Howard University opened its season with a statement Saturday night, defeating Alabama A&M 31-24 in a thrilling Cricket MEAC/SWAC Challenge Kickoff presented by Toyota at Center Parc Stadium.
The Bison jumped out to a 13-0 lead early in the second quarter before Alabama A&M found its rhythm. The Bulldogs continued to chip away at Howard’s advantage, cutting the deficit to 20-14 by halftime.
After a scoreless third quarter for both teams, the game turned into a back-and-forth battle in the final period. Alabama A&M took its first lead of the night, 24-23, on a 32-yard field goal from David Faulk with just under eight minutes remaining.
Howard answered when quarterback Ja’Shawn Scroggins connected with Se’Quan Osborne on a 51-yard touchdown with 2:41 left on the clock. Scroggins then found Nathanial Clark for the two-point conversion, putting the Bison ahead 31-24.
Alabama A&M had one final opportunity to tie the game, driving into Howard territory. But Howard’s defense came through when Aidan Foster forced a fumble from Mekhi Maddox at the Howard 23-yard line. Rodney Roane Jr. recovered the ball, allowing the Bison to run out the final seconds and secure the victory.
Scroggins was named the game’s Most Valuable Player after completing 19 of 36 passes for 315 yards and three touchdowns while adding 49 rushing yards. His 364 total yards helped Howard finish with 436 yards of total offense.
For Alabama A&M, quarterback Cornelious Brown IV accounted for all three of the Bulldogs’ touchdowns, throwing for 254 yards and two touchdowns while adding a rushing touchdown.
The victory gives Howard a 1-0 start under new head coach Ted White, while Alabama A&M opens the season 0-1.
The two programs have now met just twice all-time, with this year’s matchup marking their first meeting in the MEAC/SWAC Challenge.
