Johnson C. Smith’s bid for an undefeated season was ended unceremoniously following a 27-0 shutout loss to Fayetteville State.
The Broncos extended their win streak over the Golden Bulls to eight games dating back to 2016.
Johnson C. Smith came into this game needing a win or a Virginia State loss to clinch a spot in the CIAA championship game.
It was a lethargic JCSU performance
In the most important game of their season, the Golden Bulls picked the worst time to have its most lethargic performance.
Johnson C. Smith simply did not have the urgency of a team fighting for a spot in a conference championship game.
A normally efficient Johnson C. Smith offense struggled to get anything going, only managing a season-low 192 yards.
Meanwhile, Fayetteville State’s offense, led by quarterback Joe Owens Jr., got whatever they wanted, particularly in the passing game.
Golden Bulls missed several opportunities
Johnson C. Smith had opportunities to put itself in a position to win this game but, either because of bad execution or lack of discipline, prevented them from doing so.
After limiting Fayetteville State to a field goal as the game entered the second quarter, a roughing the kicker penalty brought the Broncos’ offense back on the field, leading instead to a touchdown.
Penalties were a problem for JCSU all game, being called for seven that covered 106 yards.
The Golden Bulls’ defense forced an interception on the Broncos’ next offensive possession, but a sack on fourth down kept them off the scoreboard.
Then, before the end of the first half, Johnson C. Smith had a chance to put points on the board on a 36-yard field goal attempt, but it was blocked.
The mistakes continued in the second half, including a Darius Ocean interception in the end zone on a possession in which JCSU had the best starting field position for its offense in the game.
CIAA championship game clinching scenario updated
Despite the loss, Johnson C. Smith still has a chance to clinch a berth in the CIAA championship game in its final game of the season.
The Golden Bulls will travel to face Livingstone, needing a win to punch their ticket to Salem.
Johnson C. Smith could also clinch a berth in the title game should Virginia State lose in its season-finale against Virginia Union.
However, if Johnson C. Smith loses and Virginia State beats Virginia Union, the Golden Bulls would be officially eliminated from contention.