After suffering a hard-fought 14-0 setback to Virginia Union last week, the Broncos enter today's contest with a 2-3 overall record and a 1-2 mark in CIAA play. Despite the loss, Fayetteville State's defense continued to show why it remains one of the conference's toughest units, holding the Panthers to just 14 points in a physical battle that was decided by field position and a handful of key plays.

Now, with a bye week looming after today's game, Head Coach Richard Hayes believes the Broncos have a prime opportunity to regain momentum before entering the second half of the season.

"We're not out of it," Hayes emphasized this week. "There is still so much football left to be played. We just need to get one this week."

Offensive Progress Needed

The focus for Fayetteville State this week will be establishing consistency on offense. Quarterback Jamir Dismukes continues to grow into his role, and the Broncos are looking for increased production in the passing game with playmakers such as Marcus Fleming and Unique Kelly on the perimeter.

Hayes noted that Livingstone has often stacked the box to stop opponents' running attacks, meaning Fayetteville State may need to capitalize on opportunities downfield.

"We want to be a run-first, balanced offense," Hayes said. "When defenses force us to throw the football, we've got to make those plays."

Defensive Challenge: Tempo, Tempo, Tempo

Livingstone enters today's game at 2-1 in CIAA competition after wins over Bluefield State and Winston-Salem State. The Blue Bears are coming off a narrow 28-27 loss to Shaw and have become known for operating at a fast pace offensively.

According to Hayes, Livingstone ran approximately 85 offensive plays last week, significantly above the average college football game.

"They get lined up quickly and are ready to snap it before the chains are even set," Hayes said. "We'll have to be ready for the tempo."

The Broncos will lean on a defense led by veteran leaders Terrell Ford while counting on emerging voices such as Caleb Frederick and freshman Joshuaray Jones to help maintain energy and discipline throughout the afternoon.

Special Teams Could Be the Difference

One bright spot from last week's game was the performance of punter Abdoulazim Bayor, whose ability to flip field position helped keep Fayetteville State within striking distance throughout the contest.

Hayes called his punter "an extension of our defense," and strong special teams play could once again be a major factor in what projects to be a tightly contested conference matchup.

A Critical CIAA Opportunity

With the Broncos seeking to return to .500 in conference play before next week's bye, today's contest carries significant importance in the CIAA standings. A victory would provide momentum and position Fayetteville State well heading into the final month of the regular season.

How to Watch

Fans who cannot make the trip to Salisbury can watch today's game live on the CIAA Sports Network at theciaasn.com. Coverage begins prior to the 1:00 p.m. kickoff, and fans can also follow live updates, scores, and highlights throughout the afternoon on Fayetteville State Athletics social media channels and at FSUBroncos.com.

Game Information

Matchup: Fayetteville State vs. Livingstone
Date: Saturday
Kickoff: 1:00 p.m.
Location: Salisbury, N.C.
Watch Live: theciaasn.com
Follow: FSUBroncos.com and @FSUBroncos on social media

The road to a strong finish begins today for the Broncos. Fayetteville State will look to leave Salisbury with a conference win and carry positive momentum into its much-needed bye week.