MARION, Ind. – The Olivet Nazarene University football team built a two-score lead by halftime but could not tack on enough points to knock off the No. 5-rated Indiana Wesleyan Wildcats in a 28-27 defeat Saturday afternoon at Wildcat Stadium.

The first quarter saw Olivet Nazarene strike early with Aaron Bennett making a significant impact, rushing for 29 and 12 yards on consecutive plays to set up a productive drive. Christian Dhue-Reid connected with Japheth Lilo for a 25-yard touchdown at 6:24, putting them ahead. Later, Dhue-Reid hit Ray Coffey with a 76-yard touchdown pass at 4:07, extending their lead to 14-7 by the end of the quarter, despite an equalizing touchdown from Indiana Wesleyan.

Olivet Nazarene opened the second quarter with a decisive play, as Dhue-Reid connected with Blake Lamb for a 50-yard touchdown pass just nine seconds into the period, which was followed by a successful extra point from Gabe Caison. The period also featured a crucial interception by Deshawn Lewis at 4:20, halting Indiana Wesleyan's drive and providing a momentum shift. Despite a blocked extra point attempt after Dhue-Reid's rushing touchdown at 6:35, Olivet Nazarene concluded the half with a 27-14 lead.

The third quarter began with Indiana Wesleyan scoring an early touchdown, capped by Arjun Lothe's 11-yard pass to Cameron Morriso, with the extra point by Josh Clifton making it 21-27. Olivet Nazarene responded with a controlled drive, highlighted by Dhue-Reid's 10-yard rush and a 10-yard completion to Lilo, but the drive ended with a missed 38-yard field goal attempt by Caison. Despite this setback, the defense held strong, with Jaylen Pettus and Jalen Perkins contributing key tackles to limit the opponent's advances, keeping the score within reach.

The fourth quarter began with Indiana Wesleyan extending their lead after Lothe connected with Elijah Phillips, setting up a short touchdown run by Ayden Ewing at the 14:26 mark. Olivet Nazarene responded with a prolonged drive, highlighted by Kaleb Garner's significant 20-yard rush to the Wildcats' 9-yard line, though the drive ultimately stalled at the 1-yard line. Despite a strategic timeout at 8:57 to maintain momentum, Olivet Nazarene's final drive was cut short by an interception, sealing Indiana Wesleyan's narrow victory at 28-27.

Dhue-Reid was a key performer, completing 14 of 27 passes for 277 yards and three touchdowns, while also contributing 55 rushing yards on 10 carries. Lilo added five receptions for 69 yards and a touchdown to the offensive effort. On defense, John Harman led the team with 12 tackles, providing a strong presence throughout the game. Lewis made an impact with nine tackles and an interception, showcasing his defensive skills.

The Tigers stood at 2-1 overall following the narrow defeat. They will be back at Ward Field to host Siena Heights Saturday.

--ONU—

*Contact: Evan Wild, Sports Information Director, ewwild@olivet.edu