September 6, 2025 — Fairfield Central High School (Winnsboro, SC)
What began as a highly anticipated home opener under the lights turned into a night of eerie momentum swings, downpours, and untimely turnovers as Allen University fell 28–17 to Livingstone College in front of a passionate crowd at Fairfield Central High School.
Despite a career performance from sophomore running back Fabian Duncan, the Yellow Jackets couldn't overcome four costly turnovers and a disruptive lightning delay late in the third quarter that ultimately derailed a comeback bid.
Slow Start, Stormy Middle
Allen opened the game with promise but quickly found themselves in an early hole due to two first-quarter turnovers, including one that Livingstone capitalized on for a defensive touchdown. The miscues stalled the Yellow Jackets' offensive rhythm, and the Blue Bears took a 21–10 lead into halftime.
Rain began to fall steadily midway through the third quarter, and with :34 seconds remaining in the period, a massive crack of thunder overhead forced both teams off the field due to a lightning delay. Fans scrambled for shelter as weather halted the game for over an hour—draining some of the energy from the stadium and forcing both squads to reset in the locker rooms.
Duncan Shines Bright in the Downpour
An offensive bright spot for Allen was Fabian Duncan, who delivered a breakout performance that hinted at the future of the Yellow Jackets' ground game. The sophomore carried the ball a career high 26 times for a 198 rushing yards, which was also a career high while adding one touchdown, routinely slicing through Livingstone's front seven with vision and physicality.
Allen's offensive line, praised throughout fall camp, held their ground all night—creating consistent running lanes and offering protection even during stalled drives.
Too Little, Too Late
When play resumed after the delay, the Yellow Jackets showed signs of life. Duncan's touchdown run brought the score to 28–17, but the offense couldn't capitalize on subsequent possessions. A final fourth-quarter drive fizzled near midfield, sealing the result and allowing Livingstone to escape with the road win.
The Yellow Jackets finished with over 300 total yards, but their four turnovers and lack of red zone efficiency proved too much to overcome against a disciplined Livingstone defense.
Coach Pearl's Postgame Thoughts
"Obviously it hurts," said head coach Cedric Pearl after the game. "You don't ever want to lose at home, especially after the effort this team gave. But I'll say this—our offensive line came to work, and Duncan showed everybody what kind of back he can be. We're not where we want to be yet, but we're putting the pieces together. The response this week will tell me everything I need to know about this team."
Next Up: Yellow Jackets Hit the Road
Allen (0–2) will now look to regroup as they prepare to go back on the road next Saturday, September 13, for a key match-up as the Yellow Jackets open up conference play against Lane College]. With Duncan gaining momentum and the defense showing flashes of shutdown potential, the Yellow Jackets remain a team with more to prove and plenty left in the tank.
