Kentucky State football endured a tough start to the season with a 69-7 defeat to Virginia Union in Saturday’s season opener.
The game began on a hopeful note for the Thorobreds as senior Trevon Pope intercepted the Panthers’ opening drive in the first minute of the contest. Shortly after, sophomore quarterback Denim Johnson connected with Markel Cotton for a three-yard touchdown, giving Kentucky State an early 7-0 lead at 13:30 in the first quarter.
However, Virginia Union quickly responded, tying the game with a 46-yard rushing touchdown. The Panthers continued to dominate the first quarter with a 39-yard passing touchdown, taking a 14-7 lead at 6:32. A short passing touchdown towards the end of the quarter extended their lead to 20-7 as the first quarter concluded.
Virginia Union maintained their momentum into the second quarter, adding seven points with a short rush at 8:51. Another rushing touchdown at 3:20 increased their advantage to 34-7 by halftime.
The Panthers further asserted their control in the third quarter, scoring three more touchdowns to extend their lead to 55-7 heading into the fourth quarter.
In the final quarter, Virginia Union added two more touchdowns, securing a decisive 69-7 victory over Kentucky State.
Up Next: Kentucky State will travel to Huntsville, Alabama, to face Division I opponent Alabama A&M on Saturday, September 7, at 6 p.m. in the Louis Crews Classic.
