Virginia Union’s chances of making it back to the CIAA championship game improved mightily on Saturday, following a 14-0 shutout win over Fayetteville State.
The Panthers have been on a tear since losing in their season opener, winning their last four games by an average margin of 25 points.
This includes a second straight shutout win, marking their first time holding consecutive opponents scoreless since 2022.
On the other hand, Fayetteville State’s conference championship hopes took a huge hit, dropping to 1-2 in CIAA play (lost 20-14 to Johnson C. Smith last Saturday).
The Virginia Union defense powered the team to victory, generating constant pressure at the line of scrimmage to the tune of six sacks and holding them to less than two yards per play on offense.
Offensively, the Panthers were led by running back duo Ramon Brown and Travon Tensley who combined for 144 rushing yards on 24 attempts, including a touchdown by the latter.
The result of this game was never in doubt with the Broncos’ offense only making it past midfield once, only gaining more than 20 yards on two of their 10 drives.
Meanwhile, Virginia Union did just enough to eek out a win, capping an 85-yard opening drive with a one-yard score and coasting the rest of the way.
Already in a two-game whole in the CIAA title race, Fayetteville State will look to keep its head above water when it goes on the road for its next outing against Livingstone.
As for the Panthers, they look the strengthen their odds at punching their ticket to Raleigh when they return home to clash with Elizabeth City State.
