CLARKSVILLE, Tenn. — In a thrilling matchup, Maverick McIvor threw for 355 yards with three touchdown passes, leading Abilene Christian University (ACU) to a narrow 35-34 victory over Austin Peay on Saturday. One of the highlights of McIvor’s performance was a crucial 15-yard touchdown pass to tight end Jed Castles on a fourth-and-9 situation with just over three minutes remaining in the game.

Sam Hicks also made a significant impact for ACU, rushing for 113 yards and scoring two touchdowns on 16 carries. Wide receiver JJ Henry was instrumental in the passing game, catching three passes for 125 yards and two touchdowns, while Blayne Taylor tallied 107 yards on nine receptions. Isaiah Johnson contributed with 75 yards on 11 carries, showcasing the Wildcats’ balanced offensive attack.

With this win, Abilene Christian has secured three consecutive victories, improving their season record to 7-3 and their conference standings to 6-1 in the United Athletic Conference. Next week, they will face Tarleton State (8-2, 5-1) in what could potentially determine the conference champion.

Hicks started to pull ACU ahead with a 14-yard rushing touchdown in the third quarter, followed by another touchdown run from 15 yards that put the Wildcats in front at 28-27 with just 55 seconds left in the third period. However, Austin Peay had a response ready — they marched down the field in a seven-play drive, concluding with a one-yard touchdown run by Austin Smith to regain the lead at 34-28 with 11:54 left on the clock.

Despite Hicks’ late-game fumble, which was recovered by Stephen Ellison II of Austin Peay at the 24-yard line, the ACU defense held strong, forcing a three-and-out and allowing the offense one final chance to secure the win. The decisive drive included a key 24-yard completion from McIvor to Taylor on a critical third-and-10 situation.

For Austin Peay, Smith delivered a strong performance, completing 17 out of 31 passes for 313 yards and two touchdowns. He connected with Jaden Barnes on a spectacular 73-yard touchdown strike. Barnes finished the game with six receptions, compiling 179 yards and contributing significantly to the team’s offensive efforts.