FORT WORTH – For a good while, it appeared that Texas Wesleyan (0-1) was going to have a shot at pulling off one of the biggest upsets in NAIA history – look no further than the preseason coach's poll, where Kansas Wesleyan (1-0) ranked No. 21 nationally and the Rams were voted last in their own conference – but the Coyotes pulled away in the second half on the way to a 42-7 win.
With one minute to go in the second half, Texas Wesleyan had two red zone stops (one at the goal line) and forced a fumble (
Andrew Walker) – and the game was tied at seven. The 2,309 in attendance were buzzing about Wesleyan's new-look on both sides of the ball, including their new yellow uniforms.
Still, in the end, it was a similar ending to the story for Rams football in the 21st century, as momentum – and health – were not on the Rams' side, losing quarterback transfer Donavan Isom and their starting left tackle – Colby Mofett – to injuries and falling to Kansas Wesleyan.
Before Isom exited, he completed 10-of-21 passes for 110 yards and rushed for a three-yard score in the first half. He threw two picks, including the errant pass thrown across the field while getting drilled near his own bench, causing his shake-up. He was a new force in the Rams' offense and after his exit, the team was never the same.
Texas Wesleyan surrendered 35 unanswered points and never managed to tack on more points, despite 482 yards of offense and 26 first downs. Running back
Jermarcus Jones rushed for 93 yards on 16 carries while Texas Tech transfer
Desmond Nisby was limited to just four yards on four carries.
The Rams had a touchdown called back in the second half for an illegal block in the back. 121 yards on nine penalties stalled a number of drives including back-to-back holding calls in the opening drive, resulting in a turnover on downs.
Offensively, Texas Wesleyan was balanced and efficient – rushing for 236 and passing for 246.
Avery Childs came in relief of Isom and completed 13-of-27 for 136 yards. He also had 80 yards rushing on just eight attempts.
The Rams will travel to Kingsville, Texas next week for a brawl with Texas A&M – Kingsville on Saturday, September 8. The is schedule for a 7:00 p.m. start.
