MOBILE, Ala. — South Alabama head coach Joey Jones said Monday he has challenged his team, and especially its seniors, to finish the season strong over the final three games after a string of close losses and Saturday’s 42-14 defeat at Navy.
Jones was joined at his weekly press conference by defensive lineman Alex Page and wide receiver Shavarez Smith as the Jaguars prepare to host Louisiana-Monroe on Saturday at Ladd-Peebles Stadium.
‘One of the Toughest Things’
Jones said the message struck home with the seniors, who he said still have a chance to make the season special. “I see a different look in our seniors’ eyes right now, because I think they see it coming to an end and they want to do something about it,” he said.
He told players the season has been one of the toughest stretches of his football career because the team is doing many things right without the results showing on the scoreboard. “Let’s face it, we’re maybe three plays away from three more wins,” Jones said.
Jones said he would not change his approach. “We’re a growing program right now,” he said, adding that the players have competed every week and believe they are moving forward.
No Overhaul Planned
Jones said the temptation after a loss can be to revamp everything, but the Jaguars are practicing well, studying video and arriving mentally ready for games. “I believe in the system we have here and I believe in our players,” he said.
He said what impresses him most is how much the players care about each other and the program. Jones noted that the seniors arrived when there was no program and want to build it the right way, and that one of the team’s goals remains within reach.
Scouting Louisiana-Monroe
Jones called Louisiana-Monroe quarterback Kolton Browning “a magician” who can scramble toward the line of scrimmage and throw a touchdown pass 40 yards downfield. He said the Warhawks have more weapons and a stronger power running game than in recent years, and that their defense is the most multiple South Alabama will face, with a wide variety of fronts and blitzes.
Jones said the Jaguars had one of their better late-season games against the Warhawks last year and that the staff will draw on notes from that matchup.
Page Glad to Leave the Triple Option Behind
Page said defending Navy’s triple option demanded discipline and took a physical toll, and that he is looking forward to rushing the passer this week. He said the Jaguars have played hard and studied film but have had some bad breaks, and that containing Browning and preventing big plays are the keys against Louisiana-Monroe.
Smith: Send the Seniors Out Right
Smith said the team has great respect for its seniors and wants to send them out on a good note. “We just have to be resilient,” he said. “We have to work hard, believe in our coaching staff and teammates, and just continue to work to win.”
South Alabama and Louisiana-Monroe kick off at 6 p.m. Saturday at Ladd-Peebles Stadium.
