Furman 31, Presbyterian 21

Sep 22, 2012, 04:25 pm

CLINTON, S.C. -- Hank McCloud scored three rushing touchdowns -- all in the first half -- to lead Furman past Presbyterian 31-21 Saturday for the Paladins' first victory of the season.

McCloud's three early scores got Furman out to a fast start, outscoring Presbyterian 24-0 in the first half.

Three of Furman's first four possessions ended with McCloud in the end zone. The longest came on the fifth play of the game, as McCloud ran 45 yards down the sideline to give Furman the early lead.

Presbyterian (1-3) struggled early running and passing the ball. Mitch McGrath intercepted Blue Hose quarterback Tamyn Garrick, leading to McCloud's third touchdown.

McCloud finished with 78 yards and Jerodis Williams added 136 yards and a score on 23 carries. Furman gained 196 more yards on the ground than Presbyterian.

The Paladins (1-3) avoided their first 0-4 start since 1975, beating Presbyterian for the 14th consecutive meeting.