The sixth number retirement in Northwestern State football history and another chance to honor one of the Demons’ greatest teams highlight a busy 2021 Homecoming week.

Ahead of a Saturday filled with festivities, NSU will fete Marcus Spears, whose No. 76 will be retired at halftime, with a Friday social at Jimbo’s Sports Bar and Grill from 7-9 p.m.

Said NSU Director of Athletics Greg Burke: “This event is a great opportunity for anyone – from longtime Demon fans who watched Marcus play in Turpin Stadium to teammates of Marcus to community youths – to get up close and personal with Marcus and congratulate him on this phenomenal honor.”

Spears’ jersey retirement will be part of a busy Homecoming Saturday that begins with the 10 a.m. N-Club Hall of Fame induction ceremony where a class of 12 individuals will be bestowed the highest honor among Northwestern State athletes. The ceremony takes place in Magale Recital Hall on the NSU campus.

In addition to honoring Spears and the newest N-Club Hall of Famers, Homecoming weekend also stands as the 55th anniversary reunion for Northwestern State’s undefeated 1966 team.

Coached by Jack Clayton, the Demons finished 9-0, won the Gulf States Conference championship and were ranked No. 1 nationally in the NAIA poll. They capped their perfect season with a 27-24 comeback win at home against Southeastern.

Kickoff for Saturday’s Homecoming game against Southeastern is set for 3 p.m. inside Turpin Stadium.

Photo: NSU Photographic Services

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