Baton Rouge, LA (Sports Network) - The Dawson Odums era is underway at Southern University and there's a distinct difference from former coach Stump Mitchell.

Odums, the team's new interim head coach, is stressing more discipline than what the Jaguars had under Mitchell, who was relieved of his duties last Friday, one day after Southern dropped a 6-0 home loss to Mississippi Valley State.

Southern is off to an 0-2 start this season. The Jaguars were 6-18 in just over two seasons under Mitchell, who the school reassigned to other unnamed administrative duties.

Odums led his first practice Monday evening. Those who weren't considered to be hustling were quickly informed of it.

"One thing about me is I'm a disciplinarian, and I just believe that gets you at least into the fourth quarter with a chance to win football games," Odums told The Advocate newspaper.

"I believe (fans) will see a disciplined football team and a team that plays with a lot of passion and gives great effort. That's what I hang my hat on."

Odums remains the team's defensive coordinator. Quarterbacks coach Chad Germany, who will call plays, and running backs coach Elvis Joseph are sharing offensive coordinator duties, previously held by Mitchell.

Southern returns to action in the SWAC on Saturday at Jackson State.

The Sports Network