QUICK FACTS School: North Carolina Central University Location: Durham, NC 27707 Founded: 1910 by Dr. James E. Shepard Enrollment: 8,096 Nickname: Eagles School Colors: Maroon & Gray Stadium: O’Kelly-Riddick Stadium Capacity (Surface): 10,000 (Mondoturf) National Affiliation: NCAA Division I-FCS Conference: Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC) Chancellor: Dr. Johnson O. Akinleye Alma Mater: Alabama A&M Athletics Director: Dr. Ingrid Wicker McCree Alma Mater: George Washington Athletics Dept. Phone: (919) 530-7057 Athletics Dept. Website: NCCUEaglePride.com Twitter: @NCCUathletics Facebook: www.facebook.com/NCCUathletics YouTube: www.youtube.com/NCCUEagles Instagram: nccuathletics Ticket Office Phone: (919) 530-5170 COACHING STAFF Head Coach: Jerry Mack FOOTBALL HISTORY Alma Mater (Year): Arkansas State (2003) First Year of Football: 1923 Record at NCCU (Years): 24-11 (4th season) Overall All-Time Record: 463-380-30 Career Record (Years): 24-11 (4th season) NCAA Division I-FCS Playoff Record (Yrs): 0-0 Assistant Coaches: NCAA Div. II Playoff Record (Yrs): 1-3 Granville Eastman - Defensive Coordinator/Safeties/ (3 years - 1988, 2005, 2006) Assistant Head Coach Last Playoff Opponent: Delta State (Div. II) T.C. Taylor – Offensive Coordinator/Quarterbacks Result (Date): Lost, 17-24 (Nov. 25, 2006) Jason Onyebuagu – Co-Offensive Coordinator/ Conference Championships: MEAC (1972, 1973, Offensive Line 2014, 2015, 2016); CIAA (1953, 1954, 1956, 1961, Chris Schultz – Special Teams Coordinator/ 1963, 1980, 2005, 2006) Defensive Assistant Kenyatta McCoy – Secondary/Recruiting Coordinator SPORTS INFORMATION Jason Blalock – Linebackers Sports Information Director: Kyle Serba Jon Bradley – Defensive Line SID Office Phone: (919) 530-7054 Carl Funderburk – Tight Ends SID Mailing Address: 116 McDougald-McLendon Jordan Reid – Running Backs Arena, Durham, NC 27707 Jermaine Gales – Wide Receivers SID E-Mail: [email protected] Quinn Billerman – Offensive Assistant SID Cell & Press Box Phone: (919) 796-1696 Bobby Turner – Defensive Assistant NCCU Sports Network: Jonathan Duren (Play-by-Play) Phone/E-Mail: (919) 530-6892 / [email protected] TEAM INFORMATION total / home / away / neutral Overall Record Last Year: 9-3 / 5-0 / 4-2 / 0-0 Scan QR Code for Online Version MEAC Record Last Year: 8-0 / 4-0 / 4-0 / 0-0 of 2017 NCCU Football Season Offensive Formation: Multiple Preview Defensive Formation: 4-2-5 Letterwinners Returning/Lost: 35/35 Starters Returning/Lost: 11/11 (4/7 Offense; 7/4 Defense)

NCCUEaglePride.com Twitter: @NCCU_Football | @NCCUAthletics RETURNING OFFENSIVE STARTERS (4) RETURNING DEFENSIVE STARTERS (7) Name Pos. Ht. Wt. Yr. 2016 Notes Name Pos. Ht. Wt. Yr. 2016 Notes Ramone Simpson RB 5-10 185 R-Jr. Reggie Hunter LB 6-0 225 R-Sr. - Rush: 632 yards (4.9 avg.), 5 TD ** - 84 tackles, 12.0 TFL, 2.0 sacks, 4 INT ** Nick Leverett OL 6-4 290 R-So. Antonio Brown DE 6-3 260 R-Sr. - Started all 12 games in rookie season *** - 56 tackles, 14.5 TFL, 8.0 sacks, 4 PBU, 2 FF ** David Miller WR 6-0 175 R-Sr. Alden McClellon DB 5-11 190 Jr. - 23 catches, 364 yards, 3 TD - 79 tackles, 7.5 TFL, 2.0 sacks, 5 PBU, 2 FF ** Jalen Wilkes WR 6-2 190 Jr. Ja’Quan Smith DT 6-2 300 R-Sr. - 31 catches, 516 yards, 5 TD - 58 tackles, 7.5 TFL, 3.5 sacks *** Nolan Corpening DB 5-10 180 Sr. ** Second Team All-MEAC - 25 tackles, 9 PBU, 1 FR *** Third Team All-MEAC Davanta Reynolds DB 5-10 200 R-Jr. - 38 tackles, 5.0 TFL, 2 PBU Jaquell Taylor DB 6-1 185 Jr. 2016 RESULTS (9-3, 8-0 MEAC Champions) - 52 tackles, 3.5 TFL, 2 PBU, 1 INT, 1 FF Date Opponent...... W/L Score Time / Attendance Sept. 3 at Duke...... L 6-49 2017 SCHEDULE 3:26 / 35,049 Date Opponent Site Time Sept. 10 at Western Michigan...... L 21-70 Sept. 2 at Duke Durham, N.C. 6pm 4:56 / 23,727 “Bull City Gridiron Classic”- ACC Network Extra Sept. 17 ST. AUGUSTINE’S...... W 65-7 SEPT. 9 SHAW DURHAM, N.C. 6PM 2:57 / 5,016 * Sept. 24 at Norfolk State...... W 34-31 SEPT. 21 S.C. STATE DURHAM, N.C. 7:30PM 3:07 / 8,296 (Thurs.) ESPNU * Oct. 1 at Bethune-Cookman...... W 31-14 5:40 / 4,216 Sept. 28 at Florida A&M Tallahassee, Fla. 7:30pm * Oct. 8 FLORIDA A&M...... W 17-13 (Thurs.) ESPNU 2:42 / 617 * Oct. 15 SAVANNAH STATE...... W 33-3 Oct. 7 at Howard Washington, D.C. 1pm 2:55 / 12,966 * Oct. 22 at Morgan State...... W 21-17 OCT. 14 GARDNER-WEBB DURHAM, N.C. 2PM 2:55 / 8,534 * Nov. 5 at Delaware State...... W 38-19 OCT. 21 NORFOLK STATE DURHAM, N.C. 2PM 3:10 / 1,597 * Nov. 12 HOWARD...... W 30-21 OCT. 28 DELAWARE STATE DURHAM, N.C. 2PM 2:47 / 6,897 “Homecoming” * Nov. 19 #9 N.C. A&T...... W 42-21 Nov. 4 at Hampton Hampton, Va. 1pm 3:43 / 15,715 Dec. 17 vs. #14 Grambling...... L 9-10 NOV. 11 BETHUNE-COOKMAN DURHAM, N.C. 2PM 3:40 / 31,096 “Senior Day” (Air Force Reserve Celebration Bowl) Nov. 18 at N.C. A&T Greensboro, N.C. 1pm

