pounds, was named to the All-CIAA second team in 2008. He ranked fifth in the CIAA with 7 sacks last year despite missing two games.

Running back Walter Sanders (Jr./Baltimore, Md.) is listed in the CIAA Others To Watch category by D2football.com. Sanders was named to the 2008 All-CIAA second team after rushing for 840 yards, which was second highest in the CIAA.

August 29, 2009

Falcons Fall 25-7 In Season Opener

RALEIGH, N.C. – Saint Augustine’s College opened the 2009 football season with a 25-7 loss to Catawba College on Saturday (Aug. 29) at Broughton High School Stadium.

The Falcons (0-1) scored their only touchdown in the fourth quarter on a 32-yard pass from Joaquin Green (Redshirt Fr./Pittsboro, N.C.) to Richard Abney (Jr./Capital Heights, Md.). Adison Daniels (Sr./Raleigh, N.C.) booted the extra point.

Green completed 10 of 20 passes for 90 yards, a touchdown and two interceptions in his first collegiate start, and Walter Sanders (Jr./Baltimore, Md.) gained 57 rushing yards for the Falcons.

Linebackers Stephan Stanback (Temple Hills, Md.) and Steven Stanback (Temple Hills, Md.) led the Falcons on defense. Stephan Stanback recorded 11 tackles and Steven Stanback finished with 8 tackles, two sacks and one quarterback hurry. Cornerback Charles McKenzie (Jr./Warner Robins, Ga.) collected 10 tackles, one interception, three pass break-ups and two quarterback hurries for the Falcons.

Transfer quarterback Cam Sexton threw for 336 yards for the Indians (1-0), who gained 424 total offensive yards. Sexton, who started eight games for the University of North Carolina last year, tossed two touchdowns and one interception on 23 of 40 passing. His favorite target was Gerron Bryant, who caught six passes for 106 yards.

Antonio Hall added 84 rushing yards for the Indians, ranked 19th in the D2football.com preseason poll. His one-yard touchdown run gave the Indians an 18-0 lead in the fourth quarter before the Falcons scored. The Indians added a late touchdown in the fourth quarter.

The Falcons host the University of Charleston (W.Va.) on Sept. 5 at Broughton High School Stadium. Game time is 1:30 p.m.

September 05, 2009

Falcons Fall Short 43-41 In Three Overtime Thriller

RALEIGH, N.C. –Saint Augustine’s College never quit despite trailing by 21 points in the fourth quarter.

The Falcons mounted a furious comeback to send the game into overtime. They battled the University of Charleston (W.Va.) for three overtimes before the Golden Eagles prevailed 43-41 in a non-conference football game Saturday (Sept. 5) at Broughton High School Stadium.

Despite the loss, the Falcons took a step forward in the eyes of Head Coach Michael Costa.

“We showed a lot of character, a lot of poise,” Costa said. “We showed what we are all about.”

The Falcons (0-2 overall) came alive after quarterback DaRante Hunter of Charleston scored his third rushing touchdown on the day. His touchdown from nine yards stretched the Golden Eagles’ lead to 28-7 with 13:44 remaining in the fourth quarter.

The Falcons’ offense erupted from that point. Quarterback Joaquin Green (Fr./Pittsboro, N.C.) hit Tyron Laughinghouse (Fr./Greenville, N.C.) for a pair of touchdowns to make the score 28-21 with 2:55 left. Izel Jenkins (So./Wilson, N.C.) blocked a punt to set up the second touchdown.

After forcing a Golden Eagles’ punt, the Falcons sent the game into overtime when Green found a wide-open Jone’ Harris (Jr./Fairfield, Calif.) for a one-yard pass with 14 seconds left. Adison Daniels (Sr./Raleigh, N.C.) kicked the important extra point to tie the game at 28-28.

The Falcons fumbled in the first overtime, but Wes Sherrill of the Golden Eagles was wide left on a 39-yard field goal to send the game to a second overtime. Andre Higgins caught a 14-yard pass from Hunter in the second overtime, but the Falcons countered with Harris’ 8-yard catch from Green.

In the third overtime, the Falcons took their first lead at 41-35 when Green found Laughinghouse for six-yard pass. The Falcons failed on the two-point conversion, however, which left the door open for the Golden Eagles.

Hunter hooked up with Higgins for a touchdown, this time from 11 yards, to tie the game at 41-41. The Golden Eagles prevailed when Higgins caught Hunter’s pass for the game-winning two-point conversion.

“We put some points on the board, but we needed a stop at the end,” Costa said.

Green completed 20 of 33 passes for six touchdowns and 228 yards in his second start to lead the Falcons. He also threw one interception.

Three of Green’s touchdown passes went to Harris, who led the Falcons with seven passes for 93 yards. Laughinghouse added six grabs for 76 yards including three touchdown catches.

Hunter ran for 96 yards and three touchdowns and passed for 133 yards and two more scores for the Golden Eagles, who gained 504 total offensive yards. But the Golden Eagles also were flagged 22 times for 245 yards.

Higgins caught two touchdown passes, and Aaron Higdon scored a rushing touchdown for the Golden Eagles.

Defensively, the Falcons were led by defensive end Marcus Crump (R-Sr./Pittsboro, N.C.), defensive back Jamil Berry (So./Fayetteville, Ga.) and linebackers Mark Hall (Jr./Suitland, Md.) and Stephan Stanback (Jr./Ft. Washington, Md.). They each collected nine total tackles. Berry also had an interception which stopped a Golden Eagles’ drive.

Austin McClain and Chris Woomer led the Golden Eagles with seven tackles each.

Though not pleased with the loss, Costa was impressed with the Falcons’ late rally against the Golden Eagles, who knocked off nationally-ranked Tusculum last week.

