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HBCU Football: WSSU travels to Livingstone with CIAA hopes hanging in the balance

HBCU Football: WSSU travels to Livingstone with CIAA hopes hanging in the balance

Series overview:

  • Series record: Winston-Salem State University (WSSU) leads the all-time series over Livingstone College 47-14-1.
  • Location: The two NC HBCU schools are approximately 40 minutes apart.
  • Current series: Livingstone has won the last two competitions
  • Next matchup: This game is scheduled for October 19, 2024 and continues a decades-long rivalry with WSSU in a dominant position in the series.

Livingstone College (2024 season so far):

  • Record: 5-2 overall, 3-1 in CIAA.
  • Offensive performance:
  • Livingstone was competitive and scored goals 146 points (20.86 per game), just below the value of their opponents 149 points.
  • Their charging attack is balanced, led by Mohamed Nyanamukengawho has 575 rushing yards and average values 95.83 yards per game.
  • The Blue Bears also threw 1,042 meters And 9 passing TDs but have thrown 8 interceptionsa point of concern.
  • Defensive performance:
  • The defense counted 20 bags in the season and has effectively forced turnovers, with 11 interceptions.
  • The special teams were a bright spot with one Average punt return of 13.57 yardsbut the team struggled with a low third-down conversion rate (27.08%)

Winston-Salem State University

  • Record: 5-2 overall, 3-1 in CIAA.
  • Offensive strength:
  • WSSU scored 163 points (23.29 per game) and outscore their opponents by almost a touchdown per game
  • The ground game is led by Trevon Hesterwith 638 rushing yards And 4 touchdownsaveraging 91.14 yards per game.
  • quarterback Daylin Lee was efficient and went for 1,231 meters with 9 tank destroyers just against it 3 interceptionswhich contributes to an average of 177.43 yards per game.
  • Defensive performance:
  • WSSU’s defense just allowed 116 points over seven games, average 16.57 points are allowed per game.
  • The Rams were opportunistic and pressing 9 interceptions and recording 12 bagswhile limiting opposing quarterbacks to just 5.75 yards per attempt.
  • The most important playmakers include Justin Flemingwho has 53 tackles And 3 interceptionsincluding a Pick-Six.
Livingstone College won the 2023 game on a last-minute field goal. (Steven J. Gaither/HBCU Gameday)

Key Matchups to Watch:

  • Livingstone’s offense vs. WSSU defense:
  • Livingstone’s rushing attack will be put to the test against a WSSU defense that barely allows 123.6 rushing yards per game. Can Nyanamukenga continue his strong season against a disciplined Rams front?
  • On the other hand, Livingstone’s pass protection must neutralize WSSU’s accumulated pass rush 12 bags until now
  • WSSU’s rushing attack vs. Livingstone’s defense:
  • WSSUs Trevon Hester will look to exploit Livingstone’s defense, which made it possible 871 rushing yards. If Hester leaves early, it could be a long day for the Blue Bear.

Forecast:

Both teams enter the game at 5-2 WSSU is tied within the CIAA and has the edge due to its historic dominance and more balanced team performance. If Livingstone’s defense can force turnovers and keep the game close, it could cause an upset, but The firepower of WSSU and more consistent play might prove to be too much in this HBCU matchup.

Prediction of the final result: WSSU 28, Livingstone 17.