Virginia Union University's football team recorded its second straight shutout as the Panthers defeated Fayetteville State University 14-0 on Saturday, September 26, in Fayetteville, N.C.
The victory moved the Panthers to 4-1 overall and 3-0 in CIAA play. Virginia Union has now posted back-to-back shutouts for the first time since 2022.
Virginia Union quarterback
RJ Rosales completed 11 of 18 passes for 166 yards and rushed for a touchdown. Rosales scored on a one-yard touchdown run with 4:23 remaining in the first quarter to give the Panthers a 7-0 lead. The scoring drive covered 85 yards on 13 plays.
Travon Tensley added a three-yard touchdown run with 2:49 remaining in the third quarter to cap a 53-yard, eight-play drive and give VUU a 14-0 advantage. Tensley finished with 70 rushing yards on 12 carries while also catching three passes for 18 yards.
Ramon Brown rushed for 74 yards on 12 carries, while
Montrell Wright caught two passes for 49 yards, including a 36-yard reception.
Ben Haulmark added three receptions for 74 yards, including a 44-yard catch.
The Virginia Union defense turned in another dominant performance, limiting Fayetteville State to just 93 total yards, including 25 passing yards and 68 rushing yards. The Panthers recorded six sacks and held the Broncos scoreless throughout the contest.
Christian Aiken led the Panthers with three sacks and eight total tackles, while
Elijah Candia added two sacks for a loss of 18 yards.
Ahmad Ross collected a team-high 10 tackles, including two tackles for loss and one sack.
De'Andre Crump added a sack.
Virginia Union held Fayetteville State to six completions on 14 attempts and did not allow a touchdown. The Broncos managed just eight first downs in the game.
"I'm pleased with the way we attacked the week," said VUU Head Football Coach Alvin Parker. "To come away with a road win, a conference win, and a shutout is something we can be proud of. I'm extremely impressed with the way our defense is playing right now. To post back-to-back shutouts speaks volumes about the preparation, focus, and work those guys are putting in every week. We're continuing to get better, and now it's about building on this performance and getting back to work."
The Panthers return home to Hovey Field to face Elizabeth City State University at 1 p.m. on Saturday, October 3, in Richmond, Va.
