Senior defensive back Max Lyons made a punt return to the McNeese 20-yard line, leading to a field goal by senior kicker Dillon Burkhard in the first half in the Lions' last away game of the season. File Photo/The Lion's Roar
The Lions football team lost to McNeese State University Cowboys in their last away game of the season.
The 13-3 loss brought the Lions’ overall record to 5-5. It was the lowest scoring game for the Lions this season.
Though the Lions held the Cowboys scoreless in the first half, the Cowboys finished with 13 points in the second half and returned the favor by keeping the Lions scoreless in the second half.
“I think we had our opportunities early,” said Head Coach Ron Roberts. “We moved the ball with success. For the second half, we really just couldn’t get anything going, and we kept on getting backed up in the long field and just couldn’t get out of there.”
Sophomore quarterback Lorenzo Nunez discussed the Cowboys’ defense.
“They’re an incredible defense,” said Nunez. “They beat us tonight obviously. They blitz pretty hard, and they came off the edge, and they stopped our running game, and we just didn’t really execute our offense like we’re used to.”
According to Roberts, both teams put up a strong defensive performance.
“It was a good defensive ball game for both sides,” said Roberts. “Like I said, I think the kids fought well. I’m not disappointed in the kids at all. We just missed a few plays here and there.”
Senior defensive back Max Lyons made a punt return to the McNeese 20-yard line, leading to a field goal by senior kicker Dillon Burkhard in the first half.
“I followed the play call,” said Lyons. “I was supposed to run left. I ran left. The blockers did a great job doing what they had to do, and it freed up some space for me.”
Senior linebackers Jake Jiannoni and Sione Teuhema each recorded 10 tackles. Nunez made 99 passing yards with two interceptions.
“I went back into the locker room and told them I was ready to go back in,” said Nunez. “I got a little stinger, and I just toughened it out and tried to help my team out.”
Lyons discussed playing against the Cowboys offense.
“Ultimately, it came down to getting stops, and we didn’t get enough stops,” said Lyons. “That’s on us. It is what it is.”
Despite the loss, Roberts was proud of his team.
“Our kids fought hard,” said Roberts. “We fought to the bitter end. I thought we got a chance to make a field goal, kick an outside kick and toss a hail Mary up, but my kids fought hard. I’m proud of that. Just didn’t get the plays done.”
The Lions are scheduled to play their last game of the season, which is also Senior Day, against Nicholls State University on Thursday, Nov. 16 at home.
