The Virginia Union University Panthers showcased a commanding performance in the Willard Bailey Classic, overwhelming Shaw University 42-7 on Saturday, Sept. 28, at Willie Lanier Field at Hovey Stadium.

The Panthers’ offense was firing on all cylinders, led by standout performances from running back Jada Byers and quarterback Mark Wright. Byers, who was named the game’s Offensive MVP, rushed for a remarkable 173 yards. Wright complemented the ground game with an aerial assault, passing for 277 yards and three touchdowns.

VUU’s offensive onslaught featured touchdowns from multiple players. Byers and teammate Curtis Allen both found the end zone on rushing plays, while Reginald Vick, Jr., Ricky Key, Jr. and Jaehlan Joyner each caught touchdown passes.

The game statistics tell a story of VUU’s dominance. The Panthers outgained Shaw by a staggering margin, 601 yards to 268. VUU’s air attack accounted for 294 yards, compared to Shaw’s 125, while their ground game racked up 324 yards to Shaw’s 143.

VUU controlled the clock, holding the ball for 35:55 compared to Shaw’s 24:05. The Panthers converted four of nine third downs, while Shaw managed three of 10. Both teams struggled with discipline, with VUU incurring 10 penalties for 105 yards and Shaw six for 45 yards.

The Panthers’ defense was equally impressive, with Jabril Norman earning the Defensive MVP title for his contributions to holding Shaw to just seven points and limiting their offensive production.

VUU Coach Alvin Parker expressed satisfaction with his team’s performance. “We played Panther football today,” Parker said. “The guys did all the things right today, especially the small things. That’s been missing the prior couple of weeks, but they did it right today, and that turned into success.”

This victory brings VUU’s season record to 2-2 overall and 1-0 in CIAA play. The Panthers will look to build on this momentum as they prepare to host Winston-Salem State University in their next game.

VUU will face Winston-Salem State University at 1 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 5, at home on Lombardy Street.