“We are coming together,” said Costa, whose Falcons lost 25-7 to Catawba in the season opener. “They know now they can get it done. Now it is up to them.”

September 05, 2009

Two Falcons Earn CIAA Football Player of the Week Honors

Tight end Jone’ Harris (Jr./Fairfield, Calif.) and quarterback Joaquin (Pronounced Wa – KEEM) Green (Redshirt Fr./Pittsboro, N.C.) of Saint Augustine’s College captured CIAA football player of the week awards on Monday (Sept. 7).

Harris was named CIAA receiver of the week after catching seven passes for 93 yards and three touchdowns in a 43-41 three overtime loss to the University of Charleston (W.Va.) on Sept. 5. His one-yard touchdown catch with 14 seconds left sent the game into overtime.

Harris also grabbed an eight-yard reception for a score in the second overtime. The receptions, yards and touchdowns were career highs for Harris in one game.

Green was selected CIAA rookie of the week after tossing six touchdown passes against the University of Charleston (W.Va.) in only his second collegiate start. The touchdown passes tied an NCAA Division II national record for most touchdown passes in one game by a freshman.

It also is the most touchdown passes by a Saint Augustine’s College player in one game since the program was re-started in 2002, breaking Darrell Nesbitt’s record of five touchdown passes against Winston-Salem State University in 2005.

Green completed 20 of 33 passes for 228 yards, six touchdowns and one interception against the University of Charleston (W.Va.)

This is the first CIAA weekly honor for both Harris and Green.

The Falcons return to action on Saturday (Sept. 12) at Mars Hill College in their first road game of the season. Game time is 1:30 p.m.

September 9, 2009

Green Named D2Football.com National Co-Offensive Player of the Week

Quarterback Joaquin (pronounced Wa –KEEM) Green of Saint Augustine’s College was selected D2Football.com National Co-Offensive Player of the Week on Wednesday (Sept. 9).

Green (Redshirt Fr./Pittsboro, N.C.) earned national recognition after throwing six touchdown passes in a 43-41 three overtime loss to the University of Charleston (W.Va.) this past Saturday in only his second collegiate start. He tied the Division II national record for most touchdown passes by a freshman in one game, which is shared by five other players.

Green, who was named CIAA football rookie of the week on Monday, also set a Saint Augustine’s College school record in the modern era. The previous record was held by former standout Darrell Nesbitt, who threw five touchdown passes against Winston-Salem State University in 2005.

“It is a great accomplishment and we are proud of him,” Costa said about Green. “It lets people know that he has a lot of talent and a lot of potential. When you can do what he did in only his second game, that’s amazing. He is a very good young man and a very smart young man. He carries a 3.8 [grade point average], and all of that shows [on the field].” Offensive coordinator Matthew Montgomery says Green has a keen knowledge of the game, which helps him make good decisions. “It feels good to have quarterback who understands football and the passing game,” Montgomery said. “It makes coaching a whole lot easier.”

Green, who completed 20 of 33 passes for 228 yards, six touchdowns and one interception against Charleston, is the second consecutive CIAA player to win a D2Football.com weekly honor. Last week, Quintez Smith of Shaw University was named national defensive player of the week.

D2Football.com is widely considered as the most comprehensive and popular news source for Division II Football fans. The Falcons take the field again on Saturday (Sept. 12) at Mars Hill College in Mars Hill, N.C. Game time is 1:30 p.m.

September 12, 2009

Falcons lose 20-14 to Mars Hill College

MARS HILL, N.C. – Saint Augustine’s College suffered a heartbreaking football loss to Mars Hill College on Saturday.

The Falcons led 14-0 in the game's first five minutes, but the Lions recovered to gain a 20-14 non-conference victory at Meares Stadium. The contest was sealed when the Lions held the Falcons on downs on their final possession in Falcon territory with under a minute remaining.

The Falcons scored first when Richard Boone (Sr./Petersburg, Va.) took the opening kickoff 99 yards untouched into the end zone. Adison Daniels (Sr./Raleigh, N.C.) added the extra point for a 7-0 lead. After holding on downs, the Falcons scored on their first offensive possession when Joaquin Green (R-Fr./Pittsboro, N.C.) found Tyron Laughinghouse (Fr./Greenville, N.C.) for a 43-yard touchdown pass. Daniels booted the extra point to extend the lead to 14-0 with 9:55 left in the first quarter.

The Falcons threatened to score on their second possession, but they missed a 28-yard field goal. The Lions got on the scoreboard when Jonas Randolph scored the first of his two touchdowns on an 11-yard run in the second quarter. The score pulled the Lions within 14-6 at halftime.

The Lions closed the gap to 14-12 when Demetruis Smedley returned a blocked punt 38 yards for a touchdown. They eventually grabbed the lead in the fourth quarter on Randolph's 13-yard scamper one play after a Falcons' punt netted 0 yards. Smedley scored on the two-point conversion, which made the score 20-14 Mars Hill.

The Falcons responded by driving twice inside Lions' territory but failed to score, with the second drive ending in an interception. They eventually gained possession for one last chance after a Lions' drive ended at the Falcons' 24 with 42 seconds remaining in the game. The Lions sacked Green on fourth down and 10, however, to kill any comeback attempt.

Randolph led the Lions a game-high 216 yards on 43 carries, while Walter Sanders (Jr./Baltimore, Md.) rushed 23 times for a season-high 128 yards. After winning Division II national offensive player of the week honors following a six-touchdown performance last week, Green was 13-for-36 for 141 yards, one touchdown and one interception for the Falcons. His counterpart, Jon Richt, was 9-for-23 for 94 yards and three interceptions for the Lions.

