LAMORI, IA - Texas Wesleyan University (2-4) faced tough competition at the Spring Sting Challenge, falling to Graceland University 15-0 and Midland 25-0 on Saturday. The Rams' defense showcased their skills, securing key interceptions and managing to disrupt their opponents' passing games, but the offense struggled to capitalize, accumulating only 145 total yards across both games.

TXWES vs Graceland (IA)
The game started with Texas Wesleyan on defense, where Mikela Nunez made a crucial stop, forcing Graceland to punt. Isabel Ibarra's 10-yard return set up Texas Wesleyan's offense, but they faced challenges gaining momentum and subsequently punted back to Graceland. Ti'yanna Johnson intercepted a pass, halting Graceland's advancement, but Texas Wesleyan's drive ended in a punt after a sack. Graceland took advantage of a penalty, scoring with under two minutes left in the quarter, leading 7-0.

In the second quarter, a solid defensive effort from Texas Wesleyan, highlighted by flag pulls from Johnson and Nunez, forced Graceland to relinquish possession on downs. However, Graceland extended its lead with a 72-yard touchdown pass. Texas Wesleyan ended the quarter trailing 13-0 after a drive that saw a 7-yard rush by Hernandez stall out.

The third quarter began with Texas Wesleyan receiving at their 14-yard line, but they quickly faced losses, resulting in a turnover. Graceland capitalized with a safety, pushing their lead to 15-0. Despite some defensive holds by Texas Wesleyan, including key flag pulls from Johnson and Pereyda, the offense struggled to find its rhythm.

In the fourth quarter, Texas Wesleyan's defense made impactful plays, but the offense could not capitalize, concluding the game with a final score of 15-0 in favor of Graceland.

TXWES vs Midland 
Texas Wesleyan's matchup against Midland saw them begin strong defensively, with flag pulls from Karla Gaytan and Vaughn Aden. The Rams managed an interception by Avah Alexander at the TWU10, gaining possession. However, offensive progress was limited, and Texas Wesleyan ended the first quarter trailing 6-0 after another interception.

Midland scored early in the second quarter, extending their lead. Texas Wesleyan's offense struggled, facing challenges with incomplete passes and a turnover. Despite this, they managed a 15-yard completion from Hernandez to Addison Pereyda. Midland added another touchdown before halftime, leading 25-0.

The third quarter opened with Texas Wesleyan starting on their 14-yard line. A 14-yard pass from Hernandez to Nunez provided a brief spark, but the drive ended in a turnover on downs. The defense held Midland in check, with Jisselle Garcia making a notable flag pull. The quarter closed without any scoring.

In the fourth quarter, Texas Wesleyan's defense continued to perform well, with Gaytan and Duran making key stops. However, the offense was unable to gain traction, leading to a final score of 25-0 in favor of Midland.

### Player Highlights

**Game 1 vs. Graceland:**
- **Defense:** Johnson led the effort with seven flag pulls and an interception. Nunez contributed significantly, collecting 42 yards on three receptions.
- **Offense:** Hernandez completed 11 passes for 70 yards, while Duran added 16 rushing yards on three attempts.

**Game 2 vs. Midland:**
- **Defense:** Garcia recorded an interception and one flag pull, while Alexander matched her with another interception and a flag pull. Aden contributed with three receptions for 34 yards.
- **Offense:** Nunez rushed for 25 yards on four carries and made four flag pulls, showcasing her versatility.

Overall, Texas Wesleyan demonstrated resilience in both games during the Spring Sting Challenge, but the inability to convert defensive efforts into offensive success ultimately led to their defeats.

The Rams travel to Arkansas tomorrow to take on Cottey College and Pratt University.