How TC Taylor's play-calling improved Jackson State offense vs Mississippi Valley State
Jackson State football had one of its best offensive performances in SWAC play in its 38-7 win against Mississippi Valley State on Nov. 7.
Jackson State Tigers coach T.C. Taylor's decision to take over play-calling in the second half of their recent game against Mississippi Valley State proved to be a turning point in the offense's resurgence. Despite leading at halftime with 17 points and a 10-point advantage, the Tigers were found to be "sleepwalking" during the first half, scoring on only three of their seven drives.
Taylor's intervention in the second half resulted in a 21-point second half and ultimately a 38-7 victory for Jackson State. The Tigers' offensive output increased significantly, accumulating 418 total yards, their highest since their loss to Grambling State on October 10. Taylor's return to play-calling, which he had not done since 2025, appears to have been a game-changer for the Tigers.
Quarterback Jared Lockhart, who completed 22 of 33 passes for 299 yards, three touchdowns, an interception, and a rushing touchdown, was instrumental in the offensive turnaround. Receiver Jency Riley Jr., who caught a game-sealing 81-yard touchdown, credited Taylor's halftime message of "not sleepwalking" with igniting the team's offensive success.
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