* indicates conference game Dec. 16 Celebration Bowl Atlanta, Ga. 12pm (MEAC Champion) Live on ABC-TV For more information, visit NCCUEaglePride.com Mercedes-Benz Stadium

Home games in CAPS played at O’Kelly-Riddick Stadium.

Listen to the entire Eagles football at NCCUEaglePride.com.

NCCUEaglePride.com Twitter: @NCCU_Football | @NCCUAthletics 2017 NCCU Football Season Preview - Became first football team in school history to win a third consecutive conference Expectations are soaring around the North Carolina championship. Central University football program. Last year, - Beat nationally-ranked No. 9 North Carolina the NCCU Eagles were the first outright football A&T 42-21 on Nov. 19, 2016, to cap an champions of the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference undefeated conference campaign. since 2012, and became the first football team in - Earned a trip to the second annual Air Force school history to win a third straight conference title. Reserve Celebration Bowl. - Posted the most wins in the program’s Division With that success, NCCU joined the national FCS I era with nine triumphs. conversation. The Eagles were nationally ranked as - Broke the NCCU single-season record with high as No. 18 in 2016, and have earned a No. 22 4,614 yards of total offense. ranking in the FCS preseason Top 25 by Street & - Received first national ranking as a Division Smith’s 2017 college football preview magazine. I-FCS program on Nov. 7, 2016, when the FCS Coaches Poll announced NCCU at No. 25. By the Entering 2017, NCCU has lost half of its starters and end of the regular season, the Eagles jumped half of its letterwinners from a year ago. Of NCCU’s to No. 18, and then finished at No. 19 in the league-high 17 all-conference selections in 2016, all final 2016 poll. six of the Eagles’ First Team All-MEAC honorees have - Placed a league-high 17 student-athletes on moved on, as well as three Second Team All-MEAC the All-MEAC teams (First, Second and Third). picks. NCCU Ranked No. 22 in FCS Preseason Top 25 Back on the sideline for his fourth campaign at NCCU After a 9-3 season and a third straight conference is head coach Jerry Mack, whose 24 wins are more championship, NCCU is ranked No. 22 in the FCS than any NCCU football coach in their first three preseason Top 25 by Street & Smith’s 2017 college seasons. football preview magazine. “We are honored to have a preseason ranking for the first time in our Division 2016 Team Highlights: I era,” said Mack. “It is truly a testament to how far - Captured the conference’s first outright we have come in the last three years.” When Mack championship since 2012, after sharing the took charge at NCCU prior to the 2014 campaign, league crown in 2014 and 2015. the Eagles were picked to finish eighth in the MEAC

NCCUEaglePride.com Twitter: @NCCU_Football | @NCCUAthletics preseason poll. Now, just three years later, Street way we practice, prepare and study the game week & Smith’s has NCCU as the favorite to win a fourth in and week out. If we stay consistent to those things straight league title and the Eagles are in the national that have built the foundation of our program, I do FCS conversation. believe that we can consistently be at the top of the conference for years to come.” Looking Back at 2016: Leaving a Legacy “I thought 2016 was a very special season,” Mack Difference between 2016 and 2017 teams? said. “We had a group of seniors, a lot of them who “The 2016 team knew that they had a chance to be were with us for the last three championship seasons, really good,” said Mack. “A lot of those guys were who have left a legacy here that establishes us going with us in 2014 and 2015, and they knew going forward as a legitimate Division I contender and a into the season that they had an opportunity to be force to be reckoned with in the MEAC. I was really highly successful. This year’s team, there are a lot proud of those seniors and the younger guys that we of younger guys that have a chip on their shoulder developed the past few years as they came into their because they want to prove that they are legitimate own last season.” contenders. We have some young guys that did not get a chance to play as much as they would have Earning NCCU’s First FCS National Ranking liked to, with a group of new guys that don’t want “Earning the school’s first FCS national ranking meant to take a drop from what this program has done the a lot to us as a program,” said Mack. “We always talk last few years. We don’t want to be the team not to about how everybody was involved in that process, win a championship. We don’t want to be the senior whether it’s our administration, our coaches and, class not to go out on top. Every recruit we’ve had obviously, our student-athletes. It shows what a since 2014 has won a championship. They don’t want group of people can do when they all put their minds to be the group not to carry on the legacy and the together and decide to make a commitment to being tradition.” a competitive Division I program. We’ve been able to see it come to fruition because of people’s work over Season’s Theme “More Than A Game” the last few years.” “When I think about what we were able to accomplish last year – competing at a high level, beating North Air Force Reserve Celebration Bowl Experience Carolina A&T to win the conference championship and “The Celebration Bowl experience was extremely going to the Celebration Bowl – it meant so much, special for our program,” said Mack. “Our student- not only to our university and our football team, athletes always see other institutions play in bowl but to the entire community,” Mack said. “From a games. To have our guys get the opportunity to have financial and exposure standpoint, the Celebration that same experience, going to all of the activities Bowl branded our university on an entirely new level. and events surrounding the game - they got the But with some of the things that happened to us same kind of experience that other teams across the last year, including the death of our Chancellor, the country always get. I was so excited to see the look success we achieved really brought our university on their faces because it’s a compliment to the hard and our community together. It was about people work that they have put forward over the past few having something to lean on in a time of mourning. years.” It just goes to show you that although we play this game and our guys love it, it means so much more Celebration Bowl Loss Motivation? than just wins and losses on the field.” “You are always trying to find an edge or something to motivate your team,” Mack said. “If coming two Goals for 2017 points from being Black College National Champions “We talk about either getting better or getting worse,” doesn’t light a fire under you, then I don’t know what said Mack. “We’re talking about trying to compete for will. We were so close. We did some really good things another MEAC championship, and hopefully compete in that game. We had some missed opportunities, for a Black College National Championship again this and I think guys got a feel for what it takes to be year. That’s always going to remain the ultimate goal highly successful on this level of football.” for us as a program.”

