BUIES CREEK – North Carolina Central unleashed an explosive offensive performance, dominating Campbell 45-14 in a nonconference Old North State Showdown at Barker-Lane Stadium on Saturday afternoon.
The Eagles (4-2) established their dominance early, erupting for 28 unanswered points in the second quarter. Quarterback Walker Harris orchestrated the offensive onslaught, connecting on 14 of 23 passes for 132 yards and two touchdowns while adding a rushing score of his own.
NC Central’s ground game proved equally potent, with J’Mari Taylor accumulating 89 yards and a touchdown on 18 carries. Chris Mosley delivered a spark with a 57-yard touchdown run in the fourth quarter, finishing with 75 yards on just two attempts.
The Eagles’ defense matched their offense’s intensity, limiting Campbell (2-4) to 103 passing yards and forcing three turnovers. Quantez Mansfield led the defensive charge with six tackles, including 2.5 sacks and 3.5 tackles for loss. Malcolm Reed and Tomondrey Braxton each recorded interceptions.
Campbell showed signs of life in the second half when VJ Wilkins broke free for a 55-yard touchdown run in the third quarter. Mike Chandler II later added a 72-yard scoring dash, the Camels’ longest rushing play since 2017. However, these highlights weren’t enough to overcome the substantial deficit.
The Eagles’ special teams contributed to the victory, with Darryl Taylor returning a punt 68 yards for a touchdown in the second quarter. Kicker Juan Velarde was perfect on the day, converting all six extra points and adding a 43-yard field goal.
Campbell’s defense was anchored by Cornelius Davis, who recorded a game-high nine tackles, while Jalen Brooks added seven stops and a sack.
Up Next
NC Central hosts VU-Lynchburg next week in Durham while Campbell will have a bye week before resuming Colonial Athletic Association play at No. 12 William & Mary on October 19.
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