In a high-scoring and thrilling showdown between two nationally ranked KCAC teams, (11) Southwestern College (2-0) and (18) Avila University (1-1), the Builders emerged undefeated, 49-41.

The Builders struck first with an 8-yard rushing touchdown by Jaydon Sundgren, followed by a successful kick by Preston Fashner. They continued to build on their lead with a 38-yard touchdown pass from Braden Howell to Joshua Boyanton, again with Fashner's successful kick.

Martez Jones added to the tally with a 2-yard rushing touchdown, and the first quarter ended with SC on top, 21-0.

Avila University came back in the second quarter with a 63-yard touchdown run by Eli Williams, and Dylan Globe added the extra point.

Southwestern responded with two more touchdown passes from Howell to Andre Jones, covering one for 39 yards and the second for 22 yards, with Fashner's kicks good.

Avila University's Lorenzo Baptist tried to shift momentum, and returned a kickoff 91 yards for a touchdown, though the extra point attempt failed.
At half, Southwestern was holding a 35-13 lead.

In the third quarter, Avila University's Eli Williams scored a 1-yard rushing touchdown, but their two-point conversion attempt was unsuccessful.

SC would add two more touchdowns - a 2-yard rush by Martez Jones and a 12-yard pass from Howell to Matthew Holthus, both followed by Fashner's successful kicks.

That would be all the offense would show, with one quarter left, SC was up 49-19. It would be up the Builder's Defense.

The Eagles showed why they were one of the top ranked teams in the country,  mounting a late-game comeback, with Eli Williams scoring a 6-yard rushing touchdown and a 3-yard rushing touchdown, both followed by successful two-point conversion rushes by Daleshaun Colem.

Robert Brooks caught an 18-yard pass from Williams for another touchdown, but the two-point conversion attempt failed.

Despite the late surge from Avila, Southwestern College held on to secure their victory, 49-41.

A Closer Look
Passing:
Southwestern College's quarterback Braden Howell had an impressive performance, completing 22 of 35 passes for 351 yards, including four touchdowns and one interception. Christian Burke also contributed with 1 completion for 2 yards.
On the other side, Avila's Eli Williams went 21-43 for 205 yards, throwing one touchdown and no interceptions.

Rushing:
Southwestern College saw a balanced rushing attack, with Jones leading the way with 44 yards and two touchdowns. Howell contributed 7 rushing attempts for -7 yards.
Avila's Eli Williams was the standout rusher, amassing 183 yards with two touchdowns.

Receiving:
The Builders' receiving corps had an outstanding game, with Andre Jones leading the way with 102 yards and two touchdowns. Ziyon Kenner also made a significant contribution with 90 receiving yards.
Avila's Kareem Chambers was their top receiver, amassing 110 yards.

Kicking:
Preston Fashner of Southwestern College was perfect on extra-point attempts, going 7-7.
Avila's kicking game was less successful, with Daleshaun Coleman making one of two extra-point attempts.

Interceptions and Fumbles:
Southwestern College's defense was active, with Deshaun Flowers leading in tackles with 13 total, and Josh Carter recording half a sack. The defense also forced two fumbles.
Avila's Terrell Valentine recorded an interception.

The Builders will be defending Richard L. Jantz stadium this week, at home against Kansas Wesleyan, Saturday, Sept. 9 at 6 pm.

At halftime, the 2023 KCAC men's basketball tournament champions will be honored. 

For comprehensive information on Moundbuilder athletics, including a schedule of upcoming sporting events, please visit www.buildersports.com. To explore more about Southwestern College, visit www.sckans.edu.