Panthers Fall Short During Homecoming

Oct 10, 2023

The Panthers entered homecoming week searching for their first win of the season.

WORDS: Areion Swain

PHOTO: Clark Atlanta Sports

With the lively homecoming atmosphere set, the Clark Atlanta Panthers took the field to battle against the University of Central State Marauders. The Panthers battled, but it wasn’t enough as they fell to the Marauders, 48-21.

The Panthers entered homecoming week searching for their first win of the season. Meanwhile, the Marauders look to continue their win streak after beating Savannah State University last week.

In the first half, the Panther’s rushing attack looked promising. Junior running back Jeremiah Gibbs showed strength and led the team in rushing yards with 83 yards on 11 attempts. Gibbs also scored a touchdown in the second quarter, making the score 7-3, giving the Panthers their only lead in the game. After that, the Marauders scored 17 unanswered points, extending the lead to 20-7 at the half.

The passing attack wasn’t efficient, but quarterback Heath Williams Jr. threw for 218 yards on the day with 17 completions on 30 attempts. On the receiving end, junior Devon Newson led the Panthers in receiving with 121 yards for the game, his longest reception being 42 yards. Running back Jeremiah Gibbs contributed out of the backfield with four receptions for 31 yards.

The Panther’s offense posted 403 yards on the day, only four fewer yards than the Marauders offense. With the Panthers moving the ball well on offense, winning the first down battle 22-21, penalties would be their cryoconite this game. The Panthers were called for 10 penalties, resulting in 105 yards.

The mighty Panthers head off to Alabama next week to play Tuskegee University. For the season finale, the Panthers faced off against Morehouse College in the Battle of the AUC (Atlanta University Center) on November 4th.