ELIZABETH CITY, N.C. — Despite a competitive first half and another strong outing from quarterback Christopher Perkins, the Elizabeth City State University football team dropped a 37–18 decision to nationally ranked No. 17 Virginia Union on Saturday afternoon at Roebuck Stadium.

Perkins led the Vikings' offense, accounting for both of ECSU's offensive touchdowns. The sophomore threw for 83 yards and two scores, connecting with Ka'Trez Bracey on a 16-yard strike late in the second quarter and adding an 8-yard scoring pass to Joe Griffin earlier in the frame. Perkins also added 34 yards on the ground.

Defensively, the Vikings made momentum-shifting plays in the third quarter. D'Andre Tolson provided the highlight of the day with a 28-yard interception return for a touchdown, pulling ECSU within 21–18 midway through the third. However, Virginia Union's rushing attack proved too strong down the stretch.

The Panthers (5–1, 3–0 CIAA) leaned on running back Curtis Allen, who finished with 185 rushing yards and two touchdowns. Quarterback RJ Rosales threw for 180 yards and two scores, both to receiver Keon Davis, who tallied 174 yards on just five catches.

ECSU (1–5, 1–3 CIAA) moved the ball effectively at times, finishing with 198 yards of total offense, but Virginia Union's depth and ball control (32:41 time of possession) helped them pull away late.

Defensively, Chris Calhoun paced the Vikings with 11 tackles, while TreShaun Harris added six stops and Sir'Sean Ingram and Jaevon Branch each recorded tackles for loss.

The Vikings will look to bounce back next weekend when they travel to Virginia State for a CIAA matchup on Saturday, Oct. 18. Kickoff is set for 2 p.m. in Petersburg, Va.