Bluefield, WV – After fighting back to tie 27-27 to force overtime, the Big Blue completed the two-point conversion to come away with the 35-34 victory over Johnson C. Smith.
After receiving the opening kickoff, Quarterback Devan Freedland caps off the opening drive with a 46-yard rushing touchdown followed by the extra point from Braxton VanScoy to give the Big Blue the early lead. With 6:02 remaining in the first, the Golden Bulls answered with a touchdown of their own, tying the game 7-7.
The Golden Bulls jumped ahead early in the second 20-7, scoring two unanswered touchdowns. With 2:22 left in the second, VanScoy completed a 23-yard field goal to pull within ten of JCSU before the half.
The Golden Bulls opened the third with possession, but it was short-lived due to a 39-yard pick-six by Vernon Redd and another extra point from VanScoy. Despite the Big Blue coming within three, JCSU extended their lead 27-17; however, the Big Blue continued to fight back with the help of a 34-yard field goal by VanScoy.
With hope dwindling of a season opener victory, the Big Blue went on a seven play, 80-yard drive that included a 52-yard touchdown pass from Freedland to Khyon Smith with 1:06 remaining in regulation. VanScoy remained perfect on the night, completing the extra point to tie the game 27-27. The Golden Bulls attempted to break the tie with five seconds remaining, but the field goal was block by Jhor'dan Innis to force overtime.
After winning the overtime coin toss, JCSU took possession at Bluefield State's 25-yard line and marched it in to take the lead. With the support of the cheering crowd, the Big Blue knew they had to dig deep to come away with the victory. Seven plays into the final drive, Jahdir Loftland rushes for five and the Big Blue touchdown. Head Coach Tony Coaxum opted to go for the two conversion and the win. After a Golden Bulls timeout, Freedland found Perry Wilder III in the corner of the endzone to secure the victory.
"Great team win. Love the way our coaches and players continue to believe and fight" said Coaxum. "There was no let down on our side or doubts we could pull this out. I absolutely love this team."
Up Next
The Big Blue will compete in their first road game of the season at Virginia State Saturday, September 10th with kickoff at 6 p.m.
