Salisbury, NC
— In a thrilling homecoming showdown, the Blue Bears delivered a commanding 43–13 victory over Shaw University, electrifying the crowd and capping off the celebration with a statement win.
The game began with Shaw striking first, as Alexander Marsh ran in a 2-yard touchdown with just under four minutes left in the first quarter. However, Livingstone quickly responded with a defensive gem—
Kenyon Garner forced a safety with 19 seconds remaining in the quarter, putting the Blue Bears on the board at 6–2.
Momentum shifted in the second quarter when
Elijah Alexander powered through for a 2-yard touchdown run, followed by a successful extra point from
Jason Zapata, giving Livingstone a 9–6 lead. Just minutes later, Alexander connected with Ronald Lindsey for a stunning 62-yard touchdown pass, extending the lead to 16–6.
The Blue Bears' defense continued to shine as
Kobe Pringle scooped up a fumble and dashed 18 yards to the end zone, pushing the score to 23–6 before halftime.
In the third quarter,
Kenyon Garner struck again—this time recovering a fumble and returning it 45 yards for another touchdown, with Zapata adding the extra point to make it 30–6. Shaw managed a response with a 6-yard touchdown pass from Marsh to Antrel Gibson, narrowing the gap to 30–13.
Livingstone sealed the win in the fourth quarter with two field goals from Zapata—36 yards and 24 yards—and a final blow from Tristan McClary, who found
Tavion Jackson for a 23-yard touchdown pass, bringing the score to a decisive 43–13.
Livingstone's defense was relentless, forcing multiple turnovers and scoring twice off fumble recoveries. The offense was explosive, with big plays and efficient drives that kept the crowd energized throughout the game.
The Blue Bears look to carry their winning momentum into next Saturday, November 8, as they travel to Charlotte for the Commemorative Classic against Johnson C. Smith. Kickoff is set for 1 pm.