Mallory runs for 3 TDs, sparking Central Connecticut State comeback in 31-29 win over Albany

Central Connecticut State beats Albany 31-29

NEW BRITAIN, Conn. — James Mallory ran for three touchdowns, including the go-ahead score with 42 seconds left in the third quarter, to help Central Connecticut State rally for a 31-29 win over Albany, N.Y., on Saturday.

Trailing 23-14 at halftime, Mallory scored on runs of 14 and 1 yards to put the Blue Devils (7-1, 5-0 Northeast Conference) up 28-23 after the third quarter.

Joe Izzo’s 28-yard field goal extended the Blue Devils’ lead to 31-23 in the fourth. Vinny Esposito’s 8-yard touchdown to Justin Gannon with 59 seconds left pulled the Great Danes (6-3, 5-1) within two.

Mallory, who also had a 79-yard rushing score in the first, finished with 204 yards rushing on 23 carries. Aubrey Norris was 10-for-19 with 184 yards and an interception, and Josue Paul had five catches for 131 yards.

Albany’s Esposito threw two touchdowns and two interceptions.