COLUMBIA, Mo. — The University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff football team fell 54-14 to No. 25 Missouri on the road Thursday night at Memorial Stadium/Faurot Field.
The Tigers improved to 1-0 on the season, while the Golden Lions moved to 1-1.
Despite falling behind early, UAPB continued to battle after halftime, scoring touchdowns in both the third and fourth quarters. Head coach Alonzo Hampton said the effort showed the mentality he wants his program to establish.
"You want to be known as a program of fighters," Hampton said. "Guys don't quit. Anytime you're outnumbered, you want to see who's going to fight, who's going to get in the battle and who's going to stay in the battle."
Za'Marion Webber paced the Golden Lions' rushing attack with 56 yards and a touchdown on seven carries, averaging 8.0 yards per attempt. Jalen Williams added 30 yards on the ground while averaging 6.0 yards per carry.
Freshman wide receiver David Brewer IV hauled in two catches for 29 yards, including a touchdown reception.
Defensively, Michael Henderson turned in a strong performance with seven tackles, a forced fumble and a fumble recovery. Machai Campbell added a half tackle for loss and a half sack.
The Golden Lions also won the turnover battle, forcing one Missouri turnover while finishing the game without a giveaway.
How It Happened
Missouri built a 40-0 advantage before UAPB broke through with 2:31 remaining in the third quarter to cut the deficit to 40-7.
After Missouri extended its lead to 47-7, the Golden Lions responded with their second touchdown to make it 47-14. The Tigers added one final touchdown to close out the scoring.
Austin Simmons led Missouri's passing attack, completing 17-of-19 attempts for 252 yards and four touchdowns. Donovan Olugbode finished with 116 receiving yards and two touchdowns.
Nate Walker led the Golden Lions defensively with 10 tackles.
With the non-conference test behind them, Hampton said the Golden Lions will now turn their attention toward SWAC play and the opportunity ahead.
Up Next
The Golden Lions will turn their attention to SWAC play as they travel to Memphis, Tennessee, to face Alcorn State in the 37th Annual Southern Heritage Classic on Saturday, Sept. 12, at Simmons Bank Liberty Stadium. Kickoff is set for 6 p.m.
Game Notes
- UAPB won the turnover battle 1-0.
- The Golden Lions scored seven points in both the third and fourth quarters.
- UAPB converted 3-of-13 third downs, while Missouri finished 6-of-10.
- Nate Walker led UAPB with 10 tackles.
- Michael Henderson recorded seven tackles, a forced fumble and a fumble recovery.
- Za'Marion Webber rushed for 56 yards and a touchdown, averaging 8.0 yards per carry.
