BUIES CREEK – Campbell wide receiver Sincere Brown caught two deep touchdown passes to lead the Fighting Camels to a 21-7 victory over North Carolina A&T on Saturday afternoon at Barker-Lane Stadium.

Brown's first touchdown came early, hauling in a 64-yard strike from quarterback Chad Mascoe just 75 seconds into the game. He later sealed the victory with a 53-yard touchdown reception from Mike Chandler II in the fourth quarter, finishing with 150 receiving yards on five catches.

Campbell's Sincere Brown on his way to the end zone (Photo Credit: Bennett Scarborough)

The Fighting Camels (4-5, 2-3) controlled the first quarter, building a 14-0 lead after Chandler II scored on a 7-yard run with eight seconds remaining. Campbell's ground attack was effective throughout, accumulating 167 rushing yards led by JJ Cowan's 74 yards on 11 carries.

NC A&T (1-8, 0-5) struggled to find offensive rhythm early but showed life in the fourth quarter. The Aggies mounted their best drive of the day, marching 95 yards on 12 plays, culminating in Ger-Cari Caldwell's 9-yard touchdown reception from Justin Fomby to cut the deficit to 14-7.

However, Campbell responded immediately with Brown's second touchdown, effectively ending the Aggies' comeback hopes.

Despite the loss, NC A&T's defense played well in stretches, led by Henry Daniel's nine tackles, including two sacks. The Aggies actually held possession for nearly nine minutes longer than Campbell and ran 21 more offensive plays, but struggled to convert opportunities into points, missing two field goals in the second quarter.

Fomby completed 20 of 40 passes for 185 yards with one touchdown and two interceptions for NC A&T. Cameren Dalrymple led the Aggies' rushing attack with 75 yards on 16 carries.

Campbell's defense proved disruptive throughout the afternoon, with Jojo Pace and Jalen Brooks each recording nine tackles. The Fighting Camels' secondary broke up seven passes and intercepted two, with Da'Quan Johnson and Lakeem Rudolph each picking off passes in the fourth quarter to preserve the lead.

Up Next

Campbell travels to take on in-state CAA rival Elon next Saturday while NC A&T hosts a ranked William and Mary squad in Greensboro.

MEMPHIS, TN – In a game that featured four lead changes in the final eight minutes, Memphis survived a late scare from Charlotte, securing a 33-28 victory Saturday afternoon at Simmons Bank Liberty Stadium.

The Tigers (7-1, 3-1) needed a 24-yard touchdown pass from Seth Henigan to Roc Taylor with 31 seconds remaining to overcome a gutsy performance from the visiting 49ers (3-5, 2-2). Memphis added a safety in the closing seconds to seal the outcome.

Charlotte appeared poised for an upset when Hahsaun Wilson's 18-yard touchdown run with 1:20 remaining gave the 49ers a 28-24 lead. That score was set up by a spectacular 57-yard completion from quarterback Deshawn Purdie to O'Mega Blake. Purdie, who came in at halftime, threw for 152 yards and a touchdown to give the 49ers a chance to pull off the upset.

But Henigan, who finished 20-of-32 for 212 yards and two touchdowns, orchestrated a seven-play, 75-yard drive in just 49 seconds to reclaim the lead for Memphis.

The game's frenetic ending contrasted sharply with its methodical first half, which ended in a 7-7 tie. Charlotte struck first when Carson Norton scored on a 17-yard run in the opening quarter. Memphis answered early in the second quarter on Henigan's 2-yard touchdown pass to DeMeer Blankumsee.

Memphis controlled the third quarter, scoring twice on rushing touchdowns. M'Javius Bodiford broke free for a 14-yard score, and Blake Anderson Jr. added an 11-yard touchdown run to give the Tigers a 21-7 lead. Anderson finished with 141 yards on 32 carries.

Charlotte's offense found new life in the fourth quarter. Purdie connected with Blake on a 39-yard touchdown pass to narrow the gap to 21-14. Blake finished with three catches for 128 yards. Norton's second touchdown run, from five yards out, tied the game at 21 with 8:02 remaining.

After a Charlotte interception, Memphis settled for a 21-yard field goal by Trey Vandenberg with 1:56 left, setting up the dramatic final minutes.

