Jerick McKinnon big key to Eagles' success

Georgia Southern's versatile star Jerick McKinnon is a big reason why the Eagles are Southern Conference co-champions, writes the Statesboro Herald.

Georgia Southern coach Jeff Monken said McKinnon is a "powerful runner, fast, and has the ability to make plays in space.

"He's steadily improved," Monken continued. "And, hopefully he'll continue. He's got a sense of urgency about him, an inner feeling he's got to lead, and he makes plays, which is important at that position."

McKinnon was a big factor in the Eagles' 69-26 pounding of Howard on Saturday. McKinnon rushed for 198 yards and three touchdowns on just 16 carries. One of those touchdowns was an 87-yard run that put the Eagles up 21-0 in the first quarter.

McKinnon has started at four different positions this season, according to the Stateboro Herald: quarterback, wide receiver, slotback and defensive back.

The junior has had an impressive season. He's rushed for 1,056 yards and 11 touchdowns on 155 carries. He's averaging 105.6 yards per game. As a quarterback, McKinnon has completed 53 percent of his passes for 396 yards and five touchdowns. He's also thrown two interceptions.

Georgia Southern finishes its regular season schedule by traveling to play No. 5 Georgia on Saturday.