FORT WORTH— Texas Wesleyan University (6-4, 6-1 SAC) fell to Ottawa University Arizona (8-0, 7-0 SAC) 42-35 in a closely contested matchup at Crowley ISD Stadium. Despite a 97-yard kickoff return for a touchdown by Texas Wesleyan, OUAZ maintained its unbeaten record with a decisive fourth-quarter performance.

The first quarter began with Texas Wesleyan taking control after a touchback on the opening kickoff by Max Luna. The Rams' defense made a notable stop, preventing any significant gain until OUAZ punted. The hosts capitalized on their possession with Tony Roberson's 17-yard rush setting the tone. Cole Francis connected with Paul Summers for a 9-yard pass, followed by a key 31-yard completion to Sean Smith, advancing Texas Wesleyan deep into OUAZ territory. Zykeelan Hadnot capped the drive with an 11-yard touchdown run, and Freddy Joya's successful kick gave the Rams a 7-0 lead.

OUAZ responded on their subsequent drive, moving quickly downfield and eventually tying the game with a 33-yard touchdown pass from Luke Giron to Marques Reese and a successful extra point by Eric Cline. Texas Wesleyan regained possession but was unable to score again before the quarter ended. The first quarter concluded with the score tied at 7-7.

The second quarter opened with OUAZ capitalizing on a 50-yard touchdown run by Luke Giron, quickly gaining momentum. Texas Wesleyan responded efficiently with Hadnot racing for a 35-yard touchdown, leveling the score.

Midway through the quarter, Javari Sanders intercepted a pass from Giron and returned it 60 yards for a touchdown, putting Texas Wesleyan ahead. OUAZ managed to tie the game again with a touchdown pass from Giron to Angel Olivas. However, the Rams immediately answered with a 97-yard kickoff return by Sean Smith, reclaiming the lead.

As the quarter closed, Texas Wesleyan maintained its advantage, ending the half with a 28-21 lead over OUAZ.

The third quarter began with Francis' pass being intercepted, but the Rams' defense responded by stalling OUAZ's drive, highlighted by a sack from Daniel Aigbogun and Derrick Agu. Texas Wesleyan regained possession, but a blocked punt handed the ball back to OUAZ, where Jordan Crawford's tackle for a loss helped regain control.

Texas Wesleyan capitalized on a subsequent drive, marching downfield with significant gains from Hadnot and Chris Thomas. Francis connected with Cameron Smith for a 23-yard completion, setting up a 1-yard touchdown rush by Thomas, followed by a successful extra point from Joya.

OUAZ responded with a 39-yard touchdown pass to Marques Reese, followed by a successful extra point, maintaining the tension in the game. The quarter ended with Texas Wesleyan holding possession and the scoreboard at 35-28 in favor of the Rams.

The Rams opened the fourth quarter with a defensive highlight as Jordan Crawford and Derrick Agu combined for a sack on OUAZ's Luke Giron, forcing a turnover on downs. However, a fumble recovery by OUAZ's Masen Brubaker quickly shifted possession back to the visitors.

OUAZ capitalized with a 41-yard touchdown pass from Giron to Frankie Valentino, followed by an interception return for a touchdown by Clayshaun Davis, extending their lead. Texas Wesleyan's defense managed to contain further damage with several stops, and Hadnot contributed a 12-yard rush late in the quarter. Despite a late drive into OUAZ territory, the quarter concluded with Texas Wesleyan unable to narrow the deficit, as the game closed with a 49-35 score in favor of OUAZ.

Hadnot recorded 98 rushing yards on 13 carries and scored two touchdowns, leading the offensive charge. Sanders contributed defensively with an interception, which he returned 60 yards for a touchdown. Joya was perfect on extra points, converting all five attempts. Francis completed 9 of 24 passes for 133 yards but was intercepted three times, impacting the team's passing game.

Luke Giron stood out for OUAZ with an impressive performance, completing 23 of 41 passes for 299 yards and four touchdowns, while also contributing 61 rushing yards and a rushing touchdown on 20 carries. Wide receiver Reese made a significant impact with three receptions for 78 yards and two touchdowns. Valentino added to the offensive output with four catches for 70 yards and a touchdown. On the defensive side, Davis was notable with one interception, which he returned for a 51-yard touchdown. Justice Sosnicki was pivotal on defense, blocking a kick and recording six tackles, tying for the team lead.

Saturday, the Rams will play the final game of the regular season against Wayland Baptist University on Senior Day, with Kickoff scheduled for 2 p.m.