NIXA, Mo. – Southwestern College (9-1) continued its dominant season with a strong 21-3 victory over Evangel University (7-2). 

The Buidlers set the tone early, as quarterback Braden Howell connected with wide receiver Matthew Holthus for a 38-yard touchdown strike just over two minutes into the first quarter. Kicker Preston Fansher's successful PAT put the Moundbuilders up 7-0.

Evangel responded with a 22-yard field goal by Jonah Edwards midway through the first quarter, narrowing the gap to 7-3. However, Southwestern's defense took command, stifling the Crusaders for the remainder of the game. The Evangel field goal would prove to be their final points of the game. 

Christian Steward added to Southwestern's lead in the second quarter, breaking free for an impressive 54-yard touchdown run that capped a four-play, 67-yard drive. Fansher's extra point extended the Moundbuilders' lead to 14-3.

After a scoreless third quarter marked by defensive stands, Southwestern delivered the final blow in the fourth. Howell punched in a 1-yard touchdown run, finishing an 8-play, 80-yard drive that consumed nearly nine minutes of game clock. Fansher's third PAT of the day sealed the 21-3 scoreline.

Defensively, the Moundbuilders were relentless, forcing five interceptions—two by safety Deago Stubbs, who also contributed six total tackles. Jacardon Hardem led the pass rush with two sacks, accounting for 13 yards lost.

Southwestern's ground game proved effective, tallying 245 rushing yards. Christian Steward and Martez Jones were key contributors, with Steward racking up 82 yards and a touchdown on nine carries.

Evangel struggled to find rhythm offensively, managing only 257 total yards and failing to score after their initial field goal. Quarterback Reid Potts was pressured into four interceptions, limiting his team's scoring opportunities.

The Moundbuilders' disciplined play extended to special teams, where Cadon Clark averaged 38.5 yards per punt, including a 55-yard effort.

Southwestern, now 3-1 in conference play, looks to build on this momentum as they prepare for the regular season finale against the McPherson Bulldogs, Saturday Nov. 16, kickoff at 1 p.m.