Albany State claims victory over Fort Valley State in the Fountain City Classic for the second straight year, coming away with a 20-15 win.
Like last year, Albany State’s win eliminates Fort Valley State from SIAC championship contention, as the Wildcats needed a win to clinch a berth in the big game.
The Golden Rams, on the other hand, finish the season with a 6-4 overall record, including wins in three of their last four contests.
Turnovers hurt Fort Valley State
After a slow first quarter, in which Albany State ended with a 7-3 lead, the second quarter proved to be the difference maker in the final result.
Both teams combined for 25 points, which would serve as the final points in the contest.
Albany State greatly benefited from two Fort Valley State turnovers in the period, both of which came in plus territory on the Wildcats’ offensive drives.
The Golden Rams’ defense forced four Fort Valley State turnovers, including a fourth-quarter interception that helped them seal the win.
Hectic sequence decided outcome
In the final minute of the first half, Fort Valley State had the ball on offense, trailing 14-13, with a chance to take the lead.
Passing to the sideline, Golden Rams defensive back Robert Floyd forced the interception and returned it for a touchdown, extending their lead to 20-13.
On the ensuing extra point, the Wildcats blocked the attempt, returning it for two points to trim the deficit to 20-15.
Run of excellence continues for Albany State
Despite falling short of a SIAC championship berth, Albany State secures yet another winning season, continuing its run of excellence since the turn of the millennium.
The Golden Rams’ streak of consecutive winning seasons, dating back to 2002, is the longest of any team in HBCU football.
In addition, they are the only team in HBCU football to record a winning record every year since 2010.
