BOURBONNAIS, Ill. – A strong fourth quarter propelled the Olivet Nazarene University football team to a 37-29 win over Siena Heights Saturday afternoon at Ward Field. The Tigers outscored the Saints 17-7 over the final 15 minutes to roll to the win.

Olivet Nazarene (IL) began the first quarter with a strong offensive drive, advancing 88 yards on 10 plays. Christian Dhue-Reid showcased efficient passing, connecting with Blake Lamb, Japheth Lilo, and Andy Vogelmann for significant gains. Dhue-Reid capped the drive with a 2-yard rushing touchdown at 10:25. Gabe Caison's successful PAT put Olivet ahead 7-0.

Siena Heights responded with a turnover-driven opportunity, recovering a fumble at the Olivet 5-yard line. Brendan Haisenl capitalized with a 5-yard touchdown run, but the extra point attempt failed, leaving the score at 7-6. The quarter concluded with Olivet maintaining a narrow lead after recovering a fumble forced by Jalen Perkins, keeping the score at 7-6.

The second quarter began with Siena Heights taking advantage of their field position, completing a series of passes to reach the end zone, concluding with a 9-yard touchdown pass. This scoring drive put Siena Heights ahead, 13-7. Olivet quickly responded with a determined drive, highlighted by Dhue-Reid connecting for a crucial 24-yard pass to Ray Coffey, setting up Keshawn Huguely's 5-yard rushing touchdown. Although the extra point attempt was unsuccessful, Olivet managed to level the score at 13-13.

Siena Heights then advanced the ball methodically, capping their next possession with a 31-yard field goal to reclaim the lead, 16-13. Undeterred, Olivet orchestrated a rapid and efficient drive, culminating in a 46-yard touchdown pass from Dhue-Reid to Coffey, followed by a successful extra-point kick by Josiah Johnson. This late-quarter touchdown allowed Olivet to regain the advantage, closing the half with a 20-16 lead.

The third quarter began with Olivet kicking off and quickly reclaiming possession after a defensive stand. Kennarius Chand's tackle for a loss and Caleb Davis's pass breakup halted Siena Heights' drive, resulting in a punt. However, Olivet's subsequent possession did not yield points, as three consecutive incomplete passes forced a punt.

Siena Heights capitalized on their next drive, completing a 24-yard touchdown pass to Numehnne Gwilly, though their extra-point attempt was unsuccessful. Olivet responded with a significant 42-yard completion from Dhue-Reid to Keon Green, advancing deep into opponent territory. The drive concluded with a turnover on downs, but Olivet's defense held firm, limiting Siena Heights' gains and forcing a punt.

Olivet closed the quarter by driving into the red zone, highlighted by Aaron Bennett's consistent rushing and a 20-yard pass to Matthew Yoder. Despite the drive's momentum, it concluded with a setback as the quarter ended with Olivet trailing 22-20.

The fourth quarter began with Olivet extending their lead as Dhue-Reid connected with Lilo for a 10-yard touchdown pass, quickly followed by a successful PAT from Johnson. Shortly after, Dhue-Reid capitalized on another offensive drive with a 20-yard rushing touchdown, widening the gap against Siena Heights. Despite a return touchdown by D.J. Young for the Saints, Olivet maintained control with a strong kickoff return and a successful field goal by Johnson, setting the scoreboard at 37-29.

Defensively, Olivet held firm, with John Harman and Alexander Florea delivering key stops to stifle Siena Heights' attempts to close the gap. As the game drew to a close, Olivet successfully managed the clock and secured the win with a final score of 37-29.

Dhue-Reid completed 20 of 36 passes for 311 yards and two touchdowns, adding 43 rushing yards with two touchdowns on seven carries. Coffey contributed significantly with 83 receiving yards and one touchdown on three catches. Lilo hauled in four receptions for 41 yards and a touchdown. On the defensive side, Chand recorded seven tackles, while Harman matched that with seven tackles of his own.

Olivet Nazarene (IL) improved to 3-1 overall with the win. They will enjoy a bye week before hosting Defiance.

--ONU—

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