BLUEFIELD, Virg. (SESN) — In a fiercely contested Appalachian Athletic Conference (AAC) battle, the Reinhardt Eagles triumphed over the Rams of Bluefield University with a final score of 24-16. The sunny weather set the perfect stage for this important clash that keeps Reinhardt in the running for the conference title.
The game started explosively as Tyress McKey returned a kickoff 95 yards for a touchdown just 44 seconds into the first quarter, setting an electrifying pace. McKey has been one of the top returners in all of the NAIA this season, and his touchdown ties an NAIA record for Most Touchdowns in a Season from a Kickoff Return. McKey now shares this record with Stoney Burns (Bethel, 2014), Austin Coleman (Saint Francis, 2011), Denodus O’Bryant (Underwood, 2009), and Tard Smith (Dakota State, 1993). The Eagles are blessed to have two great returners in McKey and Tyshun Jordan; both of them can turn one play into six points every time they touch the ball. Both are a nightmare for opposing coaches to deal with, whether it is in special teams or Reinhart’s offense. This season, McKey has 14 kickoff returns for a total of 506 yards (36.1 average) and four touchdowns from the returns.
Reinhardt secured a halftime lead with a score of 17-13, bolstered by significant plays, including J. Paulk’s 37-yard touchdown reception in the second quarter. The momentum continued into the third quarter when Jamarion Walker rushed 10 yards to add another touchdown for Reinhardt, solidifying their lead. This was Reinhardt’s only score in the second half, however, they held Bluefield to just one field goal, securing their path to victory. Walker surpassed the 100 yard mark today rushing with 101 total.
Key players made pivotal contributions across the board. Taylor Jackson III, in a commendable performance, completed 10 passes for 104 yards, and one touchdown pass.
Defensively, Keon McGhee and Cortez Brown stood out with vital tackles and pass breakups, McGhee adding an interception to his credits. Brown led the team with 7 tackles and McGhee had 4, which tied a host of Eagles on defense.
Nolan Marshall added to his season sack total along with Daniel O’Neil – both had one sack apiece against the Rams.
Special teams also shone, Alex Hanson delivered impeccably with two field goals and three perfect PATs for six total points for the Eagles., while Tyress McKey‘s kickoff return touchdown was a game highlight.
Looking ahead, the Eagles, now holding a 5-4 record, are set to confront Kentucky Christian at Ken White Field next Saturday. The win keeps Reinhart breathing in the conference for a possible title and playoff berth. They received some help from Point University today as the Skyhawks knocked off the Bears of UPike. There is plenty of football left to play, but a light was turned on today for a few teams in the AAC, and the final games have much interest.
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