Benedict edges Ft. Valley State University 28-20
Tigers young and old, near and far, gathered in record numbers for the 2009 Benedict College Homecoming football game versus the Fort Valley State University Wildcats. A sea of tints, grills, and purple and gold filled the Charlie W. Johnson Stadium grounds, celebrating 139 years of rich tradition. The Tiger grid iron squad set out to avenge a 22-6 loss in last years meeting with Fort Valley, to improve a 3-3 conference record.
In first quarter action, the Wildcats jumped out to an early lead. A 10 yard touchdown pass just 5 minutes into the first quarter put the Wildcats ahead 7-0. Benedict would answer the ensuing drive scoring on a 7 play, 80 yard drive. QB Pat Riley broke loose for 49 yards with 5:29 to go in the first quarter evening the score at BC 7 – FVSU 7. Defense dominated the 2nd quarter, with a grid locked score until late in the 2nd quarter. The Tigers closed out the half in the end zone, completing a 5 play 66 yard drive with a 3 yard QB keeper. Pat Riley's second touchdown of the game set the halftime score at BC 14 - FVSU 7.
Going into the second half down by 7, it was evident that the Wildcats of Fort Valley came out with something to prove. In a desperate attempt to get back into the game, Fort Valley kicker Justin Rosenbaum put a 42 yard attempt through the uprights shrinking the lead to BC 14 – FVSU 10 with 12:02 left in the third quarter. Continuing the offensive, the Wildcats forced their first lead of the game on a 4 yard rushing touchdown with 3:31 left in the third quarter. The Wildcats would lead 17-14 going into the fourth quarter.
The game would come down to a dog fight fourth quarter. With the offensive wheels in motion, the Tigers of Benedict College fought tirelessly to regain the lead. They would be successful with 8:51 left in the game. Set up by a 38 yard pass to WR Corey Gardhigh, QB Pat Riley broke through the Fort Valley line for an 11 yard touchdown run, capping off a 5 play 51 yard drive. Utilizing an affective ground attack, the Benedict offense would extend their lead with 6:08 left in the game. RB Max Martin cut through the Wildcat defense for a 67 yard touchdown, forcing the score to BC 28 – FVSU 17. However, the Wildcats would not go quietly. A 45 yard field goal with 3:48 left in the game shortened the lead to BC 28 – FVSU 20. A Fort Valley turnover with 1:00 to go sealed the win for the Benedict College Tigers.
The Tigers face off Saturday October 31st in Birmingham, Alabama, taking on the Tigers of Stillman College.
Source: BC Sports Information
SEE ALSO Football Summaries
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