Jamel Moore (Jr./Fayetteville, N.C.) picked off two Richt passes for the Falcons, who gained 248 total offensive yards and allowed 313 offensive yards. Mark Hall (Jr./Suitland, Md.) was the Falcons' top tackler with 9 total tackles, and Michael Robinson led the Lions with seven tackles.

The Falcons dropped to 0-3 for the season, and the Lions upped their record to 2-1. The Falcons open CIAA play on Saturday (Sept. 19) at home against Virginia State University. Game time is 1:30 p.m. at Broughton High School.

September 19, 2009

Falcons Trip VSU 27-14 For First Victory

RALEIGH, N.C. – Saint Augustine’s College won for the first time this season, and it couldn’t have come at a better time.

The Falcons snapped a three-game losing streak with a 27-14 victory over Virginia State University on Saturday (Sept. 19) at Broughton High School Stadium, but more importantly, the Falcons are 1-0 in the CIAA.

“It was a big game for us,” said tailback Walter Sanders (Jr./Baltimore, Md.), who led the Falcons with two rushing touchdowns. “Everybody came to play today.”

The Falcons (1-3 overall) overcame an early seven-point third-quarter deficit to stop the Trojans (2-2 overall, 0-1 CIAA). Sanders scored on a 10-yard run, and Adison Daniels (Jr./Raleigh, N.C.) kicked the extra point to tie the score at 14-14.

Tight end Jone’ Harris (Fairfield, Calif.) put the Falcons ahead 20-14 in the third quarter with a 61-yard touchdown catch from Joaquin Green (R-Fr./Pittsboro, N.C.). Harris made a beautiful one-handed grab on a short pass, sidestepped a couple of defenders and outraced the safety for the score.

Sanders scored the game-clinching touchdown with 9:43 in the fourth quarter on a 1-yard run. Daniels kicked the extra point for a 27-14 Falcons’ lead. Harris set up the score in spectacular fashion when he leaped high over a defender to snatch a 45-yard pass from Kris Brownlee (R-Soph./Philadelphia,Pa.) on a reverse play. Harris caught the pass near the right sideline before falling out-of-bounds at the VSU 1-yard line.

Harris finished the day with three receptions for 114 yards and one touchdown for the Falcons, who displayed offensive balance in gaining a season-high 414 total offensive yards. Green was 20-for-35 for 193 yards, one touchdown pass and one rushing score.

The running tandem of Sanders and Arnold Mullins (Jr./Philadelphia, Pa.) combined for 164 rushing yards. Mullins, who carried most of the load in the second half, rushed for 89 yards on 13 carries. Sanders ran 13 times for 75 yards.

The Trojans, who entered the contest averaging 340.3 yards per game, were held to 254 yards by an active Falcons’ defense, led by outside linebacker Mark Hall (Jr./Suitland, Md.), who recorded a team-high 9 tackles.

Still, the Trojans led 14-7 nearly two minutes into the third quarter on a one-yard run by Rahoo Walker, and Justin Parker’s point after attempt before the Falcons took over.

“The second game of the season we were down 21 points in the fourth quarter,” said Sanders, referring to the 43-41 three overtime loss to Charleston (W.Va.). “We knew we could come back against Virginia State.”

The Falcons scored first in the second quarter when Green scored on a one-yard quarterback sneak, and Daniels added the PAT for a 7-0 lead. The Trojans came right back and tied the game, however, on a six-yard pass from Leonard Johnson to Antwain Lyde, and Parker’s extra point. The score was 7-7 at halftime.

“Both teams were feeling each other out in the first half,” Falcon Head Coach Michael Costa said. “In the second half, a couple of big catches and the steadiness of our defense turned things around.”

The big offensive plays and defensive stops in the second half allowed the Falcons to pull off the win over the Trojans, who entered the day with a winning record.

“It feels so good, I can’t stop smiling,” Sanders said. “I’m glad we won.”

Johnson was 18-for-28 for 123 yards and one touchdown for the Trojans, but was sacked twice including a hard hit from defensive tackle Phillip Stevenson (Jr./Statesville, N.C.) of the Falcons which forced a fumble. Lyde gained 75 yards on 12 carries, and Darell Young caught six passes for 84 yards. Pierre Clement led the Trojans with a game-high 11 tackles.

The Falcons will host Elizabeth City State University, last season’s CIAA runner-up team, on Saturday (Sept. 26) for their fourth home game in five contests. Game time is 1:30 p.m.

The Trojans will visit Fayetteville State University on Saturday at 6:00 p.m.

September 21, 2009

Costa Named CIAA Football Coach of the Week

After directing Saint Augustine’s College to a victory in its CIAA opener, Head Coach Michael Costa was selected CIAA football coach of the week on Monday (Sept. 21).

Costa led the Falcons to a 27-14 triumph over Virginia State University over the weekend at Broughton High School Stadium. The win was the first this season for the Falcons, who host Elizabeth City State University in a big CIAA game on Saturday at Broughton. The game starts at 1:30 p.m.

This is the sixth time that Costa has been chosen CIAA football coach of the week. He was named CIAA football coach of the year in 2003 and 2005.

September 26, 2009

Falcons Lose 29-27 Heartbreaker to ECSU

RALEIGH, N.C. – Saint Augustine’s College held high-powered Elizabeth City State University to a season low in total offensive yards, but was unable to pull out the victory in 29-27 CIAA football loss on Saturday (Sept. 26) at Broughton High School Stadium.

The Vikings entered the game averaging a league-high 428.2 offensive yards, but were held to 172 yards. The Vikings gained over 400 yards in each of their first three games, but were held to under 200 yards for the first time this season. Meanwhile, the Falcons gained 368 offensive yards which is their second highest total this season.

Despite winning the battle in total offensive yards, the Falcons failed to win for the second straight time when their 34-yard field goal attempt was blocked by Justin Hamilton as time expired.

