In an action-packed homecoming game, the Sul Ross State football team demonstrated resilience and strategic prowess, managing to secure a 47-42 victory over Howard Payne University on Saturday at Jackson Field.
The game commenced with a rocky start for the Lobos as Howard Payne disrupted their initial offensive drive with a fumble recovery, which they converted into a field goal. However, Sul Ross State quickly retaliated with a 75-yard touchdown from Andrew Martinez to Vicente Luevano, marking the beginning of a fiercely competitive game.
The Lobos and the Yellow Jackets exchanged the lead multiple times throughout the match. Howard Payne’s initial lead was short-lived as Sul Ross State’s Martinez connected with Luevano for a second touchdown. Yet, the Yellow Jackets kept up the pressure, tying the game at 14-14 with a successful two-point conversion, later advancing to a 21-14 lead with a 53-yard touchdown pass.
Sul Ross State’s Alec Garcia provided a pivotal moment by returning a missed field goal for a 100-yard touchdown, bringing the halftime score to a 21-21 deadlock. The excitement continued into the second half when the Lobos swiftly turned a Howard Payne kickoff fumble into another touchdown, taking the lead again.
Throughout the game, both teams showcased offensive might, with a combined total of 1,102 yards. The Lobos’ Martinez finished with 339 yards and four touchdowns. His rapport with Luevano was evident, as the duo connected for three touchdowns.
Defensively, the Lobos were just as formidable. Jade Rios led with 15 total tackles, and the team collectively tallied multiple sacks and pass breakups. Quincy Blair’s forced fumble and Garcia’s defensive plays were integral to the Lobos’ win.
Despite a continuous back-and-forth scoring, Sul Ross State managed to maintain composure. Arreola’s impeccable performance with field goals and point after attempts was crucial, ensuring the Lobos stayed ahead.
In the final minutes, Sul Ross State clinched the game with a nine-play, 74-yard drive, culminating in a three-yard touchdown run by Travell Lumpkin, securing the homecoming victory.
Postgame, Head Coach Barry Derickson praised the team’s resolve and highlighted the importance of maintaining their homecoming winning tradition. Derickson, along with Martinez and Garcia, expressed pride in the team’s collective effort and the significance of concluding the homecoming game on a victorious note.
Sul Ross State now carries a 4-5 record, while Howard Payne stands at 6-3. The Lobos look forward to their next challenge as they gear up to face McMurry University on the 11th of November, aiming to conclude their season with the coveted I-20 trophy.
For fans looking to catch the next game, the Lobos will be playing at McMurry University, with kickoff slated for 1 p.m. CST. The game will be available for live viewing, with details accessible through Sul Ross State’s athletic website, where the full schedule and roster remain posted for the season.
Image by Salvador Cobos courtesy of Sul Ross Sports
