Hornets Get Stomped by the Bronchos!

Central Oklahoma built a commanding lead early in the game and rode on a dominant offensive performance to a 56-22 victory over Emporia State this past Saturday evening, bringing UCO’s record to 4-3 overall and 4-2 in conference play.

Central Oklahoma opened the game at home with a quick 75 yard, seven play drive for a 7-0 lead. The Bronchos defense dominated early, forcing an Emporia punt and UCO’s Kristian Valeriano caught a 44-yard pass from quarterback Jett Huff to put UCO up 14-0 with 8:01 remaining in the first. 

Emporia finally got on the board when a reverse to Kingsley Bennett turned into a touchdown pass from Camden Crooks, making it 17-6 at the end of the first. UCO had an outstanding offensive half though, outscoring Emporia 31-8 as they headed into the third.

The Bronchos widened the gap 49-15 by the end of the third quarter with Huff spreading the football around to multiple receivers.

With the fourth quarter starting, The Bronchos offense lost no momentum as they took all starters out of the game. The backups did not disappoint as sophomore running back Dev Matthews drove down the 50 yards and finished the drive with a 2-yard touchdown. Central’s defense also made consistent plays as the game came to an end with a big hit by freshman linebacker Hank Puckett.

The Bronchos defense had a festive night coming up with five turnovers, four interceptions and one forced fumble. Senior outside linebacker Connor Johnson led the team in tackles with six solo and one assist, junior defensive back Bryant Coley followed with six tackles.

Multiple people on Central’s defense got their fair share of love from the Emporia state quarterback. Junior linebacker Jack Puckett, junior cornerback Willie Rice, sophomore defensive back Marcus Works and senior cornerback Kaunor Ashley all had an interception a piece.

Huff said, “It’s a great opportunity when both sides of the ball play for each other, every play, every drive and every quarter. It just makes the game a whole lot easier and it raises the competition between both sides because we both want to win no matter what it takes. I am very proud of how the second and third string came in the game prepared and ready to execute each play just how we practiced.’’

Huff established himself, putting up 449 offensive yards. It was his fourth 400-yard game. He now holds the record for having the most 400-yard games in UCO history. The All-American quarterback is also first all-time for most 300-yard games, as he recorded his eighth Saturday evening. 

Schuman had his third 100+ yard game this season with 200 yards and 2 touchdowns. He is also the previous Mid-America Intercollegiate Athletics Association (MIAA) freshman of the year and is looking to become the MIAA Offensive MVP of the year. 

Central Oklahoma will host Northeastern State for Homecoming this Saturday at Chad Richison Stadium with kickoff to begin at 7 p.m.