NATCHEZ — Alcorn State and Southern University will meet in the Southwestern Athletic Conference championship for the third time on Saturday in Lorman.

Last season was the second time the Braves faced the Jaguars, when Alcorn won 37-28. The other time was in 2014, in which the Braves won 38-24.

Saturday’s game begins at 3 p.m. at Spinks-Casem Stadium.

The Braves have played in the last five SWAC championships, beginning in the 2014 season. Alcorn State Head Coach Fred McNair said winning the championship game will set everything as it should be.

“More or less, we want to win the championship for these seniors we have going out this year,” McNair said. “Just winning back-to-back championships here at home is going to be special.”

Two of the players to watch for the Braves is Harper and Juwan Taylor. 

In this season, Harper has thrown 29 touchdowns with 2,387 passing yards. He threw for three touchdowns in last week’s 41-6 win over Jackson State. He has completed 167 out of 270 passes this season. Harper said his passing ability this season has been an honor and blessing.

“Mostly I want to thank the offensive line,” Harper said. “Without them, we wouldn’t be able to pass the ball. Those big boys up front, I want to thank them and my wide receivers. Those guys make plays for me each and every day.”

On the defensive side, Taylor led Alcorn State in the last game against Jackson State with six tackles and one tackle for loss. As a whole this season, Taylor has obtained 45 solo tackles, one sack, one interception and one forced fumble. He said if Alcorn State does what they’re supposed to on Saturday, then Southern will not score.

“They [Southern] wouldn’t have too much success against us,” Taylor said. “Overall, if we do what we’re supposed to do and play as one, then we will be fine.”

During the championship game last season, Taylor was a recruit watching from the stands. Unlike last season, he will play and have a role on the defensive side in the championship game.

“I think the championship game is going to be crazy,” Taylor said. “I feel like I have to do what I got to do to come out on top.”

This is the second SWAC championship the Braves are hosting. Harper said it’s a big time honor to host the championship game at Spinks-Casem Stadium.

“I love the fans and they love us,” Harper said. “They give us a little bit more juice every Saturday. I think this Saturday will be a big juice Saturday. We will be well prepared and ready for this weekend.”