Troy University Athletics
Two On Three
9/25/2010 9:18:35 PM | Football
Jernigan Comes Up Big for Troy on Saturday
Double coverage is the name of the game when it comes to wide receiver Jerrel Jernigan of the Troy Trojans offense. Jernigan was double covered by Arkansas State Red Wolves on many occasions throughout the day Saturday and well into the evening, but double coverage can't stop leadership.
Jernigan reeled in 10 catches on the day, good for 209 yards and a touchdown against Arkansas State. His touchdown was a 70-yard grab where he raced past Red Wolves to the end zone.
The senior had openings in the defensive coverage early, but the Red Wolves had plenty of time to devise a defensive plan during the lengthy weather delay.
“They were obviously trying to play Jerrel with two people after we went in for the rain delay,” Trojans quarterback Corey Robinson said. “Teams are going to have to do that which is going to leave a lot more guys open. Jerrel is a team guy, and even when they do have two guys on him they still can't cover him sometimes.”
Many would offer up the thought that Jernigan brings a special type of leadership to this Troy football team. That's something the Trojans have been searching for after a week of finding themselves from a devastating loss at UAB.
Jernigan delivered for the Trojans on Saturday. Arkansas State took a late lead seemingly as every game has gone this year for the Trojans, but Jernigan would not be denied a win.
The senior pulled in a pivotal 30-yard reception followed by another big 10-yard reception two plays later on the Trojans' final and game-winning drive.
“As soon as they scored I told the offense to get ready,” Jernigan said. “We had plenty of time. We have 50 seconds, and we do the two-minute drill every day at practice. I knew we were ready for it. I told Corey and all the other receivers and skill positions that big-time players make big-time plays. That's what we did. We went out there and made some plays and got the ball down the field.”
The Trojans pulled out the last-second victory for the second time of the season. The Trojans have also dropped two, last-second games as well.
The difference in the two is leadership. Jernigan is a leader for Troy, and he is looking to bring more to the table each day.