The 49ers had one final opportunity to respond after Taylor's late touchdown, but a disputed kickoff return ruling proved crucial. Henry Rutledge appeared to break free for a long return, but officials determined his knee was down, forcing Charlotte to start from its own 4-yard line instead of near midfield.

"The call on Henry changed the whole complexion of that last drive," Charlotte coach Biff Poggi said. "If that stands, we need about 25-30 yards and we're kicking a field goal to tie."

Memphis dominated time of possession, holding the ball for 36:40 compared to Charlotte's 23:20. The Tigers outgained the 49ers 424-303 in total yards and converted 8 of 17 third downs.

Despite the loss, Charlotte's defense made several crucial stops, including three fourth-down stands. Dontae Balfour's first-quarter interception at the 1-yard line prevented an early Memphis score.

"I think our defense played really well," Poggi said. "We had a bunch of fourth-down stops and they're pretty good on offense. I thought we played pretty well, and I'm not ready to throw the defense under the bus — it was a really good college football game, we just lost it at the end."

The game's intensity left an impression on both sides. "Their coach came up to me at the end of the game and said, 'I'm sick and tired of playing you guys,'" Poggi reported.


Up Next

For Charlotte, the challenge is to regroup quickly. The 49ers host Tulane on Thursday night, while Memphis travels to take on UTSA.

BOONE – In their first home game in 37 days, App State secured a crucial 33-26 victory over Georgia State on Saturday at Kidd Brewer Stadium, marking their first Sun Belt Conference win of the season.

The Mountaineers (3-4, 1-3) ended their conference drought in dramatic fashion, with quarterback Joey Aguilar connecting with Kanen Hamlett for a 4-yard touchdown pass with 1:51 remaining. Aguilar's subsequent two-point conversion run provided the final margin in front of 33,783 fans.

The afternoon featured seven lead changes, with neither team able to build more than a nine-point advantage. App State's offense generated 479 total yards, led by Aguilar's efficient passing performance. The quarterback completed 18 of 27 passes for 299 yards and three touchdowns without an interception.

Kaedin Robinson emerged as Aguilar's primary target, collecting five receptions for 121 yards, including a crucial 50-yard connection that set up a second-quarter touchdown. Makai Jackson added four catches for 67 yards and a touchdown, while Dalton Stroman and Hamlett each caught scoring passes.

On the ground, Ahmani Marshall paced the Mountaineers with 115 yards on 18 carries, including a 1-yard touchdown run in the second quarter that gave App State its first offensive score of the day.

Georgia State (2-5, 0-4) showed resilience throughout, particularly in their rushing attack. Michel Dukes averaged 13.5 yards per carry, finishing with 81 yards and a touchdown on just six attempts. The Panthers' ground game totaled 194 yards, with quarterback Zach Gibson adding 192 yards through the air on 16-of-22 passing.

The game's opening points came via an unconventional route when App State recorded a safety at the 13:27 mark of the first quarter. Georgia State responded with Liam Rickman's 26-yard field goal early in the second quarter, establishing the pattern of alternating leads that would continue throughout the afternoon.

The second quarter proved particularly eventful, featuring 32 combined points. Ted Hurst's 4-yard touchdown reception from Gibson and Dukes' 9-yard scoring run highlighted Georgia State's offensive surge, but App State countered with Marshall's touchdown plunge and Jackson's 18-yard touchdown catch.

The Mountaineers' defense made crucial stops when needed most, recording three sacks and six tackles for loss. Santana Hopper led the defensive effort with two sacks, while Jordan Favors contributed 10 tackles.

The victory held additional significance for App State, coming after Hurricane Helene had forced the cancellation of their September 28 home game against Liberty. The win also marked their first Saturday home game since their August 31 season opener, a span of 56 days.

Georgia State's defense forced one turnover and repeatedly challenged the Mountaineers in the red zone, holding them to four scores in seven attempts inside the 20-yard line. Jeremiah Johnson led all defenders with 10 tackles, while the Panthers' front seven generated consistent pressure with five quarterback hurries.

Up Next

App State looks for a second straight Sun Belt Conference win, hosting East Division rival on Saturday afternoon while Georgia State plays a non-conference game against UConn on Friday night.

