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Michael Strahan’s SWAC sack record is suddenly within reach after Southern defensive end Ckelby Givens made program history during a 41-28 victory over Alcorn State on Saturday, Nov. 14, 2026.
Givens recorded two sacks against the Braves, including the decisive play that moved him to 41 career sacks. The performance made him Southern’s all-time leader and placed him just half a sack away from matching the conference record associated with former Texas Southern star and NFL standout Michael Strahan.
A Historic Night for Ckelby Givens
The record-setting moment came with 7:49 remaining in the fourth quarter. Alcorn State quarterback Jaylon Tolbert faked a pitch to his running back, but Givens quickly diagnosed the play and brought him down on second-and-9.
That sack completed a memorable home finale for the Southern captain. His first sack came in the opening quarter, when he used a quick swim move to beat an offensive lineman and stop Tolbert on third-and-22.
Givens said he did not realize immediately that he had broken Southern’s career mark. Instead, he credited the work that led to the achievement and quoted a Bible verse about the rewards of consistent effort.
“All hard work brings a profit, but mere talk only leads to poverty,” Givens said. “I put a lot of work into this. I was able to reap what I sowed, so I’m just grateful.”
Michael Strahan Record Now in Sight
The connection to Michael Strahan adds another layer to Givens’ accomplishment. Strahan remains one of the most recognizable defensive players in SWAC history, having starred at Texas Southern before building a celebrated NFL career.
Givens is now one-half sack from breaking the conference standard. The possibility gives Southern fans another major storyline to follow as the Jaguars approach the end of the regular season.
Southern’s victory also kept the Jaguars in contention in the SWAC West. The team is tied with Alcorn State and Arkansas-Pine Bluff for second place in the division, while Prairie View sits atop the standings.
- Ckelby Givens now has 41 career sacks.
- He is Southern’s new career sacks leader.
- He is one-half sack away from the SWAC record.
- Southern defeated Alcorn State, 41-28.
- The Jaguars remain in the SWAC West race.
Marshall Faulk Praises Givens’ Versatility
First-year Southern coach Marshall Faulk said Givens’ production is even more impressive because the defensive end missed important preparation time. Givens spent much of preseason camp as a graduate assistant coach before receiving legal relief that allowed him to return to the team.
He also missed two games while in concussion protocol. Despite those obstacles, Givens quickly returned to form and delivered one of his biggest performances of the season against an Alcorn State offense that entered the matchup leading the FCS in scoring at 42.5 points per game.
Faulk believes Givens’ expanded role could improve his professional prospects. Rather than limiting him to an edge-rushing position, Southern has moved him around the defense and allowed him to show greater versatility.
“Instead of just being an edge rusher, now he can play on the second level and have some versatility,” Faulk said. “Maybe a team will see the talent.”
“He’s the Truth,” Teammate Says
Southern defensive back Donald Johnson offered an emphatic assessment of the Jaguars’ defensive leader. Johnson, a redshirt senior transfer from Northwestern State, described Givens as one of the best defensive linemen he has played alongside.
“He’s that guy, for sure,” Johnson said. “He’s one of the best, probably the best D-lineman I’ve ever played with. He’s the truth.”
For Givens, the victory carried personal significance beyond the record. Winning his final home game at Southern and moving closer to the Michael Strahan milestone created what he called the “cherry on top” of a special night.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who broke Southern’s career sack record?
Southern defensive end Ckelby Givens broke the program’s career sack record during the Jaguars’ game against Alcorn State on Nov. 14, 2026.
How many career sacks does Ckelby Givens have?
Givens has 41 career sacks, making him Southern’s all-time leader.
How close is Givens to Michael Strahan’s SWAC record?
Givens is one-half sack away from breaking the SWAC record associated with former Texas Southern and NFL standout Michael Strahan.
What was the final score of Southern’s game against Alcorn State?
Southern defeated Alcorn State 41-28 at A.W. Mumford Stadium.
What did Marshall Faulk say about Givens?
Faulk praised Givens’ work ethic and versatility, saying his ability to play beyond the edge could help him earn another NFL opportunity.
