Game Day Saturday: MU vs. Southern Mississippi

The Herd dropped a lightning-shortened 34-13 decision at 24th-ranked West Virginia last Sunday, but freshman quarterback Rakeem Cato had a nice day, completing 15 of 21 passes for 115 yards. Andre Booker had a marvelous day on special teams, giving the Herd an early 7-0 lead on an 87-yard punt return and compiling 93 yards on four kick returns.

The Golden Eagles used a pair of fourth-quarter field goals to upend Louisiana Tech 19-17 Saturday evening. USM quarterback Austin Davis completed 21 of 37 passes for 226 yards and one interception. He also had 51 yards on nine carries, while Desmond Johnson chipped in 51 himself on 13 carries. Linebacker Corey Williams led all tacklers with 13 stops, which included 1.5 tackles for loss and a pass breakup. Defensive lineman Cordarro Law had eight tackles, which included 3.5 tackles for loss and two sacks.

Davis got the better of the Herd in Hattiesburg last season, rushing for three touchdowns and throwing for another in a 41-16 USM victory.

Fans are encouraged to get in their seats early Saturday, which will be a "Kelly Green Out". All fans attending the game are encouraged to wear Kelly Green. Various local retailers, along with the official Marshall University online store located on HerdZone.com, are carrying the newest Kelly Green Herd gear. Marshall University has partnered with local business Dutch Miller Automotive to supply 1,500 Kelly Green shirts to the first fans through the gate.

The department will also retire the #10 of Herd basketball great Mike D'Antoni in a pregame ceremony and debut the 2011 football intro video before kicking off against the Golden Eagles.