By Perry Green
AFRO Sports Editor
BSU place kicker Michael Gagne was named the CIAA Specialty Player of the Week after booting in a game-deciding 42-yard field goal against Shepherd University last Saturday. (Courtesy Photo/BSU)
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(September 8, 2009) - The Bowie State Bulldogs successfully bounced back from a season opening loss to win its first game of the season last Saturday (Sept. 5), sliding pass Shepherd University, 23-21, at Bulldogs Stadium.
BSU knew it was going to be a good day as soon as the game began, as kick-return specialist James Proctor returned the opening kickoff for a 98-yard touchdown.
The Bulldogs’ defensive unit attempted to keep the momentum on its side by playing tough defense against the run, limiting Shepherd to a game total of 44 rushing yards on 22 carries.
But Shepherd’s passing game would eventually expose weaknesses in Bowie State’s secondary as quarterback Kevin Clancy passed for 199 yards and three touchdowns, including a 65-yard touchdown pass to receiver Nasser Muhammad.
Shepherd’s quick-striking passing ability allowed them to take the lead three times throughout the game, but Bowie State stayed committed to both running the football and stopping their opponent from running the football, which helped them win the time-possession battle and ultimately win the game.
BSU tailback Rodney Webb led all rushers in the game with 23 carries for 105 yards and a touchdown. He was followed by BSU quarterback Andre Johnson, who rushed for 53 yards and a touchdown. Johnson also passed for 115 yards on 11-of-18 passes. Bulldogs receiver Larry Dixon led his team with three receptions for 73 yards.
Bowie State (1-1 overall, 1-0 CIAA) will now see its next action against Fayetteville State University on Sept. 12 at 1 p.m. at Bulldogs Stadium.
More Bulldogs news:
Bulldogs tailback Rodney Webb was named the CIAA Offensive Player of the Week, Monday, for his outstanding performance against Shepherd University. His teammate, place kicker/punter Michael Gagne, was announced as the CIAA Specialty Player of the Week. Gagne converted a 42-yard field goal in the fourth quarter against Shepherd, which ultimately provided the game-deciding points.