JONESBORO, Ark. (4/15/16) – The Arkansas State football team wrapped up its 2016 spring camp Friday night at Centennial Bank Stadium, holding its annual spring game that gave three “celebrity coaches” and several “guest coaches” the opportunity to roam the sidelines with the Red Wolves.
“I thought it was a fun night with a good crowd that brought a lot of energy,” said A-State head coach Blake Anderson. “I think all our celebrity and guest coaches that helped had smiles on their faces, and we ultimately got some work done.”
Sports Illustrated writer Thayer Evans served as the “Celebrity Head Coach” and operated on the offensive side of the ball, while former A-State football greats Demario Davis and Don Jones acted as “Celebrity Co-Head Coaches” for the defense. Davis and Jones are also current members of the NFL's Cleveland Browns.
Using traditional scoring for the offense, a point system for the defense and a couple of fan-friendly challenges awarding both sides of the ball points, the defense came up with a narrow 43-42 victory.
While the offense netted just 248 yards on 72 plays, it was able to put 18 points on the board off a pair of rushing touchdowns and a third score through the air. The defense forced five three-and-outs and benefited from three interceptions to account for 33 of its 43 points.
“We all knew going in that it was going to be a challenge because we had eight offensive linemen dressed out and only five of them were actually healthy,” Anderson said. “The other three just played through it, so it was a challenge all night to block our defensive front.”
Five players combined to post six sacks for defense, which also recorded 13 tackles for loss. Linebacker Quanterio Heath, cornerback Carl Bess and safety Bo Sentimore were responsible for the three interceptions.
The bulk of the offensive yards came through the air as the Red Wolves passed for 233 yards. Receiver Blake Mack hauled in the only touchdown pass of the night, a 19-yard completion from quarterback Carson Coats. The junior also finished with a team-best 83 receiving yards on three catches.
Running back's Logan Moragne and Jamal Jones recorded the two rushing scores, which went for three and two yards, respectively.
Season tickets for the Red Wolves' 2016 football campaign, which includes six home games, are available for purchase. Arkansas State has strung together 11 consecutive years with a winning home record dating back to 2005 and has won 26 of its last 30 games at Centennial Bank Stadium.
Tickets may be purchased or renewed through the A-State Ticket Office, located at the Convocation Center's lower red entrance, in person, by phone at 870-972-2781 or online by clicking the “Tickets” link located at the top of the AStateRedWolves.com home page.
