COLUMBIA, S.C. — Johnson C. Smith University opened the 2026 season with a 32-10 loss to Benedict on Saturday at Charlie W. Johnson Stadium..

Fabian Duncan provided the Golden Bulls' lone touchdown, breaking a 64-yard run in the second quarter. Alexis Rosario-Beltran added a 42-yard field goal in the third quarter.

Benedict's Caleb Riggs recorded a 97-yard touchdown reception, while Jett Peddy threw a touchdown pass to Donnavan Wilmore. Zane Spires made four field goals for the Tigers.

JCSU finished with 10 points, including seven in the second quarter and three in the third. Benedict scored 13 points in the third quarter to pull away.

The Golden Bulls fall to 0-1 and will return to action Sept. 6 against Albany State in the Black College Football Hall of Fame Classic in Canton, Ohio.