BEAUMONT, Texas — Antonio Martin Jr. scored a decisive 4-yard touchdown run during overtime, leading Southeast Louisiana to a thrilling 30-27 comeback victory over Lamar on Saturday.

Martin’s crucial play came after Lamar had briefly taken the lead with a 30-yard field goal from Ben Woodard, setting the score at 27-24.

The fourth quarter was tightly contested, with both teams struggling to find the end zone until Lamar surged ahead with just 1:18 remaining in regulation. Quarterback Jakolby Longino connected with Kyndon Fuselier for a 34-yard touchdown following an interception by Kristian Pugh. Southeast Louisiana managed to send the game into overtime with a clutch 37-yard field goal by kicker Riley Callaghan on the final play of regulation.

In the game, Martin was a standout for SE Louisiana, carrying the ball 18 times for 62 yards and scoring two touchdowns. Quarterback Eli Sawyer went 23 for 38 passing for 208 yards, though he did throw one interception. Additionally, Darius Lewis was a primary target, securing seven catches for 93 yards.

For Lamar, Longino and Robert Coleman shared the passing duties, completing 11 of their 23 attempts for a total of 124 yards. Coleman faced some challenges, throwing two interceptions during the game. The standout on the ground for Lamar was Khalan Griffin, who rushed for 146 yards on 29 attempts, contributing significantly to the team’s offense.

The scoring action began early when Coleman rushed for a 35-yard touchdown, putting Lamar ahead 7-0 after just six plays.

Southeast Louisiana bounced back when Coryell Pierce returned an interception 50 yards for a touchdown, tying the game at 7-7 shortly into the second quarter. However, Lamar responded with a strong 12-play drive that ended with Coleman’s 4-yard touchdown run, allowing the Cardinals to lead 14-7 at halftime.

As the third quarter began, Woodard extended Lamar’s lead with a 38-yard field goal. Southeast Louisiana answered back with Martin’s 2-yard rushing touchdown and Sawyer’s 18-yard touchdown pass to Lewis on the last play of the quarter, swinging the score in their favor at 21-17.