Racers take first win of season 27-18 from Valparaiso

The Murray State Racers defeated the Valparaiso Beacons 27-18 for their first win of the season in front of 11,000 fans at Roy Stewart Stadium.

Murray State (1-2) compiled 388 total yards of offense, using a perfectly balanced ground and air attack with a 194-yard passing performance, and 194 yards on the ground. 

Quarterback Collin Shannon went 11 of 17 for 121 yards before being injured, and Jim Ogle completed 7 of 13 for 73 yards, a touchdown, and an interception in relief. Trey Firestone led the Racers with three receptions for 62 yards.

Tyrell Campbell led the Racers on the ground with 117 yards on 14 carries. Mykel Allen had 31 yards and a touchdown on 11 carries and caught a touchdown. Jawaun Northington had 27 yards and a touchdown on seven carries.

On defense, Klayton Ingram led the Racers with seven tackles and Jayden Walker had six tackles. Brooks Esplin snared the team's first interception of the season.

Valparaiso (1-1) finished with 305 total yards, generating 249 yards through the air behind quarterback Rowan Keefe, but was held to just 56 rushing yards.

The Racers next travel to Stillwater, Oklahoma, to face off against Big 12 opponent Oklahoma State. Kickoff is scheduled for 6 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 19.


(Photo MSU Athletics)