G-Men Host Bulldogs with Rookie Quarterback Lineup
As the Grambling State Tigers prepare to host the Alabama A&M Bulldogs, they face a challenging situation at quarterback. The game is scheduled for Saturday at Eddie G. Robinson Stadium, with kickoff at 2 p.m.
Current Status of the Tigers
Grambling currently holds a 5-3 overall record and a 2-2 standing in the Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC) West Division. Last weekend, the Tigers achieved an impressive 26-24 upset over the previously top-ranked Jackson State in Las Vegas.
Quarterback Issues
However, the Tigers’ fortunes are clouded by injuries to their quarterbacks. Starting quarterback C’zavian Teasett is hospitalized due to an injury sustained during the Jackson State game. Backup Ashton Frye is also sidelined with a shoulder injury, leaving Coach Mickey Joseph in a difficult position.
New Quarterback Lineup
- A’Myne Darensbourg will start against Alabama A&M after stepping in during the last game.
- True freshman Hayden Benoit is another option, though he has no collegiate experience.
- Running back Byron Eaton, Jr. will take quarterback snaps from the Wildcat formation.
Coach Joseph is determined to have a strategic plan for utilizing all three players. “We’re not going to play musical chairs with this position,” he stated. The approach aims to utilize each quarterback’s strengths while avoiding confusion.
Game Strategy
With Darensbourg’s dual-threat capability as a running quarterback, the Tigers anticipate relying heavily on the run game. Joseph believes this strategy will be vital against a Bulldogs team that is also adjusting to a backup quarterback.
Key Statistics
- Byron Eaton, Jr. has rushed for 235 yards and three touchdowns this season.
- Grambling’s record stands at 5-3 overall and 2-2 in the SWAC West.
- Alabama A&M has a current record of 4-4 and sits at 1-3 in the SWAC East.
Both teams are navigating similar challenges with their quarterback situations, suggesting that the run game will be essential for establishing control. Coach Joseph noted, “We want to try to dominate the line of scrimmage.” This strategic focus could determine the outcome of the game.
