Box Score September 16, 2023
Little Rock, AR - In their second road game of the 2023 season, the Southwestern Assemblies of God University (SAGU) Lions Football team showcased an outstanding performance as they clashed with the Arkansas Baptist College (ABC) Buffaloes under the Saturday night lights. The Lions left no doubt about their prowess on the gridiron, decimating the Buffaloes with a final score of 40-18. This victory was a testament to the Lions' dynamic aerial offense and a tenacious defense that refused to yield.
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Jamonte Gordon-West: A Star is Born
The highlight of the night was undoubtedly the sensational college debut of quarterback Jamonte Gordon-West, who etched his name in SAGU history. Gordon-West dazzled with an extraordinary six touchdown passes, setting a new school record. His record-breaking performance surpassed the previous mark held jointly by SAGU quarterbacks CJ Collins (2017)Â and Jeremy Fowler (2009), both of whom had five touchdown passes in past seasons. Gordon-West's magic was apparent right from the kickoff, as he unleashed a gorgeous spiral that Paul Odidi snagged with one hand as if he had sticky honey on his gloves.
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Lions Explosive Offensive Firepower
The Lions' offensive fireworks didn't stop there. Wide receiver Paul Odidi, a 2022 Sooner Athletic Conference (SAC) First Teamer, emerged as a nightmare for the ABC defense. He hauled in three touchdown passes, displaying his exceptional skills and end-zone prowess. Odidi finished the game with an impressive 96 receiving yards, securing five catches at an astonishing average of 19.2 yards per reception.
Jamal Long provided the play of the night with a 70-yard touchdown reception, showcasing his speed and hands after snagging a rocket pass from Gordon-West. Zach Fuller and Justin Beaudion also contributed to the scoring, with Fuller recording one touchdown and Beaudion breaking free for a touchdown pass.
Lions Defense Dominates
On the defensive side of the ball, the Lions played with a ferocity that left the Buffaloes struggling to make headway. Xavier Garcia secured his first interception of the season, turning the tide in SAGU's favor. Linebacker Keith Hargraves, celebrating his birthday, was a force to be reckoned with as he flew around the field, delivering bone-shattering tackles. Defensive linemen Jayden Holcomb and Isaiah Moore joined the defensive onslaught, ensuring that the Buffaloes had little room to breathe.
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Next Stop: Lumpkins Stadium
This emphatic victory marked the Lions' first win of the season, and looking ahead, the Lions will return to their home turf at Lumpkins Stadium in Waxahachie, Texas. They will face off against the SAC preseason No. 1, Ottawa University Arizona, in what promises to be an electrifying matchup. SAGU faithful can purchase tickets HERE: https://vivenu.com/seller/southwestern-assemblies-of-god-university-z6n9
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.
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