Coming into Thursday’s nationally televised game with Western Kentucky, Troy was out to prove their legitimacy near the top of the Sun Belt Conference leaderboard.

For 29:45 they did just that. But, it all came crashing down on the final play of the second quarter when quarterback Corey Robinson was drilled by Western Kentucky linebacker Bar’ee Boyd.

Robinson was carted off the field with a head injury and was later transported to Troy Regional Medical Center. Head coach Larry Blakeney said after the 31-26 loss he felt like Robinson would stay overnight for observation.

“My thoughts and heart is out to Corey,” Blakeney said. “I’m really concerned about his injury. I wanna make sure he’s OK as soon as we can and get him well.”

Backup Deon Anthony, who has played regularly as a more mobile change of pace to Robinson’s pocket style, took complete control of the offense in the second half and finished 9-for-16 for 147 yards and a touchdown.

The Trojans (3-3, 2-2) jumped out to 10-0 lead then claimed a 17-7 advantage in the second quarter on a fake field goal. Holder Jaquon Robinson connected with D.J. Taylor on a 1-yard shovel pass to convert Troy’s first fake field goal attempt since 1991.

Western Kentucky (5-1, 2-0) would drive the field and score just before half then take the first drive of the second half to the end zone and claim a 21-17 lead.

Troy cut the deficit to one on a 22-yard Will Scott field goal late in the third quarter, but WKU would answer with a touchdown.

Troy, who is now 0-3 at home this season, will host FIU on Oct. 20.

CLICK HERE TO VIEW WES JOHNSON’S BLOG FOR MORE ON THE GAME