Byron ParisThe N.C. Central University Eagles took down archrival N.C. A&T Aggies on their home turf for the first time in eight years. The score: 30-16, Saturday. The last time the Eagles defeated the Aggies in Greensboro was in 2015 when the Eagles won against the Aggies 21 to 16. This marks two straight wins against N.C. A&T after losing 4 straight. Having two of those losses being horrific shutouts.
Saturday was different, the Eagles averaged 5.5 yards per offensive play for a total 345 total offensive yards. In all, 218 of those yards were gained on the ground. Running back Latrell Collier and quarterback Davius Richard combined for 191 yards rushing for 4 touchdowns.
Richard’s impressive running game, with his two touchdowns, was not matched with his passing game. He was unable to score a single touchdown with his arm. But he did go 15 for 23 passing, with a 65% completion rate and 123 passing yards.
The Eagles’ defense was sharp Saturday night. The defense did not allow points in three of the four quarters, holding A&T’s offense to 207 yards total and just 12 first downs for the game. The Aggies were held to just 51 yards with their passing game.
“Our secondary is much older and faster,” said Coach Trei.
Sophomore linebacker, Jayden Flaker, showed out Saturday night. He recorded 4 total tackles, a tackle for loss, and a forced fumble that gave the Eagles offense the ball back.
“He can cover a lot of ground with his speed,” Coach Oliver said, referring to Flaker..
This win keeps NCCU on top of the HBCU football power rankings coming into week three of the season.
The Eagles will soon face one of the most daunting challenges in NCCU’s history. On Saturday, Sept. 16, the team travels to Pasadena to face #24 ranked UCLA at the legendary Rose Bowl stadium. Will the two game winning streak end in California?
