Rourke scores 3 TDs, Ohio smothers Hampton 59-0

0:47

Ohio extends lead with rushing TD

Julian Ross takes it up the middle for a 1-yard rushing touchdown.


ATHENS, Ohio -- Backup quarterback Nathan Rourke ran for three touchdowns and the Ohio defense was dominant as the Bobcats opened the season with a 59-0 win over Hampton on Saturday night.

Starting quarterback Quinton Maxwell hit 7 of 9 passes for 100 yards and a score-opening touchdown to Papi White. Rourke had six carries for 50 yards as the Bobcats had 248 yards rushing. Rourke threw for 72 yards.

Although the defense only forced two turnovers, Ohio held Hampton to 108 total yards and just seven first downs. Two Pirates quarterbacks combined for six completions in 24 attempts and 40 yards. The running game finished with 68 yards, most in the fourth quarter.

Rourke scored on an 8-yard run in the second quarter and Julian Ross scored the first of his two touchdowns to make it 20-0 at the half. Rourke added a 13-yard TD run in the third quarter and a 21-yarder in the fourth.