August 30, 2025 – Morehead, KY
In a season-opening matchup that pitted NCAA Division II Allen University against Division I Morehead State, the Yellow Jackets walked into Jayne Stadium with something to prove — and nearly walked out with the upset.
Despite falling 38–31 in front of a crowd of 5,900, Allen sent a powerful message: this team is no underdog — it's a contender.
Fast Start, Strong Finish
The game opened with both teams trading early blows. After giving up an opening touchdown, Allen responded with a statement drive — nine plays, 81 yards, capped by a 7-yard touchdown strike from junior quarterback Jamir Dismukes to Michael Bowman, tying the game at 7–7 late in the first quarter.
Allen's offense showed rhythm, balance, and poise. In the second quarter, Fabian Duncan powered in from the 1-yard line to bring the Yellow Jackets within three, but a late Morehead State field goal extended the Eagles' lead to 24–14 at the half.
Still, Allen walked into the locker room with its head held high. The Yellow Jackets controlled the clock (15:22 time of possession in the first half), committed zero penalties, and earned praise from home team broadcasters for an offense that "seems to move the ball at will."
Back-and-Forth Battle
The second half saw Allen continue its methodical attack. A third-quarter touchdown — an 11-yard connection between Dismukes and receiver Nanders Lawrence — cut the lead to 24–21. After another Morehead score, Sam Herman nailed a 32-yard field goal to bring it to 31–24.
Allen refused to fade. Duncan capped off another drive with his second 1-yard rushing touchdown of the day, trimming the lead to 38–31 with time still on the clock. But Morehead State managed to close the door, using a late possession to run out the clock and secure the win.
A Disciplined and Dangerous Team
The stat sheet told the story of a tightly contested game:
- 409 total yards of offense to Morehead's 414
- 301 passing yards, 108 rushing
- 31 first downs to Morehead's 18
- Just one penalty on 72 plays
- Zero turnovers
- 31:27 time of possession
Allen also went 5-for-6 in the red zone, executing efficiently and staying composed from the first snap to the final whistle.
"This was a tough environment," said Head Coach Cedric Pearl. "To go on the road versus a D-I program and compete the way we did — I'm proud of this team. Extremely proud. We only had one penalty for the whole game. Jamir was outstanding. As a team, we just have to clean up a few mistakes and get ready for Livingstone."
Standout Performances
Dismukes was efficient and composed, completing 25-of-37 passes for 301 yards and 2 touchdowns, with no turnovers. He also added 32 rushing yards on 18 attempts. Duncan finished with 64 rushing yards and 2 touchdowns on 15 carries.
Lawrence hauled in 8 receptions for 96 yards and a touchdown, while Bowman added 6 catches for 68 yards and a score.
On the defensive side, Tryeshon Freeman a Preseason All-SIAC selection, led the team with 11 tackles (8 solo). Allen's defense held Morehead State to just 3-of-8 on third-down conversions, showing resilience and toughness throughout the game.
Next Up: Home Opener vs. Livingstone
Despite the final score, Allen leaves Morehead with momentum — and belief. The performance wasn't just a moral victory. It was a blueprint for what this team can become: disciplined, dynamic, and determined to win.
The Yellow Jackets return to Columbia this week to prepare for their home opener against Livingstone College on Saturday, September 6. Fans can expect a fired-up team ready to defend its home turf.
Kickoff is set for 6:00 PM ET. For updates, follow @AllenUSports and visit www.auyellowjackets.com.
