The North Carolina Central Eagles opened their 2026 campaign on August 29 with a 30‑42 loss to Texas Southern University in Houston, Texas.
Key Performances
The Tigers secured their first season‑opening victory since 2019, fueled by a blocked punt that set up a 34‑yard return for a touchdown and a series of explosive plays that kept the Eagles on the back foot.
Freshman quarterback Nelson Layne made an immediate impact, throwing for 131 yards while adding 116 rushing yards, and he accounted for two rushing touchdowns, including a 60‑yard scramble in the first quarter.
Texas Southern answered with a 25‑yard pass from Cam'ron McCoy to Jaquan McGee, a 2‑yard rushing score by Layne, and a 20‑yard run by Jacob Washington that capped the scoring, while kicker Riley Daniels contributed three field goals to keep the Eagles within striking distance.
The Eagles are slated to host Elizabeth City State University at O'Kelly‑Riddick Stadium, with kickoff set for 6 p.m. local time and the matchup streaming live on the MEAC Network.