Durham, NC – Bluefield State University football held off a late-game rally by Shaw University to secure a thrilling 45-42 victory. This moves the Big Blue to 1-8 (1-6 CIAA) on the year.
The Big Blue exploded out of the gate, scoring 14 points in the first quarter and later took the 24-21 advantage into the half. Quarterback Rishon Holmes engineered a high-powered offensive attack, completing 10-of-22 passes for 172 yards and three touchdowns. Holmes also rushed for 158 yards and three touchdowns, highlighted by touchdown runs of 67 and 43 yards in the third quarter.
Julian Crawley hauled in four receptions for 95 yards and two touchdowns, including a game-opening 59-yard touchdown in the first quarter. Curry Kates Jr. added a 22-yard touchdown catch in the third to help push the Big Blue lead to 45-28. Eli Adams contributed significantly, converting all six extra point attempts and a 40-yard field goal as time expired in the first half.
The Bears fought back in the second half and pulled with three points late in the fourth with 1:37 remaining, but the Big Blue secured the 45-42 win over Shaw.
Final: Bluefield State 45, Shaw 42
Up Next: Bluefield State vs Elizabeth City State, Saturday, November 7th at 2 p.m. – Senior Day
