The Bowie State University football team (1-0, 0-0 CIAA) defeated Shippensburg University (0-1, 0-0 PSAC) with a 23-7 victory at Seth Grove Stadium, highlighted by a 53-yard fumble return for a touchdown.
In the opening drive, Malakai Anthony connected with Challenger Valentine on a 29-yard touchdown pass at 12:58 of the first quarter to put BSU ahead 7-0 early. Shippensburg’s first drive ended in a fumble forced by Davon Telp Jr. and recovered by Alijah Miller, while a sack from Samuel Graham helped keep the Raiders scoreless in the opening period.
Graham later returned a fumble 53 yards for a touchdown in the second quarter, though the extra point was missed. SU cut the deficit to 13-7 with a late score before halftime.
Maximus Jones extended the lead with a powerful 1-yard touchdown run in the third quarter, capping a drive aided by key runs from Micah Robinson and passes from Anthony to Valentine.
Chris Coleman added a 35-yard field goal in the fourth, and Elijah McKenzie sealed the game with a 30-yard interception return as the Bulldogs held on for a 23-7 win.
Bulldogs will travel to Dover, Del., to battle division one opponent Delaware State on Saturday, Sept. 13. Kickoff is set to begin at 3 p.m.