WINSTON-SALEM – Johnson C. Smith University continued its historic season Saturday afternoon, defeating Winston-Salem State 24-15 in front of 8,460 fans at Bowman Gray Stadium. The Golden Bulls improved to 8-0 on the season while maintaining their top-20 national ranking in NCAA Division II.

Quarterback Darius Ocean led a balanced JCSU offense, completing 23 of 38 passes for 262 yards and a touchdown. His primary target, Brevi Caldwell, hauled in 11 receptions for 127 yards, consistently moving the chains throughout the contest.

The Golden Bulls established control early, with running back Kamarr Edmonds finding the end zone on a 6-yard run late in the first quarter. Edmonds finished with an impressive 102 yards on just 11 carries, averaging 9.3 yards per attempt. His versatility was on display when he caught a 27-yard touchdown pass from Ocean in the third quarter, extending JCSU’s lead to 17-0.

Winston-Salem State’s offense struggled to find rhythm against JCSU’s swarming defense. The Rams were limited to just 39 rushing yards on 23 attempts, while quarterback Daylin Lee completed only 10 of 25 passes for 116 yards. Despite the offensive challenges, WSSU’s defense kept them in the game, led by Jupe Alston’s 11 tackles.

The game’s momentum briefly shifted in the third quarter when WSSU’s Narique Smith intercepted Ocean and returned it 37 yards for a pick-six, cutting the lead to 17-7. However, JCSU responded with a methodical drive in the fourth quarter, capped by Quavaris Crouch’s 2-yard touchdown run to push the lead back to 24-7.

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The Rams mounted a late comeback attempt, with Lee finding Kaleb Washington for a touchdown with 1:57 remaining in the game. However, JCSU’s defense held firm to secure the victory.

Johnson C. Smith’s defense was anchored by Jack Smith and Benari Black, who each recorded seven tackles. The Golden Bulls controlled the time of possession battle, holding the ball for over 37 minutes while converting 6 of 16 third-down attempts.

A notable difference in the game came in the punting department. While WSSU’s Devin Versteegen averaged an impressive 50.2 yards on 10 punts, including seven kicks of 50+ yards, JCSU’s Jacob Meneses helped control field position by placing three of his five punts inside the 20-yard line.

The victory marks another milestone in JCSU’s remarkable season, as they entered the game ranked 19th in the AFCA Division II Poll and 21st in the D2football.com Poll. The Golden Bulls’ balanced attack generated 412 total yards (262 passing, 150 rushing) while their defense limited WSSU to just 155 total yards.

WSSU’s offense managed only six first downs throughout the game, struggling particularly in the first half when they were held scoreless. The Rams’ top rusher, Trevon Hester, was limited to 16 yards on 12 carries against JCSU’s stout defensive front.

For Johnson C. Smith, the victory keeps their perfect season intact as they continue their march through CIAA competition. Their defense has been particularly impressive, showing versatility in both stopping the run and defending the pass, with three different players recording pass breakups against WSSU.

Winston-Salem State falls to 6-3 on the season, despite another strong defensive showing. The Rams’ defense, led by Alston and Justin Fleming’s 10 tackles, forced one turnover and recorded multiple tackles for loss, but the offense couldn’t capitalize on these opportunities.

Up Next

Both teams have in-state CIAA rival Fayetteville State on the schedule next with Johnson C. Smith hosting the Broncos next Saturday for Senior Day while Winston-Salem State takes a week off before hosting Fayetteville State for Homecoming to close the season.

GREENVILLE – In a significant shake-up for the East Carolina football program, Director of Athletics Jon Gilbert announced today the dismissal of head coach Mike Houston. This decision follows a thorough evaluation of the team's recent performance, which has not met the expectations of the university's administration or its passionate fan base.

"After a comprehensive evaluation of our football program, I informed Mike Houston this morning that we are making a change in leadership," Gilbert stated. "This was a very difficult decision. Mike has led our program for the last five-plus seasons with tremendous class and has positively impacted so many student-athletes. After earning back-to-back bowl invitations, we looked poised for continued success. Unfortunately, we have not seen the results we all want, and a change is needed to move the program forward."