Jone’ Harris (Jr./Fairfield, Calif.) led the Falcons with three receptions for 108 yards and two touchdowns, including a 34-yard leaping grab in the fourth quarter which put the Falcons ahead 27-23 with 3:02 remaining in the game. It was the second straight 100-plus yard receiving day for the Falcons’ tight end.

Joaquin Green of the Falcons completed 11-for-27 passes for 172 yards and two touchdowns, but he also threw two interceptions. Richard Abney caught four passes for 45 yards and a score for the Falcons.

Cedric Blacknall of the Vikings rushed 10 times for 40 yards and two touchdowns, including a two-yard run with 1:22 left which turned out to be the game-winner. The Falcons drove to the Vikings’ 17-yard line on their next possession where they attempted the potential winning field goal with three seconds left. Hamilton’s block preserved the victory for the Vikings.

Creven Powell completed 6 of 18 passes for 107 yards and a touchdown, but he threw two interceptions, one to Jamil Berry (So./Jonesboro, Ga.) and the other to Charles McKenzie (Jr./Warner Robins, Ga.).

Linebacker Steven Stanback paced the Falcons with 10 total tackles, and defensive end Marcus Crump (R-Sr./Pittsboro, N.C.) added seven tackles and 0.5 sacks. Kobi Williams sparked the Vikings with a game-high 11 tackles.

The game, played in rainy conditions, featured six lead changes, 11 turnovers and two safeties after the ball sailed over the punter in the end zone. The Vikings scored first on Blacknall’s two-yard run, but the Falcons led 10-7 at halftime on a 43-yard pass to Harris from Kris Brownlee (R-So./Philadelphia, Pa.) and a 36-yard field goal by Adison Daniels (Sr./Raleigh, N.C.).

The Vikings regained the lead 16-10 on a safety and an eight-yard run by Daronte McNeill. The Falcons countered by scoring on a safety and a six-yard pass to Abney from Green for a 19-16 lead going into the fourth quarter. There were three lead changes in the last seven frantic minutes of the fourth quarter.

The Falcons dropped to 1-4 overall and 1-1 in the CIAA, and the Vikings upped their record to 4-1 overall and 2-0 in the league. The Falcons will visit crosstown rival Shaw University at Millbrook High School starting at 1 p.m. next Saturday. The Vikings will travel to Virginia State University for a 1 p.m. game.

September 28, 2009

Rodriguez, Harris Earn CIAA Player of the Week Honors

The Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association (CIAA) honored football players Ricky Rodriguez and Jone’ Harris of Saint Augustine’s College on Monday (Sept. 28). Rodriguez was named CIAA offensive lineman of the week, and Harris was chosen CIAA receiver of the week.

Rodriguez, who plays center, is the second Falcon since 2002 to win the offensive lineman award. He anchored an offensive line that helped the Falcons gain 368 total offensive yards against Elizabeth City State University this past Saturday. The offensive total was the second highest this season for the Falcons.

Harris, who plays tight end, was named the CIAA’s top receiver for the second time this season. He caught three passes for 108 yards and two touchdowns covering 43 and 34 yards against Elizabeth City State University. It was the second straight 100-yard plus receiving day for Harris.

The Falcons will visit crosstown rival Shaw University in a key CIAA Western Division game at Millbrook High School on Saturday (Oct. 3). Game time is 1 p.m.

October 03, 2009

Falcons Lose 42-32 To Shaw

RALEIGH, N.C. – Saint Augustine’s College controlled the first half, but Shaw University came back in the second half to beat the Falcons 42-32 in a key CIAA football game Saturday (Oct. 3) at Millbrook High School.

Kris Brownlee (R-So./Philadelphia, Pa.) threw a touchdown pass and ran for another touchdown to lead the Falcons, who led 17-3 in the second quarter when LaBranzo Rish (So./Columbia, S.C.) scored on a 54-yard interception return with 3:10 left before halftime. Adison Daniels (Sr./Raleigh, N.C.) added the extra point.

The Bears closed the margin to 17-10 at halftime, and then outscored the Falcons 32-15 in the second half for the victory. The season series is now even at 3-3 since 2002.

The Falcons capitalized on two first-half interceptions to build a 14-point lead. Arnold Mullins (Jr./Philadelphia, Pa.) scored an 11-yard touchdown run after Mark Hall (Jr./Suitland, Md.) picked off a pass. Daniels kicked the extra point for a 10-0 lead in the first quarter.

After a Bears’ field goal in the second quarter, Rish intercepted a pass and raced untouched in the end zone for a score. Daniels’ extra point pushed the lead to 17-3.

But a penalty for excessive celebration on the touchdown gave the Bears good field position at the Falcons’ 25-yard line on their next possession. Travis Robinson connected with Tyrone Bolden for a five-yard touchdown pass, and Caleb Reid kicked the extra point for a 17-10 score.

The touchdown was the first of 26 consecutive points for the Bears, who opened a 29-17 lead on Lyncon Shepherd’s 35-yard field goal in the third quarter. The Falcons pulled within 29-24 in the third quarter, however, on Brownlee’s 5-yard pass to Tyron Laughinghouse (Fr./Greenville, N.C.) and Daniels’ extra point kick.

The Bears gained some breathing room on a key special teams play in the fourth quarter when Gerald Kennedy returned a blocked punt five yards for a touchdown. Caleb Reid kicked the extra point for a 36-24 Bears’ lead with 11:14 remaining in the quarter. The Bears stretched the lead to 42-24 with 5:26 remaining in the game on Raymond Williams’ three-yard touchdown run.

The Falcons added the final score with 2:44 left on a six-yard run by Brownlee. Joaquin Green (R-Fr./Pittsboro, N.C.) scored the two-point conversion on a run.

