The North Carolina Central University (NCCU) football team celebrated its annual Homecoming festivities in style, securing a hard-fought 16-7 victory over the visiting Morgan State Bears at the iconic O'Kelly-Riddick Stadium. In a clash of HBCU powerhouses, the No. 20/21 ranked Eagles showcased their resilience and defensive prowess, holding the Bears to just over 200 yards of total offense.

Elevating the HBCU Football Experience: NCCU's Homecoming Triumph

Offense Ignites Early, Defense Shines Throughout

The Eagles wasted no time in setting the tone, as quarterback Walker Harris connected with wide receiver Markell Quick on a 49-yard touchdown pass to give NCCU a 7-0 lead in the second quarter. This explosive play capped off a 4-play, 76-yard drive, showcasing the team's offensive firepower.As the game progressed, the Eagles' defense stepped up, limiting the Bears' offensive opportunities and holding them to just a single touchdown in the fourth quarter. Kaleb Robison's 21-yard field goal in the third quarter extended the Eagles' lead to 10-0, further solidifying their control of the game.

Late-Game Heroics Seal the Victory

Despite Morgan State's efforts to mount a comeback, the Eagles' resilience shone through. After the Bears trimmed the lead to 10-7 with a touchdown early in the fourth quarter, NCCU responded with a 50-yard touchdown run by J'Mari Taylor, extending their advantage to 16-7.The Bears had one final chance to tie the game, but the Eagles' defense stood tall, with Thomas Jackson sacking Morgan State quarterback Tahj Smith on a crucial fourth-down play to seal the victory for the home team.

Homecoming Celebration and Road Ahead

The NCCU faithful in attendance were treated to a thrilling Homecoming victory, as the Eagles extended their winning streak to five games. This triumph not only showcased the team's talent and determination but also highlighted the vibrant HBCU football culture that permeates the campus.Looking ahead, the Eagles will hit the road this Thursday, traveling to Orangeburg, South Carolina, to take on the South Carolina State Bulldogs in a highly anticipated HBCU matchup. The game will be aired live on ESPNU, providing a national platform for these two storied programs to showcase their skills and the rich tradition of HBCU football.