Building A Dynasty? How do you achieve those goals? “The building blocks for a dynasty have already been “One game, one rep, one step at a time,” Mack set,” said Mack. “The culture of our football team is said. “When we start fall camp, we are going to be one where we understand what kind of work ethic we emphasizing one rep, one practice at a time; trying to need to put in to be successful. It all starts with the get better than the previous practice. When you talk culture of our program and what we are and who we about getting better every rep and every play, that’s are not. We must stay focused on that blueprint of when you start to move the needle and get better being a blue collar organization, being a team that as a program. We are going to talk about winning tries to out-work and out-execute people, and the a national championship and a MEAC championship, NCCUEaglePride.com Twitter: @NCCU_Football | @NCCUAthletics because they need to understand that is the ultimate - #1 in MEAC goal. But from a goal that is more tangible that you #33 – Red Zone Offense (85.0%) - #1 in MEAC can touch on a daily basis, how can I get better as a #43 – Scoring Offense (28.9 points per game) football player every practice and every rep I take.” - #2 in MEAC #50 – Passing Offense (223.3 yards per game) Strength of 2017 Team - #1 in MEAC “Right now, I really like our defensive line unit,” said #58 – Total Offense (384.5 yards per game) Mack. “They proved that they can play at a high level - #2 in MEAC last year.” “I still see an opportunity to be a highly explosive Where is the most growth needed in 2017? offense,” said Mack. “In 2016, we broke the school “Our offensive line unit and our quarterback play record for total offensive yards, and I can see us have to make significant improvements through doing similar things this year with the ability that our the preseason,” Mack said. “We lost four starters up skill guys have. If we can get some consistency out front on the offensive line and a three-year starter of our offensive line and quarterback play, I think our at quarterback, who is one of the best players in receiver and running back positions are good enough school history. So those two positions need to make to provide some of that explosiveness that we had a significant increase in productivity.” last year.”

