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9-3-1976

The Register, 1976-09-03

North Carolina Agricutural and Technical State University

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Recommended Citation North Carolina Agricutural and Technical State University, "The Register, 1976-09-03" (1976). NCAT Student Newspapers. 641. https://digital.library.ncat.edu/atregister/641

This Book is brought to you for free and open access by the Digital Collections at Aggie Digital Collections and Scholarship. It has been accepted for inclusion in NCAT Student Newspapers by an authorized administrator of Aggie Digital Collections and Scholarship. For more information, please contact [email protected]. That IT'S ROUGH BUT IT'S FAIR Leon Rucker •••••••A*************************

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Once in an athletic lifetime, a few young men gather to form what we often times refer to as a mere team.

They are immersed in the idea of performing up to standards that will not allow room for failure. They will

be dedicated, responsHe, intelligent and, above all, filled with the faith that they will conquer their adversary no matter how tough. We are indeed fortunate to be a part of and to witness the 1976 A&T football team.

-Onig R. Turner Sports Editor Page S2 the A&T Register September 3, 1976 Hornsby North Carolina Howell y4&T Slate Since taking over as the North Carolina A&T State University head football coach, has guided the Unikersiiy Aggies to an impressive 49-30-3 record. A graduate of the university, Howell has not only made a fine con­ tribution to but has also tutored some of profession­ Wyle Harris al football's most outstanding players. He is a man not only dedicat­ DEFENSIVE COORDINATOR ed to building athletes, but is interested in developing the total man The personable Wylie Harris will have the task of coordinating the who can compete in our highly competitive society. defense which will keep the Aggie opponents from crossing the goal Entering his ninth season with the Aggies, Howell is the giant force line. A former center on the championship Aggie team of 1959, he behind the Aggie football spirit. Last season his team finished with a is a native of Charlotte, N. C. and was very quick to recruit players 8-3 record and Howell is out to return the Aggies to the success of from talent rich areas for the Aggies. Harris served as an officer in previous teams. To do this the Aggies will again use the veer offense. the 82nd Airborne Division and later coached football, basketball, Howell began his coaching career in 1950 in nearby Burlington, and baseball at Chatham High in nearby Siler City, N. C. His two N. C. In 1953 he returned to his alma mater in the capacity of a train­ year football coaching record there was 14-2-2. er and remained in that position until 1964 when he was promoted to assistant football coach. He took over the head job in 1968. A quiet, soft-spoken man, Howell has that intangible ability to inspire his athletes to give their best at all times. Ben Blacknall A former standout linebacker for the Aggies, Blacknall joined the staff this season. He has been a great help to defensive coordina­ George Wheeler tor Wylfe Harris in working with the A&T defensive unit. OFFENSIVE COORDINATOR After serving as A&T's acting ath­ George Wheeler brings along an impressive football background ATHLETIC letic director in 1971, Cal Irvin de­ to the A&T program. In a period of time when communication cided to step down from his head DIRECTOR coaching job and devote total ener­ is so improtant to the success of a football team, Wheeler's youth gies to molding a dynamic overall and experience in dealing with young people will be of great help CAL sports program. to the Aggie offense. Before joining the A&T staff, Wheeler One of the country's winningest served as a Head Football Coach and Athletic Director in the IRVIN and most respected cage tutors. Irvin never suffered a losing season Albemarle County School System. Wheeler was an outstanding at A&T and posted 401 victories college football player at East Carolina University. against only 143 losses. *••••*•••••••••••• ••••** • •••*•••••••• The A&T Register North Carolina A & T State All-America Candidate Checking The Schedule Presents "When you're number one every­ body's out to prove something Dexter each time you step on the playing field." This is the sentiment of the THE 1976 Feaster North Carolina A&T football team as they open up defense of their 1975 title. Besides a competitive FAU conference schedule featuring such powers as South Carolina State, Howard, and Morgan, the Aggies also face some tough non-conference opponents like FOOTBAU Grambling, Florida A&M, and Johnson C. Smith. Last year the Aggies got off to a better start and peak just at the right time. PREVIEW

*•••••••••*••••• 1976 SCHEDULE DATE-OPPONENT SITE September 4- Virginia Union Richmond, Va. 11 - Open 18- South Carolina State Greensboro, N. C. 25- Florida A&M Tallahassee, Fla. October 2- J.C.Smith Charlotte, N. C 8:00 9- Norfolk State Greensboro, N. C. 7:00 16- Universityof Md., E.S. Greensboro, N. C. 7:00 23- Howard University Washington, D C. 1:00 Head-Mr. Thomas Bynum 30- * Morgan State University Greensboro, N. C. 1:00 TRAINING November Assistant-Earl Mason 6- Grambling College Pontiac, Mich. 1:00 Students Jeffery Sims 13- Delaware State Greensboro, N. C. 1:00 STAFF Jerry Coble 20 - N.C. Central University Durham, N. C. 1:30 Statistitian-Eric Williams 'Homecoming • •••• • • ••••••••••••• September 3, 1976 The A&T Register Page S3 Aggies To Meet Toughest Grid Slate In History

