Jeremy Franklin was one of the few bright spots with eight catches for 122 yards and 3 TDs in the 33-22 loss to Chowan
Murfreesboro, NC - The Johnson C. Smith University football team was defeated by Chowan University 33-22 Saturday evening in CIAA Western Division action inside Garrison Stadium. JCSU falls to 3-6 overall and 2-4 in the CIAA, while the Hawks improve to 2-7 overall and 2-4 in the conference.
JCSU faced a 20-0 deficit with four minutes remaining before halftime. Freshman quarterback Marvin Payne, Jr. (West Palm Beach, FL) came in and threw a 39 yard touchdown strike to junior receiver
Jeremy Franklin (Casselberry, FL) with 1:15 on the clock in the second quarter. These two connected on three total touchdown receptions throughout the game.
Payne found Franklin again in the third quarter for a 12 yard touchdown catch. The touchdown drew JCSU within one possession (20-14) and capped off a four play, 80 yard drive. However, that is as close as the Golden Bulls would get to capture the lead in this one. Cory Cline nailed two second half field goals, both from 31 yards, and J.J. Spates scored on a one yard run to take a 33-22 Chowan victory.
The Hawks held the advantage in rushing (157-107) and passing (280-230) and forced two turnovers on defense (an interception, fumble recovery).
Franklin finished with eight catches for 122 yards and three touchdowns. Payne completed 13 of 24 pass attempts for 186 yards, three touchdowns, and one interception. He also rushed for 46 yards. Freshman tailback
Dedrick Anderson (Winston-Salem, NC) gained 79 yards on the ground off nine carries.
Junior defensive back Girard Miller (Winston-Salem, NC) led the defense with a team-high nine tackles (six solo) and a forced fumble.
Johnson C. Smith will now prepare for their 2009 season finale clash with divisional foe Shaw University on Saturday, October 31st. Kickoff is scheduled for 6:00 pm inside Millbrook High Stadium in Raleigh, NC.