Robinson tossed two touchdown passes, and Aaron Ellison gained 107 yards on 16 carries for the Bears, who gained 358 total offensive yards after a slow start. The Falcons gained 312 total yards, which marked the third straight contest that they have surpassed the 300-yard mark.

Linebacker Justin Johnson (Fr./Opelika, Ala.) sparked the Falcons’ defense with 11 tackles, and Rico Brown and Herbert Tanner both had seven tackles apiece for the Bears.

The loss dropped the Falcons to 1-5 overall and 1-2 in the CIAA while the Bears upped their record to 5-1 overall and 2-1 in the CIAA. Both teams entered the contest in a four-way tie for first place with Fayetteville State University and Johnson C. Smith University.

The Falcons look to bounce back on Oct. 10 with a home game against Johnson C. Smith starting at 4:00 p.m. at Broughton High School Stadium. The Bears visit Fayetteville State on Oct. 10 at 1:00 p.m.

October 10, 2009

Saint Augustine’s College Runs Past Johnson C. Smith 27-9

RALEIGH, N.C. – Saint Augustine’s College gained a much-needed 27-9 football victory over Johnson C. Smith University on Saturday (Oct. 10) at Broughton High School Stadium.

The win not only snapped a two-game losing streak, but it kept the Falcons in the race for the Western Division title and a berth in the CIAA Championship Game. The Falcons (2-5 overall) are currently tied with Shaw University and Johnson C. Smith (3-4 overall) for second place at 2-2.

Fayetteville State University leads the Western Division at 3-1 after beating Shaw on Saturday. The Falcons visit Fayetteville State on Oct. 24 in Fayetteville, N.C.

“We still have to play the division leader,” Falcon Head Coach Michael Costa said. “We control our own destiny.”

First, the Falcons host Livingstone College on Oct. 17 for Homecoming/Senior Day at Broughton. Game time is 2 p.m.

“We have to take it one game at a time,” Costa said.

The Falcons will face Livingstone with a red-hot offense, which has gained over 300 yards in four consecutive games. Against Johnson C. Smith, the Falcons set season highs for total offensive yards (415) and rushing yards (246).

Tailback Arnold Mullins (Jr./Philadelphia, Pa.) finished with a season-high 104 yards on 20 carries and a touchdown. Kris Brownlee (R-So./Philadelphia, Pa.), the second quarterback in a two-QB system, added 74 yards on 12 rushes for the Falcons.

Starting quarterback Joaquin Green (R-Fr./Pittsboro, N.C.) completed 14-for-19 passes for 151 yards and a score. Eighty-nine of those yards went to Tyron Laughinghouse (Fr./Greenville, NC) on six catches.

The offense allowed the Falcons to win the possession time 39:17 to 20:43. The Falcons made the most of their time with the ball, too.

Mullins and tailback Walter Sanders (Jr./Baltimore, Md.) each ran for a short touchdown, and Adison Daniels (Sr./Raleigh, N.C.) added a 41-yard field goal and two extra points for a 17-3 lead at halftime.

The lead extended to 27-3 in the second half on a 37-yard field goal and extra point by Daniels and a short pass from Green to Richard Abney (Capital Heights, Md.). The Golden Bulls scored finally scored late in the fourth quarter on a 19-yard Ryan Carter pass to Kenny Strickland after struggling to move the ball throughout the game.

While the Falcons ran at will, the Golden Bulls struggled on the ground against an air-tight Falcons’ defense which limited the visitors to -2 net rushing yards and 139 total offensive yards. The Falcons were 6 of 11 on third-down conversions while the Golden Bulls were 1 of 8.

The Falcons compiled five quarterback sacks including three for defensive end Marcus Crump (Sr./Pittsboro, N.C.) and two for linebacker Mark Hall (Jr./Suitland, Md.), who led the team with 8 total tackles and also had a fumble recovery. Crump had 7 total tackles and linebacker Steven Stanback (Jr./Temple Hills, Md.) had six total tackles, three tackles for loss and two forced fumbles.

The offensive and defensive display by the Falcons overshadowed 14 penalties for 137 yards. The Golden Bulls committed 10 penalties for 92 yards.

“We still need to tighten up on a few things, but overall we played a good game,” Costa said.

After losing four games by an average of five points, the Falcons regrouped with a critical win against Johnson C. Smith. Now they are in the thick of a division race with three games left.

“You have to learn how to deal with adversity,” Costa said. “I thought we dealt with adversity today.”

Carter completed 13 of 17 passes for 141 yards and a touchdown for the Golden Bulls. Perrin Carr IV of the Golden Bulls led all tacklers with 11and had one forced fumble.

October 12, 2009

Crump Named CIAA Defensive Lineman of the Week

A big defensive day by Marcus Crump (R-Sr./Pittsboro, N.C.) of Saint Augustine’s College earned him CIAA defensive lineman of the week honors on Monday (Oct. 12).

Crump collected a career-high three quarterback sacks, 4.5 tackles for loss and seven total tackles (five solo, two assisted) in a key 27-9 victory over Johnson C. Smith University on Saturday (Oct. 10). He led a rock-solid defense, which held the Golden Bulls to -2 net rushing yards and 139 total offensive yards.

A 6-foot-6, 240-pound defensive end, Crump was 1 ½ sacks away from tying the modern school single-game record set by Alex Hall three years ago. Hall, who currently plays for the NFL’s Cleveland Browns, recorded 4.5 sacks against Johnson C. Smith University on Oct. 14, 2006.

Crump has won three CIAA weekly awards during his career, including his first this season. He and his Falcon teammates host Livingstone College on Homecoming/Senior Day on Saturday (Oct. 17). Game time is 2 p.m. at Broughton High School Stadium.

