Alcorn State Defense Shines at 2026 Spring Showcase
Jo’Wani Jones in Lorman, Mississippi, — Alcorn State’s football team showcased its defensive strength Saturday during the 2026 Spring Showcase at Jack Spinks – Marino Casem Stadium. Under second-year head coach Cedric Thomas, the defense defeated the offense 36-25 in a modified scoring game.
The game featured four 15-minute quarters with a running clock. The defense made an immediate impact, with linebackers active against the run and the secondary forcing multiple incompletions and an interception in the fourth quarter, according to sources. Rising junior Eric Thomas Jr. of Columbus, Mississippi, led a front that consistently pressured the quarterback and disrupted offensive rhythm. The unit tallied six sacks and five tackles for loss, demonstrating their spring progress.
After the game, Thomas praised the defensive effort. “I’m really pleased with how our guys competed today,” he said. “The defense has been the story of our spring, and they showed why. They flew to the ball, they were physical, and they made it tough on the offense all day.”
On offense, skill players flashed potential. Quarterbacks Raheim Jeter, a transfer from East Carolina, and Achilles Ringo rotated in, providing coaches with evaluation opportunities. The lone touchdown came on a pass from Jeter to wide receiver Tyree Kelly, a spring signee from UMass. Jamar Kaho Jr. also made a highlight-reel catch, diving for a 22-yard reception in the third quarter.
Thomas noted the importance of the offseason for building the team. “The offseason is where teams are built, and I feel good about where we are heading into the summer,” he said. “Our guys now know what they need to work on individually. We’ll let them go home after the semester, rest, train, and come back hungry. The foundation we laid this spring gives us a lot to build on.”
Alcorn State will start summer conditioning before resuming fall camp ahead of the 2026 season. The team opens its schedule Sept. 5 against Southern Miss in Hattiesburg, Mississippi. Tickets are on sale for the Southern Heritage Classic on Sept. 12 at Simmons Bank Liberty Stadium in Memphis, Tennessee. For more information, visit the official website. Fans can follow the Braves on Twitter (@BravesSports), Instagram (@AlcornSports), and YouTube (Braves Sports Network) for updates and behind-the-scenes content.
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