For the first time since 2016, The Eagles from North Carolina Central University defeated the Aggies of North Carolina A&T 28-13. The Eagles were efficient when they needed to be and capitalized on mistakes from A&T. Central won despite A&T out gaining the Eagles 357-269. So, what was the difference in the game? Here are 3 reasons why Central won and A&T lost.
Central’s Improvement in the Trenches: The past few seasons the Aggies were just better in the trenches than Central. Coach Trei Oliver felt his offensive line was healthy and improved, and it showed on the field. Central’s improvement led to their skilled players making plays. Davius Richard had an effective game, going 20-32 for 200 yards passing and 54 yards rushing on 13 carries.
Turnovers and Special Teams: A&T only had one turnover, but it was costly one. As the Aggies were driving to possibly score another touchdown, Zach Yeager threw a costly interception on a slant route that took the air out of A&T sails. Central’s special teams would also make a huge play, blocking a punt with 1:31 left in the first half. The Eagles would score just a few plays later. Central needed to win the turnover battle and have special teams play well and that’s exactly what happened for them.
3rd Down Efficiency and Penalties: The Aggies didn’t do themselves any favors with their penalties. A&T had nine penalties for 95 yards, which may not seem like too much, but those penalties always seemed to come at costly times during the game. Central had eight penalties for 65 yards. Central was more efficient on 3rd down. The Eagles were 10-16 on 3rd down while the Aggies were 6-15. Central’s efficiency on 3rd down led them to winning the time of possession 34:53 to 25:07.
A&T will have to move on quickly past this game as they travel to North Dakota State this coming Saturday. Central will take on another team down I-40 this coming Saturday as they take on the Rams of WSSU.