CONWAY, Ark. — Central Arkansas (1-2) fell to Tarleton State (4-0) 56-10 on Saturday evening at Estes Stadium, as Tarleton State scored four touchdowns in the first half to establish the lead.
Central Arkansas faced an early setback as
Luther Richesson's fumble was recovered by Tarleton State's AJ Owens for a touchdown just 10 seconds into the game. Despite the initial struggle, Richesson connected with
Landen Chambers for a 20-yard pass, moving the ball into Tarleton territory. However, the Texans capitalized on their opportunities, extending their lead to 21-0 by the end of the first quarter as the Bears defense found themselves on the back foot.
The second quarter began with Tarleton State extending their lead with a 26-yard touchdown pass from Victor Gabalis to Dawson Hearne, making it 27-0 with 13:15 on the clock. Central Arkansas responded with a determined drive, as Richesson's 30-yard rush set up his 28-yard touchdown pass to
Tyrell Pollard, narrowing the gap to 28-7 at 10:55. Despite a late push, including a 23-yard pass from Richesson to
Ty Durham, the Bears ended the quarter trailing 42-7 after the Texans added two more touchdowns to their tally.
The third quarter began with a defensive stand from Central Arkansas, as
Jacoby McQuiller tackled Tre Page III for a loss, and
Marcus Washington and
Gary Lewis combined to limit another gain. A turnover on downs at 11:43 allowed the Bears to take over, leading to a 20-yard rush by Richesson that propelled them into Texans territory, though the drive ended without points. Despite a late interception by Tarleton State at 2:46, Central Arkansas's defense responded with key tackles, including a combined effort by
Trevion Traylor and
Bradley Clark, to push the opponents back and regain possession.
The fourth quarter began with Central Arkansas attempting to build momentum, as Richesson connected with Kamron Bibby for a short gain, but the drive stalled after a turnover on downs. A highlight for the Bears was
Caleb Jones successfully converting a 33-yard field goal with 4:24 remaining. Tarleton State turned out to be an extremely formidable opponent, concluding the game with a final score of 56-10.
Richesson completed 12 of 21 passes for 163 yards and one touchdown.
Malachi Henry contributed with three receptions totaling 59 yards. Pollard added a receiving touchdown on his lone catch, gaining 28 yards. On the defensive side, Lewis led with seven tackles and recorded one sack.
Central Arkansas dropped to 1-2 overall and 0-1 in conference play following the loss. The Texans improved to 4-0 overall and 1-0 in conference play with the victory.
In their next game, Central Arkansas will journey to Sacramento, Calif., to face Sacramento State on Saturday, September 20. Kickoff is set for 8:30 p.m.
