Benedict College Triumphs Over Savannah State with a Strong Second Half
COLUMBIA, S.C. – In an exciting football matchup on Saturday, the Benedict College Tigers turned things around in the second half to secure a 35-27 victory against Savannah State at Charlie W. Johnson Stadium. The highlight of the second half came from Jaxon Williams, who opened with an impressive 83-yard kickoff return for a touchdown.
The Tigers finished the 2024 season with a record of 4 wins and 6 losses, including 4 wins and 4 losses in the Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (SIAC). This game marked the conclusion of coach Ron Dickerson Jr.’s first season with the team, while Savannah State ended their season at 5-5, also with a 4-4 SIAC record.
Heading into halftime, Savannah State held a favorable 21-12 lead after scoring a 77-yard touchdown pass just before the half-mark. However, Benedict’s momentum shifted dramatically at the start of the second half. Williams’ kickoff return quickly trimmed the lead to 21-19.
Things took a more exciting turn when Savannah State faced fourth down at their own 27-yard line. A mishap by the punter led to the ball getting kicked out of the end zone, resulting in a safety that tied the game at 21.
After Savannah State missed a field goal attempt, the Tigers seized the opportunity. Starting from their 20-yard line, Benedict executed a perfect 59-yard touchdown pass from Charles “Tre” Simmons to Shatarius Williams, putting them ahead 28-21 as the third quarter came to a close. Shatarius had an impressive game, catching 6 passes for 110 yards and 2 touchdowns.
Benedict continued to pull ahead in the fourth quarter, with Simmons connecting on another long pass to Zach Gibson, leading to a first-and-goal situation at Savannah State’s 4-yard line. A’chean Durant then scored a touchdown, extending the Tigers’ lead to 35-21 with just under eight minutes remaining.
Savannah State made a late push, scoring on a 49-yard pass with 2:30 left to narrow the gap to 35-27. However, Benedict recovered an onside kick and managed the clock effectively, leaving Savannah State with only one long pass attempt as time ran out.
Throughout the game, Simmons delivered a solid performance, completing 23 of 42 passes for 256 yards and three touchdowns. On defense, James “Trey” Caver stood out with eight tackles, while Ty’Metrius Patterson contributed six tackles, including a sack and a forced fumble.
Overall, it was a thrilling finish for the Tigers that showcased their resilience and ability to rally for a strong win in the second half.
