Tuskegee University falls to JC Smith in Red Tails Classic

Johnson C. Smith University emerged victorious in the Red Tails Classic, defeating Tuskegee University 21-13 at the Cramton Bowl, with an attendance of 8,374 fans.

The game was highlighted by standout performances , particularly from Johnson C. Smith’s Darius Ocean and Quavaris Crouch. Ocean showcased his passing prowess, completing 13 of 25 passes for 161 yards and two touchdowns, while Crouch dominated the ground game with 161 rushing yards on 21 attempts, including a 75-yard touchdown run that set the tone early in the second half.

The first quarter saw Johnson C. Smith take a 7-0 lead with a touchdown pass from Ocean to Brevin Caldwell. Tuskegee University responded in the second quarter with a touchdown pass from Raequan Beal to Karon Taylor, but a missed extra point kept them trailing 7-6. In the third quarter, Crouch’s explosive run extended Johnson C. Smith’s lead, though Tuskegee answered with a rushing touchdown by Johnny Morris III. However, Tuskegee’s failure to convert the extra point left them behind 14-13.

The decisive moment came late in the third quarter when Ocean connected with Caldwell for a 37-yard touchdown pass, sealing the game for Johnson C. Smith. Despite Tuskegee’s efforts, Johnson C. Smith’s defense held firm, preventing any further scoring. The victory marks a significant win for Johnson C. Smith, setting a strong tone for its season.

JCSU will look to improve to 2-0 next week when it takes on Morehouse College next week.

Here are five key plays from the Red Tails Classic between Johnson C. Smith University and Tuskegee University:

1. Darius Ocean’s 7-yard Touchdown Pass to Brevin Caldwell (1st Quarter): This play gave Johnson C. Smith an early 7-0 lead, setting the tone for the game.
2. Quavaris Crouch’s 75-yard Touchdown Run (3rd Quarter): This explosive run extended Johnson C. Smith’s lead to 14-7, proving to be a momentum-shifting play.
3. Johnny Morris III’s 1-yard Touchdown Run (3rd Quarter): Tuskegee closed the gap to 14-13 with this rushing touchdown, but a missed extra point kept them from tying the game.
4. Darius Ocean’s 37-yard Touchdown Pass to Brevin Caldwell (3rd Quarter): This play put Johnson C. Smith ahead 21-13, providing the final margin of victory.
5. Johnson C. Smith’s Defensive Stand in the 4th Quarter: The defense held firm, preventing Tuskegee from scoring and securing the win for Johnson C. Smith.

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