MEMPHIS, Tenn. — If it were not for Jackson State’s 59–3 annihilation of Florida A&M in the Orange Blossom Classic a week ago, many would have only the slightest glimpse of the man tucked inside of the No. 43 jersey on the football field.
But among his teammates, kicker Alejandro Mata’s presence is known. It’s special. And his Hall of Fame coach, Deion Sanders, knows that better than anyone. Rewind six days ago. Inside the Tigers’ locker room at the Dolphins' Hard Rock Stadium, Sanders called on his freshman kicker to translate his congratulatory message to the team for an all-around dominant performance against the Rattlers.