MARION, Ind. — Southwestern College's postseason journey came to a close with a 24-13 loss to Indiana Wesleyan in the NAIA Championship Series 2nd Round at Wildcat Stadium.
The Moundbuilders opened strong, showcasing their potent passing attack in the first quarter. Quarterback Braden Howell connected with Matthew Holthus on a 68-yard touchdown strike midway through the quarter. Although the point-after attempt failed, Howell later found Bryce Chambers for a 20-yard touchdown as time expired in the first, giving Southwestern a 13-10 lead after the successful PAT.
However, offensive momentum stalled as Indiana Wesleyan's defense clamped down. The Wildcats recorded three sacks and forced three turnovers, including two fumbles. Howell finished with 257 passing yards and two touchdowns, but the Moundbuilders' run game struggled, managing just 78 yards on 28 attempts. Running back Martez Jones led with 74 rushing yards on 17 carries.
Southwestern's defense kept the Builders in contention despite the offensive struggles. Linebacker Joey Mars turned in a standout performance with 17 tackles, one forced fumble, and a pass breakup. The secondary made its presence felt as Britt Wittschen hauled in an interception and contributed six tackles. Defensive back Deago Stubbs added seven tackles and recovered a fumble, while linebacker Corbin Williams notched seven stops, including three solo tackles.
The Moundbuilders' defensive front also made plays, with Jacardon Hardem tallying six tackles, including one for a loss, and Kiare Worthy contributing six tackles. Southwestern limited Indiana Wesleyan quarterback Kyle Antoine to 260 passing yards on 23 completions, but the Wildcats capitalized on key opportunities, converting four of six red zone trips into points.
Indiana Wesleyan's offense relied on a steady rushing attack from Ryan Whitwell, who carried the ball 25 times for 94 yards and two touchdowns. Antoine added a pivotal 8-yard touchdown pass to Isaac Smith in the third quarter to extend the lead to 24-13, a margin Southwestern couldn't overcome.
Special teams added late drama, with punts and turnovers keeping the fourth quarter tense. Southwestern's Cadon Clark pinned the Wildcats deep with a punt inside the 20, but the Moundbuilders couldn't capitalize on the ensuing possession.
Southwestern finished the season 11-2 overall, Co-Champions of the KCAC Kessinger Division.
