In their matchup against Fordham, Central Connecticut’s football team was able to control both sides of the ball, earning a 24-13 victory. The win puts the Blue Devils at 2-2 on the season as they look to capture back-to-back Northeast Conference championships.

Despite allowing two touchdowns, Central’s defense was key in the win.

The team came away with two turnovers as linebacker Mike Mushaw forced a fumble and defensive back Grant Ibeh intercepted a pass, returning it 19 yards for a touchdown. Following the pick six, CCSU ranks as the second-best scoring defense and third overall defense in the NEC.

Five different Blue Devils were able to come away with a sack including senior linebacker Kenneth Keen who also led the team with six tackles. CCSU held Fordham to just 256 total yards, including just 72 on the ground.

Central also made an impact on special teams as defensive back DJ Exhillhome was also able to block a punt. Central now has three blocked punts on the season, tied for first in all of the Football Championship Subdivision (FCS).

On the offensive side of the ball, the Blue Devils were led by the play of quarterback Jacob Dolegala. Dolegala completed 13-of-25 passes for 168 yards and two touchdowns. While the senior quarterback threw his first interception of the season, his two touchdown passes put him just eight shy of the career school record, 45. Dolegala is also fourth in the NEC with 756 passing yards.

Tight end Arthur Gilmore was on the receiving end of both of Dolegala’s touchdowns, adding 40 yards in the process. Coming into the game, Gilmore had never caught a touchdown pass as a member of the Blue Devils.

On the ground, six different players saw a carry as the team collectively ran for 97 yards. Junior Drew Jean-Guillaume led the way with 15 rushes for 45 yards. On the season, Central is tied for first in the NEC in rushing touchdowns with eight as well as fourth in rushing yards per attempt.

Outside of Dolegala’s one interception, the Blue Devils were able to limit mistakes on the offensive side of the ball. They were able to run effectively, allowing their passing game to open up for long gains. On the defensive side, they never allowed the Rams to get in a rhythm and were constantly attacking the quarterback.

The Blue Devils will hope to keep their momentum going and earn another win before conference play as they next take on another Patriot League foe in Lafayette.