Baylor ends 8-game home losing streak in 55-27 win over ACU
WACO, Texas (AP) — John Lovett rushed for 115 yards and three touchdowns, JaMycal Hasty added 102 yards with two scores and Baylor beat FCS team Abilene Christian 55-27 in a season opener Saturday night.
The Bears piled up 606 total yards and scored their most points since the 2016 season while snapping an eight-game home losing streak. They were 0-6 at home last year in coach Matt Rhule's first season.
Returning starting quarterback Charlie Brewer and graduate transfer Jalan McClendon from North Carolina State combined to throw for 311 yards.
McClendon was particularly sharp, hitting 10 of his 13 passes for 173 yards with touchdowns on his first two drives. Brewer was 8 for 15 for 138 yards with an interception.
Cal transfer Billy McCrary ran for 141 yards and a touchdown for Abilene Christian. Luke Anthony completed 25 of 38 passes for 224 yards with two TDs and an interception.
THE TAKEAWAY
Abilene Christian: This was the first time the Wildcats had tested themselves against a Texas team from the highest level of college football since 1949. They didn't have the personnel to match the Bears up front, especially on their defensive line, but had some big plays that allowed them to keep the game from getting completely out of hand.
Baylor: The Bears showed balance and explosiveness on offense with 311 yards passing and 295 rushing. They were also able to grind out yardage on the ground when they needed to on third-and-short situations, an area in which they struggled last season. The defense still has work to do, however, after allowing 466 yards (246 passing and 220 rushing).
UP NEXT
Abilene Christian will open its home schedule Saturday against Division II Angelo State.
Baylor goes on the road Saturday to try and avenge last year's 17-10 loss to UTSA
