Jackson State Tigers Triumph in 2023 Boombox Classic: Lighting Up Baton Rouge
BATON ROUGE, La. - The Boombox Classic, a historic clash between the Jackson State Tigers and the Southern University Jaguars, returned in all its glory this year, capturing the hearts of fans at AW Mumford Stadium. The sold-out crowd witnessed a game that will be etched in the annals of history, as Jackson State (2-1) delivered a dominating 27-14 victory over Southern University (0-2), igniting an electric atmosphere that hadn't been felt on the Bluff since 2000.
As the game kicked off, it seemed like an eternity before the scoreboard began to flicker with excitement. The first 12 minutes passed with both teams locked in a gritty defensive struggle, a testament to the tough determination of each side.
In a pivotal moment late in the first quarter, with the Jaguars on their own 34-yard line, quarterback Harold Blood unleashed a deep strike down the right sideline, connecting with August Pitre for a touchdown that sent the Southern University faithful into a frenzy. The Jaguars took an early 7-0 lead, and it appeared that Jackson State might face an uphill battle.
However, the Tigers were unyielding in the face of adversity. Deion Sanders may have been absent from the sideline, but the Tigers roared back. Desmond Moultrie displayed sheer grit as he shrugged off would-be tacklers, surging into the endzone to even the score at 7-7.
The second quarter witnessed the Tigers' offense hitting its stride. Just past midfield, Jason Brown showcased his focus and poise, buying time and then finding Rico Powers with a pinpoint pass. Rodney Johnson's missed tackle proved costly as Powers dashed into the endzone, propelling Jackson State to a 13-7 lead.
Southern University fought valiantly to answer back, advancing down to the goal line, courtesy of some 15-yard penalties from the Tigers' defense. On first and goal, Harold Blood aimed for the back of the endzone, but it was B.J. Washington who had other plans, intercepting the pass and dashing the Jaguars' hopes.
With a 13-7 lead at halftime, the Tigers emerged for the second half with a renewed sense of determination. Their electric performance in the third and fourth quarters left fans in awe. Touchdowns flowed as Jackson State solidified their dominance over the Jaguars.
Southern University managed to add a touchdown in the fourth quarter, but it was too little, too late. The Tigers' defense remained strong, determined to protect their lead and secure their third-straight Boombox Classic victory.
For Jackson State, this win held a special significance, coming on the heels of a tough loss in the Orange Blossom Classic the previous week. The Boombox Classic victory served as a redemption story, a testament to their resilience and determination. The fans in attendance felt the excitement in the air as the Tigers turned off the lights on Southern University, leaving Baton Rouge with their heads held high, celebrating an unforgettable win in a game steeped in history.
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