LAKE CHARLES, Louisiana — In a thrilling conclusion to the regular season, the Lamar Cardinals secured a dramatic 26-24 victory over McNeese on Saturday night, overcoming a substantial 17-point deficit. Quarterback Jakolby Longino delivered a 20-yard touchdown pass to Kyndon Fuselier as time expired, capping a remarkable 13-play, 77-yard drive. The Cardinals entered this final contest with a determination to finish strong despite earlier setbacks.
With just 1:45 remaining in the game, McNeese, boasting a record of 7-5 and a 4-3 standing in the Southland Conference, took a 24-20 lead thanks to a 3-yard touchdown run from Devin Lippold. However, the Cardinals faced an uphill battle after a false start and a sack hampered their response. In a crucial moment, Longino connected with Fuselier for a 29-yard gain on a fourth-and-16 play. RJ Carver also contributed with a 9-yard run on fourth-and-3, setting up first-and-goal from the five-yard line with only five seconds left on the clock. Although an offensive pass interference penalty wiped out a touchdown reception, Longino managed to regroup, finding Fuselier at the front of the end zone to seal the win.
Longino came off the bench to replace starter Robert Coleman, who had been ejected during the fourth quarter after a skirmish on the field. In his brief time going 4-of-11 for 57 yards, Longino showed resilience under pressure. Meanwhile, Coleman had completed 8 of 15 passes for 100 yards earlier in the game, including a standout 41-yard touchdown throw to Sevonne Rhea that pushed Lamar ahead 17-0 in the second quarter with 6:10 remaining.
On the ground, Joshon Barbie led McNeese’s rushing attack with 94 yards, which included a 1-yard touchdown. RJ Carver was also a key player for the Cardinals, finishing with 22 carries for 122 rushing yards, and he opened the scoreboard with a 2-yard touchdown run early in the first quarter.
This victory marked an important milestone for both teams as they wrapped up their regular season schedules, showcasing resilience and determination on both sides.