Vicksburg Daily News –
Lorman, Miss. — The Alcorn State University Braves (1-2) kicked off their 2024 home campaign in dominant fashion on Saturday, rolling to a decisive 38-7 victory over Edward Waters University (1-2) at Jack Spinks-Marino Casem Stadium.
Offensive Firepower
The Braves were firing on all cylinders from the outset. Quarterback Xzavier Vaughn led the charge with his dual-threat capabilities, accounting for three rushing touchdowns and 228 total yards (184 passing, 44 rushing). Vaughn’s first rushing score, a 1-yard dash, came at the 2:18 mark of the second quarter, extending Alcorn’s lead to 10-0. He would add two more rushing touchdowns in the second half, including a 24-yard burst early in the fourth quarter to cap off a brilliant performance.
Vaughn’s arm was equally dangerous as he spread the ball around to multiple receivers. Tyran Warren hauled in two catches for 52 yards, while Tevarrius Adams chipped in with 62 yards on three receptions. Vaughn’s longest pass came in the third quarter when he connected with Warren for a 46-yard strike, setting up a 1-yard touchdown run shortly after.
The rushing game also featured impressive performances from Tyler Macon and Kevin May. Macon rushed for 27 yards and a touchdown, while May added 34 yards on four carries, contributing to the team’s 201 rushing yards on the day.
Defense Stands Tall
The Alcorn State defense suffocated Edward Waters from start to finish, holding them to just 53 rushing yards and 101 total yards of offense. Linebacker Stemarion Edwards led the defensive effort with five total tackles, including 1.5 tackles for loss. Defensive back Bakari McCall added an interception, one of two turnovers forced by the Braves defense, stifling any momentum Edward Waters attempted to build.
Despite a late-game touchdown by Edward Waters’ Kentrelle Williams, the Braves’ defense dominated throughout, allowing just 1-of-4 conversions on third downs in the second half.
Special Teams Impact
Kicker Noah Kiani was perfect on the day, converting all five extra-point attempts and drilling a 30-yard field goal in the first quarter to open the scoring for the Braves. Punter Elijah Gorman also contributed with his leg, averaging 38.5 yards per punt and pinning Edward Waters deep in their territory.
Looking Ahead
With their first win of the season under their belt, the Braves look to maintain momentum as they prepare to take on McNeese State University on Saturday, Sept. 21 in Lake Charles, La. Kickoff is set for 7 p.m.
Final Score: Alcorn State University 38, Edward Waters University 7
Game Leaders:
– Xzavier Vaughn: 184 passing yards, 3 rushing TDs
– Tyler Macon: 27 rushing yards, 1 rushing TD
– Kevin May: 34 rushing yards
– Stemarion Edwards: 5 tackles, 1.5 TFL
– Bakari McCall: 1 interception
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