OSKALOOSA — Texas Wesleyan (7-5) fell to William Penn University (11-1) with a final score of 38-9 at Statesmen Community Stadium. Despite the loss, the Rams' defense recorded two interceptions and four sacks.

The game began with Texas Wesleyan's kickoff resulting in a touchback, setting the stage for the first possession by the Statesmen. Early defensive efforts were highlighted by Daniel Aigbogun's tackle for a loss on the initial rush attempt. However, William Penn struck first with a sustained drive, culminating in a 25-yard touchdown run by Destynd Loring, putting them ahead 7-0.

On Texas Wesleyan's subsequent drive, Ashton Mitchell's 8-yard rush and Cole Francis' 12-yard completion to Sean Smith showcased offensive potential. Unfortunately, the drive ended with a fumble recovered by the opponent. A significant defensive moment came when Deylon Rodgers intercepted a pass, though the offense could not capitalize. Later, a turnover led to a defensive touchdown by William Penn, extending their lead to 14-0.

As the quarter concluded, Texas Wesleyan's defense managed several key stops but trailed at the end of the first quarter, 14-0.

The second quarter commenced with a pivotal momentum shift as the Rams recovered a fumble forced by Daniel Aigbogun at the William Penn 33-yard line. This turnover sparked a drive that culminated in a 25-yard field goal by Freddy Joya, narrowing the score. However, shortly thereafter, a critical interception by the Statesmen's Brian Weathersp set the stage for a 31-yard touchdown run by Destynd Loring, extending the home team's lead.

Later in the quarter, Texas Wesleyan mounted a strong offensive series, advancing 52 yards over 10 plays, but the drive concluded with a missed 44-yard field goal attempt by Joya. Despite a defensive sack by Izack Villaseno halting the Statesmen's subsequent drive, the half ended with Texas Wesleyan trailing. The quarter closed with the Rams down 21-3.

The third quarter began with the Rams trying to gain momentum, but an interception by Cole Francis at 14:26 gave the Statesmen the ball at Texas Wesleyan's 47-yard line. William Penn capitalized on the turnover, scoring a touchdown on a 36-yard run by Destynd Loring, extending their lead after a successful extra point.

Texas Wesleyan responded with a determined drive, highlighted by Jaiden Jones's interception and a 46-yard return. This set up a 9-yard touchdown run by Mark Benjamin at 6:45, though the extra point attempt was unsuccessful. The quarter concluded with the Statesmen maintaining a 28-9 lead, despite efforts by the Rams to cut the deficit.

The fourth quarter began with Aiden Gibbons securing a 34-yard field goal for the Statesmen, extending their lead early in the quarter. Texas Wesleyan's subsequent drive was unable to gain momentum, culminating in a punt after a brief advance to their own 43-yard line. William Penn capitalized by marching downfield, highlighted by a 24-yard pass completion, and concluded with a rushing touchdown by Destynd Loring, further widening the gap to 38-9.

The Rams aimed to respond but faced setbacks, including a fumble lost at their own 38-yard line. Despite defensive efforts that included a sack by Chris Wrighten and Easton Schultz, the offense could not close the deficit, and the game concluded with the Statesmen maintaining control and the scoreline unchanged.

Jaiden Jones recorded an interception and added five total tackles. Deylon Rodgers also captured an interception while contributing six tackles on defense. Mark Benjamin reached the end zone with a rushing touchdown on five carries for 18 yards. Zeno Marchesell led the team in tackling, finishing with nine total tackles.

Destynd Loring led the William Penn offense with a dominant performance, rushing for 192 yards on 31 carries and scoring four touchdowns. His contributions were crucial in securing a commanding lead. On the defensive side, Jeremiah Dennar made significant plays with an interception and a fumble recovery, both contributing to his four tackles. Marquis Harry also played a pivotal role on defense, recovering a fumble and recording four tackles. Special teams were highlighted by Aiden Gibbons, who successfully converted all five PAT attempts and hit a field goal from 34 yards, adding to the team's scoring efforts.