ByCraigTurner Rarely in these days of Black college football powers. The next best "arm and foot" Jeffries has created a monster of Hawkins will be the top rusher changes and appearance of new Many of those same stars will combination is at Howard a defense in Orangeburg and will despite some leg problems. faces do past events repeat return this season to try to University in Washington, D.C. bring his creation into JOHNSON C. SMITH: themselves. Football in the enhance that theory. Quarterback Mike Banks Greensboro some two weeks Look very closely at the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference Tbe biggest and the best of (6-2,210) and receiver Kenny from now. You can bet the two Golden Bulls. You may be is no exception. Most MEAC fans the defensive linemen to look for Warren (5-10,175) can be just as MEAC co-champions won't be looking at the new CIAA will remember that last season is Robert Sims, a 6-6, deadly as the A&T pair of Turner here for a family reunion. champions for 1976. Coach Eddie A&T rose to the top of the heap 295 pound defensive tackle. and Feaster. The Bulldogs gave up McGirt has by his own admission, with an 8-3 record which also That's right, 295 pounds. He has Morgan State has its own absolutely nothing on the ground "A Powerhouse " included a six-game winning the speed and* agility to no entjy into the star column with i worth mentioning and placed in Wayne Banks was the starting streak. down almost any end Mark Durden. Durden the top ten defensively as they quarterback going into this final South Carolina State did what that comes his way. (6-0,178) does not possess the limited their opponents to less week of preparation and he will was expected of it although it Certainly not to be outdone, speed of a Turner or Warren but than 140 yards offensively. i have the top rusher in the CIAA struggled with an offense that Howard has the tallest defensive he led the MEAC in pass Robert Sims will take over in his backfield.Earnest really never got started. Howard linemen on any one team in the receptions with an astounding departed All-America Harry "Warhorse" Williams ran wild for University lost two crucial entire nation. Kevin number of 50. Carson's old spot, and Larry the Bulls and led the league in contests to South CaroUna and Cunningham, 6-8, 285 and There will be some anxious James will be the other huge total offense. A&T and never became a factor sophomore Tommy Spears, 6-7, moments this season with all tackle. State will turn to Defensively, the Bulls will although it did finish 8-3 and was 275 are a pair of tackles that the aerial talent that is abundant All-MEAC deep backs Tony depend on tackle Robert Corely also the preseason favorite. would scare off Godzilla. in so many teams this fall. Evans and Lenny Duncan. (6-4,315) and end Grover North Carolina Central was Grambling doesn't have the Indeed very few games will be Nine of the 19 regulars Covington (6-3,255). The perhaps the biggest monstrous line of the past, but it decided until that final play is returning for Jeffries are with the coaching staff will have to shore disappointment in the entire does have a linebacker that over with. offense. Most of the weight is up the linebackers a bit, but the conference as it lost four of its would play as a lineman for The following is a thumbnail being pulled there by runner secondary will include all four last six ball games and finished a anyone else. Russell Hall stands sketch of the Aggies' opponents Charlie Burgess and guard Luther starters from a year ago and that miserable fourth. 6-6 and weighs just under 240 for 1976: Dixon. is enough. No one will forget the 42- 0 pounds. Experts say he cannot VIRGINIA UNION: FLORIDA A&M: NORFOLK STATE: beating that the Eagles took in be passed over. Very few veterans remain Rudy Hubbard came to The Sparatans went 8-3 and Durham from Howard, the The list goes on and on of from 1975 on the defensive side Tallahassee three years ago from captured its third straight CIAA convincing loss to CIAA power sound defensive players bke for Coach Willard Bailey. Gone Ohio State and brought those crown but Dick Price's club will Johnson C. Smith, and, finally, Bobby Miller of Central, Kenny are All-CIAA tackle Don Tate same winning ways with him to be hard pressed in 1976. the worst humiliation of all, a Mullen of Florida A&M, Bob and All-America Anthony the coaching post with the Graduation wiped out nearly all 34-16 thumping at the hands of Corely of J.C. Smith, Frank Leonard from one of the better Rattlers. Hubbard gave A&T the the first-team experience that the Aggies in the season's finale. Collins of Maryland-Eastern defensive units in the CIAA. best season it has enjoyed in Norfolk had stock piled the last After last year's MEAC Shore, and David Crocker of Most of the work will be in quite some time. couple of years. co-championship of a year ago Delaware State. that area. The offense presents After going 9-2 in 1975 the Jackie Powell (6-5,220) is by the Aggies, this season However, despite all the no such problems as most of that Rattlers look forward to even splitend with a great deal of promises to be the most exciting hoopla sounded off by defenses, unit returns intact. The Panthers bigger things in the bicentennial talent and should provide ever for Aggie football fans. the fans pay their money to see retained the front wall and most year. Although 15 regulars are All-CIAA quarterback Steve The upcoming schedule points put on the board. Perhaps of the backfield strength gone, 37 lettermen remain to add Graeff with an outstanding promises to be the toughest in confidence to the hope of the most exciting player that will although the search for a target. A&T history. Coach Hornsby repeating as SIAC champions. put on a pair of cleats this fall is quarterback continues. There is Defense may suffer but end Howell's headhunters will face Florida's strength will be the A&T's Dexter Feaster. also a shortage of receivers but Roger Nance (64,228) will be stiff nonconference foes such as defense where nearly all of the Feaster, a splitend end, and freshmen will fill the gaps there. the stalwart on experience and Norfolk State (CIAA champs), top veterans still remain. Kenny A&T's greatest passing Union will have to score a will be one of the few Florida A&M (SIAC champs), Mullen (64,245) and Ephram quarterback, Ellsworth Turner, great deal to really be effective upperclassmen there. If things and always powerful Grambling Hagins (6-5,225) will lead the have combined for the last two because the youthful defensive don't jell quickly, the Spartans State of the Southwest Athletic defensive charge. years for some simply unit will undoubtedly suffer could be in for a long, long Conference. Quarterback duties will be spectacular performances. Both early in the year. season. Last season defense should be prime candidates for SOUTH CAROLINA STATE: shared by Ricky Pope and Albert (see Maryland page 6) dominated the play among the All-America honors. Former A&T assistant Willie Chester. Fullback Clarence

