Hailey
The Missouri State Bears pulled off a thrilling overtime win over the New Mexico State Aggies with a final score of 24-17. Their defence played a huge part, grabbing four crucial interceptions and one game-winning takeaway in extra time.
It was a night where the Bears never trailed, and their offence and defence came together perfectly to earn the victory.
Game Overview
The Bears improved their record to 4-3 overall and 2-1 in CUSA play, while the Aggies fell to 3-4 overall with a 1-3 conference mark. The key moments were:
- The Bears never trailed at any point in the game.
- Their quarterback, Jacob Clark, returned from injury and delivered big plays.
- The defence racked up takeaways at just the right times.
Offensive Highlights
Clark’s Return and Passing Game
Jacob Clark came back into the starting lineup after missing a game-and-a-half. He completed 28 of 44 passes for 283 yards and 3 touchdowns. One of those TD passes tied him for the all-time career leader at Missouri State with 47.
Key Receivers
- Ronnel Johnson: Had 6 receptions for 99 yards, including the game-winning 7-yard touchdown in overtime.
- Other receivers also stepped up to move the chains when needed.
Running Game Impact
Shomari Lawrence led the Bears on the ground with 97 rushing yards. He also made a key 7-yard run in overtime that set up the final TD pass, and caught a 13-yard reception to start overtime.
Defensive Domination
The Bears’ defence was the star of this game, creating four interceptions and halting the Aggies’ momentum.
Big Takeaways
- Five-star moment: In overtime, the Aggies’ first official play was a pass that landed directly into the hands of Dylan Dixson — game over.
- Other interceptions by Jordan Dunbar, Maguire Neal and Thomas Anderson helped break the back of the Aggies’ offence.
Defensive Standouts
- Thomas Anderson also made 11 total tackles.
- Davon Townley Jr. posted 2.0 sacks, a blocked field goal, and three stops.
Key Moments by Quarter
| Quarter | Key Event | Impact |
|---|---|---|
| 1st | Bears open with 75-yard drive, TD pass from Clark to Jeron Askren | MSU leads 7-0 |
| 2nd | Aggies tie game 7-7; Bears defence blocks a FG and intercepts at five-yard line | Momentum shifts MSU’s way |
| 3rd | Bears outgain Aggies 102-27 in yardage, extend lead to 17-7 | MSU takes control |
| 4th | Aggies punt-return sets up FG; Bears drive attempt ends with missed 50-yard FG; Fife leads TD to tie game | Game is tied 17-17 |
| OT | Bears score quickly; Dixson intercepts to seal win | MSU wins 24-17 |
After the Whistle
With the win, Missouri State builds momentum heading into their next game at home on Wednesday, October 29, against FIU Panthers at 7 p.m. It’s “Ag Day” at their stadium, with fun promotions like $2 hot dogs and a drone halftime show. Tickets are available online or at the box office.
In this intense contest, Missouri State’s victory wasn’t just about offence—it was a true team effort.
The defence made the biggest difference by forcing turnovers at critical moments, while the offence delivered when it mattered most: Clark returned strong, the running game chipped in, and the receivers made key plays.
Because of that, the Bears walked away with a well-earned overtime win.
This game shows that when a team blends offence and defence seamlessly, great things happen—and Missouri State proved that tonight.