Like the seven classes before them, Tulane's graduating seniors never experienced a winning season, but they still have plenty of pleasant memories to reflect on as they get ready for the final game of their college careers.

Quarterback Ryan Griffin, offensive tackle Eric Jones, defensive end Austen Jacks, linebacker Darryl Farley, cornerback Ryan Travis, safety Shakiel Smith, fullback Stephen Barnett and cornerback Alex Lauricella will put on a Tulane uniform for the last time Saturday at Houston. The Green Wave has other seniors, but those eight are the only ones guaranteed to play.

Griffin, from Westlake Village, Calif., will start for the 39th time, dating back to early in his redshirt freshman season. He set a Tulane record for passing yards in a game with 466 in a 55-45 win against UAB in October, then broke that record two weeks later with 476 in a 49-47 loss to Rice. He ranks first in Green Wave history in career completion percentage (.602) and completions (800), second in passing yards (8,680) and pass attempts (1,330) and fifth in touchdown passes (54).

HIs parents will be in attendance to watch his final game.

"It's been fun," he said. "Of course I wish we would have won a lot more games, but I have no regrets. I've been able to play for four years and a lot and at a high level, and just play with my friends every day. It's been a blast."

Jones will start for the 27th consecutive time and 345h overall. As the only offensive lineman with any appreciable experience, he has shouldered a big load at right tackle this season.

"I've absolutely loved (his time here)," he said. "Obviously I haven't had the success here I wish we would have had, but the relationships that I've had, the people I've met, my friends and stuff will be for a lifetime. It's been a great community. The school, our athletics department, our fans, the city, everything, it's been a phenomenal experience for me. I'm going to miss it for sure."



...More... To continue reading this article you must be a member. Sign Up Now for a FREE Trial