Morgan State University, a rising program in HBCU football, has shown promise this season, but questions remain about its offensive consistency as it prepares for a game with Merrimack. With key matchups on the horizon, the Bears will need to find stability on offense to compete at a high level. Can they get on track in time?
Key Players Leading the Charge
Running back Myles Miree has been a consistent force in the backfield, rushing for 276 yards and four touchdowns. His ability to make explosive plays, like his 49-yard run earlier this season, has made him a key player for the Bears. But the offense will need contributions from more than just Miree to turn things around.
At quarterback, Morgan State has options in Duce Taylor and Tahj Smith. Both have had moments of success this season. Taylor has been highly efficient, completing 78 percent of his passes for 326 yards and two touchdowns. Smith, on the other hand, has shown promise as well, passing for 427 yards and two touchdowns over four games. Regardless of who leads the offense in the coming games, both quarterbacks will need to elevate their play and build stronger connections with their receivers—especially with key target Andre Crawley, who leads the team with 289 receiving yards and 2 touchdowns.
Offensive Struggles: Can They Turn It Around?
While the Bears have averaged 24.17 points per game, inconsistency has been a recurring issue, especially in its FCS losses. In its 22-3 loss to Stony Brook, the offense was unable to find its rhythm, a pattern that must change if they want to remain competitive. Improving third-down efficiency, currently sitting at 38.24%, will be crucial in sustaining drives and keeping the defense off the field.
Morgan State’s offensive line also needs to provide better protection, allowing either Taylor or Smith the time to make plays downfield. The talent is there, but the execution needs to improve, particularly in red-zone opportunities where the Bears have struggled to convert drives into points. This will be a problem if they want to earn an HBCU national title.
Defense: The Steady Backbone
While the offense has been inconsistent, Morgan State’s defense has been a stabilizing force. Allowing just 15.33 points per game, the defense has kept the team in games, even when the offense has faltered. Elijah Williams and Bryan Stukes have been standout performers, with Williams recording 5.5 tackles for loss and Stukes contributing with key turnovers.
The defense’s ability to generate turnovers and apply pressure on opposing offenses will remain critical as Morgan State’s offense looks to find its footing.
The Road Ahead: Key Matchups
As Morgan State heads into the most important stretch of the season, it will need more consistent performances from both their quarterbacks—whether it’s Taylor or Smith under center. Crawley will be a key factor in the passing game, while Miree and the rest of the backfield will need to continue producing on the ground.
The Bears have the talent to compete in upcoming games, but success will depend on whether the offense can improve its efficiency. Converting third downs and finishing drives in the red zone will be crucial for the Bears to reach their potential. Morgan State’s defense has proven they can keep the team in games, but it’s up to the offense to take the next step and get on track.
If Morgan State can solve their offensive issues, they have the chance to make a deep run and establish themselves as a top team in HBCU football this season.