Gardner-Webb jumps on Robert Morris in conference opener

Jayden Brown scored three touchdowns in the first quarter as Gardner-Webb jumped out to a big early lead and cruised to a 31-16 victory over Robert Morris on Saturday.

Brown scored on a 67-yard catch from quarterback Matthew Caldwell, an 8-yard run and an 8-yard TD reception as Gardner-Webb (2-3, 1-1) took a 21-0 lead.

Garret Fairman, a defensive end from Thomas Jefferson, had an interception and a 17-yard fumble return for a touchdown in the fourth quarter for Robert Morris (2-4, 0-1), which dropped its Big South-OVC conference opener.

Anthony Chiccitt went 26 for 43 for 179 yards for the Colonials, who were held to 33 rushing yards. Tight end Chaese Jackson caught 10 balls for 58 yards.

Brown finished with three catches for 77 yards and 13 carries for 42 yards for Gardner-Webb. Caldwell was 12 for 17 for 162 yards, two touchdowns and an interception.