SUU Beats Central Arkansas: Sets Up “Battle For The Axe”

Southern Utah University’s football team secured a thrilling 38-31 road victory against the University of Central Arkansas on Saturday in a United Athletic Conference matchup. The win improves the Thunderbirds’ record to 6-5 overall and 5-2 in conference play, while the Bears fall to 6-5 on the season and 3-4 in UAC action.

The game started with Central Arkansas striking first, taking an early 7-0 lead. Southern Utah responded with a Jayden Rogers field goal but trailed 14-6 after the first quarter. The Thunderbirds tied the game in the second quarter with a Targhee Lambson rushing touchdown and a successful two-point conversion. After trading scores, SUU and UCA were locked at 21-21 heading into halftime.

Momentum shifted in the third quarter when SUU’s George Ramirez forced a fumble recovered by Rylen Sua-Filo, leading to a Joshua Acord touchdown. Lacarea Pleasant-Johnson’s interception set up another field goal by Rogers, giving the Thunderbirds a 31-21 edge. Central Arkansas closed the gap to 31-24, but SUU extended the lead in the fourth quarter with a Jackson Berry touchdown pass to tight end Chase Merrell. A late interception by Raymon Crump sealed the win for the Thunderbirds.

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The victory sets the stage for the Thunderbirds’ biggest rivalry game of the year. SUU will host Utah Tech in the Battle for the Axe on Saturday, November 23, at Eccles Coliseum. The final regular season game kicks off at 1:00 p.m., with pre-game coverage beginning at 12:30 p.m. on Talkradio 107.7/590 KSUB. Fans are encouraged to pack the stadium as the Thunderbirds aim to end the regular season on a high note.