October 17, 2009

Falcons Rip Livingstone 31-7 On Homecoming/Senior Day

RALEIGH, N.C. – Saint Augustine’s College celebrated Homecoming/Senior Day with an easy 31-7 win over Livingstone College on Saturday (Oct. 17) before a capacity crowd at Broughton High School Stadium.

The win keeps the Falcons (3-5 overall, 3-2 CIAA) in the CIAA Western Division title hunt with two games remaining in the regular season. The Falcons are one game behind division leader Fayetteville State University (4-1 CIAA) heading into their showdown this coming Saturday (Oct. 24) in Fayetteville, N.C. at 2 p.m.

“Every game now really counts,” said Head Coach Michael Costa, whose Falcons are on a two-game win streak.

Defense and special teams carried the Falcons until the offense came alive late in the second half. The Falcons struck first in the first quarter when Tyron Laughinghouse (Fr./Greenville, N.C.) scored on a 43-yard punt return and Adison Daniels (Sr./Raleigh, N.C.) kicked the extra point. Daniels added a 20-yard field goal in the second quarter for a 10-0 halftime lead.

In the first half, the Falcons had 130 yards of total offense and one interception. But a rock-solid defense limited the Blue Bears to eight total yards.

Defense sparked the Falcons in the third quarter when defensive end Marcus Crump (Redshirt Sr./Pittsboro, N.C.) picked up a fumble and rambled seven yards for a touchdown, ending the run with an emphatic leap in the end zone over a Blue Bear player. Daniels booted the extra point for a 17-0 lead.

Tailback Walter Sanders (Jr./Baltimore, Md.) finished off the Blue Bears with two touchdown runs covering 38 and 28 yards in the fourth quarter. Daniels kicked both extra points. Sandwiched in between both scoring runs was a seven-yard pass from reserve quarterback Bryan Aycoth to Terril Gourdine for the Blue Bears (0-8 overall, 0-5 CIAA) only touchdown. Jordan Beckham kicked the point after attempt.

After a slow start, the Falcons ended with 326 total offensive yards. This is the fifth game in a row that the Falcons have gained over 300 offensive yards and scored 27 or more points, all against CIAA foes.

Sanders rushed for 101 yards and two touchdowns on eight carries after entering the game in the second half. Reserve quarterback Kris Brownlee (Redshirt So./Philadelphia, Pa.) gained 70 yards on 11 carries, and wide receiver Richard Abney (Sr./Capital Heights, Md.) had four catches for 80 yards for the Falcons.

The defense recorded seven quarterback sacks, forced three turnovers and limited the Blue Bears to 56 total yards including minus 22 net rushing yards. This is the second consecutive contest an opponent has rushed for negative yards against the Falcons.

Linebacker Mark Hall (Sr./Suitland, Md.) led the Falcons with 10 total tackles. Crump, this week’s CIAA defensive lineman of the week, added nine total tackles, 3.5 tackles for loss and 2.5 sacks, his second straight multi-sack game. Alkeem Deloatch led the Blue Bears with 10 total tackles.

“The good thing was we scored in all three phases,” Costa said. “We are starting to become a pretty balanced team. It was good to see Laughinghouse do some things on special teams. The defense was pretty tough today.”

This was the last home game for seniors Richard Boone (Petersburg, Va.), Mario Castellanos (Anaheim, Calif.), Damon Gibson (Suitland, Md.), Michael Gillespie (Statesville, Ga.), Cecil Jones (Fayetteville, N.C.), Stephan Stanback (Temple Hills, Md.), Abney, Crump, Daniels and Hall.

October 19, 2009

Crump, Hall Win CIAA Football Player of the Week Awards

The Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association (CIAA) honored defensive end Marcus Crump (Redshirt Sr./Pittsboro, N.C.) and outside linebacker Mark Hall (Sr./Suitland, Md.) of Saint Augustine’s College on Monday (Oct. 19). Crump won CIAA defensive lineman of the week honors for the second week in a row, and Hall was named CIAA linebacker of the week.

Crump (6-6, 240 pounds) returned a fumble seven yards for a touchdown in a 31-7 win over Livingstone College on Homecoming/Senior Day this past Saturday (Oct. 17) at Broughton High School Stadium. He also recorded 9 total tackles including 3.5 tackles for loss and 2.5 quarterback sacks. Crump, the Falcons’ sacks leader with seven, has won four CIAA weekly awards during his collegiate football career.

Hall (5-9, 175 pounds) led the Falcons with 10 total tackles against Livingstone. The total tied for the most tackles in the game. This is the first CIAA weekly award for Hall, who leads the Falcons with 63 total tackles.

Both players will lead the Falcons (3-5 overall, 3-2 CIAA) against Western Division leader Fayetteville State University (5-3 overall, 4-1 CIAA) in a CIAA showdown on Saturday (Oct. 24) in Fayetteville, N.C., at 2 p.m. A win would move the Falcons into a first-place tie in the Western Division.

October 24, 2009

FSU Downs Falcons 56-6

FAYETTEVILLE, N.C. – Fayetteville State University scored 33 points off five turnovers to beat Saint Augustine’s College 56-6 on Saturday (Oct. 24) before a homecoming crowd of 5,429 at Luther “Nick” Jeralds Stadium.

The Broncos (6-3 overall, 5-1 CIAA) clinched the CIAA Western Division football title with the win. They will play in the CIAA Championship game on Nov. 7 in Durham, N.C.

The Falcons dropped to 3-6 overall and 3-3 in the CIAA with the loss. They entered the game with a chance to move into a first-place tie with the Broncos.

The Broncos led 7-0 five minutes into the game on a three-yard pass from Tyler Hosler to Leamon Cozart. The Broncos recovered a fumble on the Falcon 17-yard line to set up the score.