Youth with Opportunity Quarterback “We are young at some spots, but our youth has Naiil Ramadan (R-So., 6-0, 185, Charlotte, N.C.): been on the roster the past few years,” said Mack. Appeared in five games with no starts as a redshirt “Although we are young, it’s going to be about those freshman in 2016. Completed 13 of 19 passes young guys having an increased role this season. They (68.4%) for 243 yards with two touchdowns and an have been waiting in the wings for their opportunity interception. “Naiil had a really good spring and was for an increased role on offense, defense and special able to take a majority of the reps in spring practice,” teams. The key is, how fast can they adapt and take said Mack. “He had a great spring game, throwing over their positions. Some of these young guys have for a few touchdown passes and a significant amount helped build the culture of this football program. of yards. Naiil has the most experience among They have seen what it takes to win. Now they have our quarterbacks, and he won a game for us last an opportunity to go out there and do it.” year at Morgan State, throwing the game-winning touchdown.” Micah Zanders (So., 6-1, 195, Jacksonville, Fla.): Transfer from Hinds Community College. “Micah is a transfer that’s going to be able to compete for the starting job. He is a highly-accurate passer who can stretch the field vertically with a big-time arm.” Chauncey Caldwell (Fr., 6-3, 225, Durham, N.C.): Rated a 2-star recruit by Scout.com. Earned all- conference honors in 2016 at Mallard Creek High School. In 2015 at Hillside High School, passed for more than 2,500 yards with 32 touchdowns and rushed for more than 400 yards with seven touchdowns. “Chauncey is highly-touted out of high school and presents a really good dual threat.” Dominique Shoffner (Fr., 6-0, 210, Apex, N.C.): Ramone Simpson Combined for 3,400 total yards of offense and 51 OFFENSE: touchdowns as a senior at Middle Creek High School. Returning Starters: 4 (RB Ramone Simpson, OT Nick Completed 203 of 309 passes for 2,952 yards, 38 Leverett, WR Jalen Wilkes, WR David Miller) touchdowns and six interceptions, while adding 448 Coaches: T.C. Taylor (offensive coordinator/ yards rushing with 13 touchdowns. “Dominique quarterbacks), Jason Onyebuagu (co-offensive has been in a system similar to us, so he’ll have an coordinator/offensive line), Carl Funderburk (tight opportunity to come in and run a similar offense to ends), Jordan Reid (running backs), Jermaine what he ran the last 3-to-4 years of his high school Gales (wide receivers), Quinn Billerman (offensive career.” assistant) “We are going to have an open battle at quarterback 2016 NCAA Division I-FCS Rankings throughout fall camp,” Mack said. “Obviously, Naiil #18 – Passing Yards per Completion Ramadan has the most experience, but the other (13.89 avg.) - #1 in MEAC quarterbacks are highly touted coming out of junior #22 – Team Passing Efficiency (141.3) college and high school.” NCCUEaglePride.com Twitter: @NCCU_Football | @NCCUAthletics touchdowns. Topped team with an average of 16.6 yards per reception. “Jalen is our top returning receiver,” said Mack. “We were able to play him in the slot and outside last year. Jalen has all-conference potential written all over him.” David Miller (R-Sr., 6-0, 175, Wilmington, N.C.): Caught 23 passes for 364 yards and three touchdowns in 2016, averaging 15.8 yards per reception. “David made some explosive plays down the field for us last year. He’s a guy that can stretch the field.” Jacen Murphy (Sr., 5-10, 185, Wilmington, N.C.): Recorded 10 receptions for 122 yards last year. “Jacen is one of our slot receivers that had an outstanding spring practice and came up with some big-time LaVontisJalen Wilkes Smith plays in critical situations for us last year.” Xavier McKoy (So., 6-3, 190, Charlotte, N.C.): Running Back Tallied 2 catches for 13 yards as a true freshman in Ramone Simpson (R-Jr., 5-10, 185, Wilmington, 2016. “Xavier played sparingly last year, but he had N.C.): Second Team All-MEAC in 2016. Rushed a great spring and has shown that he can stretch the for 632 yards (5th in MEAC) and five touchdowns, field vertically.” averaging 4.9 yards per carry. Added 20 receptions Jordan Fieulleteau (R-Sr., 6-3, 210, Raleigh, N.C.): for 238 yards (11.9 yards per catch). “Ramone did a Transfer from UNC. “Jordan is going to have a chance great job last year,” Mack said. “I don’t think anyone to get in the mix and really make a name for himself expected him the have the type of season he had, in that receiver corps.” except him. We always knew Ramone was a highly Eric Saintil (R-So., 6-2, 185, Homestead, Fla.): competitive young man and he was going to out- Transfer from Shasta College, where he earned all- work people. When he got his opportunity to go into league honors with 35 catches for 798 yards and five games, he showcased what we always knew he could touchdowns in 2016. “Eric is going to have a chance do. He did a great job of catching the ball out of the to contribute on the outside.” backfield, which I think is one of his strengths. And I “Nique Martin (Fr., 6-1, 190, Winston-Salem, N.C.) think he really grew as a runner last year because he and Chance Kennedy (R-Fr., 5-8, 160, Charlotte, got a lot of opportunities.” N.C.) are young guys that have shown big-play ability Dorrel McClain (R-Jr., 5-10, 190, Cary, N.C.): at the receiver position and in the return game.” Collected 453 rushing yards and seven touchdowns on the ground in 2016, averaging 4.8 yards per carry. “Dorrell fought the injury bug a lot last year, but the games he was healthy and could contribute, he did some good things. He was the MEAC Rookie of the Year in 2015 and we feel he will be back 100 percent healthy. We’re looking forward to getting Dorrel back on the field at 100 percent.” Torri Cotton (R-So., 5-8, 160, Panama City Beach, Fla.): Rushed for 201 yards (3.8 avg.) in first college season in 2016. “Torri did some really good things for us in certain situations last year. He was overshadowed at times by Ramone and Dorrel, but there’s no doubt he can be an explosive player for our football team.” Isaiah Totten (R-Fr., 5-9, 175, Apex, N.C.): Nick Leverett Redshirted in 2016. “Isaiah had an extraordinary spring and was able to get acclimated to the system. Offensive Line He showcased that if given the ball in certain Nick Leverett (R-So., 6-4, 290, Concord, N.C.): situations, he’s a home run threat for us.” Third Team All-MEAC in 2016. Started all 12 games “We’re really excited about all four of our running in first season of college football. Achieved grade backs right now,” said Mack. of 84 percent on blocking assignments from his tackle position, while adding 35 pancake blocks. Wide Receiver “Nick started to grow and get better each game Jalen Wilkes (Jr., 6-2, 190, Greenville, S.C.): last season,” said Mack. “We’re excited about his Second on team with 31 receptions for 516 yards development and where he could potentially end up in 2016, and tied for team-high with five receiving as he continues to move forward.” NCCUEaglePride.com Twitter: @NCCU_Football | @NCCUAthletics Twishawn Glenn (So., 6-3, 275, Daytona Beach, Chris Schultz (defensive assistant), Bobby Turner Fla.): Appeared in 10 games as a true freshman in (defensive assistant) 2016. “Twishawn showed promise last season and 2016 NCAA Division I-FCS Rankings throughout the spring. He shows flashes of potentially #6 – Team Tackles for Loss (8.4 per game) being an all-conference caliber player.” - #2 in MEAC Steven Perry (R-Jr., 5-11, 265, Durham, N.C.): #14 – Team Sacks (2.75 per game) Played in 10 games last season. “Steven is a legacy. - #2 in MEAC His dad was a player here and he’s continuing that #16 – Passing Yards Allowed tradition.” (179.6 yards per game) Andrew Dale (R-Fr., 6-0, 280, Morehead City, N.C.): #17 – Fumbles Recovered (11) - #3 in MEAC “Andrew is going to have a chance to really make an #18 – Fourth Down Conversion Defense impact on the offensive line.” (38.1%) - #1 in MEAC “Jaylin Barrington (R-So., 6-3, 280, Riverdale, #27 – Scoring Defense (22.9 points per game) Ga.) and Marley Conley (Jr., 6-5, 280, Fayetteville, - #1 in MEAC N.C.) have been on the roster for a couple years and #28 – Total Defense (344.0 yards per game) are now coming into their own. They finally have #29 – Red Zone Defense (76.3%) - #2 in MEAC their opportunity to contribute and make a name for themselves.” “True freshmen Jose Jeanty (Fr., 6-4, 260, Deerfield Beach, Fla.) and Somadina Okezie-Okeke (Fr., 6-3, 290, Woodstock, Ga.) will have a chance to contribute early this season, as well.”

Tight End Josh McCoy (Jr., 6-3, 230, Sharon, S.C.): Transfer from ASA College. Zach Kellum (Fr., 6-3, 230, Winston-Salem, N.C.): Highly recruited out of East Forsyth High School. Two-time all-conference and all-area. Recorded 29 catches with 471 yards and eight touchdowns as a senior, averaging 16.2 yards per catch. “Both of these young men will have a chance to Ja’Quan Smith compete for our starting tight end position,” said Mack. “Both have great size and great skill set as far “Overall, we have a good core returning,” Mack said. as pass receiving and being an inline blocker.” “We were able to finish as one of the best defenses in the MEAC last year, and we were able to consistently apply pressure, which is something we always focus on trying to do. Our defensive line unit has continued to get better over the years and we have some continuity with that group. We have guys that have played a lot of football up front, so we’re excited about getting those guys amped up. We’ve added a few pieces to the puzzle because we lost some guys, but we really feel like the guys that are coming into the door will have a chance to enhance our unit and make them even better than they were last year.”

