Sherman, Texas – HISTORY! The Centenary football team achieved a milestone moment on Saturday night in its return to the gridiron this Fall as the Gents recorded their first NCAA victory since the 1940s with a 36-17 triumph over the Austin College ‘Roos in a Southern Collegiate Athletic Conference contest at Jerry E. Apple Stadium.
The Gents (1-2, 1-1 SCAC) were playing their second of three-straight road contests against the ‘Roos (0-3, 0-1 SCAC) following a road loss last weekend at Texas Lutheran University and a meeting next Saturday at East Texas Baptist University in Marshall, Texas.
This victory marks a historic milestone for Centenary, symbolizing the culmination of years of effort and the re-establishment of a once-prominent football program. The team’s return to NCAA competition has been closely watched, and this win signals a bright future for the Gents as they look to build on this success.
First Half: Defensive Battle and Field Goals
The game began with both teams struggling to establish dominance. Centenary struck first with a 21-yard field goal by Enrique Hernandez, following an 11-play, 64-yard drive that consumed over seven minutes. Austin College quickly responded with a 33-yard field goal from Caleb Balderas, tying the game at 3-3 by the end of the first quarter.
The second quarter was a defensive showcase, with neither team able to add points to the board. Both defenses held strong, forcing punts and turnovers, as the teams headed to halftime locked in a 3-3 tie. The defensive prowess displayed in the first half set the stage for what would become an explosive second half.
Second Half: Centenary Takes Control
After a halftime regroup, Centenary came out with renewed vigor in the third quarter. Running back Daylen Robinson led the charge, scoring the first touchdown of the game with a 3-yard run just two minutes into the quarter. Though the extra point attempt failed, the Gents had gained the lead, 9-3.
On their next possession, Centenary capitalized on their momentum. Quarterback Ronald Findley connected with Rubin Seastrunk for a 5-yard touchdown pass, extending the lead to 15-3. Despite another missed extra point, Centenary had seized control of the game.
Austin College responded with a touchdown of their own—a 1-yard run by Barrett Hudson—narrowing the gap to 15-10. But Centenary’s defense held firm, and the offense continued to press.
Fourth Quarter: A Dominant Finish
The fourth quarter belonged entirely to Centenary, as they unleashed a relentless offensive attack. The turning point came when defensive standout Gavin Jack recovered a fumble and returned it 60 yards for a touchdown, further extending the lead to 23-10. Centenary’s special teams unit also contributed with a successful two-point conversion rush by Bobby Shanklin.
With their lead growing, Centenary continued to push. Zin’Tavious Smith, who had already been a force in the running game, broke free for a 25-yard touchdown run, making it 29-10. Though the two-point conversion attempt failed, the Gents were in full control.
Austin made a brief comeback attempt with a 10-yard touchdown pass from Jaylon Talton to DQ Barnes, cutting the lead to 29-17. However, Centenary quickly responded with another big play from Zin’Tavious Smith, this time a 38-yard touchdown run that sealed the victory with a final score of 36-17.
Key Performances and Statistics
Centenary’s offensive performance was highlighted by the outstanding play of running back Zin’Tavious Smith, who rushed for 135 yards on 10 carries, scoring two crucial touchdowns. Quarterback Kody Fuentes was efficient, completing 9 of 12 passes for 117 yards, while Ronald Findley added a touchdown pass.
On the defensive side, D’Qavion Lemons led the charge with two sacks, while Gavin Jack’s fumble recovery for a touchdown was a game-defining moment. The Gents’ defense held Austin to just 118 rushing yards, with Centenary’s aggressive pass rush forcing multiple sacks and turnovers.
Austin College’s efforts were spearheaded by quarterback Jaylon Talton, who passed for 187 yards and a touchdown, and receiver Tony Penson, who hauled in six catches for 91 yards. Despite their best efforts, the ‘Roos were unable to overcome Centenary’s relentless pressure and explosive second-half offense.
A Historic Win and What’s Next
This victory is not just a win in the standings; it represents a significant milestone for Centenary’s football program. The Gents’ return to the NCAA stage has been marked by determination and hard work, and this win against Austin College is a testament to the progress they have made.
As the Gents prepare for their next challenge against East Texas Baptist University, they do so with renewed confidence and the knowledge that they have made history. This win sets the foundation for what promises to be an exciting season and a bright future for Centenary football.
The Centenary community, alumni, and fans have much to celebrate as the Gents look forward to building on this success in the weeks to come.
