LEXINGTON, Va. — The VMI Keydets achieved their first victory of the season on Saturday, narrowly defeating the Furman Paladins 21-17 thanks to an impressive defensive play by Eric Rankin and a touchdown run by JoJo Crump.

In a pivotal moment late in the first half, Rankin executed a strip-sack on quarterback Trey Hedden, then scooped up the fumble at the 40-yard line of Furman and maneuvered down to the 4-yard line. He displayed remarkable agility by recovering the ball midair after it was momentarily knocked loose. Just two plays later, Crump pushed through for a touchdown, extending VMI’s lead to 21-10.

Furman struggled with turnovers throughout the match, committing three total and failing to convert on two occasions while deep in VMI territory during the second half. Despite outgaining VMI in total yardage, 412 to 177, and achieving 26 first downs compared to VMI’s nine, they couldn’t capitalize.

In the second quarter, Hunter Rice scored a two-yard touchdown to complete a seven-play, 75-yard drive, placing the Keydets ahead 14-10. Earlier in the game, Chandler Wilson had thrown a 17-yard touchdown pass to Ethen Horne, which accounted for VMI’s initial points.

Furman managed to trim VMI’s lead late in the third quarter; Carson Jones connected with Brock Chappell for a 4-yard touchdown pass. However, a final drive from the Paladins concluded with Shamus Jones’ interception, sealing the game for the Keydets.

For Furman, Hedden and receiver Colton Hinton teamed up for a significant 43-yard touchdown pass, and kicker Ian Williams added a field goal to contribute to their first-half scoring. Gavin Hall was notable on the ground, rushing for 121 yards on 13 carries for Furman.