Chandler Brayboy leads Elon to victory with two kickoff returns vs Albany
- Chandler Brayboy returned kickoffs for two touchdowns during a game in Albany, leading to a significant victory for Elon.
- Brayboy also contributed to the passing game, catching four passes for 55 yards and reaching 2,000 career receiving yards.
- Elon's win improved their record to 2-5 overall and 1-2 in the Coastal Athletic Association.
On Saturday afternoon in Albany, N.Y., Chandler Brayboy made history by becoming the first player from Elon to return two kickoffs for touchdowns in a game against an FCS opponent. The Phoenix faced a 7-0 deficit early on after Jojo Uga scored a touchdown for Albany. Brayboy quickly shifted momentum by returning the ensuing kickoff 94 yards for a touchdown, tying the game. He then returned another kickoff for a touchdown in the third quarter after Albany had scored a second touchdown, sealing the game with a 93-yard return. Alongside his remarkable kickoff returns, Brayboy had an impressive performance in the receiving department, catching four passes for 55 yards and joining an elite group by surpassing 2,000 career receiving yards, making him the sixth player in Elon history to achieve this milestone. Meanwhile, TJ Thomas Jr. contributed significantly to Elon's win with 138 rushing yards on 19 carries, marking the third time this season he topped 100 rushing yards and scoring a touchdown in his sixth consecutive game. On the opposite side, Albany struggled offensively, with quarterback Myles Burkett passing for 214 yards but leading a team that could only muster 20 yards rushing on 25 carries. Elon's victory improved their record to 2-5 overall and 1-2 in the Coastal Athletic Association, while Albany fell to 3-4 overall and 1-2 in league play. Brayboy's historic performance not only showcased his talent but also invigorated the Phoenix's season as they look to build on this momentum.