‘Two really good teams competing’: Braves, Broncos expect another defensive slugfest in Two Rivers Classic

Members of the UNC Pembroke and Fayetteville State football teams take a group photo at the Two Rivers Classic Kickoff Show Tuesday in Fayetteville. Pictured, from left, are Braves defensive end Jamae Blank, Braves quarterback Colin Johnson, Braves coach Mark Hall, Broncos coach Richard Hayes, Broncos safety Kolby Merritt and Broncos offensive lineman Michael Todd.

FAYETTEVILLE — During his days at Chowan, or in last year’s debut at UNC Pembroke, when Mark Hall’s teams have faced Fayetteville State the result has always seemed to be a close, low-scoring contest that comes down to a play or two in the final minutes.

It’s applied to the Two Rivers Classic rivalry between the Braves and Broncos too, even predating the tenures of Hall or FSU’s Richard Hayes, as four of the last five meetings have been decided by four points or less with both sides tallying less than 20.

Both Hall and Hayes expect more of the same on Saturday when the teams meet at 6 p.m. at Luther “Nick” Jeralds Stadium in Fayetteville.

Story continues

TRENDING NOW

LATEST LOCAL NEWS