PEMBROKE, N.C. — West Virginia State (5-3, 4-2 MEC) couldn't keep pace with UNC Pembroke (3-5, 3-3 MEC), suffering a 62-17 loss on Saturday afternoon, at Grace P. Johnson Stadium. The Yellow Jackets initially showed promise but couldn't contain the Braves' relentless offense.

WVSU struck first, taking an early 3-0 lead on Brennen Schmitt's 25-yard field goal during the opening quarter. After UNC Pembroke responded with a touchdown, the Yellow Jackets quickly reclaimed momentum. Joel Felder broke free for a 22-yard rushing touchdown, giving WVSU a 10-7 advantage.

However, Pembroke seized control with a string of scores. Down 41-10 late in the second quarter, quarterback Caleb Jantuah led the Yellow Jackets on a much-needed drive. He capped the possession with a well-placed 23-yard touchdown pass to Amare Ary, trimming the halftime deficit to 41-17.

Unfortunately, WVSU couldn't carry that spark into the second half, as Pembroke outscored the Yellow Jackets 21-0 after the break.

Despite the loss, Joel Felder stood out with 94 rushing yards and a touchdown, while Jantuah threw for 77 yards and a score. Ary was WVSU's top target with three receptions for 40 yards, including the 23-yard touchdown. On defense, Nicholas Fannin and Corlyn Witcher recorded five tackles each, while Nick Blake provided a silver lining with two interceptions.

WVSU's returns home to Lakin-Ray Field at Dickerson Stadium on Saturday, Nov. 2nd with a Senior Day matchup against the Frostburg State Bobcats. Kickoff is scheduled for noon.