THIBODAUX, La. — Riley Callaghan delivered an impressive performance by successfully kicking four field goals, including a decisive 40-yard attempt on the last play of the game, securing a 19-16 victory for Southeastern Louisiana over Nicholls in their regular-season finale.

Callaghan’s game-winning kick capped off a lengthy 14-play, 51-yard drive that consumed almost five minutes of the clock, culminating from KK Reno’s interception. This pivotal moment allowed the Lions to regain momentum.

Nicholls managed to equalize the score early in the fourth quarter with an 84-yard touchdown pass from Pat McQuaide to Scrabby Osby, although the extra point attempt was unsuccessful.

With a current season record of 7-5 and a conference record of 6-1, the Lions trail Incarnate Word by half a game in the Southern Conference standings. Incarnate Word’s upcoming game against East Texas A&M could determine if the Lions share the conference title, although the Cardinals would still secure the automatic playoff berth due to their earlier 34-31 victory over Southeastern.

For the Lions, Eli Sawyer completed 157 yards through the air, contributing a touchdown pass to Darius Lewis. On the other side, Nicholls’ quarterback McQuaide threw for 298 yards, and he also had a touchdown of his own after scrambling nine yards into the end zone.

The Lions held a lead of 16-10 at halftime, setting the stage for a thrilling second half.