Team History

Alcorn State University’s football program has a rich history rooted in the heart of Mississippi. The program’s origins date back to the late 1800s, with the first official team formed in 1892 under the name “Alcorn Agricultural and Mechanical College.” During those early years, the team competed against other historically black colleges and universities (HBCUs), steadily developing a reputation for tough competition.

The mid-20th century marked a period of significant growth and achievement for the Alcorn Braves. Led by legendary coaches like Marino Casem and Jack Spinks, the Braves became a dominant force within the Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC). The team claimed multiple conference titles in the1960s, 1970s, and 1980s, establishing a winning tradition that would continue for decades. This era also saw several standout players emerge, including Pro Football Hall of Famer Steve McNair, who brought national recognition to the program.

In recent years, the Braves have continued to build upon their legacy of success. The program experienced a resurgence in the 2010s, earning another series of SWAC championships and establishing themselves as a consistent contender. The team also boasts impressive alumni in the professional ranks, with former stars frequently representing Alcorn State in the NFL.

Foundation and Early Years

Alcorn State University, originally named Alcorn Agricultural and Mechanical College, was founded in 1871 in Lorman, Mississippi. The institution was born out of the Reconstruction era, established as the first land-grant college for African Americans in the United States. Its primary mission aimed to provide higher education opportunities for the formerly enslaved population of the region.

While the exact year of the first football team’s formation is somewhat debated, records indicate Alcorn fielded an official team as early as 1892. These early squads competed primarily against other historically black colleges and universities within the region, slowly building a foundation for the program’s future growth. At this time, football was a rapidly evolving sport, and Alcorn’s dedication to participation reflected its progressive ideals for the era.

Notable Early Achievements

One of the most significant early achievements for Alcorn State football was joining established athletic conferences. In 1921, the Braves became a founding member of the South Central Athletic Conference (SCAC), which later evolved into the Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC) in 1923. Membership in the SWAC provided Alcorn a stable platform for competition and the opportunity to earn recognition on a regional and later, national stage.

Within the SWAC, Alcorn quickly began to make its mark. They secured their first conference championship title in 1936, a feat they would repeat numerous times in the decades to come. These early conference championships demonstrated Alcorn’s growing prowess and established the Braves as a force to be reckoned with within the world of HBCU football.

One of the most significant early achievements for Alcorn State football was joining established athletic conferences. In 1921, the Braves became a founding member of the South Central Athletic Conference (SCAC), which later evolved into the Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC) in 1923. Membership in the SWAC provided Alcorn a stable platform for competition and the opportunity to earn recognition on a regional and later, national stage.

Within the SWAC, Alcorn quickly began to make its mark. They secured their first conference championship title in 1936, a feat they would repeat numerous times in the decades to come. These early conference championships demonstrated Alcorn’s growing prowess and established the Braves as a force to be reckoned with within the world of HBCU football.

Periods of Change

The era following World War II and spanning the Civil Rights Movement marked a period of both challenges and transformative growth for the Alcorn State Braves. Like much of the nation, the university faced the social and political complexities of desegregation. The football program, while still confined within the context of the historically black Southwestern Athletic Conference, also navigated the shifting landscape of college sports.

This period saw the rise of legendary coaches like Marino Casem, who took the helm in 1964 and ushered in one of the most successful eras in Braves’ history. Casem’s innovative coaching strategies, emphasis on discipline, and ability to recruit talented players helped elevate Alcorn to new heights. Under his leadership, the Braves captured multiple SWAC Championships in the 1960s and 1970s and gained increasing national recognition.

Championships and Achievements

The Alcorn State Braves are a powerhouse within the Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC), boasting a long and successful history of conference titles:

Outright Championships: The Braves have won 14 outright SWAC Championships (1936, 1968, 1969, 1970, 1974, 1976, 1979, 1984, 1992, 2014, 2015, 2018, 2019, 2022)
Shared Championships: Alcorn has also shared the SWAC Championship title on five occasions (1948, 1950, 1962, 1982, 1983)
These conference victories represent seasons of dominance and highlight the program’s consistent ability to compete at the highest level within the SWAC.

Black College National Championships

In addition to their SWAC success, the Braves have also been recognized on the broader stage of HBCU football with multiple Black College National Championships:

Championships: 1968, 1969, 1974, 1984, 1992
These national titles solidify Alcorn State’s status as one of the most historically successful HBCU football programs ever.

