(September 28, 2024)
Shelton Stadium, Abilene, Texas
Final Score: Hardin-Simmons 90, North American 7
Recap written by Rev. Justin C. Jackson - SID - North American University
 

In the hot Abilene sun, Hardin-Simmons University overwhelmed North American University with a decisive 90-7 victory, marking head coach Jesse Burleson's 100th career win. With an offensive onslaught and a stalwart defense, HSU was in control from the very first whistle.

First Quarter:

HSU's Kyle Brown set the tone early, connecting with Dozie Ifeadi for a 32-yard touchdown just 12 seconds into the game after a short North American punt. The Cowboys extended the lead quickly, adding a 3-yard run from Noah Garcia and an 8-yard touchdown pass to Duncan Alexander. By the end of the first quarter, Hardin-Simmons was up 20-0, and the Stallions were on their heels.

Second Quarter:

The Cowboys kept rolling in the second quarter. Freshman Braylon Henry darted 19 yards for a touchdown, followed by another 6-yard score from Garcia. Brown continued his aerial attack, hitting Wes Douglas and Tailon Garrett for touchdowns, pushing the lead to a staggering 48-0 at halftime.

Third Quarter:

The fireworks didn't stop after the break. Garcia ripped off a 74-yard touchdown run on the first play of the third quarter, completing his hat-trick for the day. HSU added more points with a 9-yard rush from Henry and a 28-yard fumble recovery by Brandt Patek. The scoreboard read 69-0 heading into the fourth quarter.

Fourth Quarter:

The Cowboys brought in their reserves, but the points kept coming. Braden St. Ama connected with tight end Nick Chipper for an 8-yard touchdown, and Dameon Gomes added a 65-yard run. North American avoided the shutout when Jesper Korkalanien found Christian Warren for a 5-yard touchdown with just under two minutes left in the game. However, HSU responded immediately as Gomes returned the ensuing kickoff 94 yards for the final score.

Key Stats:

• HSU Total Offense: 538 yards (276 rushing, 262 passing)
• NAU Total Offense: 176 yards (85 rushing, 91 passing)
• Kyle Brown (HSU): 18-for-20, 257 yards, 4 TDs
• Noah Garcia (HSU): 7 carries, 93 yards, 3 TDs
• Christian Warren (NAU): 2 receptions, 52 yards, 1 TD
• Jesper Korkalanien (NAU): 2-for-2, 52 yards, 1 TD

Defensive Standouts:

• HSU: Seyi Joseph tallied five tackles, a sack, forced a fumble, and recovered another.
• NAU: Jadarian White led the Stallions with seven total tackles, including one for a 13-yard loss.

Looking Ahead:

NAU Prepares for Texas College Matchup

With the Hardin-Simmons game in the rearview mirror, the North American University Stallions are turning their focus toward the next challenge: a showdown with Texas College. This upcoming game presents a fresh opportunity for NAU to showcase their resilience, refine their strategy, and get back on track.

Texas College, known for its grit and determination, will be looking to disrupt NAU's plans. However, the Stallions have been here before—bouncing back stronger after adversity. Coach Apande and his staff are already hard at work, fine-tuning both sides of the ball to exploit any weaknesses in their opponent's play.

The upcoming clash will be key for the Stallions as they aim to build momentum and capitalize on what they've learned so far this season. With a renewed sense of focus and determination, the team is ready to give their fans a show in the next step of their journey.

Stay tuned as NAU prepares for what promises to be a thrilling battle!

Coach Burleson's 100th Win:
In a post-game ceremony, Burleson was presented with a game ball from former HSU coach Jimmie Keeling, the only other coach in program history to reach 100 wins. The Cowboys celebrated with a special video tribute, highlighting Burleson's impressive tenure.