GOODWELL, OK - Texas Wesleyan University traveled to Goodwell, Ok, on Saturday to play Oklahoma Panhandle State University in a battle for the top spot above the conference standings, with TXWES emerging victorious 49-21.
The first quarter between Texas Wesleyan and Oklahoma Panhandle State was tightly played, with the Aggies starting strong with a 44-yard kickoff return. Penelitiea and a strong TXWES defense were able to stall their drive. The Rams responded with a 50-yard rush by Ernest Ceasar but missed a field goal to keep the game scoreless. OPSU's next drive gained 35 yards but was again stopped short by the TXWES defense. TXWES finally broke through with a 12-yard touchdown run by Ceasar, capping an 82-yard drive in 10 plays. With a successful extra point, the Rams led 7-0 by the end of the first quarter.
The second quarter saw TXWES extend their lead to 21-7 over Oklahoma Panhandle State. TXWES Carson Rodgers connected with Ronnie Schneider for a 13-yard touchdown early in the quarter, followed by a 97-yard kickoff return from Aggie Draylon Roberson, bringing the score to 14-7. Texas Wesleyan responded with a strong drive, capped by an Ernest Ceasar 1-yard touchdown run. Oklahoma Panhandle State attempted a late drive, advancing to the TXWES 18-yard line, but stalled due to penalties and stellar defensive plays, closing out the quarter with TXWES firmly in control.
The third quarter began with the Rams quickly extending their lead. Carson Rodgers completed a 42-yard pass to AJ Bobb, setting up an Ernest Ceasar 4-yard rushing touchdown. OPSU struggled offensively, punting after a short possession. Texas Wesleyan capitalized again, with Rodgers finding Ernest Ceasar for another touchdown, making it 35-7. Oklahoma continued to have trouble advancing, while TXWES dominated time of possession, culminating in a final touchdown pass from Rodgers to TJ Curtis, pushing the score to 42-7 by the end of the quarter.
The Aggies opened the fourth frame in a challenging position, facing 1st and 34. After a short gain, the Rams regained possession, only to fumble, allowing Oklahoma Panhandle to score on a 30-yard touchdown pass by Brandon Stephen, bringing the score to 42-14. TXWES responded with a lengthy, 15-play drive, culminating in a 1-yard touchdown run by Cole Francis, extending their lead to 49-14. OPSU managed one last touchdown, but Texas Wesleyan maintained control, closing the game with a 49-21 victory after a dominant rushing effort in the final moments.
With the victory, the Rams secured the longest win streak to start a season, beating the previous record of three consecutive wins during the 2022 and 2023 seasons, with one victory against a ranked opponent. However, the 2024 streak included wins over two ranked opponents, No.20 Lindsey Wilson in the season opener and No. 16 OUAZ the following week.
Next week is a bye week for the Rams, who will next be in action on October 5 against Arkansas Baptist University, with the game at North Crowley High Schools Panther Stadium with kickoff scheduled for 4 PM.
