Danville, Va. – The Southern Virginia University football team turned in a historic performance on the road Saturday, defeating Averett University 46-14. The win marked the Knights' first 2-0 start since 2019 and the most points scored in a single game since joining NCAA Division III.
The Knights set the tone early with a suffocating defense, forcing a quick three-and-out to open the game. Quarterback Devin Watson then engineered a 16-play, 89-yard drive capped by a touchdown pass to Henry Audette for the first score of the night.
Southern Virginia's offense continued to roll in the first quarter with Watson connecting through the air to multiple receivers before Marcus Sollers punched in a rushing touchdown to make it 14-0.
The Knights' defense kept the Cougars pinned deep and soon broke the game open. Britton Tidwell forced a fumble on a punt attempt, and Ty Smith recovered in the end zone to push the lead to 20-0. Moments later, Watson hit Jireek Washington for another touchdown, extending the lead to 27-0 just six minutes into the second quarter.
Averett's struggles continued as Smith forced another fumble, this time recovered by Cade Hanson, setting up Watson's nine-play drive that he finished himself with a rushing score for a 33-0 halftime lead.
The second half opened with a bang as Watson connected with Jalen Lackey for a 63-yard touchdown on the third play of the half. After Averett finally got on the board, Southern Virginia answered with a bruising drive capped by Roger Adam's rushing touchdown to close the third quarter up 46-6. The Cougars added one late score, but the Knights coasted to the dominant 46-14 victory.
Watson had an outstanding night, completing 22 of 29 passes (75.9%) for 295 yards, three touchdowns, and one rushing score. Adam, Watson, and Sollers each added rushing touchdowns to balance the offense.
Defensively, the Knights were relentless once again. Spike Adams led the way with six tackles and an interception, while Hanson and Smith each recovered fumbles. The unit also broke up 10 passes and limited Averett to just 2.8 yards per carry and 37.5% passing.
Southern Virginia now turns its attention to the final non-conference test of the season, traveling to Keystone College on Saturday, September 20th, at 1:00 PM.
For the most up-to-date information and details on the team, visit knightathletics.com and follow @knight_ftbl on Instagram or X.