Houston, who took the helm of the Pirates in December 2018, compiled a record of 27-38 during his tenure. His time at ECU was marked by moments of hope, including consecutive bowl game appearances, yet recent seasons have failed to live up to the lofty goals set by the university.

Prior to his appointment at ECU, Houston built a strong resume at James Madison University, where he led the Dukes to a remarkable 37-6 record, including an NCAA FCS national championship in 2016. His leadership there earned him the American Football Coaches Association (AFCA) FCS National Coach of the Year award.

Gilbert expressed optimism about the future, underscoring the attractive aspects of the ECU coaching position. "We are confident we will identify the right leader for our football program. ECU is a premier job with a passionate fan base, unprecedented support from our Pirate Club donors, and great facilities that continue to improve."

As the Pirates prepare for their final five regular season games, Gilbert emphasized the importance of supporting the student-athletes during this transition. "Right now, we are focusing on our student-athletes as they compete for a postseason opportunity. I hope Pirate Nation will rally around them as they always have."

To guide the team through the remainder of the season, defensive coordinator Blake Harrell has been named interim head coach. Harrell, who joined the program in 2020, will look to provide stability as ECU embarks on a search for a new head coach.

As the Pirates look ahead, this leadership change marks a pivotal moment in ECU football's quest for renewed success. With strong backing from the administration and an engaged fan base, the program aims to chart a new course under fresh leadership.

SALISBURY – Winston-Salem State maintained its position among the CIAA's top teams Saturday, using a balanced offensive attack and timely defensive plays to defeat Livingstone College 31-17 at Alumni Memorial Stadium.

The victory improved Winston-Salem State to 6-2 overall and 4-1 in conference play, while Livingstone dropped to 5-3 (3-2 CIAA) despite a strong passing performance from quarterback De'Angelo Alston.

The Rams struck quickly in their opening drive when running back Trevon Hester capped a short two-play sequence with a 1-yard touchdown run. Livingstone answered midway through the first quarter as Alston connected with Davontay Deloatch on a 10-yard scoring pass, completing an 11-play, 73-yard drive that tied the game at 7-7.

Winston-Salem State regained the lead early in the second quarter on Gilberto Lorenzana's 36-yard field goal. The Rams extended their advantage before halftime when quarterback Daylin Lee found Kaleb Washington for a 35-yard touchdown strike, making it 17-7.

While Livingstone's offense outgained Winston-Salem State in passing yards (210-182) and collected more first downs (19-16), the Blue Bears struggled to sustain drives against the Rams' defensive pressure. Winston-Salem State recorded three sacks and forced two interceptions, including a crucial pick-six by Dante Bowlding in the third quarter that pushed the lead to 24-10.

Hester led all rushers with 87 yards on 21 carries for the Rams, who accumulated 129 yards on the ground. Livingstone's rushing attack was limited to 64 total yards, with Mohamed Nyanamukenga gaining 12 yards on 12 attempts.

Deloatch emerged as Livingstone's primary offensive threat, catching eight passes for 117 yards and a touchdown. Washington paced the Rams' receiving corps with two catches for 58 yards and a score.

The defensive effort was anchored by Winston-Salem State's Camar Kyle, who recorded eight tackles including two for loss. Livingstone's Terrance McPherson Jr. led all defenders with 14 tackles, including one for loss.

Special teams played a significant role, with Winston-Salem State's coverage units holding Livingstone to an average starting field position inside their own 30-yard line. The Rams also benefited from JahTwan Strafford's 83-yard punt return that set up favorable field position.

Trailing 24-10 in the fourth quarter, Livingstone's comeback hopes dimmed when Winston-Salem State orchestrated a 13-play, 68-yard drive that consumed over eight minutes. Lee's 1-yard quarterback sneak capped the possession and effectively sealed the outcome at 31-10.

The Blue Bears managed a late touchdown when Nyanamukenga scored from a yard out with 32 seconds remaining, but the outcome had been decided.

Both teams faced penalty issues throughout the contest, with Livingstone drawing 12 flags for 73 yards and Winston-Salem State being penalized eight times for 75 yards.

Up Next

Winston-Salem State returns home next Saturday to host Johnson C. Smith in a televised contest on HBCUgo, with kickoff scheduled for 1:05 p.m. Livingstone will travel to Raleigh on November 2 to face Shaw University.