RICHMOND, VA – The Bowie State football team (2-6, 1-4 CIAA) came up short on the road Saturday afternoon, falling 24-7 to Virginia Union (7-1, 5-0 CIAA) at Hovey Field. The Bulldogs' lone touchdown came in the third quarter on a one-yard rushing score from Maximus Jones.
The Bulldogs battled early, with defensive standouts Samuel Graham and Jorda Williams recording key tackles in the opening quarter. Despite several strong defensive stops, penalties and a sack stalled Bowie State's offensive rhythm, allowing the Panthers to take a 7-0 lead after a 27-yard touchdown pass.
BSU's defense continued to fight, forcing a critical fumble at their own 13-yard line in the second quarter thanks to Antwain Banks, who also came up with the recovery. The Bulldogs took advantage of another VUU miscue later in the quarter, driving deep into Panther territory following a 21-yard connection from Kevin Taylor to Ty Lyles, but came up short on fourth down. A late field goal by the Panthers extended their lead to 10-0 heading into halftime.
Momentum began to shift in the third quarter when the Panthers missed a 37-yard field goal attempt, opening the door for Bowie State. Taylor connected with Challenger Valentine on a 20-yard strike to set up a 1-yard rushing touchdown by Jones with 12 seconds left in the period. Chris Coleman added the extra point to bring the Bulldogs within 10, trailing 17-7 entering the fourth.
Bowie State continued to push offensively in the final quarter, with steady gains from Maximus Jones and a key 13-yard completion to Markeith Hines. Later in the frame, Micah Robinson added an 11-yard rush and Taylor found Valentine again for 18 yards, but the Bulldogs' drives were halted short of the end zone. Virginia Union sealed the game with a late touchdown, closing out the 24-7 decision.
Up Next
The Bulldogs return home to Bulldog Stadium for an exciting Homecoming matchup against Elizabeth City State University on Saturday, Nov. 1. The game will also feature a special Senior Day celebration, honoring Bowie State's 13 football seniors in their final home appearance.
For the most up-to-date information on Bowie State Athletics and its 14 varsity sport teams, please visit bsubulldogs.com.
