August 29, 2022

By Kevin Waters

Alabama State topped Howard 23-13 in a week zero contest. The celebrated MAEC SWAC Challenge attendance of 21,088 was among the top 5 attended games for the challenge. It was a game of first for Alabama State. It was the first game for Head Coach Eddie Robinson and the first for vaulted freshman QB Dematrius Davis. For Howard it was a chance for the school & MEAC to grab some headlines in a SWAC dominated media cycle.

Howard jumped out first with 12 play 51 yard drive capped by a 33 yard field goal by Dylan Green. Alabama State struck back after a Howard turnover with a 3 yard scoring plunge by Ja'Won Howell. The 2nd Quarter started with an 11 yard TD pass from Dematrius Davis to Isiah Scott. The 1st half ended on an 18 play 72 yard drive by Howard capped off by another field goal by Dylan Green. Alabama State took a 13-6 lead into halftime.

Alabama State struck first in the 3rd quarter with a 21 yard run by running back Jacory Merrit. Howard went scoreless in the 3rd quarter after 3 punts and another turnover. The 4th quarter saw Howard get back on the board with a 5 yard run by Jarret Hunter. Alabama State topped off the game with a 12 play 63 yard drive and a 29 yard field goal by Nathaniel Elchner.

Statistically Alabama States freshman QB Dematrius Davis finished 16-23 for 184 yards with another 55 yards on the ground. Howard QB Quinton Williams finished 17-33 for 141 yards. Jacory Merrit from Alabama State lead all rushers 15 carriers for 67 yards. Isiah Scott from ASU lead all receivers with 4 catches for 83 yards. Howsrd’s Kenny Gallup was the games leading tackler with 8 stops and 1 sack.