Steven Stanback (Jr./Temple Hills, Md.) of the Falcons scored on a 30-yard interception return to pull the Falcons within 7-6 with 6:55 remaining in the first quarter. The Broncos scored 49 unanswered points following the interception to turn the game into a rout.

The Broncos scored on a safety, and Calvin Harris scored on a nine-yard run to push the lead to 16-6 in the first quarter. Richard Medlin added a 59-yard scoring run, and Jeffery Gowdy recovered a fumble in the end zone after the punter mishandled the snap in the second quarter for a 29-6 Bronco lead at halftime.

The Broncos scored on the opening possession of the third quarter when Hosler found Tyshon Gurley for a three-yard touchdown pass. Gregory Summerville scored on a 30-yard interception return on the Falcons’ first possession of the quarter to make the score 43-6.

Medlin added a two-yard run following a fumble on the Falcons’ ensuing possession, and Darius Powell scored on a 12-yard fumble return to wrap up the scoring for the Broncos.

The Falcons had a season-high eight turnovers and gained a season-low 35 yards of total offense while the Broncos gained 358 offensive yards including 258 yards on the ground. The Broncos also recorded 10 sacks which helped account for minus 72 net yards rushing for the Falcons.

Tyron Laughinghouse (Fr./Greenville, N.C.) of the Falcons totaled a game-high 135 yards of total offense including two catches for 59 yards and three kick returns for 70 yards including a 33-yard return.

Stanback led the Falcons with nine tackles and recovered a fumble in addition to providing the Falcons’ only score on an interception return. Defensive end Marcus Crump (Redshirt Sr./Pittsboro, N.C.) and cornerback Jamil Berry (So./Fayetteville, Ga.) both added eight tackles.

The Falcons forced four Bronco turnovers. Darrien Walker (Fr./Kernersville, N.C.) and Charles McKenzie (Jr./Warner Robins, Ga.) each intercepted a pass along with Stanback, who also recovered a fumble which Walker forced. Marcos Esquivel led the Broncos with 10 tackles and two sacks.

Four Broncos ran for 40 or more yards. Medlin led all rushers with 87 yards on eight carries and two touchdowns, and Michael Staton added 78 yards on eight carries. Hosler was 9-for-15 for 100 yards with two touchdowns and two interceptions. Joaquin Green (Redshirt Fr./Pittsboro, N.C.) of the Falcons threw for 103 yards but was 6-for-17 with two interceptions.

The margin of victory is the largest for the Broncos in the season series, eclipsing the 62-13 win against the Falcons in 2002.

The Falcons conclude the regular season with a road trip to Chowan University in Murfreesboro, N.C., on Oct. 31. Game time is 12:30 p.m.

October 31, 2009

FSU Downs Falcons 56-6

MURFREESBORO, N.C. – Saint Augustine’s College scored 21 unanswered points in the second half for a 28-18 victory over Chowan University on Saturday (Oct. 31) in the season’s last game for both teams.

The Falcons finished the season third in the CIAA Western Division with a 4-3 record. Their overall mark is 4-6. The Hawks dropped to 2-5 in the CIAA and 2-8 overall.

“We wanted to end on a good note,” Falcon Head Coach Michael Costa said. “The kids were positive. This was good for our seniors to go out with a victory. It also lets you know what we are capable of doing. We played our third-string quarterback and the guys rallied around him.”

Trailing 12-7 in the third quarter, the Falcons scored three consecutive touchdowns to take control of the game. Gerald Marshall, starting his first game at quarterback, scored on a one-yard sneak and Adison Daniels added the extra point for the Falcons, who reclaimed the lead at 14-12 in the third quarter.

The Falcons padded their lead to 21-12 in the fourth quarter on Shane Russell’s 13-yard run and Daniels’ extra point. The lead stretched to 28-12 with 11:02 in the fourth quarter on a two-yard run by Walter Sanders and Daniels’ extra point. One of Daniels’ extra points was a 40-yard kick after a Falcon penalty. The Hawks scored on C.J. Westler’s 15-yard pass to Robert Holland for the final score.

The Falcons led 7-0 nearly two minutes into the game on an 80-yard pass from Marshall to Tyron Laughinghouse. Daniels tacked on the extra point.

The Hawks closed within 7-6 with six seconds left before halftime when Westler found Holland for a nine-yard pass. They led for the first time on Marcus Johnson’s 80-yard interception return in the third quarter.

Senior defensive end Marcus Crump, playing his final college game, led a Falcon defense which held the high-powered Hawks to their lowest point total of the season. Crump had seven tackles including 4.5 tackles for loss and three sacks for the Falcons.

A Crump-led defensive front sacked Westler four times and pressured the Hawks’ quarterback into throwing four interceptions – two to Charles McKenzie, and one each to Steven Stanback (7 tackles) and Jamil Berry. Westler leads the CIAA in total offense, and the Hawks are the league’s top offensive team.

“We started out with a 3-4 defense to give them a different look, but when we went back to our regular (4-3) defense, we were good to go,” Crump said. “We didn’t even blitz that much.”

Arnold Mullins gained 116 yards on 14 carries for the Falcons, who amassed 504 yards of total offense compared to 399 yards for the Hawks. Marshall, the third-team quarterback, delivered in his first start due to injuries to starter Joaquin Green and Kris Brownlee. Marshall completed 18 of 30 passes 263 yards, one scoring run and one touchdown pass to Laughinghouse, who caught five passes for 136 yards and one touchdown. Marshall also tossed four interceptions, but Costa was pleased with the way the quarterback stepped up in the spotlight.

“He did a good job,” Costa said. “He showed a lot of poise. He stepped up and held his own even when he threw a couple of interceptions. He didn’t go in the tank. I am proud of him.”

By winning with a third-team quarterback and bottling up the CIAA’s best offense, the Falcons showed their true potential heading into next season, according to Costa.

