Bluefield State falls to Concord
Athens, WV. — Bluefield State University football fought back in the second half Saturday afternoon, but fell short against Concord University, with a 26-22 loss at Callaghan Stadium.
After trailing 17-6 at halftime, the Big Blue came out of the locker room with renewed energy, quickly shifting the momentum in their favor.
Early in the third quarter, Defensive back Isaiah Byrd came away with an interception, giving the Big Blue a spark out of the half.
Just minutes later, Defensive back Taviun Chandler intercepted Concord’s quarterback and returned the pick 23 yards for a touchdown, cutting the Mountain Lions’ lead to 17-15.
The Big Blue carried that momentum into the fourth quarter. With 10:42 remaining, quarterback Rishon Holmes connected with wide receiver Derek Binder for a 15-yard touchdown, giving Bluefield State its first lead of the afternoon at 22-20. The scoring drive covered 22 yards on four plays and capped a strong second-half push by the Big Blue.
Defensively, Bluefield State continued to battle. Early in the fourth quarter, defensive back Josh Johnson forced a Concord fumble that was recovered by Byrd, giving the Big Blue another defensive takeaway and another opportunity to make a play.
Concord responded with a 21-yard rushing touchdown to reclaim the lead with 8:15 remaining, reclaiming the lead at 26-22.
The Big Blue continued to battle until the final whistle, but Concord’s defense came up with a fourth-down stop to end one of Bluefield State’s final scoring opportunities.
Holmes finished the afternoon 11 for 27 passing for 106 yards and two touchdowns, while also rushing for 66 net yards. Running back Justin McBean led the Big Blue rushing attack with 68 yards on 15 carries.
Bluefield State’s defense recorded two interceptions, with five tackles for Losse, including two sacks coming from defensive linemen LaDainian Pless and Aiden Morgan.
Chandler finished with seven total tackles, while Johnson recorded five tackles and a forced fumble. Byrd finished with two tackles, an interception and a fumble recovery.
As a team, Bluefield State totaled 264 yards of offense, including 158 rushing yards and 106 passing yards. The Big Blue also held an advantage in time of possession, controlling the ball for 38:01 compared to Concord’s 21:59.
Despite the loss, Bluefield State showed great effort after entering halftime down 11 points
Final: Bluefield State 22, Concord 26
Up Next: Bluefield State vs. Livingstone, Saturday, September 12th at 6 p.m.
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