SPORTS
Davidson Football Storms Brevard
In a Heisman-like pose, Wildcat freshman Kendahl Ross outruns the Brevard defense.
DAVIDSON, N.C. – Despite a delayed start and a lengthy weather delay at the end of the second quarter, Davidson football kicked off the 2018 season with a 34-13 non-conference home victory at Richardson Stadium Saturday night.
The Wildcats found the end zone on the third play from scrimmage as sophomore running back Wesley Dugger broke away on a 67-yard scoring scamper to break open the contest just 1:17 into the season.
Davidson’s William Wicks (#1) had 5 carries Saturday night, and gained 89 yards in the ‘Cats’ 34-13 win over Brevard.
The Davidson defense made interceptions of Brevard quarterback Ryan Jordan on consecutive drives. Senior cornerback Nate Campbell returned one 28 yards to set up a William Wicks touchdown, while sophomore Harrison Hill ran a pick back 48 yards for the score to extend the Wildcats advantage, 19-0.
Wildcat sophomore quarterback Tyler Phelps was in on a pair of touchdowns in the second frame, rushing for a three-yard score and connecting with Wicks down the middle of the field for a 36-yard touchdown completion.
Following the delay, the two head coaches agreed to shorten the quarter length to 12 minutes for the third and fourth frames. Brevard found the end zone twice in the half to cut the deficit to 34-13.
With freshman Dreylan Hines first career pick in the third quarter, Davidson tied their 2017 interception mark with three.
Davidson junior Stephen Shank #23 has Brevard’s quarterback Dalton Cole in his sights. Meanwhile, one of the officials tripped over Davidson’s Harrison Hill #2.
Dugger rushed for 118 yards on 17 carries, while Wicks gained 88 yards on five rushes. Harrison Hill led the defensive charge with 8 tackles, while freshman Jeriel Adarquah-Yiadom had his first career sack. Junior Bryce Perry-Martin and freshman Jalen Jefferson also combined for a sack in the winning effort.
“Couldn’t be more excited getting win one for our program,” said head coach Scott Abell. “We had to overcome some obstacles, you know, the weather delays, never good when you’re all excited for your first home game, but the kids handled it well … overall really pleased with our guys and looking forward to next week.”
Davidson returns to action Saturday, Sep. 8 when the Wildcats host Chowan in non-conference action at Richardson Stadium. Kickoff is slated for 7 p.m.
Davidson sophomore Collin Hairr (15) made the catch and made the turn toward the end zone, setting up a first and goal for the ‘Cats. Hairr had two receptions for a total of 20 yards.
Davidson sophomore quarterback Tyler Phelps (#10) looks to the left as he searches for an open receiver.