Bluefield, VA – Homecoming week at Bluefield University was a spectacle of excitement, capped off with a nail-biting finish as the Rams defeated the Kentucky Christian University Knights 20-19. Following a bye week, the Rams aimed to maintain their perfect conference record, and they did just that in front of an energized home crowd.
The first half saw the Knights strike first. However, fueled by standout rusher Abdul Kaloko, the Rams responded. Quarterback Nathan Herstich orchestrated a methodical drive, connecting with Gage Chambers for a crucial 40-yard gain and Marcus Bromley for another 12 yards, bringing the offense into field goal range. Riley Stubbs, a reliable kicker for the Rams, nailed the 21-yard field goal to put Bluefield on the board.
As the half progressed, KCU managed to extend their lead to 16-3, leaving the Rams facing a deficit at halftime. Yet, the Rams emerged from the locker room with renewed energy and determination.
The second half began with the Rams showcasing their grit. Behind another strong performance from Kaloko, complemented by Cortarius Gilmore, the Rams mounted a drive that culminated in a touchdown. With the offensive line of Termaine Baker, Jehari Riley, CJ Price, Eli Morgan, Kameron Jackson, and Jeffrey Vargas paving the way, Kaloko punched it in from four yards out. Stubbs' extra point cut the deficit to 16-10, igniting the home crowd.
As the game wore on, it turned into a defensive battle. KCU managed to add another field goal, stretching their lead to 19-10 with just over ten minutes left in the game. The Rams knew they had to make some big plays to turn the tide.
Starting from their own 33-yard line, Herstich led the charge, connecting with Christian Mack and Jordan Edwards for key gains. Then, with time running out, Herstich found Gio Burns deep for a stunning 42-yard completion, putting the Rams within field goal range once again. Stubbs, steady as ever, hit a 22-yarder to narrow the gap to 19-13.
With the defense needing to step up, they did not disappoint. The Rams' defense, spearheaded by Quincy Robinson and Leyton Fowler, held firm as KCU attempted to gain momentum. In a pivotal moment, Jaylan Smith intercepted a pass at the 24-yard line and returned it for a touchdown, electrifying the stadium and tying the game at 19-19.
Stubbs came out for the game-winning extra point, and with the crowd holding its breath, he delivered, putting the Rams ahead 20-19 and sealing the thrilling comeback victory.
Head Coach Dewey Lusk praised his team's resilience, saying, "Great team win! The defense played lights out, the offensive line and running backs led the way with a great rushing attack, and Riley Stubbs and the field goal team came up huge. Jaylan Smith made the play of the game with his pick-six! Our plan was to keep our defense, and their offense off the field, and with a 37-minute to 22-minute advantage in possession time, our plan worked. However, we need to clean up our red zone mistakes offensively going down the stretch in these big AAC games. Proud of these kids and our effort, we played hard for 4 quarters. Next week is a very good UPike team and first place in the AAC is up for grabs, it will be interesting to see how we respond. Go Rams!"
Game Leaders
Passing
Rushing
Receiving
Defensive Highlights
- Quincy Robinson: 4 solo tackles, 4 assists, 8 total tackles, 3.0 TFL, 2.5 sacks
- Leyton Fowler: 3 solo tackles, 4 assists, 7 total tackles, 2.5 TFL, 1 sack
- Jaylan Smith: 3 solo tackles, 1 interception, 1 pick-six, 1 TD
Special Teams
- Riley Stubbs: 2 field goals made (21 yds, 22 yds), 2 PATs made
- Kickoff Performance: 5 kickoffs for 321 yards, averaging 64.2 yards per kick
The Rams improved their record to 3-4 overall and 2-0 in conference play, while KCU fell to 1-6 and 0-3 in the AAC. Looking ahead, the Rams will travel to Pikeville next Saturday, October 26th, for another critical match-up with first place in the AAC on the line. The Rams' victory not only marked a significant win but also set the stage for an exciting continuation of the season. Fans are eagerly anticipating next week's clash as the Rams aim to keep their momentum going. Go Rams!
