Cowboys’ defense sparks comeback win

By: Dave Parks, Intern

CONWAY, ARK. – The McNeese State Cowboys erupted for 21 points in the fourth quarter to comeback and beat Central Arkansas by the score 28-13. The Cowboys improved to 6-0 on the year and have moved up to #9 overall in the rankings.

The Cowboys’ defense played like the #1 defense in the nation should. They allowed only 19 yards in the fourth quarter and forced three turnovers. They also created the biggest play of the game when Wallace Scott picked up a UCA fumble and raced 45 yards for a touchdown and giving McNeese State the lead for good.

The first half was a defensive battle and UCA went into the locker room up 3-0. McNeese didn’t score until the
third quarter when Daniel Sams rushed five yards for the score, giving McNeese the 7-3 lead. UCA was able to get back on top before the third quarter was over and went into the fourth leading 13-7.

Ten seconds into the fourth quarter, Scott took the fumble to the house and McNeese never looked back. Ryan Ross rushed for a touchdown soon after and Sams also added another touchdown run before the game was over.

Sams passed for 60 yards and ran for two touchdowns. Ross led the Cowboys in rushing with 14 carries for 100 yards and a touchdown.  Kent Shelby had three receptions to lead the team.

On the defensive side, Scott had a fumble recovery for a touchdown and Dominique Hill had 10 tackles to lead the Cowboys. Bo Brown and Josh Washington each had a sack and Jake Grode added an interception.

The Cowboys will host Northwestern State next Saturday. The game’s kickoff is slated for 6:00 p.m. and will be available on ESPN3.

Photo Courtesy of McNeese State Athletic Department