VALDOSTA, Ga. – Warner University Football opened its 2026 season on the road Thursday night, battling NCAA Division II Valdosta State University at Bazemore-Hyder Stadium. Despite a 59-10 setback, the Royals showed flashes of competitiveness throughout the contest, particularly on the defensive side of the ball.
Warner's defense came out ready to compete against one of the nation's established Division II programs, limiting the Blazers to just seven points during the opening quarter. The Royals continued to battle throughout the first half, entering halftime trailing 24-0.
The defensive unit continued to make its presence felt coming out of halftime. Warner opened the third quarter by forcing a safety, cutting Valdosta State's advantage to 24-2 and giving the Royals their first points of the season. The Royals' defense ultimately finished the night with four sacks and 13 tackles for loss, consistently creating pressure and disrupting the Blazers' offense.
Kendrick Smith Jr. led the Royals defensively with 10 total tackles, including 1.5 tackles for loss and a half-sack. Kamryn Bunting added six tackles, two tackles for loss and a sack, while Jai Robinson recorded five tackles, 2.5 tackles for loss and 1.5 sacks. Steven Muin also contributed four tackles, two tackles for loss and a sack.
Offensively, Warner totaled 180 yards, including 117 yards on the ground. The Royals found their biggest offensive spark late in the third quarter when Eric Jones Jr. broke free for a 54-yard touchdown run, putting Warner on the scoreboard offensively and cutting the deficit to 45-10. Jones Jr. finished with 59 rushing yards on just three carries.
The Royals also received contributions from quarterback Raleigh Allen, who completed nine of 22 passes for 54 yards, while Michael Ryan added two completions for nine yards through the air and rushed for 26 yards. Jamarian Robinson contributed 11 rushing yards on three carries.
Warner's receiving corps was led by Joshua Dudley, who recorded one reception for 16 yards, while Yorel Stewart and Fareed Coleman also contributed in the passing game.
While Valdosta State ultimately pulled away in the second half, the season opener provided valuable experience for a Royals squad beginning its 2026 campaign against a nationally established program. Warner's defensive pressure and ability to create negative plays will provide an important foundation as the Royals turn their attention toward their next challenge.
Warner Statistical Leaders
Up Next
The Royals remain on the road next week, traveling to Kentucky for another challenging non-conference matchup against the University of the Cumberlands Patriots. Warner and Cumberlands are set to meet on Saturday, September 12, at 1:30 p.m.
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