SURPRISE, AZ – Texas Wesleyan University (TXWES) traveled to Arizona on Saturday to open conference play against No. 16 Ottawa University Arizona (OUAZ), winning a close game 35-33.

From the first play TXWES demonstrated strong offensive plays, leading 21-10 over OUAZ. The game began with the Rams striking early, driving 55 yards in eight plays, capped by a 2-yard touchdown run by Ernest Ceasar.

The Rams extended their lead to 14-0 with a 68-yard touchdown pass from Carson Rodgers to Michael Banks. The Spirit responded with a 25-yard field goal by Miguel Vasquez, closing the gap to 14-3.

TXWES maintained momentum, scoring another touchdown on a 4-yard run by Ceasar to increase their lead to 21-3. OUAZ fought back with a critical 14-yard touchdown rush by Luke Giron, narrowing the deficit to 21-10 just before halftime.

Texas Wesleyan held possession to end the half, successfully defending their lead despite OUAZ efforts. The half showcased Texas Wesleyan's effective passing game while OUAZ struggled to keep pace, resulting in a challenging deficit.

The second half of the game saw TXWES and OUAZ engage in a competitive battle. OUAZ began with a solid drive, but penalties and a strong Rams defense limited their progress to a field goal.

Texas Wesleyan responded with an efficient eight-play, 60-yard drive, culminating in a one-yard touchdown run by Ernest Ceasar, extending their lead to 28-10.

The Spirit answered with a long 92-yard drive, scoring on a 42-yard touchdown run by Jaylen Magee, narrowing the gap to 28-20. Texas Wesleyan quickly struck back with a 55-yard touchdown run by Ernest Ceasar, making it 35-20.

OUAZ fought back with two more touchdown drives, closing the score to 35-33.

Despite their late surge, OUAZ's efforts were insufficient to overcome Texas Wesleyan, who controlled possession in the final minute to seal a hard-fought victory.

The Rams will return hom on Saturday to play against North America University at Crowley Multi-Purpose Stadium, with kickoff scheduled for 6 PM.