DETROIT, Mich.
Explosive First Half for CSU
After falling behind 7–0 in the second quarter, the Marauders answered in a big way. Sophomore running back Jaden Bossie broke free for a 63-yard touchdown run to tie the game. On the next possession, Dai'Vontay Young ripped off a highlight 73-yard scoring dash, giving Central State a 16–7 lead midway through the quarter. Young added two successful two-point conversion runs on the day, showing his versatility out of the backfield.
Kentucky State chipped away before halftime, cutting CSU's lead to 16–10 with a late field goal.
Big Plays Hurt in the Second Half
The Marauders offense stalled in the third quarter, while Kentucky State seized momentum. A field goal closed the gap before a 77-yard touchdown strike late in the period gave the Thorobreds a 20–16 lead. They extended their advantage in the fourth with another deep pass — this one an 85-yard connection — followed by a short touchdown run to make it 34–16. Despite a big game from Senior Domonique Davis II the Marauders weren't able to contain KSU in the second half.
CSU kept fighting, as senior quarterback Tison Hill connected with tight end Stephen Hogan for a 4-yard touchdown in the final minutes. Hill finished 13-of-20 passing for 118 yards and a touchdown, though he was intercepted twice.
Key Performances
By the Numbers
Central State totaled 316 yards of offense (198 rushing, 118 passing) and converted 6 of 15 third-down attempts. Kentucky State countered with 432 yards, including 302 through the air. The Marauders were penalized just once, but two turnovers and explosive plays allowed through the secondary proved costly.
Looking Ahead
Despite the setback, the Marauders showed flashes of explosiveness in the ground game and resilience under their new head coach. CSU (0–1, 0–1 SIAC) will look to regroup next week as they prepare for a battle at Tuskegee.
Final Score: Kentucky State 34, Central State 24
