September 7, 2024 – McKenzie, Tennessee –
The Bethel Wildcats and the University of Mary Hardin-Baylor Crusaders faced off for the first time ever in a hard-fought contest on Saturday in McKenzie, Tennessee. The Wildcats came out on top, securing a 20-10 victory that showcased their defensive prowess, key special teams plays, and a balanced offensive effort. The win boosted Bethel to 2-0 on the season, while UMHB, traditionally a powerhouse in NCAA Division III football, opened their season with a tough 0-1 start.
From the outset, it was clear that both teams were ready for a battle. The Wildcats’ defense set the tone early, picking off four Crusader passes and forcing turnovers that would prove crucial throughout the game. Trailing 3-0 in the second quarter after a UMHB field goal, Bethel’s defense delivered the first big play. Jacious Clark recovered a fumble from the Crusaders and sprinted 70 yards for a touchdown, shifting the momentum squarely in favor of the Wildcats. This huge defensive play gave Bethel a 7-3 lead, and their confidence grew as they began to control the pace of the game.
With less than three minutes remaining in the first half, Bethel extended their lead with a 26-yard field goal, pushing the score to 10-3. UMHB, known for its high-powered offense and strong defense, found itself on the back foot as Bethel’s defense continued to disrupt their rhythm. Despite the Crusaders moving the ball well at times, they struggled to capitalize on their opportunities, with the Wildcats consistently finding ways to make key stops and force turnovers.
At halftime, the Wildcats held a 10-3 lead, largely due to their opportunistic defense and strong special teams play. Bethel’s ability to force turnovers and control the game through its defense made all the difference in a first half where UMHB actually outgained the Wildcats in total yardage. The Crusaders managed 332 yards of total offense compared to Bethel’s 285, and they held a 19-13 advantage in first downs, but turnovers negated their statistical edge.
The third quarter saw the Crusaders mount a comeback. They tied the game at 10-10, but Bethel remained composed and continued to play their game. The Wildcats knew they could count on their defense to give them opportunities, and they were patient in waiting for those moments to arrive. The fourth quarter provided Bethel with their chance to pull ahead, and they didn’t waste it. At the 10:47 mark, Oziel Hernandez nailed a 43-yard field goal to regain the lead for Bethel, putting them up 13-10.
As the clock ticked down, the Wildcats’ offense began to impose itself more effectively, with running back Jordan Cason leading the charge. Cason, who finished the game with 121 yards on the ground, delivered the dagger with just over six minutes remaining in the game. He broke loose for a 26-yard touchdown run, extending Bethel’s lead to 20-10 and putting the game out of reach for the Crusaders. Cason’s ability to find gaps in the UMHB defense was a key factor in the Wildcats’ ability to control the clock and maintain their lead in the final stages of the game.
Bethel’s ground attack was a major component of their success, as they rushed for 224 yards compared to UMHB’s 146. The Wildcats’ ability to control the tempo of the game on the ground helped them manage the clock and keep the Crusader defense on the field for long stretches. This was crucial in wearing down the UMHB defense and creating opportunities for Bethel to pull away in the final quarter.
Defensively, the Wildcats were led by standout performances from multiple players. In addition to Clark’s pivotal fumble recovery and touchdown, Jazzir Merricks, Dee Hines, and Markel Crawford all contributed interceptions, adding to UMHB’s frustrations. Brody Franks anchored the defense with 13 total tackles, playing a key role in slowing down the Crusaders’ offense and ensuring that Bethel’s defense remained stout throughout the game.
Despite the loss, UMHB will need to take this result in stride and regroup quickly if they hope to make a playoff push later in the season. Known for their deep playoff runs in NCAA Division III, the Crusaders have the talent to bounce back, but they will need to clean up their mistakes and find more consistency on both sides of the ball. The turnovers and missed opportunities in this game ultimately proved too costly for a team that is used to executing at a high level.
For Bethel, this win is a huge confidence booster as they move forward into the rest of their season. Defeating a program like UMHB, with its national recognition and history of success, is a significant accomplishment for the Wildcats. The victory will undoubtedly provide them with momentum as they prepare for their next matchup. Head coach Michael Jasper was pleased with his team’s performance and the resilience they showed throughout the game. “We are proud of the way we played today. The defense has been locked in and gave us so many opportunities. Our special teams were outstanding, and the offense was able to sustain some drives. We will continue to work and get better. I can’t say enough about this program and the character they have,” Jasper said after the game.
Bethel will look to build on this victory as they travel to face Thomas University next Saturday. The Wildcats will enter that contest riding high on the momentum from this win, knowing they have the ability to compete with some of the best teams in college football. Kickoff against Thomas University is set for 11 a.m. CT in Columbus, Georgia.
As for UMHB, they will return to action against Westgate Christian University, looking to bounce back and get their season on track. The Crusaders know that every game from here on out will be critical if they hope to secure a playoff berth and live up to their usual high standards. This loss to Bethel will serve as a wake-up call, and the team will need to play their best football moving forward if they want to reach their postseason goals.
