Undefeated Stephen F. Austin off to best start in program history after 45-24 win over SE Louisiana

Stephen F. Austin, currently undefeated and ranked No. 2 in the Stats Perform poll, faced Southeastern Louisiana in a top 25 Championship Subdivision matchup on Saturday night. The Lumberjacks, who have an 8-0 record and 5-0 standing in the Southland Conference, showcased their dominance with a 45-24 victory. The game's momentum shifted dramatically in the third quarter, as Cameron Kelley's 81-yard catch-and-run touchdown set the tone, followed closely by Aamear Walton's 20-yard pick-6.

This 21-point surge proved to be the turning point, as the Lumberjacks established a commanding 42-17 lead by the end of the fourth quarter. Key contributors to this impressive performance included Kelley, who also completed a short pass from Gavin Rutherford for the touchdown, Walton, who intercepted two tipped passes leading to a 4-yard touchdown run, and JT Kitna, who added another touchdown run.

The defense was equally impressive, with Blake Smith delivering a 73-yard catch-and-run touchdown for the Lions. Southeastern Louisiana, ranked 23rd in the standings with a 4-4 record, managed to put up a fight, but ultimately fell short against the powerhouse from Nacogdoches. The Lumberjacks will continue their winning streak at home against Houston Christian next Saturday.