RICHMOND, VA – Virginia Union University celebrated Homecoming in style with a commanding 66–21 win over Lincoln (PA) on Saturday afternoon at Hovey Field. The Panthers improved to
6–1 overall and 4–0 in CIAA play, powered by a balanced attack that produced
555 total yards of offense.
Senior running back
Curtis Allen led the way on the ground with
208 rushing yards and three touchdowns on 24 carries, including a 48-yard score late in the third quarter.
Quarterback
RJ Rosales threw for
247 yards and three touchdowns, adding two rushing scores of his own to complete an impressive dual-threat performance.
Rosales' favorite targets included
Keon Davis, who caught
five passes for 79 yards and two touchdowns, and
Zyaire Tart, who added a 43-yard touchdown reception.
Brady Myers contributed
nine PATs and a 36-yard field goal, while the Panther defense forced
three interceptions, including two by Jymere Melendez, and one fumble recovery to keep Lincoln (PA) in check.
Virginia Union jumped out to a 14–0 first-quarter lead and never looked back, scoring in every period—including
28 points in the third quarter alone to put the game out of reach before a crowd of
9,018 fans enjoying sunny Homecoming conditions.
"I was pleased with today's victory," said
VUU Head Football Coach Dr. Alvin Parker. "There were flashes of greatness on offense, defense, and special teams. This group loves to work hard, and it shows in their performance on Saturdays. I'm happy we were able to take care of our portion of Homecoming."
With the win, Virginia Union stays atop the CIAA standings, tied with Fayetteville State University, and continues its push toward postseason play.
The Panthers will return to action next weekend when they face Bowie State University at 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, October 25, at Hovey Field in Richmond, Va.