Defensive Line Antonio Brown (R-Sr., 6-3, 260, Jacksonville, Fla.): Second Team All-MEAC in 2016. Ranked third in Antonio Brown MEAC with 8.0 sacks and fourth with a team-high 14.5 tackles for a loss. Collected 56 total tackles, DEFENSE: four pass deflections, two forced fumbles, two fumble Returning Starters: 7 (LB Reggie Hunter, DE Antonio recoveries and three quarterback hurries. “I’m really Brown, DB Alden McClellon, DT Ja’Quan Smith, DB excited about what Antonio can bring to the table,” Nolan Corpening, DB Davanta Reynolds, DB Jaquell said Mack. “He has the chance to play beyond college Taylor) football if he has a breakout year.” Coaches: Granville Eastman (defensive coordinator/ Ja’Quan Smith (R-Sr., 6-2, 300, Miramar, Fla.): safeties), Kenyatta McCoy (cornerbacks), Jason Third Team All-MEAC in 2016. Accumulated 58 Blalock (linebackers), Jon Bradley (defensive line), tackles from his interior lineman position to place NCCUEaglePride.com Twitter: @NCCU_Football | @NCCUAthletics fourth on the squad, as well as 7.5 stops for a loss for us this season, having to make checks and direct with 3.5 sacks. “Ja’Quan has been a staple on our traffic on the defensive side of the ball. Reggie is defensive line since the time he stepped foot on going to continue to play at a high level.” this campus. He has made a lot of plays for us over the last three years. We’re excited about him as a graduate student going into his final season to leave it all out on the field for us.” Roderick Harris (R-Sr., 6-1, 280, Simpsonville, S.C.): Collected three tackles and a fumble recovery in 10 games last season. “Roderick has emerged as a starter going into his senior year. He’s been a back-up for the last few years, so he is finally going to get his opportunity to take an increased role this upcoming season.” Randy Anyanwu (R-Jr., 6-2, 245, Lovejoy, Ga.): Transfer from the University of Buffalo, where he played 21 games in two seasons. Rated as a 2-star recruit by Scout.com, Rivals.com and 247sports.com coming out of Lovejoy High School. “Randy showed Reggie Hunter flashes of greatness in the spring. Being able to have a guy of his caliber coming off the edge will definitely Kenneth O’Neal (R-Sr., 6-1, 225, Grand Prairie, help us.” Texas): Collected 23 tackles, including 2.5 hits for Kawuan Cox (So., 6-2, 230, Summerville, S.C.): a loss with a sack, a fumble recovery and a blocked Amassed 35 tackles (23 solo), including 5.5 kick a year ago. “Kenneth is going to have a chance takedowns for a loss with 1.5 sacks, a forced fumble, to play an increased role, going into camp as a a fumble recovery and a team-high 5 quarterback starting linebacker.” hurries as a true freshman in 2016. William LuLu (Jr., 5-11, 220, Homestead, Fla.): Tavon Lofties (So., 6-5, 245, Baltimore, Md.): Transfer from Mt. San Jacinto College. Recorded 65 Collected 3 tackles and a fumble recovery last season. tackles in 10 games, including eight stops for a loss “Kawuan and Tavon both got significant playing time with 1.5 sacks in 2016. “William is going to have a as freshmen last year. We feel they will contribute chance to come in and get into the rotation.” significantly to the defensive line position.” Jarrett McCarter (R-So., 6-2, 225, Durham, N.C.): Jason Cascen (Fr., 6-3, 290, Charlotte, N.C.): Two- Did not play in 2016 due to injury. “Jarrett will try to time all-conference at Vance High School. Recorded get back into the flow of things the way he was last 74 tackles, 14 tackles for loss, four sacks, three year. If he didn’t get hurt last year, he would have forced fumbles and a fumble recovery during junior been a contributor for us at the linebacker position.” year. “Jason has a chance to get on the field and get De’Niro Laster (R-Sr., 6-4, 240, Cleveland Heights, some playing time on the interior of the defensive Ohio): Transfer from the University of Kentucky, line.” where he tallied 14 tackles in limited action last Chris Burton (R-Sr., 6-2, 295, Danville, Va.): In three season due to injury. “De’Niro adds depth to a quality seasons (2014-16) at the University of Cincinnati, group of linebackers. He’s a talented player that has recorded 44 total tackles with 4.5 hits for a loss and been a contributor on the FBS level. We’re looking 2.5 sacks in 36 games played. Rated a 3-star recruit forward to having him in the program.” by ESPN.com, Rivals.com, Scout.com and 247sports. “We’re excited about some of the freshmen we are com coming out of George Washington High School. bringing in,” said Mack. “Branden Bailey (Fr., 6-0, “Chris will be able to come in and give us added 225, Deerfield Beach, Fla.) andPatrick Connor (Fr., depth or maybe even be heavy in the rotation up 6-0, 225, Greensboro, N.C.) are two young freshmen front this season.” that are going to come in and have a chance to contribute right away.” Linebacker Reggie Hunter (R-Sr., 6-0, 225, Henderson, N.C.): Cornerback Second Team All-MEAC in 2016. Ranked second Nolan Corpening (Sr., 5-10, 180, Charlotte, N.C.): in MEAC with team-best 84 tackles, tied for third Topped last year’s team with nine pass break-ups, with team-high 4 interceptions, and 10th with 12.0 while adding 25 tackles and a fumble recovery. tackles for a loss. “I’m excited about Reggie going “Nolan has played a lot of football in his time here,” into his senior season,” said Mack. “He is what being said Mack. “He’s highly competitive and we’re looking a college football player is all about. He came to forward to him going out with a bang his senior year.” NCCU as a walk-on, earned a scholarship and now De’Mario Evans (R-Jr., 6-0, 175, Columbia, S.C.): he has worked his way into being an all-conference Made nine tackles in 2016. “De’Mario has shown linebacker. Reggie showed that he will be more vocal flashes of greatness. He can return kicks and NCCUEaglePride.com Twitter: @NCCU_Football | @NCCUAthletics “Ruben has really come into his own after spring practice, understanding what we require at the free safety position. So we’re excited to give him the opportunity to be a starting free safety.” Anthony Sherrill (R-So., 6-0, 180, Cornelius, N.C.): Made seven tackles in eight games a year ago. “Anthony played a lot of special teams for us last year, but now will have a chance to play a lot of snaps on the defensive side of the ball.”

