21 fourth quarter points birth Grambling's 35-14 over MVSU

GREENVILLE — It was a different day, but the same result for Mississippi Valley State.
Like their last “home” game at Greenville-Weston, the Delta Devils’ defense unit stood strong, allowing just seven first quarter points.
But three fourth quarter touchdowns Saturday by Grambling State (6-1, 6-0 SWAC) sprung the Tigers to a 35-14 victory over the winless Delta Devils (0-7, 0-6 SWAC).
MVSU coach Karl Morgan said he was proud of his team’s all-around effort, but he wants his squad to get over the hump before the season concludes.
“I thought the kids played hard and fought hard,” he said. “But we need to get some results at some point in time.”
For two quarters, MVSU stayed close with the nation’s No. 1 team, according to the Sheridan Poll. The Tigers had just one touchdown, which came midway through the first quarter on a 77-yard pass from Danny Reyes to Kiare Thompson.
And the Delta Devils held in check the nation’s No. 2 rusher, Frank Warren, in the first half.
Grambling held a 7-0 lead at halftime.
But Warren finally broke away in the third quarter when he broke loose for a 85-yard touchdown scamper. His second touchdown came in the fourth quarter on a 39-yard run.
By games end, Warren had surpassed the 1,000-yard mark on the season and racked up his second straight 200-yard rushing display. He finished with 209 yards on the ground.
Morgan said plays like Warren’s 85-yard run can’t happen in order for MVSU to get their first victory.
“There was some improvement, but still the same things that bothered us in the past bothered us today — too many big plays.”
MVSU did, however, have a couple big plays of their own — all thanks to lanky receiver Paul Cox.
The junior Louisiana native caught two touchdowns (86, 41 yards) — including one that bounced off a Grambling State defender.
Cox finished with three catches for 137 yards and two scores.
“That needs to happen if you’re going to win a game or two.” (Cox has) been a (one of) the threats we’ve had this year.”
Despite Cox’s efforts, MVSU’s rushing game was non-existent, with Tristian Hudnall leading all Valley running backs with just 26 rushing yards. Quarterback Oliver Hughes had 57 yards on the ground.
Meanwhile, Grambling picked up 257 yards on the ground, while Reyes went 11-of-15 for 259 yards and two touchdowns — to go with two interceptions.
Hughes was rushed from the pocket throughout most of the game. The transfer quarterback finished 8-of-22 for 194 yards and two touchdowns, plus two interceptions.
The Tigers outgained the Delta Devils 516 to 285.
MVSU has three more chances at securing their first victory of the season. But in order for that to happen, the Delta Devils need to find a way to play mistake-free football.
“We have to make (teams) earn what they get. If not, it’s going to be hard for us to catch up,” said Morgan.
Valley will be on the road at Texas Southern next Saturday for a 2 p.m. kickoff. Texas Southern defeated Jackson State on Saturday 21-18.