Senior defensive lineman Gregory Hardaway II poses with the River Bell Classic trophy.
Jonathan Rhodes/ The Lion's Roar
The Lions football team finished the season 6-5 after starting out 0-3, successfully defended their River Bell Classic trophy by defeating Nicholls State University 21-17. This victory ends the six-game winning streak that the Colonels were on.
The Lions did not appear to be concerned with spoiling the season for Nicholls, considering that the Colonels were trying to make a bid for the FCS Playoffs for the first time since 2005.
“We talked while watching film and said that we are a better football team than them,” said Head Coach Ron Roberts. “In the first half we didn’t play very well. In the second half we came back with the mentality that we didn’t play well in the first and we were gonna get after them.”
The Lions now lead the series in the River Bell Classic 14-13. The storied rivalry is one of the toughest games on the schedule for both teams.
“The beauty of this game is that last three games have come down to two Hail Mary’s and a missed field goal with no time on the clock,” said Roberts. “I don’t know if you can wish for a better rivalry. Coach Rebowe has done an excellent job and I hope they get into the playoffs to be honest.”
Senior linebacker Sione Teuhema tied the single-season school record for the most tackles for a loss with 19. Senior defensive back Max Lyons recorded an interception in his final game.
On offense, the younger players stepped up their game. Freshman running back Marcus Cooper rushed for his fourth 100-yard game and one touchdown. Sophomore wide receiver Juwan Petit-Frere scored an 85-yard touchdown off an option pass. Junior quarterback Lorenzo Nunez injured his knee in the third quarter.
Freshman quarterback Byron Walker led the Lions to two scoring drives.
“It’s really just another day,” said Walker. “I really have just got used to playing as a second string so I feel like I am always ready.”
This was the final game for 17 seniors on the team. Roberts was glad that the seniors got to leave on a high note.
“Some big plays came from our seniors which is what you want,” said Roberts. “Sione had an interception, Mayori Ellison who has had a fabulous senior year, gets a big pick in a big game. Jake Jiannoni probably played his best game of the year. He was just unbelievable and made some huge plays down the line. I’m proud of our kids and excited for them. I wish we could keep playing because this is a heck of a group.”
Head Coach Ron Roberts beams with the River Bell Classic Trophy. Roberts has won five River Bell Classics since coming to the university in 2012.
Jonathan Rhodes/ The Lion's Roar
Freshman running back Marcus Cooper ran for his fourth 100-yard game this season which is the most in the Southland Conference.
Jonathan Rhodes/ The Lion's Roar