HCU Huskies secure historic victory, clinch first-ever winning season

Photo by Darla S Tamulitis, La Vida Loca Photography, Copyright 2023 All Rights Reserved

By Robert H Kelly
Copyright 2023 All Rights Reserved

LAKE CHARLES, LOUISIANA (November 11, 2023)  In a thrilling Southland Conference showdown at Cowboy Stadium on a chilly Saturday night, the HCU Huskies (6-4, 4-2 SLC) etched their names in the program's history books. Battling from behind at halftime and entering the fourth quarter, the Huskies orchestrated a spectacular comeback, outscoring the McNeese Cowboys 14-0 in the final 15 minutes to seal a 35-24 victory.

The game's tone was set early as senior cornerback Jordan Oliver intercepted McNeese on the fourth play of the game, returning it 53 yards for a touchdown, giving HCU an early 7-0 lead. The first quarter saw both teams trading blows, with standout plays from quarterback Colby Suits and a relentless defensive effort.

Despite a strong start, McNeese (1-9, 1-5 SLC) clawed back, taking a 17-14 lead at halftime. However, the resilient Huskies responded, with Suits connecting with Karl Reynolds for a deep touchdown pass, regaining the lead at 21-17 early in the third quarter.

The see-saw battle continued, with McNeese answering back to take a 24-21 lead, but the Huskies dug deep. Suits orchestrated an 11-play, 80-yard drive, rushing for a crucial touchdown, putting HCU back on top at 28-24. The Huskies' defense stepped up, forcing pivotal stops and recovering a crucial onside kick.

Running back Jesse Valenzuela had a career night, rushing for 171 yards and a touchdown on 33 carries, marking the fifth-highest rushing total in program history. Quarterback Suits contributed both on the ground and through the air, totaling 185 yards and three touchdowns.

Defensively, the Huskies were led by Isaiah Cash with 10 tackles, and Rodney Dansby and Jalyx Hunt made game-changing plays. Oliver's interception showcased the Huskies' ability to create turnovers, finishing with four takeaways.

The victory guarantees the Huskies their first-ever winning season, surpassing the previous record of five wins set in 2019. With one game left in the regular season against UIW, Head Coach Braxton Harris's debut season has been nothing short of remarkable.