CHARLESTON, S.C. — The Citadel jumped ahead early Saturday at home in Charleston, then watched No. 24 East Tennessee State score the rest of the way in a 34-16 Southern Conference loss at Johnson Hagood Stadium.
The Bulldogs built a 10-0 first-quarter lead on a Quentin Hayes 17-yard touchdown run and a 29-yard field goal by Evan Kelly. ETSU answered to start the second quarter with a defensive touchdown after a forced fumble near the goal line.
Running back TJ Peyton finished with 110 rushing yards and an 85-yard touchdown run in the third quarter that helped seal the outcome. ETSU also blocked a punt and returned it for a touchdown to stretch the lead.
The Citadel fell to 2-4 overall and 0-3 in the Southern Conference. ETSU improved to 5-2 and 3-0 in league play. Xavier Hill was one of four quarterbacks used by the Bulldogs and threw for 81 yards and a touchdown.
The Citadel last beat the Buccaneers on Sept. 10, 2022, in a 20-17 home contest. Kickoff weather concerns across the Lowcountry framed the weekend slate as storm remnants moved through the region.
East Tennessee State is off next weekend before traveling to face VMI on Oct. 24. The Citadel heads to College Station, Texas, to play Texas A and M next Saturday.
