HOUSTON — In a thrilling encounter, Noah Bodden connected with Quay Davis for a 16-yard touchdown pass in the final moments of regulation, allowing Southern University to bracket a comeback against Texas Southern, ultimately winning 22-19 in overtime on Saturday evening.

The game’s scoring started in the second quarter when MJ Hinson Jr. intercepted a pass and returned it for a touchdown, giving Texas Southern an early lead. Trenton Leary then extended their advantage with a 28-yard rushing touchdown, which put Texas Southern ahead 14-0 as the teams headed into halftime.

Following the intermission, Joshua Griffin started to trim the deficit with a 26-yard field goal just over two minutes into the third quarter. Griffin followed up with a longer 40-yard field goal at the 6:27 mark, before Kendric Rhymes completed a strong 13-play, 73-yard drive with his own 6-yard touchdown run, drawing the score to 14-12 before the start of the fourth quarter.

In the final quarter, Christian Avelar successfully executed a 39-yard field goal around the nine-minute mark, extending Texas Southern’s lead. The momentum shifted further when Damarcus Thompson pressured Bodden, forcing an intentional grounding penalty in the end zone that resulted in a safety, pushing the Tigers’ lead to 19-12 with just 1:26 remaining in the game.

However, Southern wasn’t done yet. They managed to stop Texas Southern’s next possession quickly, forcing a three-and-out. A critical muffed punt then handed the Jaguars possession at the Texas Southern 16-yard line. On the very next play, Bodden found Davis in the end zone for a touchdown with only 18 seconds left, ultimately leading to an overtime situation.

In overtime, Avelar missed a 41-yard field goal attempt, leaving the door open for Southern. Griffin seized the opportunity and kicked a successful 34-yard field goal, clinching the victory for Southern University.