MARTIN, Tenn. — Kinkead Dent was instrumental in UT Martin’s commanding 52-17 victory over Eastern Illinois, throwing three touchdown passes, two of which were to receiver Max Dowling. The game started with Eastern Illinois taking an early lead of 7-0 after a 75-yard drive, capped by a 7-yard touchdown pass from Pierce Holley to Cooper Willman. However, UT Martin quickly responded as Dent connected with Dowling for a 33-yard score just two plays after Oshae Baker’s impressive 43-yard punt return, leveling the game at the end of the first quarter.

Early in the second quarter, Dent showcased his versatility with a 37-yard touchdown run. Following a turnover from the Panthers, Patrick Smith added to the score with a 3-yard plunge into the end zone, allowing the Skyhawks to head into halftime with a 21-10 lead.

The third quarter saw Smith continuing his strong performance with another touchdown run, while Jaren Van Winkle extended UT Martin’s lead further with a 31-yard field goal, pushing the score to 31-17 as they prepared for the final period.

In the fourth quarter, Dent and Dowling teamed up again for a 21-yard touchdown, increasing the Skyhawks’ advantage to 38-17 with 10:35 remaining. Just under a minute later, Dent threw a 14-yard touchdown pass to Tyler Dostin following LaMarion Pierce’s interception and subsequent 21-yard return. Jaylon Sharpe capped off the scoring with a dazzling 72-yard interception return for a touchdown, solidifying the team’s dominance.

During the game, Dent completed 16 of 22 passes for 248 yards and added 41 rushing yards on two carries. Smith contributed significantly as well with 87 rushing yards on 13 carries, while Dowling’s performance included three receptions for a total of 70 yards.

On the other side, Holley had a challenging game despite completing 36 of 54 passes for 348 yards, delivering two touchdown strikes but also throwing three interceptions. Willman was a key target for the Panthers, ending the game with 11 receptions for 143 yards, while Alex Herrera contributed with seven catches for 80 yards and a touchdown.