Morgan State fell to North Carolina Central University 16-7 in their first Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC) game of the season and North Carolina Central’s running back shined with over 200 total yards.
After having extra time to recover from their bye week, the Bears traveled to O’Kelly-Riddick Stadium, home of the North Carolina Central University Eagles, for their first in-conference game of the season.
Losing their second straight game and dropping to 3-5 on the year. Senior wide receiver Andre Crawley says the offense has to “look themselves in the mirror” after dropping such a close game.
This game was also Central’s homecoming game. The Eagles came into this game with the top scoring offense in the conference, averaging just under 40 points a game at 39.4 and 364.7 offensive yards per game.
The Bears’ defense continued to show why they are at the top of most defensive categories in the MEAC. holding Central to just 16 points.
Senior defensive lineman Elijah Williams made his presence known once again as Williams blocked a field goal and got a strip sack to end the first half.
That sack would also make Williams second all time in Morgan State history, with 28 for his career.
“I understood that in order for us to stay in this game, plays had to be made.” Said Williams about his performance throughout the game.
The Bears defense has been riddled with injuries, as Senior linebacker Erick Hunter has yet to play this season.
“The defense just understands that we have to play our game,” Said Williams. “Regardless of who we have, it’s always next man up.” Hunter was greatly missed, as Central running back J’Mari Taylor had 230 all-purpose yards and a 50 yard rushing touchdown to end the Bears’ comeback hopes.
The constant issue throughout the season has been the Bears’ passing attack, and this game was no different. Sophomore quarterback Tahj Smith made his return, having not played since the Sep 21 game vs VUL.
Smith completed 9 of his 23 pass attempts for 102 yards against the Eagles, as well as getting sacked 3 times. Sophomore running back Jason Collins would finish with 72 rushing yards and a touchdown on 14 attempts.
Despite the loss, there’s still optimism throughout the team. “We know we still got something to play for,” Said Crawley. “It’s a long season, crazier things have happened in the MEAC.”
The team still sees themselves as a top team in the conference, but not the best team yet. “We’re close but not close enough.” Said Williams.
The Bears will look to bounce back and avoid a three game losing streak next weekend, as they play Norfolk State University Nov. 2nd at Earl C. Banks Field.
