Jacksonville, AL – Jacksonville State University (JSU) head coach Rich Rodriguez shared his thoughts on the team’s thrilling last-second victory and preparations for the upcoming game against Florida International University (FIU). Reflecting on the dramatic Hail Mary play that clinched Saturday’s win, Rodriguez acknowledged the unique nature of such moments and his team’s maturity in handling the excitement.
“Everyone’s talking about it because of the Hail Mary play,” Rodriguez noted. “It’s rare—you might get one every five years. But I think our guys are mature enough to handle it.” Despite the excitement, he stressed the importance of shifting focus, ensuring the team stays concentrated in practice.
Looking ahead, Rodriguez expressed respect for FIU’s head coach Mike McIntyre and his program. Having faced McIntyre’s teams before, Rodriguez expects FIU to be well-prepared and fresh, particularly with over two weeks of rest before the game. “His teams always play hard. They’re in a great recruiting area, and they’ve gotten better each year. With 16 days to prepare, we have to be ready for anything,” he said.
Asked about the Hail Mary practice routine, Rodriguez explained that JSU rehearses it weekly, emphasizing protection for the quarterback, the throw’s height and location, and positioning players in the end zone. “We always want it five yards deep, and Cam [the jumper] ended up right behind the defenders, who misjudged the ball,” he said, describing the well-executed play. Reflecting on his career, Rodriguez joked, “I’ve gotten two [Hail Mary completions] now—maybe I’ve been coaching too long.”
On JSU’s defense, he highlighted his preference for taller players who can grab or bat down the ball and emphasized the importance of situational awareness. JSU practices defensive strategies against Hail Mary attempts, covering different methods to counter high-pressure moments.
Rodriguez also touched on special teams, particularly the challenge of maintaining focus on game-ending plays. After Saturday’s Hail Mary, he recalled how he immediately thought about avoiding penalties on the extra point. “Our playbook for kickers has two pages: ‘Make the kick’ and ‘Period,’” he laughed, adding that he stayed calm, knowing they’d reached overtime.
Turning to leadership, Rodriguez credited JSU’s senior players for maintaining focus and discipline both on and off the field. “I don’t worry about leadership during practice—that’s our job as coaches. It’s when they’re in the locker room or on campus that senior players take charge, making sure everyone’s staying focused.”
Looking forward, Rodriguez reminded his players of the high stakes, saying, “The more you win, the more is at stake.” For JSU, each remaining game now serves as an opportunity to reach a conference championship, building on the team’s strong performance since the season began.
With a team driven by leadership and experience, Rodriguez believes his Gamecocks are ready for the challenges ahead.