SPECIAL TEAMS: Returning Starters: 3 (P Nathaniel Tilque, KOR De’Mario Evans, LS Erik Schlecker) Coordinator: Chris Schultz Alden McClellon 2016 NCAA Division I-FCS Rankings #4 – Punt Returns (20.06 yards per return) punts, but we feel he can be a special player at the - #1 in MEAC cornerback position.” Jamarcus Johnson (Sr., 5-10, 180, Greensboro, Nathaniel Tilque (Sr., 6-2, 190, Charlotte, N.C.): N.C.): Contributed two tackles in four games last Ranked third in the MEAC in punting, averaging 41.2 season. “Jamarcus has played some quality ball yards per punt (57 punts for 2,350 yards) with long for us the last few years, so he’s finally getting the punt of 58 yards. “Nathaniel has been a consistent opportunity to be more embedded in the rotation.” punter for us the last three years,” said Mack. “He’s Alphonso Carter (R-Sr., 6-3, 205, Fort Washington, a quality young man, highly intelligent and has been Md.): Transfer from Louisville. “Alphonso will have a a staple for us.” chance to compete for a starting job and be heavy in the rotation.”

Safety “Davanta Reynolds and Alden McClellon are returning starters that have played a lot of football in their time here,” said Mack. “We’ve been able to win some quality games and conference championships with them. They are going to serve as the heart and soul of the safety position for us.” Davanta Reynolds (R-Jr., 5-10, 200, Tucker, Ga.): Collected 38 total tackles (24 solo), including 5.0 hits for a loss, and two pass break-ups last season. “Davanta’s intelligence is what separates him from a lot of safeties. He can play weak, strong or free safety for us because he is highly competitive and Nathaniel Tilque has a high football IQ.” “There will be a competition between Adam Lippy Alden McClellon (Jr., 5-11, 190, Lake Butler, Fla.): (Fr., 6-0, 205, Tucker, Ga.) and Aedan Johnson Second Team All-MEAC in 2016. Second on team (Jr., 5-8, 160, Chula Vista, Calif./transfer from with 79 total tackles, including 7.5 hits for a loss, 2.0 Southwestern College) for the place-kicking duties.” sacks, five pass break-ups, two forced fumbles, an Erik Schlecker (Jr., 6-0, 230, Sunrise, Fla.): interception, a fumble recovery and a blocked kick. Returning as the starting long snapper. “Erik is a very “The name of his game is physicality. Alden is a very consistent and reliable long snapper.” aggressive tackler. He understands his position. For a “We will have an open competition for the return guy of his size, he throws his body around violently. positions,” said Mack, featuring De’Mario Evans Alden is one of our hardest hitters on the defensive (R-Jr., 6-0, 175, Columbia, S.C.), Isaiah Totten (R- side of the football.” Fr., 5-9, 175, Apex, N.C.) and Jacen Murphy (Sr., Jaquell Taylor (Jr., 6-1, 185, Raleigh, N.C.): 5-10, 185, Wilmington, N.C.) at kickoff return, and Amassed 52 tackles, including 3.5 hits for a loss, Murphy, Alphonso Carter (R-Sr., 6-3, 205, Fort with two pass break-ups, an interception and a Washington, Md.) and Chance Kennedy (R-Fr., 5-8, forced fumble in 2016. “Jaquell has moved around 160, Charlotte, N.C.) at punt return. and played some different spots in the backend, whether it be cornerback or safety.” Ruben Saunders (Sr., 6-1, 185, Wilmington, Del.): Tallied 13 tackles and a pass break-up last year.

