Tennessee State 25, Murray State 15

September 9, 2006

NASHVILLE, TN--Tennessee State coach James Webster picked up his first home victory as the Tigers defeated Murray State 25-15 on Saturday night at LP Field. Running back Javarris Williams ran for 125 yards, Antonio Heffner passed for 230 yards and three touchdowns, and the defense forced five turnovers as the win broke a six-game TSU home losing streak dating back to 2004. Tennessee State improved to 1-1 on the season and 1-0 in the Ohio Valley Conference, while Murray State fell to 0-2 and 0-1 in conference play.

Tennessee St Photo

Javarris Williams

The Tigers struck quickly, scoring two long touchdown passes in the first 5:53 of the game. Heffner hit Jeremy Stephens in stride for an 84-yard touchdown reception on the third play of the contest, taking a 6-0 lead after Murray State blocked the PAT. Heffner then teamed up with Williams on a 51-yard pass play to put the Tigers up 13-0.

Defensive tackle Lamar Divens stopped Racers running back Chad Cook in the end zone for a safety and Heffner hit tight end Antonio Graham for a 12-yard touchdown pass to give the Tigers a 22-0 lead at halftime.

Cornerback Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie led the defense with three interceptions in the game, matching his career total. The Big Blue forced two fumbles, three sacks, and three turnover on downs, keeping Murray State off the scoreboard until 6:13 of the third quarter.

The Tigers travel to Memphis to take on arch-rival Jackson State in the Southern Heritage Classic on September 16. Game time is set for 6 p.m.