Panthers Win Season Home Opener
“It’s all about that fourth quarter and I think we just rose to the occasion”
Clark Atlanta University won their season home opener game this Saturday against Allen University 26-22, improving to 2-0. The atmosphere at Panther Stadium was contagious, and spectators demonstrated their school spirit with a "red out" theme to match the new field design. There was a lively atmosphere in the stadium thanks to the marching band and the Spirit Boosters, who do an excellent job of keeping the crowd engaged regardless of the circumstances.
The final score is a sign of how the game went, with it being very close throughout its entirety. The contest was entirely different than last week's offensive shootout with Fort Valley State University.
After the first quarter, the two teams were even at six points. With two passes in the first quarter, Allen scored immediately, but the Panther defense bounced back in the second quarter, surrendering zero points.
CAU’s defense showed off its skills in the second quarter. The offense had multiple chances to score after three straight defensive stops, but they were unable to get into the end zone.
Junior Tight End Andrew Banks feels that in battles like these, the team must do whatever they need to win.
“You have to just do your job. Sometimes you have to cheerlead, sometimes you have to pat your teammate on the back. You just have to do whatever you need to to win.” said Banks.
However, the Panthers did not end the second quarter without a point; kicker Leonardo Cabrera's 46- and 36-yard field goals gave them the advantage heading into the break.
At halftime, the Mighty Marching Panthers and the Essence dance line captivated those in attendance. The band paid tribute to Atlanta native rapper Rich Homie Quan by performing hit song “Lifestyle," which fans sang along to.
David Wright, CAU's quarterback, opened the quarter with a rushing touchdown, resulting in a 19-6 score. Allen University got the ball back and scored, making the game 19-12 heading into the fourth quarter.
The battle continued into the fourth quarter. Allen came out and went on an 80-yard scoring drive taking the lead with just over three minutes left in the game. The Panthers fought back, driving back down the field and scoring a touchdown, leaving little time for Allen to retaliate.
Defensive Line Coach Bull Jones feels that the game came down to the wire because of the relationship these two teams have.
“That’s where our current head coach came from, so it was a tough game for us,” said Jones. He also emphasized the importance of playing until the final whistle.
“It’s all about that fourth quarter and I think we just rose to the occasion,” said Jones.
The CAU defense bent but didn't break, forcing a fumble at their one-yard line to improve to 2-0 for the first time since the 2017 season. CAU will look to remain undefeated at Florida Memorial University on Saturday, September 14.
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