Central connecticut state falls to central michigan, 66-10

Central Michigan University (CMU) kicked off their 2024 football season in dominant fashion, overpowering Central Connecticut State 66-10. The Chippewas set the tone early and never looked back, showcasing a balanced attack that featured scoring through the air, on the ground, and on special teams.

The Chippewas wasted no time getting on the scoreboard, with Myles Bailey leading the charge. Bailey capped off CMU’s opening drive with a 7-yard touchdown run, putting the Chippewas ahead 7-0. However, Central Connecticut State responded quickly, tying the game at 7-7 with a 75-yard scoring drive.

CMU regained the lead almost immediately when Stephan Bracey Jr. returned the kickoff 87 yards for a touchdown, putting the Chippewas up 14-7. From there, the Chippewas’ offense took control. B.J. Harris extended the lead with a 9-yard touchdown run, and quarterback Joe Labas followed up with two touchdown passes—a 47-yarder to Evan Boyd and a 17-yarder to Solomon Davis. Bailey added another score with a 2-yard run just before halftime, giving CMU a commanding 42-7 lead at the break.

CMU continued to pour it on in the second half. Tristan Mattson kicked a 26-yard field goal to start the third quarter, followed by a 68-yard punt return touchdown from Donte Kent. Labas connected with Solomon Davis again, this time for a 72-yard touchdown pass, before Aakeem Snell capped off the scoring with a 46-yard interception return for a touchdown.

When the dust settled, the Chippewas had scored in nearly every way possible: three touchdowns through the air, two on the ground, one on a punt return, another on a kickoff return, and one on a pick-six. It was a complete team effort that set a high standard for the rest of the season.

Central Connecticut State is back in action 9/7 against Fordham at home.