GRAYSON, Ky. – Despite a resilient fourth-quarter push and a trio of long touchdown strikes, the Bluefield University football team came up short Saturday evening, falling 28-21 to Kentucky Christian University in Appalachian Athletic Conference play.
The Knights capitalized on an early Bluefield turnover to grab a quick 7-0 lead less than a minute into the game. Kentucky Christian doubled its advantage midway through the first quarter on a 37-yard touchdown run before the Rams found their footing. BU answered with an 11-play, 75-yard drive capped by a 33-yard touchdown connection from Ethan Cash to Jamonta Chavis, cutting the deficit to 14-7 late in the opening frame.
Kentucky Christian added to its lead in the second quarter to make it 20-7 at halftime, but the Rams' defense kept the contest within reach, forcing five sacks and an interception on the night. Bluefield broke through again early in the fourth quarter when Cash and Chavis connected for the second time, this one from 54 yards out, bringing the Rams within 20-14.
The Knights quickly responded with a scoring drive of their own to restore a two-touchdown cushion, but Bluefield continued to fight. On the ensuing possession, Cash found Jordan Edwards streaking down the sideline for an 85-yard touchdown — the Rams' longest play from scrimmage this season — pulling BU back within one score at 28-21 with just over four minutes remaining.
Bluefield's defense forced a three-and-out to give the offense one final opportunity, but the Rams' last drive stalled deep in Kentucky Christian territory as time expired.
Cash finished the night 16-of-33 passing for 286 yards, three touchdowns, and one interception, while also rushing for 30 yards. Chavis led all receivers with 100 yards and two scores on three catches, and Edwards added three receptions for 118 yards and a touchdown. Kyree Edwards contributed 59 total yards, including 42 through the air.
Defensively, Charles Howard paced BU with 10 tackles and a sack, while Chase Harris, Ethan Walker, and Andre Plummer combined for five of the team's season-high five sacks. Plummer also notched an interception.
With the loss, Bluefield falls to 2-6Â overall and 1-3Â in AAC play.
The Rams return home November 8 to host the University of Rio Grande for Homecoming at Mitchell Stadium. Kickoff is set for 1:30 p.m.
