MURFREESBORO, N.C. — Mississippi College fell to Chowan University, 27-25, in a Gulf South Conference matchup on Saturday afternoon. The loss drops the Choctaws to 0-4 overall and 0-2 in conference play, while Chowan improves to 1-2 and 1-0.
Chowan struck first with a 28-yard touchdown pass from Maurice Smith to Jakobe Lane, capping a 3-play, 44-yard drive at the 3:27 mark of the first quarter. The Hawks extended their lead in the second quarter with another scoring connection between Smith and Lane, this time for 22 yards, making it 14-0.
Mississippi College responded with a 44-yard field goal from Ben Pledger to cut the deficit to 14-3. Shortly thereafter, the Choctaws found the end zone when Tyson Keys caught a 5-yard pass from Pete Zamora, bringing the score to 14-10.
However, Chowan quickly regained momentum with a 37-yard touchdown pass from Smith to Gabrial Jackson and a 65-yard interception return for a touchdown by Cameron Richardson, giving the Hawks a 27-10 lead just before halftime.
In the second half, Mississippi College made a concerted effort to rally. Jackson Allen connected with Javier Batiste for a 20-yard touchdown, followed by a safety from Brennan Blake, narrowing the score to 27-19. The Choctaws continued to press, and Marcus Williams capped off a 54-yard drive with a 21-yard touchdown run, bringing them within two points at 27-25 with 4:48 remaining.
Despite the late surge, Mississippi College was unable to complete the comeback, as their defense held Chowan scoreless in the second half but couldn't capitalize on offensive opportunities.
The Choctaws outgained Chowan in total yards (380 to 285) and first downs (21 to 14). Allen threw for 148 yards and a touchdown, while Zamora added another touchdown pass. Williams led the rushing attack with 48 yards and a touchdown.
Chowan's Smith finished the game with 176 passing yards and three touchdown passes. Jamison Davis led the Hawks on the ground with 76 rushing yards.
Mississippi College will look to rebound next Saturday as they travel to West Florida for a 4 p.m. kickoff in Pensacola, Fla.
