BLUEFIELD, WV – Bluefield State University football opened its 2025 season on Saturday night at Mitchell Stadium, falling 49-23 to Tusculum.
After the Pioneers scored on their opening drive, the Big Blue evened the score when quarterback Wesley Thompson connected with Brandon Wiley for an 86-yard touchdown. The duo struck again in the second quarter on a 71-yard score, with Wiley finishing the night with 167 yards and two touchdowns on just four receptions.
Momentum continued for Bluefield State when Samuel Olokeogun scooped up a fumble and returned it 85 yards for a touchdown, pulling the Big Blue within a point at 21-20 midway through the second quarter. Danny Dales added a 28-yard field goal just before halftime to make it 28-23.
The second half belonged to Tusculum, as the Pioneers relied on their ground game to take control. They finished with 468 rushing yards, closing the game with three unanswered touchdowns.
Defensively, Mike Riley led the Big Blue with 10 tackles, while Eric King added seven with 1.5 tackles for loss.
Final: Bluefield State 23, Tusculum 49
Up Next: Bluefield State vs. Virginia Union, Saturday, September 6th @ 1 pm – Code Blue
