North Carolina Central wins by largest deficit since 1946 in 59-0 romp over Johnson C. Smith

North Carolina Central beats Johnson C. Smith 59-0

DURHAM, N.C. — Keon Williams threw four touchdown passes to lead North Carolina Central to a 59-0 win over Johnson C. Smith on Thursday night.

Williams finished with 110 yards on 14 of 22 passing and rushed for 62 more in the Eagles’ season opener. It was the their most lopsided victory since an 85-0 win against Ft. Jackson on Sept. 21, 1946.

Justin Manning caught two TDs — a 4-yarder in the first quarter and 5-yarder in the second.

While the Eagles dominated the scoreboard, total yards were much closer. North Carolina Central had 298 yards; Johnson C. Smith finished with 233, but had five turnovers.

The Eagles turned two of the Golden Bulls’ turnovers into scores. James Reese returned a 9-yard fumble and Robert Stewart scored on an 83-yard interception.

Ryan Carter had 173 yards on 14 of 34 passing for the Golden Bulls (0-2).