ATLANTA, August 23, 2025 – Southern University opened its season in the MEAC/SWAC Challenge against North Carolina Central, falling 31–14 in a game shaped by a masterful NC Central defensive strategy and a costly drop by Southern. Here’s how it unfolded—and what went wrong.
Defensive Game Plan: Sliding Interior Gaps to Neutralize the Run
NC Central’s defense executed a precise gap-control scheme, especially on run-pass option (RPO) plays. By shifting defensive linemen into interior gaps, they forced Southern’s run-heavy offense to the outside, putting them in a less favorable advantage and slowing down their running game as the contest wore on.
This strategy effectively neutralized Southern’s ground attack, which had shown promise early but fizzled in the second half. Combined with NC Central’s dominating time-of-possession and limiting Southern to just two third-down conversions, the defense set the tone for the Jaguar struggles.
Jaguars’ Missed Chances: Three Drops That Could’ve Been Game-Changers
1. Darren Morris’ Drop in the Second Quarter
Southern wide receiver Darren Morris dropped what was described as a surefire touchdown pass, derailing a promising drive. Instead of potentially taking the lead or evening the score, the Jaguars were forced to punt—shifting field position and momentum.
2. Receiver Drop (Likely in Red Zone)
While coverage on other drops was sparse, Southern’s subsequent drives stalled—particularly inside the red zone—suggesting at least one more miscue while trying to capitalize on field position.
3. Fumble, Not a Drop, but Still Costly
Quarterback Cam’Ron McCoy was strip-sacked at the 19-yard line early in the fourth quarter—turning a red-zone opportunity into a turnover and Southern’s final scoring chance.
Game Flow and Stats: What Tilted the Game
| Team | Key Highlights |
|---|---|
| NC Central | – Career-high 174–180 rushing yards from Chris Mosley, including a 49-yard TD run Three rushing TDs by three different backs Held Southern scoreless in the second half |
| Southern | – Highlight plays early: McCoy’s 69-yard TD run, and Trey Holly’s 80-yard TD )– Offensive totals of ~250 rushing yards, led by Holly’s 116 on 10 carries – Only 92 yards passing combined from McCoy and Jalen Woods . |
Wrap-Up
Southern’s defensive game plan unraveled under NC Central’s tactical use of short passes and controlled the line of scrimmage. On offense, big plays early couldn’t offset momentum-sapping miscues—particularly Darren Morris’ dropped pass and a red zone turnover.
For Southern to bounce back, they’ll need to sharpen execution—especially on third downs and in red-zone conversions—and better complement their big-play ability with consistency.