“If we continue to work like this, it won’t matter who we play,” Costa said. “It will be just a matter of coming together and doing what we need to do.”

November 4, 2009

McKenzie Named CIAA Defensive Back of the Week

Cornerback Charles McKenzie (Jr. /Warner Robins, Ga.) of Saint Augustine’s College was selected CIAA defensive back of the week on Monday (Nov. 2).

McKenzie intercepted two passes and made seven tackles in a 28-18

November 4, 2009

Crump Selected D2football.com National Defensive Player of the Week

After spending most of Saturday disrupting the Chowan University offense, defensive end Marcus Crump (R-Sr./Pittsboro, N.C.) of Saint Augustine’s College was named D2football.com national defensive player of the week Wednesday (Nov. 4).

Crump (6-foot-6, 240 pounds) was unstoppable in his last college game in a Falcon uniform. He totaled nine tackles, including 4.5 tackles for loss of which three were sacks. He also recorded one quarterback hurry and broke up a pass.

Crump led a Falcon defense which held high-powered Chowan to its lowest point total of the season in a 28-18 Falcon victory in Murfreesboro, N.C. Chowan entered the game as the top offensive team in the CIAA.

Crump ended his senior season ranked second in the CIAA in sacks (10) and third in tackles for loss (15). Nationally, Crump is tied for seventh nationally in sacks and tied for 25th in tackles for loss.

Crump is the second Falcon to win national honors from D2football.com. Quarterback Joaquin Green (Redshirt Freshman), a fellow Pittsboro, N.C., native, was named co-national offensive player of the week on Sept. 9 after tying a national freshman record with six touchdown passes against Charleston (W.Va.).

D2football.com is a highly-regarded and comprehensive website devoted to covering Division II football.

November 5, 2009

Three Falcons Named To the All-CIAA Football Team

Saint Augustine’s College placed three players on the 2009 All-CIAA football team, which was released Thursday (Nov. 5).

Defensive end Marcus Crump (R-Sr./Pittsboro, N.C.) was selected to the first team. Center Ricky Rodriguez (Jr./Miami, Fla.) and outside linebacker Mark Hall (Sr./Suitland, Md.) made the second team.

Crump (6-6, 240 pounds) ended his senior season ranked second in the CIAA in sacks (10) and third in tackles for loss (15). Nationally, Crump is tied for seventh in sacks and tied for 25th in tackles for loss.

Crump was named D2football.com national player of the week on Wednesday after a nine-tackle, three-sack performance against Chowan University over the weekend. A two-time CIAA defensive lineman of the week, Crump had three games where he tallied 3.5 or more tackles for loss and 2.5 or more sacks.

Rodriguez (6-2, 295 pounds) was the centerpiece of an improved offensive line, which helped the Falcons average 24 points and 304 yards of total offense. In 2008, the Falcons averaged 18 points and 280 total yards.

Hall (5-9, 175 pounds) ranked fifth in the CIAA in total tackles (78), eighth in tackles for loss (13) and tied for fifth in fumbles recovered (3). He also totaled 4.5 sacks, one interception and two pass break-ups.

The CIAA players of the year and the All-CIAA teams, voted on by the league’s coaches and sports information directors, will be recognized at the CIAA Football Championship Luncheon on Friday (Nov. 6) at the Durham Marriott at the Civic Center in Durham, N.C. The luncheon starts at 11 a.m.

November 5, 2009

Green Heads Four Falcons On All-CIAA Football Rookie Team

After a dynamic first season at quarterback, Joaquin Green claimed 2009 CIAA Football Offensive Rookie of the Year honors on Thursday (Nov. 5). Green also joined teammates Tyron Laughinghouse, Justin Johnson and Cody Nash on the 2009 All-CIAA Football Rookie Team, which was also released Thursday.

“It is a great accomplishment for these young men,” Falcon Head Coach Michael Costa said. “Hopefully, it shows that the future of Saint Augustine’s College football is bright.”

Green, a 6-2, 185-pound redshirt freshman quarterback from Pittsboro, N.C., is the first Falcon player to win the league’s top offensive rookie award. He led all CIAA rookies in passing yards (1,318) and touchdown passes (12) including six TDs on Sept. 5 against the University of Charleston (W.Va.). Green was named D2football.com national co-offensive player of the week after the big day against Charleston.

The six touchdown passes against Charleston tied a national freshman single-game record and broke the school mark of five set by Darrell Nesbitt in 2005. Statistically, Green ranks second in the CIAA in touchdown passes, third in passing average (146.5) and fourth in passing yards.

Laughinghouse, a 6-3, 175-pound freshman wide receiver from Greenville, N.C, ranks sixth in the CIAA in receptions per game (3.8) and eighth in receiving yards per game (58.6). He led Falcon receivers with 34 receptions for 527 yards and six touchdowns.

Johnson, a 5-11, 210-pound freshman linebacker from Opelika, Ala., finished his first season with 39 total tackles (14 solo, 25 assists), which placed him among the top freshman tacklers in the CIAA. He was the sixth-best tackler on the Falcons’ team. Johnson also collected two pass break-ups and one quarterback hurry.

Nash, a 6-2, 240-pound freshman defensive end from Macon, Ga., helped anchor the defensive line with 33 total tackles (13 solo, 20 assists). He accounted for 5.5 tackles for loss, which was fourth-best on the team. Nash also had one quarterback hurry and one fumble recovery.

The league’s sports information directors vote on the All-CIAA offensive and defensive rookies of the year and the All-CIAA rookie team. The rookies of the year and the All-Rookie teams will be recognized at the CIAA Football Championship Luncheon on Friday (Nov. 6) at the Durham Marriott at the Civic Center in Durham, N.C, at 11 a.m.