Jacksonville, AL – Jacksonville State University’s head football coach, Rich Rodriguez, expressed enthusiasm and confidence during his game-week press conference as the Gamecocks prepare for their season-opening clash against Coastal Carolina. The game, scheduled for Thursday, marks a significant moment for the program as it will be broadcasted nationally, offering the team a chance to shine on a broader stage.
“We’re really excited for our players and our program,” Rodriguez stated. “We’ve had the opportunity to play on national TV the last two years, and it was a lot of fun for our guys. Playing on a Thursday night with national coverage is going to be great for our program.”
Rodriguez, however, emphasized that the focus has remained on preparing for the game rather than the spotlight. “We’ve been more concerned with getting ready to play,” he noted. “Our guys have worked hard, and I’m really proud of them. We’re ready to play games and see what we’ve got.”
With a significant influx of new players, the team has faced the challenge of integrating fresh talent while maintaining the program’s established culture. “It’s probably the norm now with the transfer portal,” Rodriguez explained. “Almost half our team are new guys, which is usually difficult to manage. But our returning players have done a great job helping the new guys understand our culture. We didn’t waver in how we do things, and the new guys adapted well.”
The coach praised the leadership of veteran players like Jay Rogan and Sean, who have been with the program for three years. “Leadership during practice is the coaches’ job, but off the field, in the locker room, and during game preparation, it’s up to the seniors who have been here the whole time,” Rodriguez said. “They’ve done a good job so far, and they need to continue that throughout the season.”
Rodriguez expressed confidence in the depth of his quarterback roster, highlighting Logan and Tyler Huff as co-starters. “Logan has a little more experience in our system, but Tyler’s an experienced player who’s done a good job,” he said. “Zion Turner is right behind them, and we’ve got three guys with a lot of game experience, which is a good thing.”
When asked about his approach to utilizing multiple quarterbacks, Rodriguez revealed his flexibility. “Certainly two, for sure, but maybe three. It could be four, depending on what happens,” he said. “I don’t want our guys to feel like if they make a mistake, they’ll get pulled. We’ve had every quarterback run everything, so I feel good about that.”
Reflecting on the team’s journey, Rodriguez acknowledged the program’s growth since its transition to Division I. “Two years ago, we were 1-AA; last year, we were in transition. This is our first full-fledged year as Division 1A,” he said. “We’re still growing, but we’re ready to play and let our guys have some fun.”
Rodriguez also addressed the challenge of maintaining a strong rushing attack despite roster changes and evolving defensive schemes. “It starts up front with our O-line and tight ends, who take pride in blocking for the run game,” he explained. “Our quarterbacks need to be willing runners, and our wideouts must block on the perimeter for those big plays.”
Rodriguez took time to highlight the accomplishments of players like Clay Webb, who has garnered preseason attention and appeared on several watch lists. “It’s nice to see Clay get some recognition because he’s a really good football player,” Rodriguez said. “When one guy gets attention, it often helps the other guys get noticed too.”
With 20 NFL teams visiting JSU practices, Rodriguez sees this as a positive sign for the program. “If you have NFL guys watching practice, it means you’re probably recruiting and developing the right way,” he noted. “We want our guys to get recognized and have opportunities to get drafted or try out as free agents.”
As the team prepares for the new season, Rodriguez also discussed adjustments to the new clock rules and the introduction of helmet communication technology. “The two-minute warning affects the end of the game more than anything,” he said. “As for helmet communication, it helps cut down on signals and aids quarterback communication, but it’s not a major deal.”
Rodriguez also praised the improvements to JSU’s facilities, including a new turf designed by his daughter, Raquel. “The stadium looks clean, and I think the fans will like the look of that as well,” he added.
With the season opener just days away, Rodriguez and the Gamecocks are eager to kick off their 2024 campaign and showcase their talents on a national stage.
