The defending CIAA champion Johnson C. Smith Golden Bulls are in the win column for the first time in the 2026 season, taking down the reigning SIAC champion Albany State Golden Rams 27-7 in the Black College Football Hall of Fame Classic.
Johnson C. Smith gets a measure of revenge against the SIAC after suffering a 32-10 loss in its season opener against Benedict.
This improves the Golden Bulls’ record to 4-1 in games against the SIAC since 2024.
Star running back Fabian Duncan helped guide his team to victory, notching 141 rushing yards on 21 attempts and scoring three touchdowns.
Duncan has rushed for over 140 yards in each of his past three games, dating back to his final game with Allen last season against Erskine.
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After Parker McQuarrie got the start at quarterback in the opener for JCSU, it was Damien Mazil who got the nod in this game. He ended with 184 passing yards, completing 12-of-18 attempts.
The Golden Bulls’ defense was also integral in securing the win, forcing four turnovers, including three interceptions by three different defenders.
This included a forced fumble on Albany State’s first offensive drive of the game, leading to JCSU’s first points on a 43-yard field goal.
Johnson C. Smith officially begins the defense of its CIAA championship next Saturday when it opens its conference schedule against Winston-Salem State.
Albany State will also play in its conference opener next weekend when it goes on the road to face Savannah State.
