FAIRMONT, W.Va. — Fairmont State University (2-0) edged Bloomsburg University (0-1) 41-40 in a thrilling contest at Duvall-Rosier Field on Thursday night. The Fairmont Falcons executed a perfect red-zone performance, scoring six times in six attempts, including four rushing touchdowns. The game featured a dramatic finish, with the Falcons securing the win in overtime.
The first quarter began with Bloomsburg taking an early lead after KJ Riley connected on a 20-yard touchdown pass to Paul Wojciechowski at 9:55. However, Fairmont State's response was swift and effective, as
Leonard Farrow led a determined drive, highlighted by a 22-yard rush, culminating in a 3-yard touchdown run at 4:06.
Emmanuel Richardson's successful PAT put the Falcons ahead 7-6. With the defensive efforts of
Jehvonn Lewis, who broke up a key pass, helped maintain the lead as the quarter concluded.
The second quarter opened with the Falcons extending their lead as Richardson successfully kicked a 34-yard field goal, pushing the score to 10-6 just seven seconds into the quarter. After a fumble on an FSU punt return, Bloomsburg capitalized with a 32-yard touchdown pass, briefly taking the lead, 13-10. Fairmont State responded confidently, as
LeJay Hatcher dashed 44 yards for a touchdown at 10:48, reestablishing their advantage at 17-13. With time winding down,
Nino Marzullo orchestrated a crucial drive, culminating in his own 6-yard rushing touchdown with 45 seconds left, securing a 24-19 lead at halftime.
The third quarter saw Fairmont seize the momentum with a methodical drive, as Farrow's rushing efforts moved the ball effectively, gaining crucial first downs. Marzullo's strategic passing, including a completion to
Davin Driskell, set up a successful 31-yard field goal by Richardson at 09:02, extending the lead. However, the Huskies responded, capping off their drive with a 1-yard touchdown run by KJ Riley, followed by a successful two-point conversion, tying the game at 27 with just over two minutes left in the quarter.
The fourth quarter began with Bloomsburg grasping the lead as Declan Clancy's 21-yard touchdown run set the tone, putting them up 34-27. The Falcons responded with a determined drive led by Farrow, who contributed significant rushing yards, and Marzullo's precision passing, culminating in a 20-yard touchdown pass to
Winston Page at 6:51 to tie the game at 34-34. Despite a final push, the Fairmont Falcons' efforts fell short with a turnover on downs in the closing seconds, resulting in a 34-34 tie going into overtime.
The overtime period began with Fairmont taking possession at Bloomsburg's 25-yard line, and they wasted no time advancing down the field. Farrow powered through the Huskies' defense with a decisive 2-yard touchdown run, bringing the score to 41-34 after Richardson's successful extra point. On Bloomsburg's ensuing drive,
Karron Watties broke up a potential game-tying pass and
Tyrees Smith recorded a tackle for loss, but the Huskies managed to score. However, their failed two-point conversion attempt secured Fairmont State's 41-40 victory.
Leonard Farrow led the offense with 154 rushing yards on 30 carries, scoring two touchdowns.
LeJay Hatcher added 158 rushing yards on 16 attempts, finding the end zone once.
Winston Page contributed through the air with five receptions for 55 yards and a touchdown. On defense,
Jeffery Polk anchored the unit with 10 total tackles.
Fairmont State will be off next week before returning to Duvall-Rosier Field on Saturday, September 20 against Wheeling University. Kickoff is slated for 12:00 p.m. as the Falcons will celebrate their successes from the 2024-25 athletic year with Day of Champions.
