9/1/2024
HUNTINGTON, W.Va. (WMUL-FM) — Marshall opened its football season with a dominant 45-3 victory over Stony Brook on Saturday night at Joan C. Edwards Stadium. The win showcased the debut of offensive coordinator Seth Doege’s air raid offense and North Texas transfer quarterback Stone Earle.
Earle, who was named the starting quarterback after an offseason of speculation, saw his first snaps delayed by an hour-long weather interruption. When play resumed, Marshall’s offense wasted no time. AJ Turner, listed as the third-string running back, broke loose for an 80-yard touchdown run to give the Thundering Herd an early 7-0 lead.
Marshall added a 45-yard field goal in the second quarter, capping a methodical drive anchored by seven rushing plays. Earle found wide receiver Elijah Metcalf in the left corner of the end zone late in the half, sending Marshall into the locker room with a 17-0 advantage.
In the second half, the Thundering Herd fully embraced Doege’s aerial attack. Metcalf hauled in his second touchdown reception in the third quarter, one of four touchdown passes Marshall quarterbacks delivered after halftime. Freshman Cole Pennington, the final quarterback to take the field, made his mark with a touchdown pass to Bralon Brown. The score was the first collegiate touchdown for both players.
Pennington, a native of Versailles, Kentucky, became the second generation of his family to throw a touchdown for Marshall. His father, Chad Pennington, was a standout quarterback for the Herd in the late 1990s.
Marshall’s defense stifled the Seawolves, limiting them to a single field goal. The Thundering Herd outgained Stony Brook 476-193 in total offense.
The Herd will look to build on its strong start as it prepares for two consecutive road games against Power Four opponents, Virginia Tech and The Ohio State University.
Marshall (1-0) travels to Blacksburg, Virginia, next Saturday to face The Hokies.