DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. – Bethune-Cookman Football concluded its second scrimmage of summer camp on Saturday afternoon at Municipal Stadium, with the defense delivering a dominant performance while quarterbacks Cam'Ron Ransom and Timmy McClain provided valuable offensive reps ahead of the upcoming season.
 
The scrimmage began with transfer quarterback Timmy McClain taking the reigns and the offense scoring a 75-yard touchdown via the ground on the opening play from scrimmage. Cam Ransom, Bethune-Cookman starting quarterback from a season ago, engineered a 12-play drive spanning 58 yards until an interception by Jayden Cummings stalled the drive, producing the first turnover of the day.
 
The defensive performance was later highlighted by multiple three-and-out series and several quarterback pressures resulting in four sacks overall on the day, demonstrating the unit's improved depth and cohesion after two weeks of summer preparation.
 
Head coach Raymond Wododie Jr., now in his third season in charge of the Maroon and Gold, praised the defensive unit's intensity and execution throughout the controlled scrimmage, noting improved communication and physicality compared to the team's first scrimmage earlier in camp.
 
"Our defense really stepped up today and showed the kind of energy we need heading into the season," said Woodie. "They were flying around, making plays, and really setting the tone for practice with our standard of technique, fundamentals, attention to detail and really making that the cornerstone of becoming the coordination of the play."
 
On the offensive side, both Ransom and McClain took significant snaps under center, showcasing their arm strength and decision-making in live-action scenarios. The quarterback competition continues to develop as both signal-callers work to establish chemistry with the receiving corps and demonstrate their command of the offensive system.
 
Also taking snaps on the day was Florida International transferred Amarie Jones, who showed quick footwork.
 
Another offensive player of note was wide receiver Rickie Shaw II, a newcomer from Wofford.
 
"When I first took over in spring 2023, my goal was to develop a player-led team," continued Woodie. "This is the first time that we are seeing that as a staff, and that was evident on the field today."
 
The defensive unit produced two forced fumbles on the afternoon, with linebacker and local product Myron Shafer III in on the action for one of those.
 
"This is a young man that is really challenging to play as a freshman," noted Woodie. "He was a part of a championship culture at nearby Mainland [High], and he just has the ability and skill to fight for a starting job early-on in his collegiate career."
 
On special teams, the B-CU staff continue to evaluate the punters and kickers, with both sophomore Max Tulen and junior transfer Juan Dominguez showcasing talents in the scrimmage. Dominguez booted a 42-yard field goal early, while Tulen provided a deep kick going out-of-bounds at the 10-yard line.
 
The scrimmage served as an important evaluation tool for the coaching staff as they continue to assess personnel and refine schemes with the season opener approaching. Saturday's performance provided encouraging signs for a Wildcats program looking to build momentum in the Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC).
 
The Wildcats will move into game-week preparation beginning next week, looking towards the season opener at FIU on Friday, Aug. 29, in Miami.
 
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