In a thrilling season-opening college football game on Saturday night, the Citadel Bulldogs secured a narrow 22-21 victory over Charleston Southern. Garrison Johnson’s one-yard touchdown run with just under two minutes remaining sealed the win for the Bulldogs, breaking a 19-game losing streak and giving second-year coach Maurice Drayton his first win.
Charleston Southern initially took a commanding 21-3 lead in the second half, but the Bulldogs mounted a remarkable comeback. Johnathan Bennett and Johnny Crawford III each contributed with 1-yard rushing touchdowns, while the Citadel defense stepped up and forced crucial turnovers to shift the momentum in their favor.
The game came down to the wire as Charleston Southern attempted a 44-yard field goal in the final seconds, but Patrick Fisher-Butler missed the kick to secure the Citadel’s hard-fought victory. Quarterback Bennett played a pivotal role for the Bulldogs, passing for 170 yards and rushing for 55 yards, while Charleston Southern’s Rob McCoy led his team with 290 passing yards and 40 rushing yards.
The intense rivalry game showcased resilience and determination from both sides, with the Citadel ultimately emerging victorious in a dramatic fashion. The Bulldogs’ win marked a significant turning point in their season, setting a positive tone for the games ahead.
