The Jackson State Tigers went to Houston and took care of business. As head coach Deion Sanders always states, “road games are business trips.” This trip was taken with a little more caution as his team went to a place where hip-hop star Takeoff of the The Migos was killed on Tuesday morning at a private party at a nearby bowling alley.
Coach Prime quickly forbid his team from going anywhere but the team hotel while in H-Town. That laser focus proved big, as the Tigers won easily 41-14. Star quarterback Shedeur Sanders was his usual efficient self, passing for 253 yards and three touchdowns. He went 23 of 30 which is right around his season average (67 percent completion rate).
Transfer Sy’Veon Wilkerson toted the mail 26 times for 214 yards and two touchdowns to aid the aerial attack.
Travis Hunter Comin-Out Party
But it was the play of 2022 No.1 overall recruit Travis Hunter on both sides of the ball that had Sanders smiling ear to ear. Hunter recorded four pass breakups on defense and on offense he made two grabs for 25 yards. And while his numbers weren’t gaudy, his two-way effectiveness resembled former Heisman Trophy winner Charles Woodson during his final season at Michigan.
“Shoot, Travis is who Travis is. Nobody make a mistake on who Travis is,” said Sanders of his prized recruit. You might be surprised on who Travis is. Travis had major surgery, a major surgery in the offseason, he had to repair some things that were banged up in high school. We made the decision to make sure he’s healthy instead of just use him. I’m tired of athletes being used, they need to make sure they’re healthy so they can fulfill their dreams for their parents. They deserve to. Travis, you don’t even have to worry about that side of the field, it’s a wrap.”
HIMOTHY‼️🐅 @TravisHunterJr #IBELIEVE #JSU https://t.co/HvkR5rzeVJ
— Jackson State Football (@gojsutigersfb) November 6, 2022
Hunter Has Been Hurt Most Of The Season After Dazzling In The Spring Game
Prior to signing with JSU, Hunter was given the OK that he’d have the chance to play both sides of the football. And while Coach Prime told him he could, he first needed to get the nuances of playing cornerback down. And then he’d get snaps at wide receiver. During the Tigers spring game, Hunter gave us a preview of what he could do, and he was easily the best player on the field.
Hunter flashed on defense in the season opening 59-3 win over FAMU, but since he’s been in recovery. When on the field, he’s been quiet because most teams haven’t tested him at corner. Saturday’s win at TSU is the healthiest Hunter has looked all season, and for the Tigers defense and offense it adds another dynamic weapon to the mix going forward.
FCS Final: No. 5 Jackson State Defeats Texas Southern 41-14 To Improve To 9-0!🔥
Shedeur Sanders: 23/30, 252 Yds, 4 Total TDs
Sy’Veon Wilkerson: 26 Car, 214 Yds, 2 TDs
📸: @GoJSUTigersFB | James Behind The Lens pic.twitter.com/mJUMCRTTSh— LIGHT ON COLLEGE SPORTS (@LightOnSports) November 6, 2022
Hunter Has Two Regular Season Games Left To Showcase His Talents
With the Tigers sitting at 9-0, and games against Alabama A&M and archrival Alcorn State, Hunter will have a couple more opportunities to make an impact in the regular season.
Not to look ahead, but things are developing in both the SWAC and MEAC, where Jackson State and North Carolina Central look like the two best teams. If the two programs were to match up in the Celebration Bowl, Hunter’s coverage abilities would be a welcome sight versus the Eagles and their dynamic passing attack led by quarterback Davius Richard.
TICKETS ARE NOW ON SALE!!!!
Tickets for the Celebration bowl can now be purchased through our website. You can use the linktree in our bio to access the link to purchase tickets directly. Ticket prices are subject to change 11/16/22. Get Your Tickets ASAP!!!#AchampionWillRise pic.twitter.com/LFLhUTLw63
— Cricket Celebration Bowl (@CelebrationBowl) November 4, 2022
One can only hope that matchup comes to fruition.