MID-EASTERN ATHLETIC CONFERENCE m 1975 FINAL FOOTBALL STANDINGS CONFERENCE ALL GAMES W L T PCT PTS OPP W L T PCT PTS OPP S. C. STATE 5 1 0 .830 139 6 8 2 1 .800 201 44 N.C. A&T 5 1 0 .830 170 72 8 3 0 .720 267 155 HOWARD 4 2 0 .660 134 94 8 3 0 .720 201 147 N.C. CENTRAL 3 2 1 .600 82 112 5 4 1 .550 160 198 DELAWARE STATE 2 4 0 .330 89 97 5 5 0 .500 156 143 MORGAN STATE 1 4 1 .200 93 142 4 5 1 .440 165 230 MARYLAND-E. SHORE 0 6 0 .000 0 184 0 10 0 .000 27 328

1975 Results OPPONENT SITE ATTENDANCE Sept. 6 A&T 25 Virginia Union 21 Greensboro 4,500 Sept. 20 A&T 0 South Carolina St. 7 Orangeburg 10,000 Sept. 27 A&T 0 Florida A&M 7 Greensboro 12,020 Oct. 4 A&T 21 Johnson C. Smith 0 Greensboro 7,220 Oct. 11 A&T 35 Norfolk State 13 Norfolk 9,334 Oct. 18 A&T 27 Maryland E.S. 0 Greensboro 18,954 Oct. 25 A&T 34 Howard University 14 Greensboro 6,876 Nov. 1 A&T 48 Morgan State 28 Baltimore 12,748 Nov. 8 A&T 16 Grambling 42 Grambling 8,676 Nov. 15 A&T 27 Delaware State 7 Dover 3,000 Nov. 22 A&T 34 N. C. Central 16 Greensboro 18,954 Team Points - 267 Opp. Points - 155 Total Attendance - 112,282 Season 8-3 MEAC 5-1

...:.:::::ft¥SW:..%*S Page S4 The A&T Register September 3, 1976 Aggies Wl Face A Rata Of 1975 Season

