The Samford Crimson

Issue date: 10/19/07 Section: Sports

Media Credit: Emily Leithauser Senior receiver Joe Jones is known for his elusiveness on the field and big-play ability.

Media Credit: Emily Leithauser Senior Receiver Jeff Moore has long been known as a go-to man for his superb route-running skills and sure hands.

On a Samford football offense that has struggled to put up points this season, two senior wide receivers are willing to step up and lead.

Joe Jones and Jeff Moore, who have both proven to be a vital part of Samford football during their tenures here, are putting up solid performances once again this season.

Both players have already gained a tremendous amount of respect from their new head coach.

"First and foremost, they are good people," Pat Sullivan said. "They do everything we ask of them as players and as students. They are both solid football players and make plays when we need them."

Rest assured, both of these men will be missed next season and remembered as solid players. More importantly, they are role models for their teammates on and off the field.

Jones, a three-year letterman from Mountain Brook, Ala., has seen an increasing role in the offense since joining the team in 2004, when he caught seven passes for 67 yards and a touchdown.

Since that time, Jones has gone from a back-up wide-out to one of the Bulldogs' key go-to receivers.

Jones met a significant roadblock in 2006 when he was dealt a season-ending leg injury five games into the season.

In those five games, he caught nine passes for 119 yards and a score, statistics that would normally offer a probable breakout season. This setback made Jones especially eager to fully recover for his final year as a Bulldog.

The 5'8" receiver has not failed to meet those expectations this season. Going into this Saturday's game, Jones has 20 catches for 257 yards and two touchdowns.

Jeff Moore, a native of Jackson, Miss., has also lettered three years while at Samford.

In 2004, Moore caught 30 passes for 426 yards and three touchdowns. Against Eastern Kentucky, Moore pulled in five passes for a season-high of 110 yards and a touchdown.

Moore's 2005 campaign was very successful. He led the team in receiving with 53 catches for 669 yards and four TD's.

He reached career-high numbers at Furman, gathering 10 receptions for 130 yards.

In 2006, Moore played in all 11 games, starting nine at wide receiver.

Once again he led the team in receiving yards with 49 receptions for 668 yards, while also leading the team in punt returns with 14 returns for 146 yards, taking one for a touchdown.

Team members said that they view both of these men as a vital part of their success offensively.

"They are the heart and soul of our receiving core," junior fullback Cameron Campbell said. "Joe comes through in the clutch when we need a catch.

Jeff has great speed, creates separation from the defensive back and has great hands."

Jones says that after his injury in 2006, he only has one thing in mind when he steps on the field.

"Play every play like it's your last because you never know how long you have to play," he said.

He recounts that his most treasured moment as a Bulldog is when he had 8 receptions against Baylor in 2005 in front of his family.

Moore also reflects positively on his time at Samford.

"I've met a lot of good people, a lot of solid guys," Moore said. "I've learned a lot about football and a lot about life. I've enjoyed my time at Samford and really enjoyed playing with all my teammates."

The two receivers will work to lead the Bulldogs to a homecoming victory this Saturday against the Austin Peay Governors.

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