Columbia, SC — What do you get when you combine youth, talent, and a defensive coordinator who's been to the top of the mountain?
You get a Yellow Jacket defense that's starting to find its identity.
Allen University's Defensive Coordinator Kienus Boulware knows the road to greatness. He's led #1-ranked defenses at both the Division I and Division II levels, including his most recent stop at Alabama A&M where his unit led the nation in forced turnovers. But here in Columbia, SC, he's focused on something deeper than rankings — he's focused on culture.
And if the past two weeks are any indication, that culture is starting to take hold.
"This defense is growing into something special," said Boulware. "It's not just about talent — it's about chemistry, communication, and showing up every day with the right mindset. That Lane game showed flashes of what this group can become. We're not chasing stats — we're chasing execution, discipline, and the kind of defense that changes the outcome of a season."
Coach Boulware has instilled a standard rooted in detail, accountability, and resilience — and the players - specifically the front line are responding.
One of the tone-setters is Jhyheem Pittman, a former North Carolina AP High School Player of the Year, whose closing speed and motor were on full display last week with a game-altering run-down tackle that drew praise from the entire coaching staff.
Surrounding Pittman is a front that's beginning to cause problems:
• Keishaun Mashburn
• Amarie Fleming
• Ja'Darius Cherry
Each player is embracing their role, and according to Boulware, "any given guy can change the impact of the entire game."
"If we win up front, we win as a team," Boulware emphasized. "This group is improving week by week, game by game. I want them to stay disciplined, have fun, and keep stacking growth. When adversity hits — and it always does — I believe this group will be ready."
The Vision Is Bigger Than One Game
There's a phrase the Allen football program has adopted: "Pearl Vision." It's a nod to Head Coach Cedric Pearl's strategic mind and steady leadership, but it's also symbolic of alignment — from the top down.
Coach Boulware doesn't shy away from crediting his leader.
"I truly want to see Coach Pearl have the success he deserves," Boulware shared. "He's a coach you want to fight for — humble, prepared, and passionate about these young men. I think the staff he's put together is special. We're all in, and this team… this team might be the one."
What's Next: Grit vs. Grit
Tonight, the Yellow Jackets take the field against Clark Atlanta University, aiming to ride the momentum of last week's 29–21 victory over Lane College and move to 2-0 in SIAC play.
The matchup promises to be a physical one — and Coach Boulware wouldn't have it any other way.
With a defense that's growing more confident each snap, and a coordinator who's done it at the highest levels, Allen's defensive unit isn't just a storyline — it might be the difference-maker for a team with championship aspirations.
GAMEDAY INFO
Opponent: Clark Atlanta University
Location: Fairfield Central High School
Kickoff: Saturday, September 20th – 6:00 PM
Tickets: Visit auyellowjackets.com for ticket and scheduling info.
