Quarterback Duel
South Carolina State relies on senior quarterback Eric Phoenix, The 2024 HBCU+ National Player of the Year. Phoenix is a consistent passer who has thrown for 2,460 yards and 20 touchdowns this season while maintaining a 65.1% completion rate. His ability to distribute the ball efficiently, combined with his occasional scrambling prowess, will challenge Jackson State’s secondary.
Jackson State counters with Jacobian Morgan, who has showcased poise under center with 2,003 passing yards and 19 touchdowns. His mobility and ability to make plays outside the pocket add an extra dimension to the Tigers’ offense. The matchup between these two quarterbacks could decide the game’s tempo.
Ground Game
The Bulldogs average 153.5 rushing yards per game, led by running backs Deondra Duehart and KZ Adams. Both bring versatility, with Duehart’s ability to find seams and Adams’ knack for explosive plays. 
Jackson State boasts a superior rushing attack, averaging 218.5 yards per game. Irv Mulligan leads the charge with 1,174 yards on the ground and 11 touchdowns, complemented by Travis Terrell Jr.’s explosive speed. The Tigers’ offensive line has consistently dominated in run blocking, giving them an edge in this category.
Passing and Receiving Corps
South Carolina State’s passing attack is spearheaded by wideouts Caden High (892 yards, 7 TDs) and Justin Smith-Brown (725 yards, 4 TDs). High’s route-running and Smith-Brown’s ability to make contested catches will be critical against Jackson State’s aggressive secondary.
On the other side, Jackson State’s Joanes Fortilien (584 yards, 9 TDs) and Isaiah Spencer (537 yards, 4 TDs) bring dynamic playmaking to the field. Fortilien’s knack for finding the end zone could prove vital in red-zone situations.
Defense & Special Teams Will Shine
Defensively, South Carolina State relies on linebacker Aaron Smith and defensive lineman Ashaad Hall. Smith leads the Bulldogs with 78 total tackles, while Hall has recorded 11 sacks. Their ability to contain Jackson State’s rushing attack and pressure Morgan will be key.
Jackson State’s defense is equally formidable. Reid Pulliam and Joshua Nobles anchor a unit that has racked up 36 sacks this season. The Tigers’ secondary, led by Ke’Vric Wiggins Jr. and Esaias Guthrie, has proven opportunistic with 13 interceptions. The battle between Jackson State’s ball-hawking secondary and Phoenix’s precision passing will be one to watch.
Special teams could tilt the game in either direction. Jackson State kicker Gerardo Baeza has been reliable, converting 22 of 28 field goals, while South Carolina State’s Kyle Gallegos has been less consistent at 9 of 14. In the return game, Jackson State’s Travis Terrell Jr. stands out with two kickoff return touchdowns.
Keys to Victory
For South Carolina State, controlling the clock through a balanced attack and avoiding turnovers will be paramount. Their defense must also find ways to disrupt Morgan’s rhythm.
Jackson State’s path to victory lies in exploiting their superior ground game and forcing Phoenix into uncomfortable situations with a relentless pass rush. If the Tigers can capitalize on their special teams’ edge, it could be the difference in a close contest.
Both teams bring championship pedigrees and dynamic playmakers to the field, but Jackson State’s superior rushing attack and opportunistic defense give them a slight edge. Expect a hard-fought game that goes down to the wire
