With a final score of 27-25 in favor of Tennessee State, this electrifying contest will be remembered as a true gridiron battle for the ages.
In a thrilling showdown on the gridiron, the Gardner-Webb Runnin' Bulldogs and the Tennessee State Tigers went head to head in a game that left fans on the edge of their seats. With touchdowns, field goals, and even a rare safety, this contest was a rollercoaster of excitement from start to finish.
First Quarter: Early Sparks
The game kicked off with both teams displaying their offensive prowess. Narii Gaither of the Gardner-Webb Runnin' Bulldogs opened the scoring with a 1-yard rushing touchdown, perfectly executed with a successful kick by Jay Billingsley. The Runnin' Bulldogs showcased their determination with a 6-play, 49-yard drive that lasted only 1 minute and 55 seconds. The Tennessee State Tigers quickly answered back with Deveon Bryant's 24-yard rushing touchdown, followed by a successful kick from James Lowery. This 4-play, 48-yard drive took just 1 minute and 29 seconds. The first quarter ended with the scoreboard evenly balanced at 7-7.
Second Quarter: Back and Forth Battle
The second quarter continued the trend of back-and-forth scoring. Darius Hough of the Runnin' Bulldogs caught a 28-yard pass from Matthew Caldwell for a touchdown, and Jay Billingsley's kick was right on target. This 4-play, 30-yard drive lasted only 1 minute and 15 seconds, giving the Runnin' Bulldogs a 14-7 lead. However, the Tigers were not to be outdone. Draylen Ellis found Da'Shon Davis for a spectacular 55-yard touchdown pass, and Lowery's kick was good, tying the game once again at 14-14. As the first half came to a close, Jay Billingsley displayed his kicking prowess with a remarkable 48-yard field goal, capping an 8-play, 42-yard drive. The Runnin' Bulldogs headed into halftime with a slight lead, 17-14.
Third Quarter: Tigers Take Control
The third quarter saw the Tigers gaining momentum. Jalen Rouse made a quick 7-yard rushing touchdown, and James Lowery's kick put the Tigers in front at 21-17. In a rare turn of events, the Runnin' Bulldogs managed a safety, adding two points to their tally. The quarter ended with the Tigers ahead by just two points, 21-19.
Fourth Quarter: Down to the Wire
With the game hanging in the balance, James Lowery of the Tigers nailed a 49-yard field goal, extending their lead to 24-21 with 6 minutes and 32 seconds left in the game. But the drama didn't end there. The Runnin' Bulldogs rallied, and Matthew Caldwell connected with Narii Gaither for a 16-yard touchdown pass. Although the two-point conversion attempt failed, the Runnin' Bulldogs reclaimed the lead at 25-24, leaving fans in suspense. The game's final moments saw a remarkable display of skill from James Lowery, who converted a 50-yard field goal for the Tigers with just 9 seconds left on the clock. With a final score of 27-25 in favor of Tennessee State, this electrifying contest will be remembered as a true gridiron battle for the ages. In a game marked by rapid shifts in momentum, clutch plays, and a dramatic finish, both teams showcased their determination and skill. It was a reminder of the unpredictable and exhilarating nature of college football that keeps fans coming back for more.