September 24, 2022

Waxahachie, TX: In their second home game of the 2022 season, the Southwestern Assemblies of God University (SAGU) football squad welcomed Arizona Christian University (ACU) to Lumpkins Stadium. A ring ceremony was held in honor of the 2022 SAGU outdoor track NCCAA National champions before the Lions, led by head coach Greg Ellis, took the field. The drive from the ring ceremony is added to by the Lions football team's competitive history against ACU. The Firestorm has won seven of its eight battles with SAGU, but six games were decided by a touchdown or less, while three games were decided by four points or fewer.

ACU Firestorm (2-2, 1-2) defeated the SAGU Lions (1-2, 1-2) in a fiercely contested matchup that featured two of the Sooner Athletic Conference's (SAC) most illustrious kickers 28-20.

Lion Review

• To commence the game, Firestorm kicker Nestor Higuera would kick off to Jaylan Moss.

• Keaton Dudik started the game in lightning-quick form, eluding tacklers for an 8-yard running gain on his opening carry.

• On 4th and two within the Lions' 40-yard line, they made the brave choice to go back to Dudik, who chopped his feet to gain the first down.

• The Lion's special teams unit would make a significant impression when they did enter the field.

• Ryan Lewis' punt would take a terrific bounce, and Kepatrick Magee would smash the brakes to pin the ACU offense in an uncomfortable position.

• Keandre Belcher would show off his strength to notch up a tackle for a loss while flattening numerous blockers.

• The ACU offense was trucked and on its heels as Jayden Chappell secured his first career sack.

• Zachary Johnson would receive a 59-yard completion from Briley Green to score the first touchdown for the Lions.

• Following the Green to Johnson score, Kieran Woodley's first kick attempt was successful.

• Arizona Christian would lead by 22-7 into the fourth quarter, but the SAGU offense astonishingly fought back.

• Keaton Dudik would elude the ACU Firestorm defense for a tremendous touchdown rush.

• With a stunning pass that nestled into receiver Paul Odidi's hands, Green would resume his deadly aerial assault.

• Paul Odidi would catch this pass in front of his own sideline and continue running the 83 yards to the end zone without breaking stride.

• Before the Lions' attack began their last drive, Higuera would give the Firestorm a 28-20 cushion.

• ACU was able to enter victory formation when the final SAGU offensive drive ended in an incomplete pass and a turnover on downs.

"We thank all of the supporters for showing up at the game. Unfortunately, it didn't work out in our favor, but please remember your support will help us get going in the right direction; thank you, and God bless," SAGU football head coach Greg Ellis said.

Next Step

The SAGU Lions (1-2, 1-2) will stay in Waxahachie to host Arkansas Baptist College on October 1st for their Homecoming game.

As a leading Christian university, SAGU educates and prepares individuals who want to serve Christ and others. SAGU helps students discover and develop their God-given callings in a Spirit-empowered, learning community. We believe in affordable tuition, made possible in part through the financial support of donors who embrace the mission of SAGU and the importance of affordable, accredited programs to train Christians for leadership in ministry, business, education, and service. Most majors are available in-person in Waxahachie, TX, and online through a wide range of associate, bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees.