The Virginia Union Panthers kept their Division II playoff run alive following a dominant 44-12 win over Lenoir-Rhyne.
Virginia Union becomes the fifth HBCU since 2011 to advance to the Division II playoffs’ Regional Final. They join a list that includes Albany State (2010), Winston-Salem State (2011 and 2012), Tuskegee (2015), and Bowie State (2021).
The Panthers will await the winner of the Regional Semifinal matchup between Valdosta State and Miles.
PANTHERS RUN WILD
The Virginia Union offense had one of their best performances of the season, producing 524 yards of total offense, including 345 rushing yards.
For the first time this season, Panthers running back duo Jada Byers and Curtis Allen each rushed for over 100 yards in the same game.
The reigning CIAA Offensive Player of the Year finished with 185 rushing yards and two touchdowns, while Allen posted 132 rushing yards and two touchdowns.
Quarterback RJ Rosales also had a big day on the ground, with 41 rushing yards and a touchdown to go along with 179 passing yards, and a touchdown.
VIRGINA UNION KEPT UP THE PRESSURE
As great as Virginia Union’s offense played in this game, the defense matched their energy, putting Lenoir-Rhyne’s offense under constant pressure all game.
Although they ended with just one sack, the Panthers had their way with the Lenoir-Rhyne at the line of scrimmage, breaking up plays before they had a chance to develop.
They limited them to 54 rushing yards on 20 attempts and forced three turnovers, including two interceptions.