By Craig R. Turner A&T's strong point is here in A&T was picked by football Scott will have to prove his will be backed by pass intercepted pass of 104 yards. the linebacking corps. Reserves experts and the MEAC coaches worth as tailbacks Cal Hawkins catching wizard Liberace Harris Howard Barnhill is a step or Clint Bostick, James Paige, Daryl alike to finish first ahead of and Glen Holland did last year and Mike Howell. two slower but remains a heady Pridgen, and "super soph" Art defending co-champion South behind departed All-America safety man who can turn a game OFFENSIVE UNE: Curry are the stalwarts. Highly Carolina State, 'North . around at any time. Barnhill is an Carolina State, North The offensive Une was touted freshman Charles Fuller excellent openfield tackier and is will see action early and should Carolina Central QUARTERBACKS: indicative of the Cinderella story one of the most intelligent of A&T. be a key factor. Linebacking was players on the squad. He should and Howard Whether that Not too much else can be said the turnaround in last season's be a prime candidate for MEAC prediction comes true or not will for A&T's all-time passing leader The cornerstone of the inner defensive scheme and it should honors. depend upon the next twelve and junior signal caller Ellsworth wall is All-MEAC guard Ron weeks of action. Aiken (6-1,230) who returns as be one of the more consistent of Steve Lynes broke upon the Turner. He was a consensus any of the A&T departments. Until then, this All-MEAC pick a year ago and the best at his position. Teaming scene late last season against position-by-position breakdown was edged out in the league's on the other side will be Greg Delaware State and played well should give each Aggie fan an MVP voting by teammate Roberts (6-1,245). SECONDARY: against North Carolina Central. idea of what to expect in the Ragsdale. He is a prime The tackles are plenty big and He was considered a top starting A lack of speed played havoc , way of strengths and weaknesses. All-America candidate this year. strong, an ingredient missing in prospect going into this with A&T in two of its three campaign before transferring. Turner threw for over 1340 the past. Wheeler Brown KICKING GAME: (6-2,245) and George Small losses last season. Although there yards, for 11 touchdowns to lead will be a lack of experience early the league. The Maryland native (6-3,240) will give opposing It may be hard to beUeve abut in the year, the lack of speed has Freshmen James Rainey, had over 190 attempts for 107 linebackers plenty of problems. there will be some competition been remedied with the addition Odell Walker, Earl Wicks, Tony completions for a 54.7 Reservists Ken Villeponteaux, to see who will do the kicking of four top notch defensive Currie, and Allen Thomas are percentage and only ten Charles Roberts, Ken Campbell, chores for the Aggies this faU. backs. All-America Terr/ among the best recruits in the The punting duties were handled . and Clayton Pride will be the second line folks. Bellamy boasts 9.4 speed and is solely by Mike Howell, the Ample replacements are South. Transfer Tommy Warren The center will be Joe considered as one of the best coach's son. found in Houston, lex., product comes from Hampton Institute Bloomfield (6-0,220) who offsets senior defensive backs in the His average of 35.7 yards a Gary Alliniece and . rambler to the Aggie camp with high his lack of size with superior college ranks this season. The 6-1, kick placed him in the fourth Carl Caviness. Both were held credentials. The surprise of the quickness. He will have sound 185 pound Charlotte native spot among the leaders in the out of action last season and year could be James Wilkes backing with massive freshman returned an 85 conference. However, that may should provide good depth. 96-3,190) who has moved himself Norman Jones yards for a score against Howard not be enough to hold off the into one of the top deep backs RECEIVERS: last year and holds the record for challenge of defensive end Nolan the longest return of an spots in preseason. Jones. DEFENSIVE UNE: A&T expects to pass less this Jones may also displace season because of the proficiency This is an area which A&T Ellsworth Turner as the team's of the running backs. Perhaps improved immensely last season. 1976 Schedule placekicker which would be a that is a blessing in disguise. The defensive front became the OPPONENT/SITE pleasing occurrence: to Coach Howell moaned during the spring most vicious in the league last Hornsby Howell. Jones' Sept. 4 Virginia Union at Richmond drills about inefficient receivers year. All-America candidate and Sept. 11 Open development as a kicker could •*and Uttle reserve strength. Some All-MEAC tackle Ron Morgan Sept. 18 South Carolina State at Greensboro possibly keep the star new faces and some old standbys (6-0,245) can play linebacker quarterback from unnecessary will have to assert themselves with his superb quickness. Sept. 25 Florida A&M at Tallahassee injury. early. Another top defender is team Oct. 2 J. C. Smith at Charlotte MVP Jim Merrick (6-3,225) and Oct. 9 Norfolk State at Greensboro RUNNINGBACKS: Back again for his last and perhaps his greatest season ever is Arthur Boone (6-3,240) provide Oct. 16 University of Md., E.S. at Greensboro There can be no denying that wide receiver Dexter Feaster. great outside containment at the Oct. 23 Howard University at Washington A&T has perhaps the three finest Twice named an All-MEAC ends. Oct. 30 * Morgan State University at Greensboro tailbacks in the entire league. selection, Feaster finished The defense improves its size Nov. 6 Grambling College at Pontiac The. most talented of the three is second in receptions a year ago in 1976 with Dwaine Board Nov. 13 Delaware State at Greensboro junior Frank Scott, a 6-1,205 with 30 catches for 343 yards. (6-6,227), Nolan Jones (6-5,245) Nov. 20 N.C. Central Univ. at Durham pound native of Atlantic City, His blistering 4.4 speed enhances and tree-like Lucen Nibbs *Homecoming N.J. He boasts 4.5 speed in the his being a deep threat. (6-7,245). Leon Rucker and Greg forty yard dash and had an James Crowder should step Smith rate ahead in experience. **************** outstanding spring. into the shoes of the departed * They are called the best trio The starting fullback will be James Lily at slotback. of linebackers in the conference powerful Ron Scott. The 6-2, 210 Replacements Queen Davis and by Howell. Joe Crosby, Jerome Michael Banks Is Top pound junior sliced through Bruce Black will see a great deal Simmons, and Lou Alston are by opposing defenses a year ago. He of action. far the best to grace the Aggie will be pressured by a couple of Brett Fisher (6-4,230) will be camp in quite some time. Bison Offensive Star the tightend replacing quality backups in Larry Barham By Craig Turner Clutch'." All-America Walt Bennett. He UNEBACKERS: and freshman Paul Christman. Who are some of the top Banks is not alone when it offensive /football stars in the comes to engineering offenses. Mid-Eastern Athletic North Carolina Central has a Conference? Of course every budding star in Ricky Moore. A team in the seven member league flashing scrambler in his own has its own "unsung" heroes, but right, Moore possesses some of this article will try to identify the quickest feet on any back some of the names that MEAC playing today. Although Moore is more known for his running, fans will often times hear outside the Baltimore product is an of A&T's football circles. extremely deadly passer when The name most mentioned given sufficient time to throw. will probably be that of Mike Moore follows a football rich Banks of Howard University. The tradition for the Eagles and their 6-2, 210 pound quarterback has great quarterbacks. been named all conference in his Passers will themselves last three seasons as he sometimes admit the people on quarterbacked his explosive the other end of their passes Bison club to an overall 24-7-1 deserve even more credit than record. they do. One of these people of Banks, a native of Detroit, outstanding quality is Mark Mich., led the conference in Durden of Morgan State. passing and total offense his first Durden, 6-1, 180, caught a two years and placed second last mind-boggling 50 passes a season year behind A&T's sensation ago for 343 yards. His teammate, Ellsworth, Turner. Steve Turpin, is just as adept in He is a superb passer and field catching the pigskin. The duo general and carries a knack for ranked first and third, pulh'ng out the closely-contested' respectively, in the pass receiving games. He is what Howard Coach department and will present Frank Scott will find the going even tougher this fall. (Continued on Page 5) Doug Porter calls his "Mr. September 3, 1976 The A&T Register Page S5 Coach's Son Pleased With A&T As College Choice

