Baltimore, MD— James Jones powered Delaware State to a hard-fought 14–12 win over Morgan State on Friday night, rushing for 115 yards and a touchdown as the Hornets fended off a late rally from their conference rivals.
Jones set the tone early, breaking free for a 68-yard touchdown less than a minute into the game to give Delaware State (7–3, 3–0 MEAC) an early lead. The Hornets extended their advantage early in the second quarter when Jones appeared headed for another score but lost the ball near the goal line. Fortunately for Delaware State, freshman lineman Amori Francis pounced on the fumble in the end zone for his first career touchdown.
Morgan State (3–7, 0–3) clawed back into contention thanks to a big performance from Randall Nauden, who rushed for 104 yards on just seven carries, including a 67-yard touchdown run in the fourth quarter. However, the Bears’ two-point conversion attempt failed, leaving them two points short.
Kicker Alex Amaya kept Morgan State in the game with field goals from 19 and 37 yards but couldn’t complete the comeback — his 45-yard attempt as time expired missed wide, sealing the Hornets’ win.
The victory was Delaware State’s first over Morgan State since a 33–30 triumph in 2017. Despite the loss, Morgan State still leads the all-time series 10–5.
