UPDATE: The Albany State Golden Rams have catapulted to No. 3 in the HBCU Division II Coaches Poll following a dominating 51-7 victory over Shaw University. The team now prepares for a pivotal matchup against Kentucky State this Saturday at 1 p.m. CT in Frankfort, Kentucky.
The Golden Rams (1-0) showcased their offensive prowess in their season opener, with quarterback Isaiah Knowles amassing 205 yards and scoring two rushing touchdowns. Running back Tiant Wyche added to the excitement with 137 rushing yards and two touchdowns, earning him SIAC Offensive Player of the Week honors. Meanwhile, special teams star Cam Watts electrified the crowd with a stunning 90-yard punt return touchdown, securing the title of SIAC Special Teams Player of the Week.
The Golden Rams’ formidable defense, known as the “Dirty Blue Defense,” held Shaw to just 189 total yards and forced multiple turnovers, further solidifying their status as a top contender. They retained their No. 3 ranking in the latest HBCU D2 Coaches Poll, picking up two first-place votes.
The current top five in the HBCU Division II Coaches Poll are:
1. Virginia Union (1-0) – 175 points
2. Johnson C. Smith (1-0) – 153 points
3. Albany State (1-0) – 146 points
4. Virginia State (1-0) – 129 points
5. Tuskegee (1-0) – 99 points
Kentucky State (1-0) enters the game with momentum after defeating Central State 34-24 in the Detroit Football Classic. Quarterbacks Torrence Bardell and Denim Johnson combined for over 300 passing yards and three touchdowns, while defensively, Lawrence McConnell recorded nine tackles, and Elijah Henderson sealed the win with an interception.
Historically, Albany State has dominated this matchup, winning 11 straight games against Kentucky State, including a 49-21 victory last September. The Thorobreds have not defeated the Golden Rams since 2003, but this year’s squad appears more formidable than in previous seasons.
Saturday’s clash at Alumni Stadium promises to be a high-energy battle, crucial for both teams as they vie for early dominance in the SIAC race. Fans and analysts alike are eager to see if Albany State can maintain their winning streak or if Kentucky State will rise to the challenge.
Stay tuned for live updates as the game approaches, and don’t miss what could be a thrilling showdown in HBCU football!
