GRAYSON, Ky. – Kentucky Wesleyan Football (0-1, 0-0 G-MAC) fell to Kentucky Christian (1-0, 0-0 AAC) 24-44 tonight to start the 2026 campaign. The Knights combined for 35 points in the first two quarters while holding the Panthers to just a field goal after the first half. Despite three touchdowns from the Panthers in the second-half, it wasn't enough to spark a comeback at Knights Stadium.

The Knights opened the scoring in the first quarter with a five-yard run from Vaughn Johnson to cap off a six-play drive. Kentucky Wesleyan answered minutes later with a field goal from Maston Joyner before Amarion Grant punched in another touchdown for the Knights, who then converted on the two-point play. Kentucky Christian then turned on the heat, scoring three unanswered touchdowns in the second quarter to lead 35-3 at the half.

The Panthers got back on the board twice in the third quarter thanks to a run from Nick Schindler and a 33-yard pass to Zavion Harris. The Knights capitalized as well, with Jamareon Dale to lead 42-17 heading into the fourth quarter. Kentucky Christian converted a safety to go up 44-17 before Tyler Thompson connected with Ja'Mere Smith for the Panthers for a final score of 24-44.

Mason Griffin led the way from the pocket for the Panthers, going 12 of 25 for 125 yards and a touchdown. Dominick Hollis led the way on the ground with 17 rushes for 72 yards while Will Ray and Camron Brogan had a team-high four receptions for a combined 44 yards.

Kentucky Wesleyan returns to Steele Stadium on September 12^th for their 2026 home opener against William Jewel at 7 p.m. CT. Single game tickets can be purchased here, while season tickets can be purchased here.

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