LINCOLN UNIVERSITY, PA — Winston-Salem State University (2-6, 2-4 CIAA) spoiled Lincoln University's (Pa.) homecoming Saturday, rallying for a 21-14 victory over the Lions (1-7, 1-5 CIAA). The Rams overcame an early seven-point deficit with 21 unanswered points across the second and third quarters to secure their second win of the season.
WSSU's comeback featured a blocked-punt touchdown, a 75-yard scoring pass from quarterback
Brayden Jeffries to wide receiver
Sean Walker Jr. and a 2-yard touchdown run by
Jamison Funderburk. The Rams' defense delivered a strong performance, recording three sacks, two blocked kicks and two takeaways while making critical stops in the fourth quarter to preserve the victory.
Lincoln (PA) took an early 7-0 lead in the first quarter, capitalizing on favorable field position after a WSSU punt. The Lions drove 40 yards and scored on a 1-yard touchdown run with 5:58 remaining in the quarter. The Rams struggled to establish their offense early, but the defense kept the game within reach by forcing punts and limiting Lincoln's opportunities.
WSSU evened the score in the second quarter with a special teams touchdown.
Derrick Reid, Jr. blocked a Lincoln (PA) punt, and
Daunte Stokes recovered the ball in the end zone for a touchdown with 4:07 remaining.
Gilberto Lorenzana converted the extra point to tie the game at 7-7.
The Rams' defense continued to deliver in key situations.
Mecca Carr-Bordeaux recorded a third-down sack to help stall a LUPA possession, and
Zymiere Dempsey-Freeman blocked a 22-yard field-goal attempt with 53 seconds remaining in the first half. WSSU entered halftime tied 7-7 after limiting the Lions' scoring opportunities.
The Rams took control in the third quarter, scoring twice to build a 21-7 advantage. At 12:30, Jeffries connected with Walker for a 75-yard touchdown, giving WSSU its first lead of the afternoon. Lorenzana's extra point extended the advantage to 14-7.
The defense followed with another momentum-changing play when
Yetristan "Zy" Brown intercepted a LUPA pass. After the Rams recovered from a fumble that threatened to shift momentum, the defense forced another punt, giving the offense an opportunity to extend its lead.
WSSU capitalized on the opportunity with a 57-yard scoring drive.
Jayvion Danzy provided a key 24-yard run before Funderburk capped the possession with a 2-yard touchdown run at 2:07. Lorenzana's extra point pushed the Rams' lead to 21-7 entering the fourth quarter.
Lincoln (PA) mounted a late rally, scoring on a 29-yard touchdown pass from Rhyel Miles-Eubanks to Kyrie Tyson with 4:40 remaining. The extra point cut WSSU's advantage to 21-14 and set up a tense finish.
The Rams' defense responded when it mattered most. After WSSU was forced to punt on its next possession, Lincoln (PA) moved into position to threaten the lead. With 1:10 remaining, the Rams stopped the Lions on fourth-and-2 at the LUPA 45-yard line, ending a critical scoring opportunity.
Lincoln's final possession ended with a fumble on a lateral at the Lincoln (PA) 30 as time expired, sealing the Rams' 21-14 victory.
The victory gives WSSU its second win of the season and provides momentum as the Rams continue CIAA play.
Rams Top Performers
Sean Walker, Jr.
- 4 receptions
- 113 receiving yards
- 1 receiving touchdown
Brayden Jeffries
- completed 12 of 21 passes
- 178 passing yards
- 1 touchdown pass
Yetristan "Zy" Brown
- 4 tackles
- 1 interception
- 1 fumble recovery
Christopher McCorkle
UP NEXT
Winston-Salem State continues CIAA play against Elizabeth City State on Saturday, Oct. 31. Kickoff is scheduled for 1 p.m in Elizabeth City, N.C.
For more information on Winston-Salem State University athletics, visit wssurams.com.
