Typically, a 78-point offensive explosion on the gridiron would result in national media attention.

Fortunately, at least for Chowan University, they were not the only victims of a lopsided loss on Saturday.

While the Hawks, playing “up” against an FCS opponent for the second time this season, did have 78 points hung on them at Sacred Heart College, at least they made a respectable showing on offense by putting 35 points on the scoreboard.

Don’t feel bad, Chowan, your margin of defeat (43 points) wasn’t as bad as a few other games on Saturday.

Perhaps the most lopsided score came up in Columbus, Ohio where back-up quarterback Kenny Guiton set a school record with six TD passes, all in the first half, as the Buckeyes routed hapless Florida A&M, 76-0.

Over in Louisville, Kentucky, the Cardinals defense surrendered a mere 30 yards of offense vs. Florida International University in a 72-0 win.

Down in Miami, the Hurricanes scored on their first seven possessions in a 77-7 spanking of Savannah State.

Waco, Texas was the scene of another butt-whipping as Baylor University scored 10 touchdowns, two on interception returns, in a 70-7 victory over Louisiana-Monroe.

Meanwhile, Idaho State packed their bags for Seattle and went home saddled with a 56-0 loss vs. Washington.

In the Deep South, Dak Prescott, starting in only his third game, threw for 233 yards and a touchdown, rushed for 53 yards and two touchdowns and caught a 36-yard touchdown pass to lead Mississippi State over Troy 62-7.

So, in comparison, the Hawks at least put some points on the board in their loss. As a matter of fact, Chowan led 14-0 early in the game, but turnovers proved costly as Sacred Heart scored three defensive TDs (one interception return and two fumble returns) plus returned a block punt for another score. Take away those 28 points and the finale isn’t as lopsided.

Chowan did move the football, but had to turn to the airwaves to do so. CU quarterback Cameron Stover threw for 319 yards and four touchdowns. Back-up QB Dain McFarland accounted for 84 passing yards and one touchdown pass.

Hopefully, the Hawks can use the experience gained by playing a rugged non-conference schedule when they open CIAA action at home this coming Saturday (Sept. 28) where they host Shaw University at 6 p.m.

Let’s all be there to support the Hawks!

Within the local high school ranks, Northampton High School appears to be on their way to another outstanding season. The Jaguars, ranked eighth in the state 1-A poll, are coming off a 49-8 spanking of Southeast Halifax this past Friday night. NCHS is unbeaten at 5-0. I’ll admit I picked this game wrong….I thought Southeast may have something for Northampton this year.

Gates County really needed a win this past Friday after three straight losses. The Red Barons hosted winless Mattamuskeet and drilled the Lakers, 49-0.

Ditto for Northeast Academy. The Eagles soared on Friday, bouncing back from a lopsided loss vs. Halifax Academy by beating up on Lawrence Academy, 64-26.

Bertie County is playing much better after a slow start and a coaching change. Will Harrell is pointing the Falcons back in the right direction, despite Friday’s home-opening loss (27-22) vs. West Carteret.

And what’s up with Hertford County? Despite a 3-2 start, the Bears have hit a wall over the past three games by not being able to produce any points in the second half of any of those contests. Two resulted in losses after HCHS led at halftime. They better get their act straight as conference play begins this Friday and Edenton is coming to town with a win on their mind.

Cal Bryant is Editor of Roanoke-Chowan Publications. He can be contacted at cal.bryant@r-cnews.com or 252-332-7207.