CMU kicks off Day 1 with impressive win over SCSU, 21-6

The Central Michigan Chippewas won its fifth-straight home opener Thursday by defeating the South Carolina State Bulldogs, 21-6.

The Chippewas' (1-0) Zurlon Tipton had a career day, racking up 199 all-purpose yards and a touchdown, while the defense held the Bulldogs (0-1) to just 137 yards of total offense, only seven in the second half.

The Chippewas' defense forced six punts by SCSU in the first half, allowing Central's quarterback Ryan Radcliff to connect on two deep touchdown passes for a 14-3 lead at the break. Radcliff finished the game 14-for-27 for 168 yards, two touchdowns and two interceptions while completing a pass to 10 different receivers.

CMU's defense held strong against the Bulldogs all night, including a fourth quarter in which they held the opposition to negative 19 yards of offense. Steve Winston led the way with seven tackles and a half-sack in the game, while Jahleel Addae, Armond Staten and freshman Cody Lopez each had six tackles.