Urgent Showdown: Albany State Faces Benedict for SIAC Title
UPDATE: An exhilarating clash is set for Saturday, October 14, 2023, as Albany State University visits unbeaten Benedict College in a highly anticipated matchup at Charlie W. Johnson Stadium. With both teams undefeated in the Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (SIAC), the stakes couldn’t be higher — the winner will not only secure a critical postseason berth but also gain the right to host the SIAC Championship Game in mid-November.
Kickoff is scheduled for 2:00 PM ET, and fans can catch the action live on ESPN+. This game serves as a potential preview of the championship showdown, given both teams’ dominant performances this season. Albany State enters the contest with a record of 6-1 overall and 6-0 in league play, while Benedict holds a perfect record of 7-0 and 6-0 in the SIAC.
This matchup marks the first meeting since the 2023 SIAC Championship, where Benedict decisively defeated Albany State 47-10. Notably, Albany State head coach Quinn Gray emphasized that this is not merely a revenge game.
“Yes, it is an important game. But that’s because it’s a conference game and it’s the next one on the schedule,” Gray stated confidently after his team’s 7-3 victory over Tuskegee last week. “Our process does not change. We can’t allow traveling to be an excuse for losing a football game.”
The Golden Rams face significant challenges leading up to this crucial game, particularly at the quarterback position. Preseason SIAC Player of the Year Isaiah Knowles has been sidelined for three consecutive games due to injury. His backup, Jaydon Kinney, also left last week’s game with an injury, leaving true freshman Zhay’Lyn Bell to lead the offense.
In his first major appearance, Bell showcased his potential, completing 10 of 21 passes for 68 yards and adding 54 rushing yards on 11 carries. Gray praised him, stating, “I told him I was proud of the way he played. Obviously, there needs to be some corrections, but he made crucial plays to keep us moving.”
On the other side, Benedict continues its winning streak following a thrilling 31-27 victory against Edward Waters, where quarterback Darius Ocean orchestrated a game-winning drive capped off by a 16-yard touchdown pass to Triston Morgan with just 29 seconds remaining. This win solidifies Benedict’s position as a top contender, currently ranked No. 24 nationally in the AFCA Division II Coaches’ Poll.
For Albany State, this game represents perhaps the most significant challenge and opportunity under Coach Gray’s leadership. For Benedict, it’s a chance to prove that their brief dip last season was merely a detour.
As the clock ticks down to kickoff, the excitement builds. The outcome of this game could redefine the landscape of the SIAC and set the stage for the championship.
Stay tuned as we bring you updates on this thrilling matchup that could define the conference’s future.
