ROME, GA. – The Chowan University football team came up big in their first conference matchup, defeating Shorter University 30-29 on Saturday afternoon. The Hawks fought hard until the final whistle, securing their first conference victory of the season. With the win, Chowan improves to 2-2 overall and 1-0 in conference play, while Shorter drops to 1-4 overall and 0-1 in league competition.
THE BASICS
FINAL | Chowan 30, Shorter 29
RECORDS | Chowan (2-2,1-0) Shorter (1-4, 0-1)
LOCATION | Rome, Ga.
INSIDE THE BOXSCORE
Maurice Smith threw for 281 yards and two touchdowns on 12 completions, while also rushing for 47 yards and a score. Malique Frazier highlighted the receiving corps with 187 yards and a touchdown on four catches, and Jakobe Lane added 51 yards with a score. On defense, Demarcus Carroll led the way with nine solo tackles and six assisted, as Darryl Harris followed with 13 total stops and a quarterback hurry. Jaden Leonard and Justin Taylor each recorded interceptions, while Lane sparked special teams with an 81-yard kickoff return. Kicker Jack Beylo connected on a 22-yard field goal and went 3-for-4 on extra points.
HOW IT HAPPENED
First Half:
The Hawks came out strong, moving the ball with short passes and key runs from Maurice Smith. An early drive ended with a blocked field goal, but Shorter struck first on their opening possession to take a 7-0 lead. Chowan quickly responded as Smith connected with Malique Frazier for a 67-yard touchdown, tying the game at 7-7.
Shorter scored again to regain the lead, but Chowan answered with a 10-yard rushing touchdown by Jamison Davis, knotting the score at 14-14. Shorter added another touchdown to go up 21-14, but the Hawks executed a late drive before halftime, highlighted by a 27-yard touchdown pass from Smith to Jakobe Lane, closing the gap to 20-21 going into the half.
Second Half:
The Hawks took the opening drive of the third quarter down the field with a mix of passes and runs. Smith connected with Jalen Razor, Haney, and Frazier for key gains, setting up a 22-yard field goal from Jack Beylo to put Chowan ahead 23-21.
In the fourth quarter, Shorter added another touchdown, going up 29-23, but the Hawks answered with a decisive drive. Smith led the charge, connecting on passes to Frazier and Lane before rushing 1 yard into the end zone for the touchdown, putting Chowan ahead 30-29. Shorter attempted a late rally, but Chowan's defense came up big with interceptions by Jaden Leonard and Justin Taylor, sealing the victory.
UP NEXT
The Hawks return home for Homecoming on Saturday, October 4, where they are set to host conference opponent North Greenville University. Kickoff is set for 1:00 p.m. at Hawks Field.
