Bluefield, WV – Bluefield State University football held off Concord University in the Battle of the Blue Ridge, 38-31 at Mitchell Stadium on Saturday.
The Big Blue controlled the first half, scoring twice in the opening quarter. Jake Simmons powered in from four yards out to open the scoring, before quarterback Wesley Thompson capped a 97-yard drive with a one-yard rush to make it 14-0. Thompson added another rushing touchdown in the second quarter, and Danny Dales drilled a 39-yard field goal to help send Bluefield State into the half up 24-14.
Coming out of the break, the Big Blue delivered two quick strikes to take control. Thompson connected with receiver Julian Crawley for a 50-yard touchdown on the first play of the half. Moments later, Ja'Shawn Harris stretched the Big Blue lead with a 52-yard punt return for a touchdown, 38-14.
Concord mounted a rally in the second half, but the Big Blue defense came up with critical stops down the stretch to preserve the win. Kamaree Wells paced the defense with 11 tackles (10 solo), while Mike Riley added 13 (9 solo) stops and a fumble recovery.
Thompson finished 8-of-14 passing for 176 yards and a touchdown while also rushing for two scores. Crawley hauled in two catches for 62 yards and a touchdown, and Tyler Wilson anchored the ground attack with 75 rushing yards on 22 carries.
On special teams, Dales went a perfect 5-for-5 on extra points and added a 39-yard field goal.
Final: Bluefield State 38, Concord 31
Up Next: Bluefield State @ Wingate University, Saturday September 13th at 6 pm.
