ABILENE, TX - The McMurry War Hawks (5-4 overall, 4-1 SCAC) put together a remarkable performance, overcoming a daunting 21-0 early deficit to secure a thrilling 34-28 victory over Hendrix. After a slow start, the War Hawks dominated the majority of the contest, driven by a prolific passing attack, timely rushing, and a stifling defensive effort that sacked the opposing quarterback six times.
The offense put on a show in the air, totaling 343 net passing yards and three touchdowns. Quarterback Dylan Plake piloted the comeback, throwing three scoring passes. Plake was efficient and avoided throwing an interception throughout the game. The receiving talent proved critical in the rally. Xavier Williams led the team with seven catches for 97 yards, while Thomas Chandler added seven receptions for 83 yards and a crucial touchdown. The scoring strikes were distributed effectively once the offense got on track. Jadyn Pruitt scored on a 20-yard pass, Chandler added a 13-yard score, and Corey Layne provided a late-game score on a 24-yard reception. Layne also contributed the team's sole rushing touchdown, punching it in from 1 yard out.
The defense was instrumental in shutting down the opponent's offense after the early surge, sacking the quarterback six times for 40 lost yards. The pressure was widespread, with Jackson Harris, Zach Mitchell, Dude West, and Brayden Youree each recording a sack, while Dorian LeBlanc and Dylan Gass split another. Youree led the defensive front with three total tackles and an impressive three tackles for loss. The defense delivered two key turnovers with Brayden Youree pulling in an interception and Dylon Davis adding another late-game pick to seal the victory. Cooper Barnard contributed a forced fumble that was recovered by Maddox Caffey.
The special teams unit played a crucial role in closing the gap and building the lead, with Jax Rodriguez delivering two critical field goals from 25 yards and 31 yards just before halftime, cutting the deficit to a single point. On kick returns, Marcus Maple provided explosive field position, taking one kickoff for 44 yards. This collective effort cemented a memorable comeback win for the War Hawks at home.
The win today secures a spot in the SCAC Championship game for the War Hawks with a rematch against Texas Lutheran (6-3 overall, 5-0 SCAC) at War Memorial Stadium in Little Rock, Arkansas, next Saturday, November 15th at 8:00 p.m.
