By Devin McCullough
With a 31–0 road shutout victory over No. 20 Valdosta State on Saturday afternoon, UNC Pembroke made a national statement. In addition to dominating the Blazers, the Braves rose to No. 24 in the most recent rankings after the game thanks to a stifling defense and explosive plays through the air.
The difference in the game was evident in turnovers, even though Valdosta State outscored UNC Pembroke by a small margin in total offense (332–325). The Braves only made one turnover, compared to the Blazers’ five, which included three interceptions and two lost fumbles. Throughout the game, the Braves’ defense was unrelenting, forcing rushed passes and taking advantage of every error.
The Braves’ lead was increased to 31–0 in the second half when Jamiel Davis intercepted a pass and returned it 45 yards for a touchdown, dashing any thoughts of a Valdosta State comeback. This was one of the game’s most significant defensive plays. The Braves recorded three interceptions that day, including this one.
Marcus Martin and Tre Robinson both scored points offensively. With 11 of 17 passes for 119 yards, including a 15-yard touchdown pass to Que Kennedy late in the second quarter, Robinson set the early pace. After assuming control in the second half, Martin had an instant impact. In the third quarter, he found Kennedy once more for a 74-yard touchdown bomb. Kennedy finished with two touchdowns and over 100 receiving yards, torching the Blazers’ secondary and providing the big plays UNC Pembroke needed to put the game out of reach.
This was UNC Pembroke’s second straight win over Valdosta State. It also marked the first time the Blazers were shut out since 1991, snapping a 34-year scoring streak. The Braves now lead the all-time series 3–1.
Now ranked No. 24 in the nation, the Braves (4‑1) are turning heads in Division II football and proving they belong among the country’s elite. With momentum building, they’ll look to keep climbing when they head to Erskine (0-4) on October 4th.