HBCU Football: Morgan State’s tough loss to Merrimack

HBCU football fans saw Morgan State lose a home game 32-24 to Merrimack, where special teams failures and poor pass protection proved costly. Despite dominating time of possession, MSU was unable to correct key errors. Morgan State is now 3-4 on the season and enters a bye week before facing preseason MEAC favorite North Carolina Central in two weeks.

The special teams struggles set the tone

Merrimack opened the scoring on a 99-yard kickoff return by Jermai Corbett, forcing Morgan State to play behind the entire game. The Warriors also controlled field position, averaging 45.1 net yards per kickoff compared to 11.2 for the Bears.

While kicker Beckett Leary converted his only field goal for Morgan State, Merrimack’s Lliam Davis made the difference with four field goals, including a game-winning 39-yarder in the final minute. The Bears’ special teams woes left them little room for error.

Protective breakdown under pressure

Quarterback Duce Taylor completed 24 of 31 passes for 186 yards, but Morgan State’s offensive line struggled to protect him. Taylor was sacked four times, with two of those sacks coming during the Bears’ final drive. Merrimack’s defense kept the pressure on throughout the game, forcing quick decisions and disrupting Morgan State’s offensive rhythm just as they were gaining momentum.

Missed opportunities

Although MSU defeated Merrimack 328 to 172 and controlled possession for nearly 40 minutes, it failed to convert those advantages into points. Important attacks were interrupted by penalties, balls and missed opportunities.

JJ Davis led the rushing attack with 71 yards and a touchdown, while Myles Miree scored two more scores on the ground. However, an inability to capitalize in the red zone, coupled with special teams issues undermined Morgan State’s efforts to secure the win.

Looking ahead

Morgan State will use the bye week to address its special teams and offensive line issues. With a crucial HBCU showdown against North Carolina Central in two weeks, the Bears must make key adjustments to remain competitive in conference play. Another loss could jeopardize their postseason hopes, making it imperative for Morgan State to correct course quickly.

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