SC State Shuts Out Bethune-Cookman 14-0 in Non-Conference Thriller

Lead South Carolina State’s Bulldogs overwhelmed the visiting Bethune-Cookman Wildcats 14-0 on Saturday at Oliver C. Dawson Stadium in Orangeburg, SC, behind two first-half touchdowns and a stifling defense.

Nut Graf The contest marked the first meeting between the former MEAC rivals since 2022 and showcased South Carolina State’s balanced attack and defensive prowess, keeping the Wildcats scoreless while improving to 2-1 on the season.

First-Half Surge South Carolina State drew first blood early in the opening quarter when quarterback Ryan Stubblefield capped an 83-yard, 14-play drive with a three-yard touchdown run, giving the Bulldogs a 7-0 lead. Four minutes into the second quarter, reserve QB Billy Akins found Jalen Johnson on a 31-yard strike to double the advantage and effectively seal the outcome before halftime.

Defensive Dominance The Bulldog defense held Bethune-Cookman without a first down until late in the second quarter and limited the Wildcats to under 200 total yards, forcing two three-and-outs in the second half. Linebacker Tyler Jones led the unit with eight tackles and a quarterback sack.

Key Contributors · Offense: RB KZ Adams rushed for 57 yards on 12 carries, consistently moving the chains. · Special Teams: Punter Marcus Jones pinned the Wildcats inside their own 10-yard line twice, flipping field position. · Defense: Cornerback Jarod Washington broke up two passes and recorded a team-high three pass breakups.

Looking Ahead South Carolina State returns to MEAC action next Saturday, hosting Delaware State at home, while Bethune-Cookman will open conference play at Florida A&M.