Tarleton State stuns Army in double-overtime thriller originally appeared on The Sporting News
Tarleton State delivered one of the biggest wins in program history Friday night, upsetting Army 30-27 in double overtime at Michie Stadium. The FCS program overcame a two-touchdown deficit in the second half and relied on their defense and a steady kicking game to seal the victory.
Quarterback Victor Gabalis lead the Texans offense with 152 passing yards and a fourth-quarter touchdown strike to Dawson Hearne that knotted the score at 24. Running back Caleb Lewis carried 20 times for 107 yards and a score, while Tre Page III added 89 yards on the ground and another touchdown.
Army appeared to be in control after Hayden Reed’s 37-yard touchdown run extended its lead to 24-10 with just over 11 minutes remaining in the third quarter. But Tarleton answered immediately with a 75-yard drive capped by Lewis’ 6-yard touchdown run, then pulled even on Gabalis’ 15-yard connection with Hearne early in the fourth.
In overtime, Tarleton struck first with Brad Larson’s 28-yard field goal before Army responded with a 40-yard kick from Dawson Jones to force a second extra period. The Black Knights had the first possession in double overtime but missed a 35-yard attempt, setting the stage for Larson’s 37-yard game-winner. The senior kicker finished a perfect 3-for-3 on the night.
Tarleton’s defense played a pivotal role, forcing two interceptions by Kasyus Kurns and limiting Army to just three points after halftime. Andon Thomas led the Black Knights with 14 tackles, but Army’s offense sputtered in key moments.
Army quarterbacks Dewayne Coleman and Cale Hellums combined for 237 total yards and three rushing touchdowns, though Hellums’ one-yard plunge just before halftime proved to be the final offensive highlight until overtime.
For Tarleton State (2-0), the victory represents a statement at the FCS level. The Texans not only left West Point with a win, but also collected a $250,000 payout from Army for making the trip.
Army (0-1) now faces questions about execution and consistency heading deeper into its schedule, while Tarleton will ride momentum from a signature upset few saw coming.
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