Thanks to a spectacular performance from quarterback Isaiah Knowles, the Albany State Golden Rams keep their record unblemished, notching a 49-21 win over the Kentucky State Thorobreds.
Knowles ended the game with 304 passing yards, completing 74% of his passes, and scoring six passing touchdowns. He also added a game-leading 89 rushing yards on 13 attempts and a touchdown.
This marks the third game in Knowles’ career in which he has thrown for at least six passing touchdowns and the first in which he has scored seven total touchdowns.
Albany State wide receiver Javion Jackson led the team with 76 receiving yards on six receptions and a touchdown. Xavier Herndon accounted for 55 yards on four receptions and two touchdowns.
Kentucky State’s Darius Cyprian led all receivers with 106 receiving yards on three receptions.
In a game that was a tale of two halves, with the first half serving as a track meet, featuring both offenses combining for seven touchdowns.
Final Score #ThisIsHome
Albany State 49
Kentucky State 21#SIAC #SIACFB @TheSIACDownload @HBCUDigital App for all scores & updates https://t.co/B5AJaitSm9 @ASUGoldenRamsFB @KYSUFB pic.twitter.com/XXXRqBaiz5
— HBCU Digital Network (@HBCUDigital) September 6, 2025
This included a stretch in the back half of the second quarter that saw four straight offensive possessions end in touchdowns, culminating with Albany State taking a 28-21 lead at halftime.
The third quarter was a completely different story, beginning with a pair of empty, extended drives and three straight three-and-outs.
Albany State flipped a switch in the fourth quarter, scoring touchdowns on all three of its offensive possessions to put the game out of reach.
In four offensive drives, bridging between the third and fourth quarter, Kentucky State only gained positive yards on four plays.
The Golden Rams improve to 2-0 on the season, averaging 50 points per game in their first two contests. This marks the first time they have done so since 2021 (also the last time they won the SIAC championship).
Albany State will have its chance to improve to 3-0 for the first time since 2010 when they face Florida A&M.
Meanwhile, Kentucky State will also look ahead to a clash against a SWAC opponent, traveling to Louisiana to face Grambling State.
