DURHAM, N.C. — Fayetteville State fell 49–19 to North Carolina Central on the road Saturday night, despite a strong rushing performance and a resilient defensive effort.
The loss drops the Broncos to 0–3 on the season, while the Eagles improve to 2–2.
Running back Bryce Council led the Broncos with 94 rushing yards and a touchdown on 11 carries, averaging 8.5 yards per attempt. Braylon Vinson added 85 yards on the ground, also on 11 carries, with a long run of 54 yards.
Quarterback Wilson Kargbo completed 7 of 10 passes for 49 yards, while Joe Owens Jr. went 3-for-7 for 35 yards and a touchdown. Kahlil Ashley-Diarrah led the receiving corps with three catches for 35 yards and a six-yard touchdown reception in the final seconds.
Defensively, Reginald Troutman paced Fayetteville State with eight total tackles. Amari Best recorded an interception, and True Robinson recovered a fumble. Kaydin Thomas added a sack and 1.0 tackle for loss.
Despite being outgained 499–234 in total yardage, the Broncos held North Carolina Central to just 101 rushing yards and converted 42.9% of their third-down attempts (6-of-14). Fayetteville State also won the turnover battle on the ground, out-rushing the Eagles 150–101.
Scoring Summary:
- Bryce Council broke free for a 69-yard touchdown run in the third quarter.
- John Hernandez-Vargas connected on two 40-yard field goals.
- Ashley-Diarrah capped the scoring with a six-yard touchdown catch from Owens Jr. with two seconds remaining.
North Carolina Central quarterback Walker Harris threw for 387 yards and three touchdowns, completing 23 of 36 passes. Chance Peterson led the Eagles with 91 receiving yards.
Fayetteville State will face Elizabeth City State in the Down East Classic on Saturday, Sept. 20 in Rocky Mount, N.C. Kickoff is set for 1:00 p.m.
