Jaguars begin SWAC play against UAPB

With the season opener falling short of a win, 30-21 Jags 0-1, 0-1 Northwestern 1-0, the Southern Jaguars prepare for yet another contest with a match up with the Golden Lions of Arkansas Pine Bluff.
Since playing each other as NCAA 1-AA opponents in 1997, this rivalry has seen the Jags win all three contests in the late 90s.
But, the Golden Lions changed that last season with an impressive defeat in front of a crowd of 20,153 fans. UAPB led 307 with 5:52 to play but allowed the Jags two quick touchdowns. Bringing the score the final 30-19.
UAPB (1-0) was keyed by running back Ron Johnson, who had 35 rushes for 204 yds and two TDs. As a team UAPB picked up 532 total yards while SU (0-1) settled at 278 yards total. For the Golden Lions it was a great victory to beat the Jaguars for the first time in three years.
Things may be a little different in this weekend’s contest between the Golden Lions and the Jaguars.
“I feel that we are more confident, we are more prepared physically, the progress is greater,” said junior defensive lineman Josh Davis of Shreveport. “I feel that execution on both sides of the ball is the key to a successful game.”
The Jags have a lot of returning starters and few new faces to some key starting positions. With the experience Southern has against UAPB, many players feel a win is eminent.
“We won’t settle for nothing less than a win,” said Davis.
The showdown will occur this Saturday, September 9, at A.W. Mumford Stadium in Baton Rouge. Kickoff is at 6 p.m.
You can also catch the game “Live” on BET. All fans are encouraged to wear paraphernalia bearing the new logo.
“Let’s fill the stadium with a sea of golden Jaguars and cheer the Jags on to a victory,” said Sports Information Director Kevin Manns.