Albany State dominates Fort Valley 48-3 in Fountain City Classic

COLUMBUS — Albany State defeated Fort Valley 48-3 Saturday in the annual Fountain City Classic, advancing to the SIAC championship game for the third time in four seasons.

The Golden Rams scored early and often, with quarterback Isaiah Knowles connecting with Jamarion Davis for a 45-yard touchdown pass to cap a two-minute opening drive. Seven different Albany State players found the end zone in the victory.

Defense dominates Fort Valley offense

Albany State’s defense recorded five sacks, led by Ty Glenn’s pressure on the quarterback. The unit has allowed just one touchdown in its last four games.

Fort Valley entered the game averaging 106 rushing yards per contest but managed only 30 yards on the ground against the Golden Rams defense.

“Coach Cash, harps on it all the time. We got to fly to the ball every play, every snap. The Dirty Blue defense is nothing to be played with,” said Aydin Henningham.

Second quarter surge seals victory

A 28-point second quarter put Albany State in control heading into halftime. The performance marked the first time since 2021 that the Golden Rams scored 40 or more points against Fort Valley.

In 2021, Albany State went on to win the school’s 16th SIAC championship after a similar dominant performance against Fort Valley.

“Since fall camp, they told us this was going to be the team that’s going all the way. And we believed them. We was glad they believed in us. So we just all came together. We did what they said we had to do,” said Tiant Wyche.

Head coach Quinn Gray has emphasized consistency throughout the season, and the team delivered in the regular season finale.

Albany State will host Benedict in the SIAC championship game Saturday at 1 p.m. at the Coliseum.

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