Waxahachie, TX: Southwestern Assemblies of God University (SAGU) football embarked on their 2022 campaign with a home contest versus Louisiana Christian University (LCU). The Lions shined under Greg Ellis, their new head coach.

The SAGU Lions (1-0, 1-0) defense shut out LCU (0-1, 0-1) in a one-sided game controlled by solid team defense to win 27-0. 

Lion Review

• With punishing hits that reverberated louder than the storm that delayed the game's start time, the SAGU defense held the Wildcats to a three and out after an impressive LCU kick return.

• Both squads experienced trouble finding their offensive rhythm during the opening possessions of the game as both could not gain any yards during their opening offensive stands.

• Toughness and defensive prowess were the game's early themes. With 6:31 left in the first quarter of play, SAGU's Ryan Lewis pinned the Wildcats at the 2-yard line with a well-placed punt. Carter Lincoln would then blanket the LCU's receiving targets, demonstrating exceptional coverage abilities.

• Further displaying the excellent abilities of SAGU's defensive backs, Jaylan Moss snagged a Wildcat trying to gain yardage on a slant route.

• When Keandre Belcher broke off his man for a tackle early in the game, SAGU's defensive line also shone, suppressing the Wildcats' rushing attack.

• The most extensive play of the first half came when SAGU used an aerial attack to connect with Zachary Johnson after the Wildcat's defense had become unduly fixated on SAGU running back Keaton Dudik.

• Kieran Woodley, who had been preseason recognized by the Sooner Athletic Conference (SAC), would successfully kick the extra point after Keaton Dudik scored the Lions' first touchdown of the 2022 campaign.

• Late in the first half of the game, after collecting a throw from Briley Green that would later result in a field goal and a 10-0 advantage for SAGU, Paul Odidi tiptoed along the sideline.

• In the second half, the lion's defense would continue to be ferocious and effective.

• Isaac Gowdy snatched the first of three SAGU interceptions, and Adarian Rowel snuck behind the coverage on a route to collect Briley Greens' first touchdown pass in a collegiate game.

• The ball would be returned to the lions after Dylon Kaufman's interception.

• Paul Odidi stiff-armed his way into the end zone after Dudik broke loose for a significant gain, thereby eliminating the Wildcats' attempt at a comeback.

Ellis' Edition 

"Thanks to all the SAGU supporters for helping our purple out season-opener to be a great success," SAGU football head coach Greg Ellis said.

Next Step

The SAGU Lions (1-0, 1-0) will play Ottawa University on September 10th in Surprise, Arizona. Follow the game live at https://gsacsportsnetwork.com/ouazspirt/. 

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.