Middle Tennessee vs. Sam Houston Short Report | Nov 25, 2023
Elliot T. Bowers Stadium
Huntsville, TX
Nov 25, 2023
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Game Recap
In an electrifying Week 13 clash, the Sam Houston Bearkats edged the Middle Tennessee Blue Raiders 23-20, in a game that was a testament to grit and determination. The Blue Raiders came out strong with a 3-yard rushing touchdown by Frank Peasant at 10:47 in the first quarter, establishing an early lead. Not to be outdone, Sam Houston's Colby Sessums delivered a flawless performance, kicking multiple field goals, including a critical 51-yarder, to keep the Bearkats within striking distance at halftime.
The narrative shifted dramatically in the second half. Trevor Williams' game-changing 31-yard interception return for a touchdown at 8:41 in the third quarter ignited the Bearkats' comeback, swinging the momentum in their favor. In a nail-biting fourth quarter, DJ Riles scored a 5-yard touchdown, giving the Blue Raiders a fleeting lead. However, John Gentry's 3-yard rush with just 56 seconds remaining sealed a dramatic victory for Sam Houston, ending the game on a high note.
Key Plays:
Frank Peasant (Middle Tennessee Blue Raiders)
Rushed for a 3-yard touchdown, breaking through the defensive line to score the opening points, setting an assertive tone for the Blue Raiders.
Colby Sessums (Sam Houston Bearkats)
Kicked a 26-yard field goal, putting the Bearkats on the board and showcasing his reliability under pressure.
Zeke Rankin (Middle Tennessee Blue Raiders)
Kicked a 32-yard field goal, extending the Blue Raiders' lead and capitalizing on their early offensive momentum.
Colby Sessums (Sam Houston Bearkats)
Kicked a 31-yard field goal, reclaiming the lead for the Bearkats and confirming his crucial role in their special teams unit.
Trevor Williams (Sam Houston Bearkats)
Intercepted Nicholas Vattiato and returned it 31 yards for a touchdown, delivering a pivotal play that shifted the game’s momentum to Sam Houston.
DJ Riles (Middle Tennessee Blue Raiders)
Rushed for a 5-yard touchdown, showcasing his agility and giving the Blue Raiders a late-game lead.
John Gentry (Sam Houston Bearkats)
Rushed for a 3-yard touchdown, executing a perfectly timed play to secure the victory for the Bearkats.
Standout Players:
Frank Peasant (Middle Tennessee Blue Raiders, RB)
Delivered a strong performance with 29 rushing yards and a touchdown, consistently providing Middle Tennessee the early momentum needed.
Colby Sessums (Sam Houston Bearkats, K)
Displayed remarkable accuracy and poise, going perfect on all field goal attempts including a vital 51-yarder, key to the Bearkats' close victory.
Trevor Williams (Sam Houston Bearkats, LB)
Executed a game-defining play by intercepting a pass and taking it 31 yards to the end zone, a critical moment that turned the tide for Sam Houston.
DJ Riles (Middle Tennessee Blue Raiders, QB)
Showed versatility and resilience by rushing for a 5-yard touchdown late in the game, almost reclaiming victory for his team.
John Gentry (Sam Houston Bearkats, RB)
Stepped up when it mattered the most, rushing for 67 yards and scoring the game-winning touchdown, sealing the dramatic win.
References:
Middle Tennessee Blue Raiders vs. Sam Houston State Bearkats - Final Score - November 25, 2023 | FOX Sports
Kats swat away Middle Tennessee in finale
MTSU football: Blue Raiders end season with 23-20 loss at Sam Houston
Middle Tenn. Blue Raiders vs. Sam Houston Bearkats Live Score and Stats - November 25, 2023 Gametracker - CBSSports.com
Team
1
2
3
4
T
Middle Tennessee Blue Raiders
10
0
3
7
20
Sam Houston Bearkats
3
6
7
7
23
