Tyriq Starks orchestrated a 10-play two-minute drill and Matt Conord kicked a game-winning 43-yard field goal as Howard rallied to defeat Florida A&M 10-9 in the Orange Blossom Classic on Saturday. Starks, in his first collegiate start, went 17 for 28 with 14…
Why it matters
- Tyriq Starks showcased impressive poise in his first college start, leading a critical scoring drive in the final moments of the game.
- Howard's victory highlights the team’s resilience, bouncing back from a challenging position to secure a win in a tightly contested match.
- The game-winning kick from Matt Conord underscores the importance of special teams in close games, emphasizing their potential to be game-changers.
In an electrifying showdown at the Orange Blossom Classic, Tyriq Starks demonstrated remarkable skill and composure during a crucial two-minute drill, guiding Howard University to a dramatic 10-9 victory over Florida A&M on Saturday. The game, which was closely fought throughout, saw Starks, in his inaugural collegiate start, completing 17 of 28 passes for a total of 214 yards. His performance proved instrumental in clutch moments, ultimately leading to the decisive score.
With only two minutes left on the clock, Howard found themselves in a challenging position. The drive began with urgency, as the team needed to cover a significant distance to secure a win. Starks took command, executing a series of well-timed passes that kept the chains moving and the clock ticking. His ability to read the defense and find open receivers was pivotal during this high-pressure situation, demonstrating both his talent and readiness to lead the team under pressure.
As the seconds dwindled, the Bison reached a critical point in the game. It was here that Matt Conord was called upon to attempt the game-winning 43-yard field goal. The stakes were high, and the pressure was palpable. Conord stepped onto the field with determination, and after a well-executed snap and hold, he launched the ball through the uprights, sealing the victory for Howard. His kick not only secured the win but also showcased the essential role that special teams play in the dynamics of college football.
Florida A&M, despite the loss, displayed a strong defensive effort throughout the game. Their defense managed to keep Howard from finding the end zone for most of the match, and they capitalized on their opportunities, scoring nine points with a mix of field goals and a touchdown. However, they couldn't maintain their lead in the final moments, a testament to Howard’s resilience and strategic execution.
The significance of Starks’ performance cannot be overstated. In his first college game, the young quarterback handled the pressure of a close contest with confidence. His ability to connect with receivers and manage the game clock effectively was impressive, indicating a promising future for both him and the Howard offense. Coaches and fans alike will be eager to see how he builds on this experience in subsequent games.
This victory marks a crucial moment for Howard's football program, which is looking to build momentum this season. With a solid start, the team hopes to capitalize on this victory and continue to improve as they navigate through their schedule. The coaching staff will likely use this game as a reference point for future performances, emphasizing the importance of closing games strong and believing in their ability to win under pressure.
As for Florida A&M, the team will need to regroup and assess their performance as they prepare for upcoming matchups. While they displayed moments of excellence, the inability to secure the win in a tightly contested game will serve as a learning opportunity going forward.
Overall, the Orange Blossom Classic provided an exciting backdrop for what is sure to be an intriguing season for both teams. Starks’ debut and Conord’s clutch kick will be remembered as key moments in this thrilling encounter, setting the stage for a competitive year ahead in college football.