By Maxine McNeill with that particular major, $88® The seemingly reserved Howell does not think it should conversationalist but proven be done. outstanding football star, "The only reason I majored in Hornsby Howell, Jr., had two P.E. is I happen to Uke sports," major reasons for choosing A&T he said. to play collegiate football. When asked what motivates First Hornsby enrolled at him to play on the field, Howell A&T because his father, Hornsby did not have an immediate Howell, Sr., head coach of the answer. While thinking the Aggie football team. "I always question over, he was asked if wanted to play on a team my religion played a part in father coached and this way I got motivating him. He then gave a the opportunity," said Hornsby. quick answer of "No". "My father has traveled a lot "I don't know what motivates and has some experience with me to play," admitted Howell. professional football teams. I can "All I know is that I just put my learn a lot from him." mind on what I'm supposed to "The second reason I do and I do it. I would like to be attended A&T is I was offered a thought of as a self-motivated scholarship. If my father had not player." These are the A&T co-captains for 1976. (From left to right.) are Dexter been coaching at A&T, I would Whether this statement is Feaster, Ron Morgan, Ron Aiken, Joe Bloomfield, and Jearold Holland. not have accepted the taken chauvinistically or not, scholarship. I would have gone to Howell does not feel that South CaroUna State instead." football is a woman's sport. Howell, a 6-3, 195-pound "Football is too rough for player with more of a basketball women," stated Howell. physique, is the punter and plays "Women make better spectators Merrick Likes Carolina Year the position of splitend. He is than players." more recognized as a punter than "If a girl goes out for the a split end, though. goal will be achieved when A&T football team and makes it, By Maxine McNeill football. He turned it down to "It was not until the ninth he has exerted all of his she will be treated like any other The six foot 3, 250 pound play at A&T. Merrick cited two grade in high school that I energy to playing the game. team member. Though he smiled Amityville, N.Y., native, James reasons for turning Howard's started playing football," said This football season will be his when he made that comment, Merrick, performs at the offer down. Hornsby. "Before then, I always final chance to achieve his goal Howell said he is very serious. position of defensive tackle and "First, I desired to attend a played basketball. One day I just while attending A&T. Howell's ambition when he defensive end on the A&T university in the south," he decided I wanted to play "When I first enrolled at graduates is to play professional football team. He is a senior explained. "Now that I football, so I did." A&T I weighed 319 football. business administration major. ;am here, I love North CaroUna. I "I learned that I liked football pounds said Merrick. When his father-coach was ''I chose business feel that being here has allowed more than basketball so I asked how he felt about his son administration as a major "During my first year I rne to obtain a good exposure to switched. I don't know what playing professional football, he because I feel it is versatile," said underwent a vigorous training different people. It has also made me decide to play answered very quickly. and dieting program and lost 112 allowed meto deal with people in football." Merrick. "I consider myself a "I would love to see my son career minded football player." pounds. My desire to succeed a way in which I would not have A native of Greensboro, make it in professional football," "I admit I would like to play was the only motivation I needed gotten otherwise." young Howell is a Physical said the senior Howell. "I have professional football very much, to do this. I've always wanted The second reason Merrick education major at A&T. no objections to his playing. The but if I do not make it, at least my body in good condition so voices for wanting to travel Although it seems that most only thing is that pro football is that I could perform well on the south is the weather. people always associate athletes I will have my business not all glory. background to fall back on. That football field." "I love this North Carolina business background will enable Prior to attending A&T, weather," he admitted. "The me to perform well in any Merrick received an offer from weather here is just right, career." Howard University to play ..specially in the winter." Howard Has Another Merrick has a very personal reason for wanting to play football • Scoring Threat "When I was in high school, I was considered a quite a few problems for guard in Ron Aiken (6-1,235), below -average player," said opposing secondaries. Joe Bloomfield (6-0,220), and Merrick. "I wanted to prove to Howard has produced one of George Small (6-3,240) rate myself and others that I could the fastest splitends in the MEAC special recognition. be a top player." in Kenny Warren. At an impish Morgan offensive punch is As far as Merrick is 5-U, 175, Warren dazzled crowds often times delivered by Dave concerned, he has not yet with blistering speed and McCleary (6-3,210) and Wil reached his goal. How will he spectacular catches. He may Lighty (6-3,230). They are know when he has reached his prove himself the single best especially formidable as is Luther goal? deep receiver in the league, Dixon (5-11,220) of S.C. State. According to Merrick, his Dexter Feaster notwithstanding. All were MEAC picks a year ago. Running backs in this Central has only one starter conference lost a lot of luster back in its interior wall in Darius with the graduation of A&T's Helton, who, at a very large the staff for this George Ragsdale. He moved 6-4,245, literally moves ahead of Central's Jeff Inmon in mountains for Eagle backs. He is bruising tailback with both good considered the top tackle in the special insert: hands and outside speed to go upcoming campaign among along with his outstanding size. MEAC foes. A&T's entry into the running eUte appears to be junior Frank Scott. Howard and A&T seem to mary e. cropps, benjamin forbes, rrichael hailey, williarn have cornered the market on the top offensive linemen but that is not unusual since both clubs lawson, maxine mcneil, lucinda moore, hilda pinnix, daryl ranked one and two offensively. Howard offers center Dan Ambrose (6-2,230), Talbert e. smith, sheila Williams, and craig r. turner, Hutton (6-3,235), and guard Keith Napier (6-3,225) as a special thanks to mr. Joseph faust III returning All-MEAC choices. They are a superb blocking team. A&T presents the premier James Merrick Page S6 The A&T Register September 3, 1976 MARYLAND IS PICK© FOR THE CELLAR IN THE MEAC (cont. from page 3) MARYLAND-EASTERN has to be looked on with people. SHORE: suspicious eyes.. DELAWARE STATE: The Hawks merely went The Bears have 16 starters Edmond Wyche turned the through the motions of playing returning including 25 lettermen Hornet program around by football last season enroute to a and enough offensive