ADA, Okla. – The East Central University football team suffered its third-straight loss on Saturday as the Tigers got off to a slow start and could not overcome the miscues in a 19-3 decision to Southwestern Oklahoma State University on Saturday at Koi Ishto Stadium.
 
The Tigers' offense struggled throughout the game, unable to muster up any points beyond a single field goal. ECU was held to three points or fewer for the first time since a 28-0 week one loss to Harding in 2021.
 
After a scoreless first quarter, SWOSU struck first with 7:09 remaining in the second quarter, capitalizing on an ECU turnover from the previous drive when a Bulldog blocked Tommy Yousey's 44-yard field goal attempt.
 
Unable to tie the game back up after Yousey's second field goal attempt from 37 yards was unsuccessful, SWOSU found points late in the first half. The Bulldogs moved 58 yards in 11 plays, converting a 39-yard field goal that gave them a 6-0 halftime advantage.
 
SWOSU's lead grew to 13-0 in the third quarter with a swift four-play, 95-yard drive that was capped off by a 42-yard touchdown run from their quarterback.
 
Soon after, ECU kicker Brandon Perez stepped up and secured the Tigers' lone points of the night with a 36-yard field goal, concluding a lengthy 11 play, 40-yard drive. However, SWOSU sealed their victory early in the fourth quarter when they reached the endzone for the second time with a 17-yard scoring carry, bringing the final score to 19-3.
 
Overall, ECU finished with 327 yards of total offense – 138 through the air and 189 on the ground – while SWOSU totaled 400 yards, primarily on the ground with 271 yards.
 
Sergio Kennedy returned to quarterback, completing 13-of-29 passes for 138 yards but struggled with four interceptions.
 
Myles Featherston stood out as the Tigers' leading rusher, netting 131 yards on 17 carries, while Kylin Mathisrecorded three receptions for 41 yards.
 
Defensively, Chase Faber had a standout performance, leading the team with a season-high 17 stops and .5 tackle for loss.
 
The ECU football team will hit the road next week to take on Oklahoma Baptist University on Saturday, Sept. 28 at 6 pm.