BOWIE, MD – The Bowie State football team dropped a hard-fought 28-21 decision to Virginia State on Saturday afternoon at Bulldog Stadium. With the loss, BSU dips to 1-5 overall and 0-3 in the Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association (CIAA) while VSU improves to 3-3 overall and 1-2 in the league.
The Bulldogs opened the game with solid field position after a 33-yard kickoff return from Ty Lyles, but the offense was unable to capitalize on the opening drive. Virginia State struck first with a 14-play, 70-yard drive capped by a six-yard rushing touchdown from quarterback Rahsaan Matthews Jr. to take a 7-0 lead.
BSU's defense came alive in the second quarter. Kamari Loving and Damir McCrary combined for a crucial sack on fourth down to halt a Trojan drive. On the following possession, Jamal Jones delivered a game-changing play, forcing and recovering a fumble at the VSU 3-yard line. Maximus Jones punched in a one-yard score to even the game at 7-7.
The Trojans responded with an 80-yard touchdown pass to reclaim the lead before adding another score late in the half to go ahead 21-7 at intermission.
In the third quarter, Bowie State continued to apply pressure defensively. Jamal Jones recovered his second fumble of the day, setting up another short touchdown run by Maximus Jones that cut the deficit to 21-14. The Bulldogs' defense continued to limit the Trojans' offense, forcing multiple turnovers and punts to keep the game within reach.
Virginia State extended its lead to 28-14 early in the fourth quarter, but BSU answered quickly. Kevin Taylor connected with Antwain Banks for a 29-yard touchdown pass to make it a one-score game. The Bulldogs had a chance to tie the contest late after a 32-yard completion from Taylor to Banks set up a goal-to-go situation, but the drive stalled inside the 10-yard line.
Bowie State's defense forced a turnover on downs to regain possession, but the Bulldogs were unable to find the end zone in the final minutes as Virginia State held on for the win.
Bowie State Top Performers
Jamal Jones – 5 tackles, 1.5 sacks, 1 forced fumble, 2 fumble recoveries
Antwain Banks – 2 receptions, 61 yards, 1 touchdown
Maximus Jones – 15 carries, 48 yards, 2 touchdowns
Damir McCrary – 7 tackles, 0.5 sacks
Up Next
Bowie State hits the road for the first time in nearly a month, traveling to West Virginia to face Bluefield State on Saturday, Oct. 18, at Mitchell Stadium. Game time is set for 1 p.m.
For the most up-to-date information on Bowie State Athletics and its 14 varsity sport teams, please visit bsubulldogs.com.
