FCS: LaDarius Owens, The Nation's No. 2 Rusher 'Is SWAC'
HOUSTON - On Saturday, we watched the mild-mannered senior Texas Southern running back post a historic performance, rushing for 211 yards against Alcorn State, the SWAC West leader. He became the Tigers' all-time leading rusher en route to a 44-10 victory over the SWAC West leaders. In ten games, Owens has transitioned from an obscure tailback to becoming the FCS's No. 2 rusher in the nation with 1,272 yards (127.2 yards per game) and eight touchdowns. Only Grambling's Chance Williams is the closest running back in the conference, trailing Owens by 494 yards for the SWAC Rushing title.
Jaden Shirend from Monmouth has rushed for 1,429 yards this season, and he is currently 157 yards ahead of Owens. The TSU tailback would need a monstrous rushing day to overtake the Shirend, who is also playing on Saturday.
Nov. 12, 2023; Texas Southern running back LaDarius Owens versus Alcorn State at Shell Energy Stadium; Credit: Prentice C. James/ImagoHouse
HBCU Rushing Leaders
- SWAC: LaDarius Owens - 1,272 yards
- CIAA: Jada Byers (VA Union) - 1,085 yards
- SIAC: Kylan Duhe (Lane) - 928 yards
- CAA: Elijah Burris (Hampton) - 803 yards
- MEAC: Jawarn Howell (South Carolina State) - 785 yards
It will be Senior's Day for Texas Southern as the Tigers will host Arkansas-Pine Bluff in the season finale at Shell Energy Stadium in Houston, Texas, on Saturday, Nov. 18.
HOT QUOTES FROM COACH MCKINNEY ON OWENS
- An Unselfish Athlete: "He comes to work. He does what he's supposed to do."— Coach Clarence McKinney
- Young Player's Versatility and Dedication: "He encourages the young guys. You know, whatever we've asked of him, whether that be punt return, kicking return, carry 5 times a game or carry 35 times a game. Whatever we've asked of him, he has not complained. He's just done whatever we've asked for." — Coach Clarence McKinney
- LaDarius' Role Models are his Mother, Father, and Little League Baseball Coach: "They pretty much just kept me, giving me positive feedback on what I got to do to become a better person in life, not only on the field, but off the field.
LaDarius Owens has been a consistent and dedicated player for the Tigers since arriving on campus. His selfless attitude and commitment to the team's goals have been instrumental in his success and it's paying off. Already, NFL scouts are inquiring about the Texas Southern star. Hopefully, he'll be playing in a professional uniform next season.
