Leatherwood, Holloway and Flowers lift Tennessee Tech past The Citadel 28-13

CHARLESTON, S.C. (AP) — Jax Leatherwood, Tre'Holloway, and M.J. Flowers propelled Tennessee Tech to a 28-13 victory over The Citadel on Saturday. Leatherwood completed 20 of 25 passes for 240 yards, while Flowers amassed 124 yards rushing on 19 carries and Holloway had 5 receptions for 128 yards. The Golden Eagles, currently ranked No. 12 in the Stats Perform Football Championship Subdivision poll, struggled to gain momentum due to two lost fumbles in the first half.

A fumble recovery in the second half, resulting in an early touchdown, provided Tennessee Tech with an advantage. The Bulldogs' first touchdown came through a 78-yard fumble return by JJ Fludd. Quarterback Leatherwood showcased his versatility, as he threw for the crucial 13-yard touchdown pass to Tre'Holloway on the second play of the second quarter, setting the tone for the win.

Holloway's impressive connection with Leatherwood on a 52-yard pass extended Tennessee Tech's lead to 14-10 at halftime. With just over three minutes remaining in the third quarter, Quentin Hayes fumbled, and Kanstin Brooks returned the ball 13 yards to the Citadel's 9-yard line, setting up a touchdown for Flowers. The Citadel managed just 190 yards on offense, including nine yards on 5-of-12 passing attempts.

This marked only the second time these two schools had faced off, with the previous encounter taking place in the 1960 Tangerine Bowl, won by The Citadel 27-0.