In a matchup of two undefeated schools, the Shepherd University Rams traveled to the University of Charleston and beat the Golden Eagles 24-15.
Despite the sluggish start on offense, the Rams came alive in the second half and were able to gain a 24-3 lead over the Golden Eagles. In the fourth quarter, Charleston was able to score two special teams touchdowns but missed two extra points to narrow the gap to nine points.
“We made some special teams mistakes,” said Head Coach Monte Cater, “we let them get back in the game. But we had a great defensive effort and shut them down.”
Coach Cater also remarked that the offense needs to get off to a faster start. In the first half, the offense was unable to reach the end zone and had 102 yards of total offense.
The Rams’ defense was impenetrable. They allowed five first downs and shut the Golden Eagles’ running game down, giving up 16 rushing yards and 123 yards of total offense.
The defense was able rush the passer, recording five sacks. Senior defensive lineman Bernard Wolley recorded two sacks while junior defensive end Shaneil Jenkins, sophomore inside linebacker Octavius Thomas and sophomore defensive lineman Shaquille Melvin recorded the other sacks for the team. Thomas added an interception in the fourth quarter that would result in an offensive touchdown.
Sophomore defensive back CJ Davis and senior DB David Carter recorded the other two interceptions for the Rams. Davis now has five interceptions on the season while Carter has increased his number to three.
Shepherd’s run game produced two of their three touchdowns. Junior running back Allen Cross led the team with 74 yards on 18 carries with a touchdown. Sophomore Jabre Lolley had 50 yards with one touchdown, increasing his TD number to 10 on the season.
Sophomore quarterback Jeff Ziemba threw for 179 yards and one touchdown. The touchdown happened in the third quarter when Ziemba connected with junior wide receiver Dalton Boyd on a 29-yard pass for the score.
Next on the schedule for Shepherd will be UVa-Wise., who is currently 0-5 this season. Last year, the Rams beat the Cavaliers 42-17.