RICHMOND, Ky. — In an exciting matchup, Joshua Carter clinched the victory for Eastern Kentucky with a 3-yard touchdown run late in the fourth quarter, sealing a 31-24 win against Central Arkansas on Saturday.

The game took a sharp turn right after halftime when Caeleb Schlachter returned the opening kickoff for the second half, running 73 yards into the end zone and pushing Eastern Kentucky (6-4, 4-2 United Athletic Conference) ahead to a 24-17 lead. However, Central Arkansas (6-4, 3-3) responded swiftly, tying the game within just over a minute. Backup quarterback Austin Myers connected with Trejan Bridges for a 30-yard touchdown pass to equalize the score.

With both teams battling fiercely, the score remained tied until there were just 2:24 left on the clock. Carter’s determined effort culminated a nine-play, 70-yard drive, putting Eastern Kentucky back in front with his touchdown run.

Quarterback Matt Morrissey showcased his skills by completing 10 of 20 passes for 108 yards, which included a crucial 12-yard touchdown pass to Marcus Calwise Jr., granting the Colonels a 14-10 lead mere seconds into the second quarter. Running back Brayden Latham contributed significantly with 11 carries totaling 73 yards, highlighted by a spectacular 39-yard rushing touchdown. Carter complemented the offense, rushing for 61 yards on 18 carries.

For Central Arkansas, quarterback Will McElvain had a strong performance, throwing for 113 yards with 10 completions out of 14 attempts, tossing touchdown passes of 2 yards to Malachi Henry and 12 yards to Bridges. Myers also played a role, completing 6 of 12 passes for 80 yards, although he faced one interception. Bridges stood out with his receiving skills, amassing eight catches totaling 143 yards.