Alcorn State defense scores 3 TDs in spring win

Apr 24, 2016 - 2:51 AM (STATS) - Alcorn State ended spring practices feeling good that a McNair is in charge.

Fred McNair succeeding the highly successful Jay Hopson as head coach has kept continuity in the program. He is an Alcorn alum elevated from assistant head coach and his late brother Steve will forever be royalty in the program.

The two-time defending Southwestern Athletic Conference program wrapped up spring practices Saturday with the defense scoring more touchdowns than the offense in a 24-13 win at Spinks-Casem Stadium.

Damien Wilson fell on a fumble in the end zone for a touchdown, while Zavier Johnson and Deion Roberson both scored off interceptions.

The Braves return 11 starters from last year's championship club, which finished 9-4 after it lost to MEAC champ North Carolina A&T in the inaugural Celebration Bowl. Hopson, the first white head football coach in the historically black SWAC, resigned in the offseason to take over at Southern Miss.

Among the returnees are dynamic quarterback Lenorris Footman and top wide receiver Marquis Warford, last year's SWAC newcomer of the year. The defense will feature end Stacey Garner, linebacker Darien Anderson and defensive back Eric Foster.

Alcorn State will open the 2016 season on Sept. 4 at Bethune-Cookman in the 12th annual MEAC-SWAC Challenge.