Central Connecticut Routes Fordham, 33-3
Central Connecticut State picked up their first win of the year in dominant fashion, defeating Fordham of the Patriot League 33-3. After a tough loss at Central Michigan last week, the Blue Devils bounced back in a big way, forcing five turnovers and holding Fordham to just 188 total yards.
The defense set the tone early when Vincent Thomas recovered a Fordham fumble and returned it for a 0-yard touchdown with 11:49 left in the second quarter, giving CCSU a 7-0 lead. The Blue Devils kept the pressure on, forcing Fordham into a safety late in the second quarter to extend the lead to 16-0. Just before halftime, Jack Barnum kicked a 30-yard field goal to give Central Connecticut a 19-0 advantage at the break.
Fordham struggled throughout the game, particularly on third downs, converting just 3 of 18 attempts. Running back Julius Loughridge was the lone bright spot for the Rams, rushing for 127 yards on 15 carries, including a 55-yard run. However, the Rams couldn't find the end zone and had to settle for a 20-yard field goal by Bennett Henderson in the third quarter to avoid a shutout. Fordham quarterback CJ Montes struggled under constant pressure, completing 17 of 36 passes for 141 yards, with no touchdowns and no interceptions, though the team lost three fumbles.
CCSU quarterback Brady Olson led a balanced offensive attack, throwing for 223 yards and two touchdowns despite two interceptions. Olson connected with Donny Marcus for an 18-yard touchdown pass in the third quarter, making it 26-3, and later hit Eli Daniels for a 32-yard touchdown to cap off the scoring. Running back Elijah Howard also contributed with a 24-yard touchdown run in the second quarter as part of his 50-yard performance on 19 carries.
With the win, Central Connecticut State moves to 1-1 on the season after last week’s loss to FBS opponent Central Michigan. The Blue Devils now turn their attention to Saint Francis, who is coming off a big win at Kent State, hoping to build off this victory. Fordham, now 0-2, will look to correct their mistakes and bounce back after another tough loss.
