April 19, 2008

NACOGDOCHES - The Stephen F. Austin Lumberjack football team closed out spring practice Saturday evening with its annual spring game at Homer Bryce Stadium. Prior to taking the field, SFA honored the 1973 Poultry Bowl team.

"These guys have impressed me with their work ethic each and everyday," said SFA head coach J.C. Harper. "We are getting better, and growing as a team. The offense is becoming more confident, and our defense is getting better. Now we need to take care of business during the summer and report back in August ready to go to work."

Sophomore-to-be Jeremy Moses closed out the spring with his third strong performance. Moses finished the game completing 28-of-36 passes for 262 yards, and two touchdowns. The only low points, in an otherwise sterling performance, were his two interceptions, including one by Lufkin native, and former quarterback, Jeremy Claybon.

Moses connected with nine different receivers during the game. He hit junior-to-be Aaron Rhea for a four-yard scoring strike, and connected with transfer Duane Brooks for a 47-yard touchdown pass. Brooks led all receivers with five receptions for 111 yards, and the score.

The 'Jacks carried the ball the eight times for 42 yards. Transfer Tyrone Ross carried the ball four times for 14 yards, while Moses added a 20-yard scamper.

The Lumberjack defense has shown its ability to force turnovers, and make stops behind the line of scrimmage throughout the spring, and that didn't change in the final scrimmage. The defense forced three turnovers, including two interceptions, and recorded three sacks.

The two interceptions were costly because both were made in the red zone, including Claybon's interception at the goal line. The defense was led by Nolan Loflin, Brandon Davis and Nick Hightower. All three players recorded a team-high four tackles, while Hightower also forced a fumble. Junior-to-be Andre Hicks finished the game three tackles, included two of the team's three sacks.

The Lumberjacks kick off the 2008 season Saturday, Aug. 30, against Langston. The game is slated to begin at 6 p.m. from Homer Bryce Stadium.

-SFA-