WINFIELD, Kan. — Southwestern steps out of conference play Wednesday when it hosts Texas Wesleyan in a nonconference matchup at 3:30 p.m. at Richard L. Jantz Stadium.
The game marks the first meeting in program history between the teams.
Southwestern (5-3) (5-3) enters following an 18-6 road win over Saint Mary (Kan.) on March 28 and is unbeaten at home (3-0). Texas Wesleyan (2-1) (0-0) comes in off a 33-0 victory over Schreiner on March 29.
The matchup features two teams that have taken different approaches to early-season success.
Southwestern has relied heavily on its passing game and a disruptive defense. The Builders have recorded 73 first downs this season, with 56 coming through the air, and average 171.9 passing yards per game. Quarterback Kennedi Hayes has thrown for 1,107 yards and 12 touchdowns, leading an offense that features multiple targets.
Mary Jones leads the receiving corps with 327 yards and four touchdowns on 22 catches, while Vivianna Solis has added 303 yards and three scores on 41 receptions.
Defensively, Southwestern has generated consistent pressure and turnovers. The Builders have nine interceptions and 33 tackles for loss in eight games. Jones has five interceptions, including a return for a touchdown, while Kennedy Wesley and Andrea Moon have combined for 19.5 tackles for loss and 12.5 sacks.
That defensive production has helped Southwestern secure three shutout victories this season.
The Builders have taken an aggressive approach on both sides of the ball. Offensively, they rely on short-to-intermediate passing rather than a power run game, averaging 30.4 rushing yards per game and still seeking their first rushing touchdown. Defensively, they have consistently created negative plays and shifted momentum with takeaways.
Texas Wesleyan has shown balance and versatility in limited action. In its 33-0 win over Schreiner, quarterback Distinee Hernandez threw for 121 yards and two touchdowns, while the Rams capitalized on turnovers to build separation.
The Rams have made opportunistic play a hallmark. They opened with an 18-6 loss to Texas Southern before responding with a 21-20 win over Concordia Texas. Bell contributed 74 rushing yards in that win, while Hernandez and Mikaela have been key contributors in the passing game.
Texas Wesleyan's defense has been particularly effective in the secondary. The Rams intercepted four passes against Schreiner and returned two for touchdowns, with Ti'yanna Johnson and Ariel Duran each recording two interceptions.
Ball security could be a deciding factor. Southwestern has thrown 12 interceptions but has not lost a fumble this season, while Texas Wesleyan has thrived on creating turnovers and capitalizing on short fields.
Southwestern will look to control the game through its passing attack and defensive pressure, while Texas Wesleyan aims to generate another fast-paced, opportunistic performance.
The nonconference contest provides both teams an opportunity to test themselves outside league play, with Southwestern seeking to maintain its perfect home record.
