JACKSON, Tenn. – The Lane College football team played host to the Central State University Marauders on Saturday as the college celebrated homecoming at Lane Field.
The Dragons jumped out to an early two touchdown lead behind a 36-yard touchdown reception by Anthony Evelyn followed by a 28-yard touchdown run from NyJal Johnson.
Central State would not go quietly as they put up 10 points in the second quarter to make it a three-point game at halftime.
The Marauders continued their scoring in the third quarter, adding a touchdown to give the visitors the lead.
With the Dragons trailing early in the 4th quarter, Carl Pitts caught a tipped pass and took it 64 yards for a touchdown to give Lane the lead, 20-17.
After the Dragons fell behind again late in the final quarter, Pitts caught a pass over two defenders on 4th and 18 and took it 68 yards to the Central State 1-yard line, setting up a quarterback sneak from Johnson a few plays later to give Lane the win.
Johnson was efficient all game, completing 13-of-18 passes for 246 yards and two touchdowns. The quarterback added 48 yards on the ground and two rushing touchdowns.
Pitts finished with 3 receptions for 147 yards and one touchdown.
The defense was stingy all game, forcing three turnovers and only allowing 294 yards. Jeremiah Malbroue had an interception in the first quarter that set up Lane’s second touchdown while Varian Terry intercepted a pass on the goal line as time expired to seal the victory for the hosts.
Tyshun Gaiter led the way on defense with 10 tackles, 2.5 tackles for loss, and 1.0 sack.
Lane will be on the road next week as they travel to Savannah, Georgia to take on the Tigers of Savannah State University. Game time is scheduled for 3:00 PM Eastern Time.