NCCUEaglePride.com Twitter: @NCCU_Football | @NCCUAthletics Jerry Mack Head Football Coach Fourth Season at NCCU Arkansas State, 2003 With 10 years of coaching experience, including stints with five NCAA Division I programs and two conference championship teams, Jerry Mack was announced as North Carolina Central University’s 22nd head football coach on Dec. 19, 2013. A native of Memphis, Tenn., Mack became the third-youngest active Division I head football coach. Only Paul Nichols of Davidson (born Jan. 25, 1981) and P.J. Fleck of Western Michigan (born Nov. 29, 1980) are younger than Mack (born Oct. 24, 1980). Mack has achieved unprecedented success in his first three seasons as head football coach at North Carolina Central in Washington, D.C., and the HBCU Male Coach of the Year by University. HBCU Digest. Taking over a program that posted a losing record prior Mack joined NCCU after spending two seasons (2012-13) to his arrival in Durham, Mack has led the Eagles to three with the University of South Alabama as wide receivers coach. consecutive MEAC championships and an overall record of 24- During that time, three of his receivers finished among the 11, including a 21-3 mark against conference opponents. His top five on South Alabama’s single-season record lists for 24 victories are more than any NCCU football coach has ever receptions and receiving yards. collected in their first three seasons. He spent the 2011 campaign in his hometown with the In his first season as a head coach, Mack led the Eagles University of Memphis, also as wide receivers coach, where to the most victories in the program’s Division I-FCS tenure he tutored the receiver with the second-highest single-season with a 7-5 overall record and a share of the Mid-Eastern receptions in school history. Athletic Conference Championship. The team also earned the As offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach at the program’s first win over a nationally-ranked FCS opponent by University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff in 2010, Mack transformed defeating No. 24 North Carolina A&T in the final game of the a unit that ranked 101st in the nation in total offense to 30th season on Nov. 22, 2014, broke the school record for pass nationally and No. 2 in the Southwestern Athletic Conference completions in a season with 227, and ranked third in the (SWAC), breaking 10 offensive school records in the process. nation (FCS) in turnover margin at +12.0. Mack served as passing game coordinator and wide In his second season at NCCU, Mack guided the 2015 Eagles receivers coach at the University of Central Arkansas during to an 8-3 overall record and a 7-1 conference mark to repeat the 2008-09 seasons, helping to lead the 10-2 Bears to the as MEAC co-Champions. For the second straight year, the Southland Conference championship and placing 10th in the Eagles beat a nationally-ranked FCS opponent (No. 13/16 NCAA Division I-FCS in total offense. North Carolina A&T), this time closing out the campaign with In Mack’s two seasons (2006-07) as wide receivers and a seven-game win streak. Mack became the first head coach tight ends coach at Jackson State University, the Tigers in school history to win 15 games in his first two seasons. He ranked second in the SWAC in scoring offense both years and was recognized as a finalist for the STATS FCS Coach of the captured the SWAC championship title in 2007. Year award and was named the Black College Sports Page Mack started his coaching career as an offensive graduate “Baad Team” Coach of the Year. assistant at Delta State University in 2004-05. During that In his third season at NCCU, the Eagles received their first time, he coached running backs, and worked as assistant national ranking as a Division I-FCS program on Nov. 7, 2016, special teams coordinator and video coordinator, helping the when the FCS Coaches Poll announced NCCU at No. 25. By the Statesmen to rank third in the NCAA Division II in scoring end of the regular season, the Eagles jumped to No. 18. NCCU offense and total offense. (9-3, 8-0 MEAC) beat nationally-ranked No. 9 North Carolina Mack began his collegiate playing career at Jackson State A&T 42-21 on Nov. 19 to capture the MEAC championship and before transferring after one season (1999) to Arkansas State a trip to the second annual Air Force Reserve Celebration Bowl. University. He lettered three years at Arkansas State (2001- After sharing the league crown in 2014 and 2015, the Eagles 03) before earning his bachelor’s degree in management were the conference’s first outright champion since 2012. information systems in 2003. NCCU’s nine triumphs represent the most by the Eagles in the Mack completed his master’s degree in physical education program’s Division I era. In recognition of his success in 2016, from Delta State in 2006 after serving on the Statesmen Mack was named Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference Football coaching staff as a graduate assistant. Coach of the Year, American Football Coaches Association He has been selected for three internships in the NFL with (AFCA) FCS Regional Coach of the Year, and as one of 15 the New York Jets (2009, 2010) and Buffalo Bills (2008), and finalists for the Eddie Robinson Award as the FCS Coachof participated in the NCAA Coaches Academy program. the Year. He was also recognized as the HBCU Football Coach Mack and his wife Starlett have two sons, Jaden and Jaxon, of the Year by Black College Sports Page and The Pigskin Club and one daughter, Skyler. NCCUEaglePride.com Twitter: @NCCU_Football | @NCCUAthletics 2017 NCCU Football Preseason Roster (Tentative as of July 25, 2017) No. Name Yr. Pos. Ht. Wt. Hometown/High School/Previous School 1 De’Niro Laster R-Sr. LB 6-4 240 Cleveland Heights, Ohio/Cleveland Heights HS/Kentucky 2 Jacen Murphy Sr. WR 5-10 185 Wilmington, N.C./New Hanover HS/Copiah Lincoln CC 3 Torri Cotton R-So. RB 5-8 160 Panama City Beach, Fla./J.R. Arnold HS 4 Randy Anyanwu R-Jr. DL 6-2 245 Lovejoy, Ga./Lovejoy HS/University of Buffalo 5 Xavier McKoy So. WR 6-3 190 Charlotte, N.C./West Charlotte HS 6 Jordan Fieulleteau R-Sr. WR 6-3 210 Raleigh, N.C./Wakefield HS/North Carolina 7 Ruben Saunders Sr. DB 6-1 185 Wilmington, Del./Hodgson HS/Dean College 8 De’Mario Evans R-Jr. DB 6-0 175 Columbia, S.C./Ridge View HS/Eastern Arizona College 9 Jalen Wilkes Jr. WR 6-2 190 Greenville, S.C./Greenville HS 10 David Miller R-Sr. WR 6-0 175 Wilmington, N.C./E.A. Laney HS/Louisburg College 11 Aaron Duncan Fr. DB 6-1 180 Miami, Fla./Norland HS 12 Chauncey Caldwell Fr. QB 6-3 225 Durham, N.C./Mallard Creek HS 13 Chance Kennedy R-Fr. WR 5-8 160 Charlotte, N.C./South Mecklenburg HS 14 Dominique Shoffner Fr. QB 6-0 210 Apex, N.C./Middle Creek HS 15 Micah Zanders So. QB 6-1 195 Jacksonville, Fla./Raines HS/Hinds CC 16 Naiil Ramadan R-So. QB 6-0 185 Charlotte, N.C./Rocky River HS 17 Antonio Brown R-Sr. DL 6-3 260 Jacksonville, Fla./Nathan B. Forrest HS 18 Marcus Martin Fr. DB 5-11 180 Miami, Fla./North Miami HS/Atlanta Sports Academy 19 Nathaniel Tilque Sr. P 6-2 190 Charlotte, N.C./Mallard Creek HS 20 Jamarcus Johnson Sr. DB 5-10 180 Greensboro, N.C./Ben L. Smith HS 21 Daejon Weeks Jr. DB 5-10 175 Rahway, N.J./Rahway HS/Monroe College 22 Davanta Reynolds R-Jr. DB 5-10 200 Tucker, Ga./Tucker HS 23 Alphonso Carter R-Sr. DB 6-3 205 Fort Washington, Md./Frederick Douglass HS/Louisville 24 Dorrel McClain R-Jr. RB 5-10 190 Cary, N.C./Panther Creek HS 25 Isaiah Totten R-Fr. RB 5-9 175 Apex, N.C./Apex HS 26 Ramone Simpson R-Jr. RB 5-10 185 Wilmington, N.C./New Hanover HS 27 Jaquell Taylor Jr. DB 6-1 185 Raleigh, N.C./Southeast Raleigh HS 28 Kawuan Cox So. DL 6-2 230 Summerville, S.C./Summerville HS 29 Erik Schlecker Jr. LS 6-0 230 Sunrise, Fla./Piper HS/ASA College 30 Aedan Johnson Jr. PK 5-8 160 Chula Vista, Calif./Eastlake HS/Southwestern College 31 Jarrett McCarter R-So. LB 6-2 225 Durham, N.C./Hillside HS 32 Alden McClellon Jr. DB 5-11 190 Lake Butler, Fla./Union County HS 33 Branden Bailey Fr. LB 6-0 225 Deerfield Beach, Fla./Deerfield Beach HS 34 Kenneth O’Neal R-Sr. LB 6-1 225 Grand Prairie, Texas/South Grand Prairie HS/UTSA 35 Brandon Galloway Sr. DB 6-1 200 High Point, N.C./T. Wingate Andrews HS 36 Nolan Corpening Sr. DB 5-10 180 Charlotte, N.C./Vance HS 37 Jabari Nelson Sr. DB 5-9 185 Evans, Ga./Evans HS/Reinhardt University 38 Daryl Smith Jr. DB 5-11 200 Durham, N.C./Southern HS 39 Jordan Freeman R-Fr. RB 5-7 165 Charlotte, N.C./Garinger HS 40 Patrick Connor Fr. LB 6-0 225 Greensboro, N.C./Dudley HS 41 William Lulu Jr. LB 5-11 220 Homestead, Fla./Homestead Sr. HS/Mt. San Jacinto College 42 Anthony Sherrill R-So. DB 6-0 180 Cornelius, N.C./Hough HS 43 Adam Lippy Fr. PK 6-0 205 Tucker, Ga./Tucker HS 44 Jerome Foster Fr. LB 6-0 210 Greenville, S.C./Greenville HS 46 Tavon Lofties So. DL 6-5 245 Baltimore, Md./Fork Union MA 47 Carl Isaac Fr. DL 6-3 250 Rockingham, N.C./Richmond Sr. HS 48 Mike Robinson R-Jr. DB 6-0 175 Spencer, N.C./North Rowan HS 49 King Kiaku R-Jr. LB 5-10 230 Apex, N.C./Middle Creek HS 50 Ja’Quan Smith R-Sr. DL 6-2 300 Miramar, Fla./Miramar HS

