Alcorn State isn’t going to be a pushover in 2025.
Fresh off a year in which several close losses knocked the Braves out of the SWAC West title chase, coach Cedric Thomas immediately identified what hampered them.
They often were too small and physically overmatched along the defensive line. That resulted in Alcorn State ranking No. 8 in the SWAC rushing defense, allowing 175 yards per game. The unit could only compile 24 sacks, which ranked sixth in the conference.
“Last year, the teams that we fell short against just pushed us around. We were about two inches too short and 20 pounds too light,” said Thomas at SWAC Media Day. “You definitely won’t see a small ball club this year.”
The Braves made it a point of emphasis in the offseason to recruit size and strength, ensuring the mistakes of 2024 won’t be repeated.
According to Thomas, the entire coaching staff analyzed the depth charts of teams in the SWAC to determine how the Braves roster compared in measurables.
The average size is up, and the team’s maturity and understanding of the system are on a different level heading into the second season under the current regime.
“We’re ahead of the curve. Last year at this time, we had some uncertain pieces. I didn’t just flip the roster and hit the portal, I gave the guys an opportunity to show what they could do,” said Thomas. “Some did, some couldn’t. Now, every position group is bigger and deeper—you notice when you see some guys who started last year may not even travel this season.”
On offense, the quarterback battle is heating up between returner Tre Lawrence—described as the seasoned fifth-year leader—and transfers Jalen Tolbert (Howard) and Andre Washington (UNC Charlotte), bringing credible experience and competition to the fold.
“The biggest thing is, whoever wins the job, he will definitely have more explosive options on the outside. We’re much better on the edge, and the focus is on touchdowns and big plays,” Thomas said.
Defense remains a calling card in Lorman. Defensive line depth is a strength this year, with stronger personnel now anchoring the front and eliminating mismatches that previously plagued the team.
“Guys like Deshawn Palmer and Rosco Malloy are 300, 400-pound bench pressers inside. We won’t get pushed around this year,” said McNair.
The linebackers and secondary return all-conference talent with added size at every spot, creating a unit built to dominate the line of scrimmage.
Braves running back Jacorian Sewell said the tone in the locker room is clear: “We really expect some big plays this season. A lot of touchdowns, in the most humble way possible.”
Bigger, stronger, and built for more than a moral victory, the Braves are poised to write a new chapter in 2025—one that their fans hope ends with a trip to the SWAC Championship.