fire power posting a surprising 5-5 record 0-11 record. Few bright spots to dust off any team in the and got two conference victories showed through for Maryland. MEAC. Donnell Coleman has in the process. The outlook is One was defensive end Carl been the quaterback the last even brighter going into this Hairston who grabbed two seasons and will start unless season wjth 51 lettermen All-America status but he left injured. returning. Princess Anne, Md., for the pro Linemen Wil Lighty and Dave David Crocker (6-0,202) was ranks. McCleary rate special recognition an All-MEAC linebacker and may There is Frank Collins, who at as blockers. The keypoint will be just be the best in the MEAC at 6-4, 280, is in the same mold as receiver Mark Durden arid runner that post. Quarterback Andre Hairston but lacks the stamina to Nathan Mumford. Both turn in Brown will push for All-MEAC be effective. stellar performances and are honors along with Greg Wright. Maryland will probably counted on heavily. It is a good thing that the remain unchanged from 1975. Defense could be a problem Hornets are improving since they They should again simply go with five seniors leaving. are facing the toughest schedule through the motions. However, there are enough in their history. HOWARD: second line people to give the NORTH CAROLINA After an 8-2-1 mark in 1973, Bears more than enough punch CENTRAL: 8-2 in 1974, and an 8-3 record to stifle their opponents. Coach Willie Smith said it is just last season, a person would the best team he has ever think that the Bison would be GRAMBLING: coached Fact or fiction?It may satisfied with impressive marks. Grambling is flirting with the be both. The Eagles do return Not so according to the Howard officials of the Southwest nearly all of their offensive stars publicity office. Athletic Conference. The and depth including quarterback The Bison fell apart conference has threatened to Ricky Moore, who finished third offensively and never got going expel the Tigers if they do not among passers and fourth in total as Coach Doug Porter wanted meet Prairie View on October 2 offense. them to. Defense held up most instead of Hawaii. Last season But also true is the fact that of the way but fell off toward the Tigers forfeited to Prairie Central has lost seven defensive the end of the campaign. View and opted to play Oregon starters form a unit that was Micheal Banks had a very State. The Tigers seem bent on frankly not that strong. Smith slack year but still placed on the having 'it their way. says redshirts and transfers have second team All-MEAC squad to They will have to have it that eliminated that problem. But it give some kind of indication of way because their grid opponents was defense, or the lack of it, his potency. Talbert Hutton may just take unfair advantage of that spelled doom for the Eagles Players warm up before practice (6-3,235) leads the line, butthere a rebuilding program by Eddie in 1975. will be freshmen in the running Robinson. Gone are Sammy slots. . White, Dwight Scales, James a....:.:.;.;.;. Tackles Kevin Cunningham Hunter, and thirteen other and Tommy Spears head the regulars along with some key i defense along with linebacker depth. Paul Ball and others. The Still Grambling has quarter secondary will be a sore spot as back Doug Williams who threw Bellamy Feels Poise Is Key all of the starters from last 23 touchdowns last year and top season were seniors. runner Cliff Martin. Antoine MORGAN STATE: Edwards is the best linebacker At 6-1 and 190 pounds, Terry make a bad judgment and make to give it up in order to make Coach Hank Lattimore may along with safeties James Harris Bellamy has always possessed up for it with speed." spring practice," said Bellamy just have the best team in the and Mike Smith. But this could superior strength and speed on Besides being one of the who has been timed at 9.5 conference although you won't be the year that the Tigers get < the football field. nation's top-rated defensive seconds in the 100-yard dash. "I think our secondary will be as hear him admit it. But Morgan their ears tied back by a few During his prep career at backs, Bellamy also is an fast as we have ever been but Charlotte's West Mecklenburg excellent student with a 3.3 there will be some inexperienced High, one of the city's perennial average on a four-point grading players back there. football powers, his coach system. decided to take full advantage of He is hopeful A&T can repeat "At my position, I usually Bellamy's skills and played him as champions of the Mid-Eastern have to cover the oppositions' at the defensive end position. Athletic Conference and his best receiver man-on-man. I am fortunate that we have receivers Bellamy responded to the future plans include a possible like Dexter Feaster and James challenge by gaining All-City and pro career. Crowder on our team who All-State honors at the position. "Making an All-American provide a real test for me each team last season and winning the However, when it came time day in practice." to decide on a position to play championship have given me an BeUamy is now a senior and on the collegiate level, Bellamy incentive which I have never had wants to leave A&T on a winning was uncertain that his size would approaching a football season," note. He believes that the team be adequate for the physical said Bellamy, holder of the will be under more pressure to competition. MEAC's record for the longest win this season because of last return of an intercepted pass After signing with A&T and season's championship. spending most of his first year (104) yards). "We will be the favored team experimenting in the defensive "We have the material to on paper in most of our games backfield and as wide receiver, repeat as champions and that's this season, and I feel the Bellamy decided to concentrate what I want the most. Beyond underdog will have the on the defensive position. that, I have always wanted to psychological edge," said play pro football and I would "I knew I was too small to Bellamy a political science major. play defensive end in college, so I Uke to give it a shot." "Every time we play, there had it in my mind that, if I "If that doesn't work out, I'll will be a team who is out to played college ball, I would have go to grad school to work on a prove something against us. I to change my position," said master's degree in pubUc think that poise will play a big Bellamy, who was named last administration and then attend part in our success." season to the Black Sports law school." All- team. "I Although the Aggie secondary had played a Uttle wide receiver has Bellamy and Charlottean in high school and, because of the Howard Barnhill returning, this movements involved in playing area remains one of the big AGGIE that position, I didn't find the question marks surrounding the change to the backfield too Aggie hopes of repeating as difficult." conference champions. SPORTS "Speed is my greatest asset. In "I usually run track in the the defensive backfield you can summer, but this year I decided Terry Bellamy September 3, 1976 The A&T Register Page S7