NCCUEaglePride.com Twitter: @NCCU_Football | @NCCUAthletics 51 Steven Perry R-Jr. OL 5-11 265 Durham, N.C./Riverside HS 52 Reggie Hunter R-Sr. LB 6-0 225 Henderson, N.C./Southern Vance HS 55 Xavier Lanear Fr. LS 5-9 215 Charlotte, N.C./Independence HS 56 Somadina Okezie-Okeke Fr. OL 6-3 290 Woodstock, Ga./River Ridge HS 60 Stewart Boyd R-So. OL 6-1 290 Miramar, Fla./Miramar HS 67 Twishawn Glenn So. OL 6-3 275 Daytona Beach, Fla./Mainland HS 68 Qorticha Glenn Fr. OL 6-3 290 Winston-Salem, N.C./Glenn HS/Palmetto Prep 69 William Hunter R-Fr. OL 5-10 270 Duluth, Ga./Duluth HS 70 Andrew Dale R-Fr. OL 6-0 280 Morehead City, N.C./West Carteret HS 71 Malik Riddick-Reynolds Fr. OL 6-6 360 Robbins, N.C./North Moore HS 72 Michael Nwachukwu Fr. OL 6-2 275 Rolesville, N.C./Rolesville HS 73 Jaylin Barrington R-So. OL 6-3 280 Riverdale, Ga./Riverdale HS 74 Marley Conley Jr. OL 6-5 280 Fayetteville, N.C./Douglas Byrd HS 75 Nick Leverett R-So. OL 6-4 290 Concord, N.C./Concord HS 76 Jose Jeanty Fr. OL 6-4 260 Deerfield Beach, Fla./Deerfield Beach HS 77 Cam’Ron Perkins Fr. DL 6-2 275 Eden, N.C./Morehead HS 78 Josh Varona R-Fr. OL 6-5 290 Pompano Beach, Fla./Coconut Creek HS 80 E.J. Hicks Fr. WR 6-0 175 Rolesville, N.C./Rolesville HS 82 Josh McCoy Jr. TE 6-3 230 Sharon, S.C./York Comprehensive HS/ASA College 83 Eric Saintil R-So. WR 6-2 185 Homestead, Fla./Homestead HS/Shasta College 84 Zach Kellum Fr. TE 6-3 230 Winston-Salem, N.C./East Forsyth HS 85 Nique Martin Fr. WR 6-1 190 Winston-Salem, N.C./East Forsyth HS/Palmetto Prep 87 Sherman McLeod Fr. TE 6-4 225 Raleigh, N.C./Southeast Raleigh HS 91 Jason Cascen Fr. DL 6-3 290 Charlotte, N.C./Zebulon B. Vance HS/Fork Union MA 94 Chris Burton R-Sr. DL 6-2 295 Danville, Va./George Washington HS/Univ. of Cincinnati 95 Wilhelm Heinsen R-So. DL 6-2 210 Raleigh, N.C./Millbrook HS 96 Roderick Harris R-Sr. DL 6-1 280 Simpsonville, S.C./Hillcrest HS

Coaching Staff: Jerry Mack, Head Coach Granville Eastman, Defensive Coordinator/Safeties/Assistant Head Coach T.C. Taylor, Offensive Coordinator/Quarterbacks Jason Onyebuagu, Co-Offensive Coordinator/Offensive Line Chris Schultz, Special Teams Coordinator/Defensive Assistant Kenyatta McCoy, Secondary/Recruiting Coordinator Jason Blalock, Linebackers Jon Bradley, Defensive Line Carl Funderburk, Tight Ends Jordan Reid, Running Backs Jermaine Gales, Wide Receivers Quinn Billerman, Offensive Assistant Bobby Turner, Defensive Assistant

PRONUNCIATION GUIDE: #2 – Jacen Murphy JAY-sen #9 – Jalen Wilkes JAY-len #16 – Naiil Ramadan Nah-EEL RAH-mah-dahn #19 – Nathaniel Tilque Tilk-E #22 – Davanta Reynolds Dah-VON-tay #27 – Jaquell Taylor Jah-KWELL #28 – Kawaun Cox Kah-WOHN #46 – Tavon Lofties LOF-tees #49 – King Kiaku KEE-ah-ku #67 – Twishawn Glenn Twih-shawn Coach – Jason Onyebuagu On-YAY-boo-ah-GOO Coach – Jason Blalock BLAY-lock

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