South Carolina State found a way to escape Washington, D.C., with another important MEAC victory.
The Bulldogs defeated Howard 35-28 on Thursday night, November 5, behind a clutch performance from running back Ricorian Brown, who delivered the game-winning touchdown with just 17 seconds remaining.
Brown finished with 143 rushing yards and two touchdowns, including the decisive 9-yard scoring run that capped a seven-play, 74-yard drive.
South Carolina State improved to 8-2 overall and 3-0 in MEAC competition, while Howard fell to 4-6 and 1-2 in conference play.
Bulldogs Build Halftime Advantage
South Carolina State struck first with a field goal before Howard answered with a touchdown to take a 7-3 lead after the opening quarter.
The Bulldogs responded with a dominant second quarter, scoring 18 unanswered points to take a 21-7 advantage into halftime.
However, Howard wasn’t finished.
Howard Battles Back
The Bison responded with two third-quarter touchdowns, tying the game at 21 and putting pressure on the visiting Bulldogs.
Brown restored South Carolina State’s advantage with a 9-yard touchdown run in the fourth quarter, but Howard quarterback Isaiah Freeman delivered another big play.
Freeman connected with CJ Neely on a 51-yard touchdown pass, tying the contest at 28 with 2:52 remaining.
That set the stage for Brown’s final heroics.
South Carolina State marched 74 yards down the field in seven plays, with Brown punching in the winning touchdown from nine yards out with 17 seconds remaining.
Howard had one final opportunity, but the Bulldogs held on for the 35-28 victory.
Key Performers
South Carolina State
- Ricorian Brown: 143 rushing yards, 2 touchdowns
- Keely Watson: 21-of-29 passing, 241 yards, 1 touchdown
- Malaqhi Jones: 9 receptions, 107 yards
- Jett Jackson: Field goals of 34 and 49 yards
Howard
- Isaiah Freeman: 233 passing yards, 3 touchdowns
- Antonio Hunter: 5 receptions, 52 yards, 2 touchdowns
- CJ Neely: 2 receptions, 64 yards, 1 touchdown
South Carolina State finished with 479 total yards, including 226 rushing yards. Howard generated 382 total yards but couldn’t complete the comeback.
What’s Next?
South Carolina State returns home November 14 for a critical MEAC matchup against North Carolina Central.
Howard will also return to action November 14, hosting Delaware State.
The Bulldogs continue to control their own path in the MEAC race, while Howard will look to regroup and finish its conference schedule strong.