Postseason Accomplishments

NCAA/FCS Playoffs: The Braves have made several appearances in the NCAA Division I Football Championship Subdivision (FCS) playoffs, including reaching the first round in 1984, 1992, and 1994.
Bowl Games: Alcorn has competed in several bowl games throughout its history, including the Orange Blossom Classic and the Celebration Bowl.
Individual Honors

Alcorn State football has produced numerous standout players who have garnered individual recognition at both the conference and national level:

All Americans: Many Braves players have earned All-American honors for their exceptional performance on the field.
SWAC Awards: Alcorn players regularly dominate SWAC awards like Player of the Year, Offensive Player of the Year, and Defensive Player of the Year.
NFL Draft Picks: The program has seen a significant number of players drafted into the NFL, including the legendary Steve McNair.

Current Roster

The Alcorn State Braves football team showcases a diverse roster filled with talent across various positions for the 2023-2024 season. The team’s composition reflects a blend of experience and fresh talent, with players hailing from a wide range of backgrounds, emphasizing the program’s national reach and local strength.

On offense, the Braves boast a mix of quarterbacks, wide receivers, running backs, and offensive linemen who bring depth and versatility to the team. Quarterbacks like Paul Hargrave and Roderick Hartsfield Jr. highlight the team’s strategic options under center. Hargrave, a junior from Natchez, Mississippi, and Hartsfield Jr., a freshman from Waxahachie, Texas, offer different styles of play that could be pivotal in varying game situations. The receiving corps, featuring players such as Omarion Blakes, Kendrick Brown, and Monterio Hunt, presents a threat to defenses with their range of heights and abilities. Hunt, a graduate student from Walnut, Mississippi, adds experience to the receiver group. The running back position, with talents like Niko Duffey and Jarveon Howard, underscores the team’s ground game potential, providing a dynamic attack that complements their aerial threats.

The defensive lineup is equally robust, featuring players across the defensive line, linebacker positions, and secondary. The defensive unit aims to build a formidable front against opponents, with players such as Malachi Bailey and Kee Wayne Jones anchoring the line. Bailey, a junior defensive lineman, and Jones, a senior, bring size and strength to the defensive front, crucial for disrupting opposing offenses. The linebacker group, with talents like Michael Okamo Lufile and Santonial Rice, showcases versatility and athleticism, essential for covering both the run and pass. The secondary, bolstered by players such as Chad Peters and Gino Johnson, is tasked with defending against the pass, a critical component in today’s increasingly aerial-focused game.

Management and Coaching Staff

The Alcorn State Braves football team’s management and coaching staff for the 2024 season is spearheaded by newly appointed head coach Cedric Thomas, announced by Alcorn State University’s Interim President Tracy M. Cook. Thomas, an Alcorn alumnus, has a rich history with the program, having previously served in various coaching capacities including defensive coordinator and defensive back coach. His leadership is expected to continue the Braves’ tradition of excellence and championship culture within the Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC). Thomas’s commitment to strong academics, community outreach, and high-character student athletes aligns with the university’s values, promising a bright future for the team.

Supporting Coach Thomas is a talented and experienced coaching staff committed to advancing the Braves’ competitive edge. The coaching roster includes Elliott Wratten as the Offensive Coordinator/Offensive Line, Jason Phillips as Co-Offensive Coordinator/Quarterbacks, Derek Welch and Deion Roberson sharing responsibilities as Co-Defensive Coordinators with Welch focusing on safeties and Roberson on linebackers. Ryan Busz takes on multiple roles as the Special Assistant to the Head Coach, Running Backs Coach, and Recruiting Coordinator, while Lane Powell serves as Special Teams Coordinator and Tight Ends Coach. The coaching staff is rounded out by Leroy Frederick as the Director of Football Operations and Wide Receivers Coach, Derrien Covington as Defensive Line Coach, and Dwayne Taylor Jr. as Cornerbacks Coach.

Home Stadium Information

The Alcorn State Braves football team plays their home games at the Jack Spinks-Marino Casem Stadium, which is a 22,500-seat multi-purpose stadium located in Lorman, Mississippi. This stadium serves as the home field not only for the football team but also for the women’s soccer team. The stadium, which is nestled within the campus of Alcorn State University and adjacent to the Davey Whitney Complex, was opened in 1992, replacing the previous Henderson Stadium. It was named after Jack Spinks, a former Alcorn State Braves football player. The name was later expanded to include Marino Casem, a significant figure in Alcorn State Athletics, in 2011 to honor his contributions to the university’s athletic programs.

Visiting Jack Spinks-Marino Casem Stadium offers an authentic college football experience, from tailgating activities that fill the atmosphere with excitement to the lively crowd that supports the Braves. Despite its capacity, the stadium may not always be full, but the attending fans ensure an energetic environment. The stadium’s location, in one of Mississippi’s oldest parts, adds a unique charm, although it’s noted for its relative isolation compared to other Division I universities. The venue scores on various aspects such as food & beverage options, atmosphere, neighborhood, fan engagement, access, and return on investment, making game days here quite special.