1975 MEAC ALL STAR FOOTBAU TEAM

1975 ALL-MEAC FOOTBALL FIRST TEAM SECOND TEAM OFFENSE HEIGHT WEIGHT HOMETOWN HEIGHT WEIGHT HOMETOWN Walter Bennett, A&T (TE) 6-2 190 SR. Jacksonville, FLA. Larry Smiley, Morgan (TE) 6-3 215 SOPH. Richmond, VA Dexter Feaster, A&T (SE) 6-1 185 JR. Charlotte John Chisholm. Delaware 6-2 205 SR. Savannah, GA General Roney, Howard (T) 6-2 240 SR. Ft. Worth, Texas Darius Helton, NCCU (T) 6-3 245 JR. Chapel Hill William Lighty, Morgan (T) 6-2 240 JR. Dillon,SC Milton Glover, SC State (T) 6-0 230 JR. Anderson, SC Keith Napier, Howard (G) 6-3 225 SOPH. Kaco, Texas Joe Labrie, Morgan 6-2 210 SR. Houston, Texas Luther Dixon, SC State 6-0 220 JR. Brooklyn, NY Ron AJkens, A&T (G) 6-3 230 JR. Moncks Corner, SC Dan Ambrose, Howard (C) 6-2 230 SOPH. Detroit, MICH David McCleary, Morgan (C) 6-1 225 JR. Baltimore, MD Ellsworth Turner, A&T (QB) 6-1 185 SOPH. Gaithersburg. MD Michael Banks, Howard (QB) 6-2 210 JR. Detroit, MICH George Ragsdale, A& 64 180 SR. Baltimore, MD Charles Burgess, SC State (RB) 6-1 185 SOPH. Walterboro, SC Anthony Tapp, Howard (RB) 5-11 182 SR. Portsmouth, V A Donald Barnes, Howard (RB) 6-2 225 SR. Washington, DC Mark Durden, Morgan (RB) 5-11 182 JR. Beaumont, Texas Harvey Banks, Howard (FL) 5-8 170 SR. Washington, DC Steve Turpin, Morgan (Punter) 6-4 210 SOPH. Richmond, VA DEFENSE ,. Harry Carson, SC State (E) 6-2 220 SR. Florence, SC Shelton Smith, Delaware (E) 6-1 198 SOPH. Norfolk, VA Carl Hairston, UMES (E) 6-4 255 SR. Martinsville, VA George Jones, NCCU (E) 6-2 225 SR. Rocky Mount Robert Sims, SC State (T) 6-5 295 SOPH. Columbia, SC Angelo Wells, Morgan (T) 6-4 227 SR. .Annapolis, MD Ben Harris, Howard (T) 6-3 250 SR. Haines City, FLA Ron Morgan, A&T (T) 6-3 240 JR. Louisburg Brone Edmonds, SC Stat* (OLB) 6-0 200 JR. North, SC /Varon Whitaker, NCCU (OLB) 6-0 200 SOPH. Washington, DC David Crocker, Delaware (OLB) 6-0 202 JR. Steubenville, Ohio Paul Smith, UMES (OLB) 6-0 230 SR. Wyanduck, NY Van Nicholson, Morgan (MLB) 64 230 SR. Flint, MICH Kenneth Wright, Delaware (MLB) 6-2 213 SR. Savannah, GA Leonard Duncan, SC State 5-10 176 SR. Lancaster, SC Rudolph Bryant, SC State (MLB) 6-2 230 SOPH. New Ellington, SC Tim Baylor, Morgan (CB) 64 200 SR. Washington, DC Terry Bellamy, A&T (CB) 6-1 185 JR. Charlotte Louis Breeden, NCCU (S) 6-0 180 SOPH. Hamlet Norman Empty, Delaware (CB) 5-10 180 SR. Frankford, DEL Anthony Evans, SC State (S) 6-0 188 JR. Columbia, SC Haywood Corley, Howard (S) 6-2 180 SR. Washington, DC Leroy Mason, SC State (PAT) 5-11 200 JR. Columbia, SC Terry Evans, NCCU (S) 6-1 200 JR. Fayetteville Walter Tullis, Delaware (RET. SPEC.) 6-1 164 SR. Hartford, CONN Duane Danner, Morgan (PAT) 5-8 165 SOPH. Lancaster, SC NORTH CAROLINA A&T STATE FOOTBAU ROSIER

