WEEK 3 STATS: 8 receptions, 180 rec yds, 2 TD, 22.5 ypc
Ward’s career day propelled Bryant past Ivy League member Brown. The senior receiver made eight catches for a career-high 180 yards and accounted for both of the team’s touchdowns in the 20-16 come-from-behind victory. With Bryant facing a 10-0 deficit, Ward put the Bulldogs on the scoreboard by making a 24-yard touchdown reception 4:13 before halftime. He found paydirt again during the final minute of the third quarter, hauling in a pass from fellow receiver Torrey Dixon on a reverse play and diving for the score. The 37-yard touchdown gave the Bulldogs their first lead of the game at 17-13. Ward helped Bryant add some insurance midway through the final period. With the Bulldogs clinging to a 17-16 lead, Ward converted a 3rd-and-19 play by making a diving catch for a 39-yard gain into Brown territory. Bryant capped the drive with a 24-yard field goal that bumped the lead to 20-16. Helping Bryant capture Ocean State bragging rights, Ward averaged 22.5 yards per reception and seven of his eight grabs resulted in either a first down or touchdown.