Citadel secures first SoCon win with late TD against VMI
- The Citadel achieved its first Southern Conference victory, defeating VMI 13-10.
- The game highlighted both teams' offensive struggles, with minimal yardage gained.
- Johnathan Bennett's late touchdown pass was pivotal in clinching the win for The Citadel.
In a closely contested Southern Conference matchup, The Citadel secured their first conference victory of the season with a narrow 13-10 win over VMI in Lexington, Virginia, on October 19, 2024. The game featured limited offensive production from both teams, with The Citadel managing to combine for just 415 yards of total offense. The Bulldogs had struggles on third down, failing to convert on 11 attempts; however, they showed resilience by converting two out of three fourth-down opportunities. The Citadel's rushing attack only amassed 107 yards on 47 carries. VMI started strong with a touchdown from Hunter Rice early in the second quarter, putting them ahead 10-6 at halftime following Caden Beck's successful field goal. The Citadel responded with Ben Barnes' two field goals in the first half, maintaining the pressure on the Keydets. As the game progressed, Johnathan Bennett proved crucial for The Citadel, throwing a 43-yard touchdown pass to Tyler Cherry in the fourth quarter, which ultimately decided the game. The Citadel’s quarterback also contributed as a rusher, gaining 46 yards on 22 carries, demonstrating the team's reliance on ground game despite limited success overall. On the other side, VMI struggled significantly through the air, converting only two of their fourteen third downs. This victory offers a ray of hope for The Citadel in what has been a challenging season thus far, while VMI continues to seek their first win of the season.