MOON TOWNSHIP, Pa. — Robert Morris University defeated West Liberty University 28-14 on Friday at Joe Walton Stadium. The Colonials capitalized on a balanced offensive attack, scoring two rushing touchdowns and two passing touchdowns. West Liberty managed to find the end zone twice in the second half, but it was not enough to overcome the Colonials' consistent scoring throughout the game.

In the first quarter, Robert Morris capitalized on a strong offensive drive, taking the lead with a 10-yard touchdown pass from Zach Tanner to Thomas Lee at the 5:17 mark, followed by a successful extra point from Jayson Jenkins. West Liberty struggled to gain momentum as Kohl Meisman faced heavy pressure, resulting in two sacks for a total loss of 8 yards. After a punt by Morgan Williamson, the Colonials continued their offensive push, with Ethan Shine and Donta Whack contributing significant rushing yards, including a 13-yard gain by Whack to the 2-yard line as the quarter concluded. Robert Morris led 7-0 at the end of the quarter, reflecting their efficient offense and stout defense.

The second quarter began with Robert Morris extending their lead to 14-0, as Donta Whack rushed for a 2-yard touchdown at the 14:56 mark, followed by a successful extra point by Jayson Jenkins. West Liberty responded with a drive led by Meisman, who completed a series of passes including a 28-yard connection with Trey Singleton. However, the drive stalled after a series of penalties and a turnover on downs at the Colonials' 30-yard line. Robert Morris' subsequent possession ended with a fumble recovery by West Liberty's Junus McGraw, but the Hilltoppers' ensuing drive concluded with an interception by Israel Petite in the end zone. Despite another strong push by West Liberty in the final minutes, their drive ended with a turnover on downs after a sack by Ameer Johnson and Okey Egbuziem at the RMU 10-yard line.

The third quarter began with Robert Morris capitalizing on a fumble by West Liberty's Hunter Patterson at the WLU 23-yard line, leading to a touchdown pass from Tanner to Jaqai Carter at 10:15. Jenkins' successful extra point extended the Colonials' lead to 21-0. West Liberty responded with a sustained drive, highlighted by Meisman's precise passing, culminating in a 10-yard touchdown run by Jaedon Alston with 3:06 on the clock. Williamson's extra point brought the score to 21-7. Robert Morris quickly advanced into West Liberty territory, largely due to a 28-yard run by Shine, setting up a tense finish as the quarter ended with the Colonials at the WLU 1-yard line.

The fourth quarter began with Robert Morris extending their lead to 28-7, following a 1-yard touchdown run by Shine and a successful kick by Jenkins at 14:56. West Liberty responded with a determined drive, as Meisman connected with Levi Gullion for a 10-yard touchdown pass, reducing the deficit to 28-14 with 9:14 remaining. Following a defensive stand that included a forced fumble by Sajed Abdel-Momin, West Liberty regained possession, but Meisman's efforts were thwarted by an interception from Tyler Henry with 1:14 left, ending West Liberty's comeback hopes. Robert Morris secured their victory with a series of kneel downs to run out the clock.

Meisman completed 20 of 34 passes for 219 yards, adding one touchdown while rushing for 19 yards on 11 attempts. Singleton led the receiving corps with 78 yards on six catches. Justice Lawrence contributed defensively with six tackles, a forced fumble, and a fumble recovery. Alston found the end zone on one of his three rushing attempts, totaling 17 yards.

The next challenge for West Liberty is a road game against Frostburg State on Saturday, September 20. Kickoff is set for 1 p.m. in Frostburg, Md.