Happy Homecoming: Delta Devils Dominate Lincoln 49–0

A beleaguered Mississippi Valley State football made team history on Saturday afternoon, shutting out Lincoln (California) 49–0 in a historic homecoming win at Rice-Totten Stadium. 

The Delta Devils (1–5) not only earned their first win of the season but did so in record-setting fashion. After a disappointing string of opening games, the Devils came back onto the gridiron with a vengeance. Their defense posted its first shutout in nearly 20 years (their last was in 2008) and the offense scored its most points in a game since 2017. It was MVSU’s largest margin of victory since a 61–6 rout of Texas College in 2009.

Much needed after a demoralizing past five games, Saturday’s homecoming win finally put one in the “W” column for head coach Terrell Buckley. Buckley was brought on in January 2025,  meaning that homecoming secured him his first career victory at MVSU. Another historic moment for the program came from kicker Nina Schiks. She became the first female player to score in a game, going 4-for-4 on PAT attempts.

Dominant Defense

The MVSU defense shut out the Oaklanders (0–6), holding them to an astonishing -35 rushing yards. The Delta Devils tallied nine sacks and three interceptions, with standout performances from Vashun Turner (1), Isaiah Pedack (1), Seth Scott (0.5), Jusden Culpepper (0.5), and Chaunessy Triplett (0.5) giving standout performances. 

Linebacker Jalen Wright played a remarkable game, recording eight tackles (six solo), two forced fumbles, 3.5 tackles for loss, and 1.5 sacks. Defensive backs Xavier Cannaday and Dante Kelly each picked off a pass, while Jamari Stokes returned another 32 yards and recovered a fumble.

Offensive Balance

Norman Taylor spearheaded MVSU’ offensive effort with two scores and 48 yards on the ground, while DePhabian Fant (31 yards), Natwan Webster (12 yards), and Tristen Davis (7 yards) all shouldered their ways into the end zone.

Quarterback Brandon Nunez was put on the field later in the game but still effectively closed the game out. He completed his lone pass: a 30-yard touchdown to Cameron Nelson. Nunez also led all rushers with 70 yards on just six carries, averaging 11.7 yards per attempt.

Kicking Unit Impresses

Special teams also took Saturday as an opportunity to shine. Along with Schiks’ perfect PAT performance, kicker Marko Jovisic went 3-for-3 on extra points and blasted two touchbacks. Marko Dubak also averaged 44.5 yards on two punts.

Follow the Devils

MVSU now turns its attention to next week’s matchup against Alcorn State. The Delta Devils will look to capitalize on their hard-won momentum and string together back-to-back wins for the first time since 2021. Kickoff is set for 2 p.m. Saturday in Lorman, Miss.

Author administrator Corinne Ellington