Abram Murray’s 40-yard field goal with 1:49 remaining and Gavin Howard’s crucial interception in the final minute propelled UL Monroe to a 19-17 victory over Arkansas State on Saturday. The Sun Belt Conference matchup saw the Warhawks (2-7, 2-3 Sun Belt) claim their second consecutive win against Arkansas State (4-5, 2-3) after the Red Wolves had dominated the previous 15 meetings.
UL Monroe’s Austin Carlisle led the team’s rushing attack with 111 yards on 19 carries, while Don Chaney added 68 yards on 12 carries. Carlisle also completed all four of his passing attempts for 31 yards.
The decisive drive came with just under six minutes left in regulation, after Arkansas State took a brief 17-16 lead with a field goal. The Warhawks methodically moved the ball 62 yards in seven plays, chewing up nearly four minutes of clock before Murray delivered his 40-yard kick to reclaim the lead.
Arkansas State had an opportunity to respond, advancing to their own 44-yard line, but quarterback Trey Owens’ pass was intercepted by Howard, sealing the victory for UL Monroe. The Warhawks then secured a first down to run out the clock.
Owens went 16-for-29 through the air for 193 yards and a touchdown, connecting with receiver Jaylen Bonelli three times for 66 yards. However, turnovers proved costly for the Red Wolves, as Owens had two interceptions and a lost fumble in the contest.
Both teams now turn their attention to the next challenges on their schedules. UL Monroe will host Louisiana-Lafayette on Thursday, while Arkansas State travels to Coastal Carolina next Saturday.