Central State Football Spring Game scheduled for April 21

Central State supporters will get a chance to preview the 2018 Marauders at this year's Spring Showcase on Saturday, April 21. This year's game will be held at McPherson Stadium on the campus of Central State at 1:30 pm.

After a strong offseason of recruiting along with a core group of players returning, the Marauders are poised to climb up the standings in the Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference under Head Coach Cedric Pearl. Pearl enters his fifth season at the helm of the CSU football program.


WHAT TO WATCH FOR IN THE SPRING:

Saffold Shines in CSU Backfield - CSU enters 2018 season with depth at the running back position led by senior Terraris Saffold. Saffold had a breakout season in 2017. He rushed for 869 yards and six touchdowns last season, which included a 197 yard performance against Miles College on Homecoming. He also proved to be a threat as a kick returner, totaling 424 return yards and one score. 

Mays Looks to Take Next Step - In his first season as CSU signal caller, Trent Mays had a up-and-down campaign. Mays threw for 1573 yards and five touchdowns He also tied for the team-lead with six rushing touchdowns. His best performance came against Div. I opponent Arkansas-Pine Bluff when he he completed 20 of 36 pass attempts for 334 yards. The performance against UAPB earned him SIAC Player of the Week honors. Mays was a medical scratch the next week and injuries hindered his mobility by the season's end. With a full season to recover, the coaching staff is working with Mays on improving improving on his completion percentage and decision making.

Abrams leads linebacker core - Kailen Abrams returns to the team after a tremendous freshman season. The 6'2 linebacker started in all 10 games and led CSU with 86 total tackles, including a season-high 21 tackles against Lane College. At the conclusion of the season, Abrams was named to the All-SIAC Second Team. Other returners to the linebacker core include Javion Williams. Williams started nine games as a freshman, accumulating 49 tackles, 5.5 tackles for a loss, one interception and two pass break ups.



In addition to the student-athletes participating in the 2018 Spring Showcase, the Invincible Marching Marauders will be in attendance and performing from the stands. The CSU Athletic Department will be providing fans with poster schedules for the upcoming season along with additional information about the athletic program.