BALTIMORE, Md. — Morgan State seemed poised to end its losing streak against its longtime rival, Howard, but a fourth-quarter implosion and a breathtaking interception in overtime resulted in a disappointing 26-20 defeat for the Bears.
In a dramatic turn of events, Howard’s Ben Chandler IV returned an interception 87 yards for the decisive touchdown during overtime, marking the Bison’s eighth win against Morgan State in their last nine encounters.
Entering the game, Morgan State held a record of 5-2, while Howard arrived with a record of 3-4. Historically, the Bears have led the all-time series with a tally of 47-36-3; however, recent years have seen Howard dominate the rivalry, having secured an overtime victory in the previous season.
From the outset, both teams struggled offensively, with the first half showcasing a strong defensive effort. Morgan State managed to score two field goals in the initial quarter, and Howard responded by also kicking two field goals in the second quarter, resulting in a halftime score of 6-6.
As the game progressed into the third quarter, Morgan State’s defense established its dominance by forcing Howard into three consecutive three-and-out possessions. Key contributions came from players like Bryce Djossou, who set the tone with a crucial sack while the Bears kept the Bison offense at bay.
The Bears finally found their offensive rhythm late in the third quarter.
Quarterback Cameron Edge connected with Joseph Towler on a swift pass, allowing Towler to evade a defender, receive a block, and dash into the end zone for a 36-yard touchdown. This pivotal score allowed Morgan State to take a 13-6 lead.
In the early minutes of the fourth quarter, Morgan State further extended its advantage. When a play broke down in the red zone, Edge rolled to his right and delivered a low throw to Alex Simmons, who made a remarkable diving catch for a 14-yard touchdown.
With this score, Morgan State led 20-6, but unfortunately for the Bears, they were unable to score again.
Howard made a comeback when Isaiah Freeman scored on a 2-yard run, narrowing the gap in the score. After a subsequent three-and-out by the Bears, Freeman connected with Billy Roberson II for a 4-yard touchdown pass.
This touchdowntied the game at 20 with just over three minutes left in the contest and ultimately sent the rivalry clash into overtime.
During overtime, Morgan State received the ball first but faced a challenging fourth-and-long situation. In an effort to keep the drive alive, Edge’s pass was intercepted by Chandler, who then returned it an impressive 87 yards for the game-winning touchdown.
Howard’s dramatic 26-20 triumph signifies their second consecutive overtime victory against Morgan State.
Following the game, Morgan State head coach Damon Wilson pointed to penalties, poor execution, and moments of complacency as the key reasons for the loss.
“Our performance throughout those drives was hindered by penalties, forcing us to fall behind on downs,” Wilson remarked. “In a situation where it should have been 1st-and-10, we often found ourselves at 1st-and-15 or 1st-and-20 due to self-inflicted mistakes, and that was evident today. Our inexperience showed at crucial moments on the field.”
Wilson reflected that his team failed to capitalize on their control of the game.
“I believe we let our guard down,” Wilson stated. “We were effectively shutting them out for a significant portion of the game, yet when it mattered most, they stepped up and claimed the victory. We needed better execution in the closing moments.”
Morgan State will have a quick turnaround, returning home on Thursday to host South Carolina State.
