Virginia Union unleashed a record-breaking offensive onslaught in a 69-7 defeat of Kentucky State to kick off the 2024 football season Saturday.

The Panthers amassed 674 offensive yards, obliterating their previous school record of 623 set against Norfolk State in 1992.

This dominant performance showcased VUU’s potent offense and set a high bar for the season ahead.

Star running back Jada Byers carved his name deeper into VUU lore, rushing for 211 yards. The performance catapulted Byers into second place on the Panthers’ all-time rushing list, leapfrogging Bobby Phillips.

Only Andre Braxton now stands ahead of Byers in the record books.

While the offense dazzled, VUU’s defense proved equally formidable. The Panthers stonewalled Kentucky State’s attack, conceding a mere 90 total yards. The defensive unit etched its own place in school history when Donald Gatling and Jalen Mayo returned interceptions for touchdowns on back-to-back plays — a feat never before accomplished by VUU. Gatling’s 46-yard sprint to the end zone was immediately followed by Mayo’s 25-yard pick-six, sending the Panthers’ sideline into a frenzy.

“Our guys played really well today,” said VUU Head Football Coach Dr. Alvin Parker. “Everybody on offense got to play and make a contribution. We played a lot of guys today and a lot of guys got dirty. All of them made contributions and I’m really happy about that. Anytime you can run up some numbers, it shows how everybody has bought into the system.”

The Panthers’ commanding victory sends a clear message to their rivals as they prepare for their next challenge. Virginia Union will look to maintain this momentum as they travel to Hampton for a 6 p.m. kickoff next Saturday, aiming to build on their impressive season opener.