SAN ANTONIO — Zach Calzada had an outstanding performance by throwing four touchdown passes and adding a rushing touchdown, guiding Incarnate Word to a dominant 45-20 win over Houston Christian on Saturday. Calzada showcased exceptional connection with his receivers, particularly targeting Roy Alexander for three of the touchdown passes.

The game began with Houston Christian taking the lead following a 37-yard field goal by Dillon Fedor, but Incarnate Word quickly seized control of the match. The Cardinals amassed a formidable 573 total yards and achieved 31 first downs, firmly establishing their dominance.

The turning point came as UIW (ranked No. 10 in FCS with a record of 7-2 and 4-0 in the Southland Conference) scored touchdowns on four consecutive drives at the close of the second quarter into the third. The sequence kicked off with a 26-yard touchdown pass from Calzada to Alexander, followed by a 2-yard rushing touchdown from Calzada. The streak continued with a 9-yard pass connection to Alexander and then a spectacular 50-yard touchdown reception by Jalen Walthall, elevating the score to 38-6. Walthall celebrated his remarkable play with a handstand in the end zone, adding flair to the moment.

Calzada did not stop there, as he found Alexander again later in the third quarter, connecting for a short touchdown pass that pushed the score further to 45-6. As the game progressed into the fourth quarter, the Huskies managed to score twice, with Jesse Valenzuela running for a 16-yard touchdown and Cutter Stewart passing 32 yards to AJ Wilson for another score.

In terms of individual statistics, Calzada completed 29 of 44 passes for 306 yards, while Dekalon Taylor stood out in the rushing game with 128 yards and one touchdown. Roy Alexander was particularly impressive, leading the Cardinals’ receiving corps with seven catches for 89 yards. On the other side, AJ Wilson had a noteworthy game for the Huskies, making three receptions for a total of 111 yards.