DES MOINES, Iowa — In an exciting matchup on Saturday, Morehead State secured a 29-20 victory over Drake, thanks to an impressive performance by James Louis, who rushed for 111 yards and a touchdown. The game concluded dramatically with Thomas Schwartz V converting a 30-yard field goal just 14 seconds before the final whistle, contributing to the Eagles’ triumph.

The Eagles, now at 7-4 overall and 5-2 in the Pioneer Football League, prevented the Bulldogs from clinching the league title. Drake, with a record of 7-2 and 6-1 in conference play, currently maintains a slim one-game lead over several contenders, as they prepare to face last-place Stetson next week in their season finale.

After entering halftime down 9-0, Morehead State found itself battling back. The Eagles tied the game at 20 with a 13-yard touchdown pass from Carter Cravens to Ryan Upp with only 5:08 remaining in the game. The defending Eagles’ defense forced Drake into a three-and-out situation, allowing Morehead State to advance the ball 42 yards down the field to set up the crucial game-winning field goal.

Carter Cravens had a respectable showing, completing 11 of 21 passes for 116 yards. Morehead State’s scoring began with a 1-yard rush from Isaac Stopke. This pivotal play followed an impressive 38-yard flea-flicker that saw wide receiver Bradley West connect with Nate Garnett. Later in the game, Louis contributed to the Eagles’ lead with a 2-yard touchdown run late in the third quarter, putting the Eagles ahead 13-12.

On the other side, Luke Bailey of Drake completed 27 of 40 passes for 210 yards and tossed two touchdowns. He connected with Parker Olthoff for an 8-yard touchdown midway through the second quarter and later found Trey Radocha for a 6-yard touchdown, giving Drake a 20-13 advantage early in the fourth quarter.