VSU Blazers rally for 27-23 victory over Delta State on senior night

VALDOSTA — The Valdosta State Blazers overcame an early 21-7 deficit to defeat Delta State 27-23 on senior night at Bazemore-Hyder Stadium, earning a berth in the Gulf South Conference Championship game.

Delta State scored on three consecutive possessions to open the game, taking a 21-7 lead in the first quarter. The Statesmen struck first on their third drive, then answered immediately when VSU quarterback Jameson Holcomb handed off to Sean Pascall, who sprinted to the end zone from the 19-yard line.

Delta State extended their lead when Carter Coolard caught a touchdown pass. The Blazers closed the first half with a 44-yard field goal, trailing 21-10 at halftime.

Fourth quarter rally seals victory

VSU trailed 23-20 entering the fourth quarter when their defense forced a crucial turnover on downs. With 12 seconds remaining and the Blazers in the red zone, Holcomb found Jaheim Arnold in the corner of the end zone for a touchdown that put VSU ahead 27-23.

Delta State had six seconds for a final drive, but Rance Connor intercepted the pass to secure the victory.

The win marked the second consecutive victory over a ranked conference opponent for the Blazers.

“They played an unbelievable game past that first quarter,” said Coach Craig. “Didn’t give up any points past the first quarter there. Gave us the confidence to be able to go for it down here. Even when we didn’t get it, they had our back. Got us the ball back and gave us a chance to win it again.”

The victory advances VSU to the GSC Championship game against West Florida. A win in that game would send the Blazers to the playoffs.

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