Taufoou comes through in first start for Indians

David Taufoou had a sparkling debut as Southeast Missouri State University's starting tailback Saturday night, even though it came in another loss for the Indians.

Taufoou, moved into the lineup after Corey Kinsey was dismissed from the team on Tuesday, became Southeast's first 100-yard rusher this season as he gained 107 yards on 26 carries.

But Taufoou could do little celebrating because the Indians fell to 0-4 after losing to visiting Southwest Missouri State 17-10.

"It felt good to be out there and get that much playing time," said Taufoou, a junior-college transfer. "But it doesn't feel that good because we lost."

Taufoou and the entire Southeast offense was frustrated once again. Despite gaining a season-high 365 yards, the Indians again faltered when getting close to the goal line. They have scored just 23 points in four games.

"It's really frustrating, but we just have to keep working at it," Taufoou said.

Quarterback shuffle

Jeromy McDowell received his second straight start at quarterback, and his numbers were solid. He completed 22 of 30 passes for 167 yards. But McDowell's lone interception was returned for an SMS touchdown.

Jack Tomco, who started the first two games of the season, came in late in the contest. He went four of 10 for 83 yards with two interceptions, including a final desperation pass as time expired.

Who starts next Saturday when the Indians begin Ohio Valley Conference play at Samford is anybody's guess because Southeast coach Tim Billings didn't seem too pleased with either signal caller.

"Believe it or not, we're playing better. And our defense has improved so much this year," Billings said. "But we're not playing good at quarterback."

Statistical leaders

Ray Goodson led Southeast receivers with seven catches for 50 yards. Jamel Oliver caught six passes for 110 yards. Taufoou added four receptions, Graham Goodfield had three and Brandon Amick two.

Defensively, cornerback Kellin White had nine tackles and intercepted a pass for the second straight week. He was named Southeast's Copi-Rite Player of the Game.

Linebacker Kelvin Jones also had nine tackles while safety Anthony Lumpkin added eight. Linebacker O.J. Turner recovered two fumbles.

Noteworthy

• Offensive guard Dan Bieg, although expected to play, did not see action because of a knee injury. True freshman Austin Russell started in his place.
• Billings spent most of the game in Southeast's coaches' box instead of on the sidelines because he continues to be bothered by a bum knee related to an old injury.

"I just can't stand on it very long," Billings said.