| Final | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | OT | T | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Olivet Nazarene (IL) (1-0) | 0 | 14 | 21 | 7 | 6 | 48 |
|
Taylor (IN) (0-1) | 14 | 14 | 7 | 7 | 0 | 42 |
UPLAND, Ind. – The Olivet Nazarene University football team opened its season in dramatic fashion, knocking off Taylor 48-42 in an overtime thriller at Turner Stadium Thursday night. This season-opener was especially significant as it marked the second consecutive overtime game against Taylor, a team that had previously edged out Olivet 58-51 in an overtime showdown last season.
The first quarter opened with Olivet initially struggling to gain momentum, starting with a penalty that pushed them back to their own 10-yard line. Despite a promising 25-yard pass connection from Christian Dhue-Reid to Jalen Wallace, the drive was halted and resulted in a punt. The Trojans capitalized on their possessions, scoring twice with a 1-yard rush from Nathan Parker at 9:53 and another 1-yard run by Kyle Turanchick at 1:53. As the quarter closed, Jack Miller found rhythm for Olivet, completing a series of passes totaling 37 yards to Nakoa Kahana-Travis, Brandon Jackson, and Mike White, positioning the team at Taylor's 28-yard line.
The second quarter began with Olivet Nazarene striking early as Miller connected with Kahana-Travis for a 35-yard touchdown at 14:12, although the extra point was unsuccessful. Dhue-Reid later led a strong offensive drive, culminating in a 23-yard touchdown pass to Lehiwa Kahana-Travis, followed by a successful conversion with Blake Lamb at 7:00. Despite a late scoring push by Taylor, including a touchdown that tied the game at 14:14, Olivet maintained a competitive edge with strategic plays and timely scoring, leaving the teams tied at the end of the half.
The third quarter began with a strong offensive effort from Taylor, who scored a touchdown just 50 seconds into the quarter. However, Olivet swiftly responded with a series of strategic plays, as Aaron Bennett's consistent rushing, including a 13-yard touchdown run at 10:23, highlighted the team's resilience. Dhue-Reid contributed significantly with precise passing, connecting with Lamb for a 37-yard touchdown, and later rushing for a 2-yard score at 01:08, tying the score by the end of the quarter.
In the fourth quarter, Olivet made significant strides, beginning with a defensive stop by Jalen Perkins, causing a five-yard loss for Taylor. The offensive momentum continued as Dhue-Reid connected with Lamb for a 22-yard gain, setting up a one-yard touchdown run by Keshawn Huguely at 10:22. Despite a later interception, Olivet's defense, led by Kennarius Chandler with a key sack, held firm as the game ended with both teams scoring seven points each in the quarter.
In overtime, Olivet started strong with Dhue-Reid connecting with Ray Coffey for a 25-yard touchdown pass. Despite missing the extra point, this put Olivet ahead 48-42. On the defensive end, Perkins made a critical interception at the Olivet nine-yard line, effectively stalling Taylor's drive and securing the victory for the Tigers. This thrilling overtime victory mirrored the intensity of their previous season's matchup against Taylor.
Dhue-Reid led Olivet with a standout performance, completing 19 of 29 passes for 322 yards and three touchdowns, and adding a rushing touchdown. Lamb contributed significantly with five receptions for 90 yards and a touchdown, while also converting a two-point conversion. On defense, Perkins was notable with 10 total tackles and an interception. John Harman made an impact by tallying eight tackles and recovering a fumble.
With the win, Olivet Nazarene improves to 1-0 on the season. They will host their season-opener "White Out" game under the lights at Ward Field on Sept. 6. Kickoff is slated for 7 p.m.
--ONU—
*Contact: Evan Wild, Sports Information Director, ewwild@olivet.edu
