CHARLOTTE — A late-game rushing touchdown and a strong defensive stand in the final minutes secured the Richmond Raider football team’s 32-29 win over Butler on Saturday.
Senior quarterback Kellan Hood was an integral part of the No. 2 Raiders’ victory, recording four total touchdowns.
He used his mobility to find the end zone three times on the ground, and also tossed an 18-yard score to senior wide receiver Trey Thomas.
On the Raiders’ game-winning drive, which was set up by a fumble recovery by senior linebacker Gabe Altman, Hood tacked on runs of 26 and 27 yards. With 3:43 remaining, he rushed in from three yards out for the final score.
Senior running back Nasir Crumpton was responsible for Richmond’s other touchdown, a 70-yard dash during a stretch of the second quarter that saw the Raiders outscore the Bulldogs 19-0.
After giving up two early touchdowns, the Richmond defense settled in and slowed down Butler quarterback Xavion Brower and company.
Senior linebacker Mikey Baldwin recorded two sacks in the second half and senior defensive end J.D. Lampley continued his dominant play, pressuring the Bulldogs and was the first player to meet Brower in the backfield to force a turnover on downs with just over a minute left.
The win made it two straight over ranked opponents on the road to start the season, as the Raiders will now prepare for their first home game against a tough Cardinal Gibbons High School this week.
Below are photos taken by sports editor Kyle Pillar of Richmond’s win over Butler on Saturday.
