CONWAY, Ark. — In a thrilling matchup on Saturday night, Will McElvain led Central Arkansas to a comeback victory over North Alabama, finishing with three touchdown passes, two of which were caught by Malachi Henry. The Bears overcame a halftime deficit to secure a 24-19 win during their homecoming game.

The Bears, ranked 10th in the FCS, improved their record to 6-2 overall and 4-1 within the United Athletic Conference. McElvain showcased his skills by completing 21 of 31 throws for a total of 250 yards. Henry’s receptions were pivotal, highlighting their connection, with one catch being a long 69 yards and the other a 21-yard touchdown reception.

Central Arkansas initially took a 10-0 lead thanks to McElvain’s 33-yard touchdown pass to Jordan Owens in the first quarter. However, North Alabama responded by seizing a 13-10 advantage by halftime. Jalen Fletcher found the end zone on an 8-yard run, and subsequently, Tanaka Scott caught an 11-yard pass from quarterback TJ Smith. The Lions did not convert the two-point attempt following Scott’s touchdown.

As the second half commenced, McElvain directed the Bears back in front with a 21-yard touchdown to Henry early in the third quarter, elevating the score to 17-13. He later connected with Henry again for an impressive 69-yard touchdown, extending Central Arkansas’ lead to 24-13 early in the fourth quarter.

In the final minutes of the game, Smith managed to score on a 1-yard run, bringing the Lions closer at 24-19 with just three minutes left. North Alabama attempted to regain possession by forcing a Bears’ punt, but Smith’s hopes of a comeback were dashed when he was intercepted with only half a minute remaining in the game.

Smith ended the night by completing 14 of his 30 passes for 191 yards, including one touchdown but was also intercepted twice. Despite North Alabama outgaining Central Arkansas with 353 total yards to their 306, the Lions struggled significantly due to five turnovers throughout the game.