Record-setting HBCU running back ends career with tough loss

On By Littum

Virginia Union’s remarkable season ended with a tough 49-14 loss to top-ranked Valdosta State in the NCAA Division II playoffs. The game also marked the final career game for Jada Byers, one of the most electric running backs in recent HBCU football memory. Held at Bazemore-Hyder Stadium, the game featured Valdosta State’s high-powered offense and suffocating defense that was too much for the Panthers to overcome.

The game started competitively, with Virginia Union’s defense forcing Valdosta State to grind out their opening score. However, Valdosta State struck first with an 8-yard touchdown run by Alfonso Franklin, who would be a key figure throughout the game.

Virginia Union responded in the second quarter with an impressive 18-play, 75-yard drive that was capped by a 7-yard touchdown run by Jada Byers. This narrowed the gap to 14-7, but Valdosta State’s offense erupted with three unanswered touchdowns before the half, including two long scores from quarterback Sammy Edwards to Rodney Bullard. The Blazers took a commanding 28-7 lead into halftime.

In the second half, Valdosta State continued to dominate, with a 62-yard touchdown pass to Samuel Curry and another long strike to Bullard putting the game out of reach. Virginia Union added a late touchdown pass from RJ Rosales to Reginald Vick Jr., but it was too little, too late.

Virginia Union running back Jada Byers soars. (Steven J. Gaither/HBCU Gameday Photo)

Remarkable achievements

  • Jada Byers (Virginia Union): The top HBCU running back this season carried the ball 22 times for 109 yards and a touchdown.
  • RJ Rosales (Virginia Union): The quarterback threw for 88 yards and a touchdown while avoiding turnovers.
  • Virginia Union Defense: Shamar Graham led the effort with 12 tackles, including a tackle for loss.
  • Sammy Edwards (Valdosta State): The quarterback was outstanding, throwing for 302 yards and four touchdowns, often connecting with Rodney Bullard, who hauled in three touchdowns on five receptions for 158 yards.
  • Alfonso Franklin (Valdosta State): Balanced the Blazers’ offense with 64 rushing yards and two scores.

An HBCU season to remember

Despite the loss, Virginia Union’s 10-3 season reflects a strong campaign that included two NCAA playoff victories. Jada Byers finishes his career as the all-time leading rusher in Virginia Union history, a mark he surpassed earlier this season. Coach Alvin Parker’s squad showed flashes of brilliance but could not sustain momentum against the nation’s top team. Valdosta State advances as a clear championship favorite and shows why they hold the No. 1 ranking.