An 18-yard touchdown run by Da’Marian Pullen early in the fourth quarter led host Central Oklahoma to a 21-13 win over Texas A&M University-Commerce in the Lone Star Conference North Division opener for both teams. The touchdown was set by a 49-yard reception by Ryan Gallimore from reserve quarterback Brandon Noohi.
In the win, Central Oklahoma (1-4, 1-0 LSC North) outgained Texas A&M-Commerce (2-3, 0-1 LSC North) by a 231-to-172 margin. In the loss, the Lions defense forced four turnovers, including three interceptions. Senior linebacker Andrew Gamboa (pictured to the right) had 11 tackles for his third double digit tackle effort on the season to go along with an interception and a fumble recovery. Senior defensive lineman A.J. Johnson had seven tackles, including 4 1/2 for minus yardage.
In the fourth quarter, after forcing its fourth turnover of the game when Gamboa picked off a Gibson pass, the Lions went nine plays and 39 yards to get within one, 14-13. A&M-Commerce got into the end zone when Willie Thornton caught a five-yard pass from Trent Miller for the touchdown reception.
The Lions got on the board first in the second quarter when senior safety Courtney Edmond stepped in front of a pass and ran 19 yards untouched into the end zone. However, A&M-Commerce would miss the ensuing extra point for the early 6-0 lead.
After a three-and-out by the UCO offense, the Bronchos went ahead on a 40-yard interception by Marcus Martinez and the Chad Susman extra point gave UCO a 7-6 lead. After a three-and-out by the A&M-Commerce offense, Central Oklahoma added to its lead on a 44-yard pass play between Gibson and Gallimore.
The Lions will remain on the road for its next game when they face Northeastern State in Tahlequah, Oklahoma at 3 p.m.