Work Samples

HU notes: Pope enjoys a block party

September 8, 2007

By David Driver
Used with permission

WASHINGTON - Hampton cornerback Sam Pope blocked a field goal attempt by John Mendoza in the second quarter.

"There was a lot of pressure from the interior, and that broke me free. No one touched me," Pope said.

Pope also made a catch in the end zone for a near interception, but he was ruled out of bounds in the first half.

"It was a pick," said senior defensive end Kendall Langford.

CONNECTIONS

Howard played its first game under new coach Carey Bailey, a former defensive line coach at the University of Minnesota. He also made stops at Oklahoma State, West Virginia, Middle Tennessee State, Louisiana Lafayette and VMI.

Hampton coach Taylor, in his 16th season, was a Howard assistant in 1982 and the Bison head coach in 1983. Former Redskins defensive back Barry Wilburn is in his first season as a defensive secondary coach for Howard. He played for the Redskins from 1985-91, and was an All-Pro in 1987 when he led the league in interceptions.

HEAT IS ON

Hampton senior Qutrell Payton was taken to a local hospital for dehydration during the second quarter, according to coach Joe Taylor.

EXTRA POINTS

On a clear, dry day, players from both teams slipped several times on Howard's artificial grass field. ... Hampton has now won 11 openers in a row in the conference. ...Jahmal Blanchard of Hampton averaged 53 yards on five punts.