Johnson C. Smith University’s backup quarterback Marvin Payne Jr. was named CIAA rookie of the week.
With JCSU facing a 20-0 deficit against Chowan University with four minutes remaining before halftime, Payne, of West Palm Beach, Fla., came in and threw a 39-yard touchdown strike to junior receiver Jeremy Franklin (Casselberry, FL).
Payne found Franklin again in the third quarter for a 12-yard touchdown catch. The touchdown drew JCSU to within one possession (20-14) and capped off a four-play, 80-yard drive.
That, however, was as close as the Golden Bulls would get, and JCSU eventually lost to Chowan 33-22.
Payne completed 13 of 24 pass attempts for 186 yards, three touchdowns and one interception. He also rushed for 46 yards.
With Saturday’s loss, JCSU fell to 3-6 overall and 2-4 in the CIAA.
