ADA, Okla. – The East Central University football team opened up the 2024 season at home with a tough matchup against No. 22 Henderson State University. Despite keeping the game close and making it a one-score affair in the second half, the Tigers let the Reddies get away from them, ultimately resulting in a 41-17 defeat on Thursday night.
 
Henderson struck first, racking up 10 points in the first quarter for an early lead. Both teams had their share of miscues, but ECU found some rhythm in the second quarter. Sergio Kennedy, making his debut as the Tigers' quarterback, broke free for a thrilling 42-yard touchdown run. With Tommy Yousey's successful PAT, ECU trimmed Henderson's lead to 10-7.
 
The Tigers gained momentum when Gio Waller intercepted a Henderson pass, but the drive was stalled when the Reddies quickly forced a fumble, halting the energy ECU was building. Henderson capitalized with two more touchdowns and, after a 36-yard field goal by Yousey, the Tigers faced a 24-10 deficit at halftime.
 
Undeterred, ECU fought back. Waller again made a key play by recovering a fumble and advancing 32 yards to the Reddies' eight yard-line, giving the Tigers a chance to get back into the game. Kennedy then plunged in for his second touchdown of the night, narrowing the gap to 24-17.
 
ECU's defense continued to battle, with Darian Williams recovering another fumble. However, two crucial interceptions by Henderson thwarted the Tigers' offensive efforts. The Reddies managed an 84-yard touchdown pass down the stretch, holding a 31-17 advantage heading into the final quarter.
 
From there, Henderson seized control, coming up with 17 unanswered points to seal the game for good with a 41-17 victory.
 
Offensively, Sergio Kennedy finished the game 8-of-24 through the air for 95 yards and contributed to the Tiger rushing attack with 10 carries and two touchdowns. Andrew Wimmer led with 24 carries for 80 yards while Jackson Allen and K.J. Peoples led the receiving corps with two receptions each for 32 yards and 25 yards, respectively.
 
Defensively, Darian Williams made six stops including a tackle for loss and sack to go along with a recovered fumble while Gio Waller was credited with a tackle for loss, a recovered fumble, and his first interception of the season.
 
The East Central University football team will hit the road next week as they prepare to take on Southern Arkansas University on Saturday, Sept. 14 at 6 pm in Magnolia, Arkansas.