DEFENSE . ]HEIGH T WEIGHT HOMETOWN OFFENSE CLASS HOMETOWN

Nolan Jones 6-5 245 3 Greenville, SC Brett Fisher 64 228 1 Philadelphia, PA Jearold Holland 6-3 225 4 Roanoke, VA Mike Howell 6-3 195 2 Greensboro Arthur Boone 6-3 240 4 Durham Thomas Edison 64 240 1 Willie Washington 6-3 240 1 Wilson Gary Adams 64 235 4 Gastonia Dale De Graffenried 5-11 200 1 Lucien Nibbs 6-7 250 2 St. Thomas, VI Ronald Scott 6-3 210 3 Garden City, KAN Dwaine Board 6-6 235 2 Union Hall, VA Frank Scott 6-2 205 3 Atlantic City, NJ Glen Holland 6-0 180 3 Roanoke, V A Leon Rucker 6-0 230 4 Red Springs Calvin Hawkins 6-1 190 2 Grimesland James Merrick 6-3 250 4 Amityville, NY Larry Barham 5-10 210 2 Weldon * Ron Morgan 6-1 250 4 Franklington William Joyner 6-0 170 1 Greg Smith 6-3 240 3 Atlanta, GA Coy Holland 6-5 240 1 Roanoke, VA Ron Aiken 6-1 230 4 Monch's Corner, SC Arthur Lowe 6-5 249 2 Greensboro Aldrick Beyers 6-2 225 1 Charles Roberts 6-1 250 3 Roanoke Rapids Joe Crosby 6-3 205 4 Charlotte Greg Roberts 6-2 250 4 Spindale Roger Norrell 6-1 200 1 Ken Villaponteaux 6-0 225 4 Wando, SC Jerome Simmons 5-10 190 4 Monch's Corner, SC Kenneth Campbell 6-2 230 2 Aberdeen James Paige 6-1 190 4 Siler City Clint Bostick 6-2 205 4 Rockingham Cedrick Barnes 6-2 235 1 Arthur Curry 6-0 185 2 Murfreesboro Wheeler Brown 6-3 245 3 Baltimore Emanuel Davis 6-2 210 2 Roanoke,Rapids Ralph Gaskins 6-2 245 1 Wilson Lewis Alston 6-1 215 3 Greensboro Clayton Pride 6-3 235 3 Charlotte Daryl Pridgen 5-10 185 3 Newark, NJ George Small 6-3 239 2 Raeford

Glenn Inman 6-1 205 2 Fayetteville -a Anthony Porchia 6-1 220 3 Monch's Corner, SC Allen Thomas 6-3 190 1 Raeford Ronald Wotten 6-2 210 2 Greensboro Dexter Feaster 6-3 190 4 Charlotte Charles Fuller 64 220 1 Greensboro Jesse Monterio 6-3 220 1 Ollie Davis 6-2 180 2 Chapel Hill Howard Barnhill 5-10 165 4 Charlotte Bruce Black 5-9 165 2 Buena Vista, VA Terry Bellamy 6-1 190 4 Charlotte James Crowder 6-1 205 2 Weldon Earl Ricks 6-0 170 1 Greensboro Thomas Warren 6-0 180 2 Greensboro Norman Jones 6-3 260 1 Johns Island, SC Odell Walker 64 190 1 Charlottesville, VA Joe Bloomfield 6-0 220 4 Rockingham Rodney Westmoreland 5-9 165 4 Greensboro Jeff Jackson 6-3 210 3 Atlanta, GA Marcus Floyd 6-0 180 2 King's Mountain Tony Currie 6-1 185 1 Greensboro Ellsworth Turner 6-1 185 3 Gaitherburg, MD Gerald Johnson 6-2 185 1 Gary Allineice 6-0 180 2 Houston, Texas Jeff Wilkes 6-3 195 1 Carl Caviness 6-3 180 2 Washington, DC Page S& The A&T Register September 3, 1976

North Carolina A&T State All-America Candidate