JONESBORO, Ark. — In a thrilling contest Saturday, Arkansas State secured a 28-21 victory over UL Monroe, with Jaylen Raynor contributing significantly by throwing three touchdown passes. Zak Wallace was instrumental as well, rushing for 130 yards and a touchdown, while Trevian Thomas made a crucial interception late in the game to seal the win for the Red Wolves.

With 9:15 remaining, UL Monroe (5-6, 3-4 Sun Belt Conference) equalized the score at 21 after Ahmad Hardy capped off a 10-play drive with a 1-yard touchdown run. However, Raynor quickly responded, connecting with Courtney Jackson for a 44-yard touchdown just three plays later, helping Arkansas State (7-4, 5-2) regain the lead. Thomas’ interception, which occurred on a first-and-10 pass from Aidan Armenta at the Warhawks’ 26-yard line with 1:59 left in regulation, allowed the Red Wolves to run out the clock on their next offensive series.

The Warhawks initially took charge early in the game, scoring with a 26-yard touchdown pass from Armenta to Jake Godfrey just five plays in. The Red Wolves retaliated with a drive consisting of 14 plays that was finished off by Wallace’s 2-yard touchdown run, leveling the score at 7-7.

Arkansas State would head into halftime with a 14-7 advantage, thanks to Raynor’s 32-yard touchdown pass to Corey Rucker in the second quarter. The third quarter saw excitement as Hardy brought UL Monroe back in the game almost immediately, breaking free for a 72-yard touchdown run on their second offensive play. Nevertheless, Raynor responded by throwing a 12-yard touchdown pass to Hunter Summers, restoring a 21-14 lead for the Red Wolves as they entered the final quarter.

Raynor completed an impressive 18 of 26 passes for 170 yards throughout the game. Wallace’s performance included 18 carries, with his longest run being 57 yards. On the other hand, Armenta was able to connect on 11 of his 22 passing attempts, accumulating 137 yards.

As the regular season draws to a close, Arkansas State is set to face Old Dominion next Saturday at home. Meanwhile, UL Monroe will be returning to their home field to compete against Louisiana-Lafayette in their final game of the season.