Rams Fall to Reinhardt in Homecoming Matchup Despite Record-Breaking Day from Edwards

Photo courtesy of Bluefield University’s Athletic Communications Department.

Bluefield University’s football team was unable to overcome an early deficit Saturday, October 17, falling 35-14 to Reinhardt University at Mitchell Stadium during its Homecoming game.

The Rams struggled to contain Reinhardt’s offense in the opening quarter, surrendering three touchdowns and entering the second quarter trailing 21-0. The Eagles added another score early in the second quarter to build a 28-point advantage before Bluefield found its footing offensively.

The Rams had an opportunity to get on the scoreboard earlier in the second quarter after the defense forced a fumble. Linebacker Chase Harris forced the turnover, and linebacker Payton Spratt recovered it near midfield. The Rams advanced to the Reinhardt seven-yard line but could not convert the possession into points, turning the ball over on downs.

After the Eagles extended their lead to 28-0, the Rams responded with their first touchdown of the afternoon. Running back Kyree Edwards broke free for a 33-yard run, and fellow running back Rayjuan Traynham added gains of 11 and 22 yards to move Bluefield into scoring position. Edwards capped the drive with a six-yard touchdown run with 2:32 remaining in the first half. The extra point attempt was unsuccessful, leaving the Rams behind 28-6.

Bluefield’s defense continued to create opportunities as the game progressed. Linebacker Andre Plummer forced and recovered a fumble just before halftime, giving the Rams another takeaway. However, the offense was stopped by the Eagles’ defense and could not convert the turnover into points before the break.

The Rams opened the second half with a promising drive, moving into Reinhardt territory behind Edwards’ running game. The possession ended on fourth down, and the Eagles capitalized with a 51-yard touchdown pass to increase their lead to 35-6.

Bluefield continued to battle defensively, recovering two fumbles in the second half. Harris recovered one in the third quarter, while defensive back Jharez Williams recovered another early in the fourth. Despite starting both possessions in favorable field position, the Rams were unable to score, leaving points on the field during a game in which they needed to capitalize on every opportunity.

The Rams found the end zone once more late in the fourth quarter. Edwards contributed runs of nine and 12 yards before quarterback Zack Paulk connected with him on a 25-yard pass to move Bluefield inside the Reinhardt five-yard line. Edwards scored on a one-yard run with 5:23 remaining, and Paulk connected with freshman wide receiver Kobe Johnson for the two-point conversion to make it 35-14.

Isaiah Bandy attempted an onside kick following the score that was almost recovered, but Reinhardt was able to come down with it and ran out the remaining time.

Bluefield’s passing game struggled to find consistency throughout the contest, finishing with just 62 passing yards. The Rams’ limited production through the air put added pressure on the ground game, particularly as injuries and off-field issues at wide receiver affected the team’s available options. Despite the challenges, Bluefield continued to lean on its rushing attack in an effort to keep pace with Reinhardt.

Edwards led the Rams on the ground with 154 yards on 28 carries and two touchdowns. He also caught two passes for 33 yards, finishing with 187 total yards from scrimmage. His performance came during a historic season, as Edwards surpassed the previous Bluefield single-season rushing record of 929 yards, set by Alex Martin in 2016, bringing his season total to 962 yards with four games still to go. Edwards also reached 10 rushing touchdowns, tying the program’s single-season record. Traynham contributed 35 rushing yards on five carries, including a 22-yard run.

Even with four defensive takeaways and productive runs from Edwards and Traynham, Bluefield was unable to overcome Reinhardt’s early lead or turn several promising possessions into points.

The loss moved Bluefield to 3-4 overall and 1-1 in Appalachian Athletic Conference play. Reinhardt improved to 4-4 overall and 3-0 in conference action.

The Rams will look to rebound Saturday, October 24, when they travel to face the University of Pikeville in a conference matchup. Kickoff is scheduled for 6 p.m.

Box Score: Football vs Reinhardt on 10/17/2026 – Box Score – Bluefield University Athletics