SAN ANTONIO, Texas – After digging a deep hole early, the University of the Incarnate Word football team attempted to climb its way back with three fourth-quarter touchdowns against McNeese, but the Cowboys outlasted the Cardinals, 42-35, on Saturday night at Benson Stadium.
 
HOW IT HAPPENED
 
For a second consecutive week, UIW (1-3, 1-2 SLC) found itself trailing by multiple touchdowns, but gave the fans something to stick around for in the final minutes. McNeese (2-2, 1-1 SLC) took a 28-7 lead with 5:55 remaining in the first half, and led many as 28 points in the third quarter before UIW stormed its way back.
 
The Cardinals opened the fourth quarter with a 13-play, 80-yard drive, capped off by a nine-yard touchdown pass from Trent Brittain to Kody Edwards that brought the score to 42-21. Six minutes later, Dorland Field broke free for a 53-yard touchdown run that cut the Cowboys advantage to 14. With 1:37 remaining in the contest, McNeese flushed Brittain out of the pocket, he sprinted for the end zone and dove at the last moment, catching the left pylon for a touchdown. UIW attempted an onside kick, but the Cowboys recovered and ran out the clock.

LEADERS
 
Brittain finished 20-of-40 for 209 yards, with two touchdowns and an interception. He also rushed for 38 yards and a score. Dorland Fields paced the Cardinals on the ground, racking up all 53 of his total yards on his touchdown rush. Edwards and Hicks finished with 58 and 55 receiving yards respectively, while each registered a touchdown reception for UIW.
 
James Tabary spearheaded the Cowboys offense, finishing 14-of-20 for 223 yards and two touchdowns. Ryan Ross led McNeese with 63 yards and a score on the ground, while Darious Crowley had a team-high 132 yards and a touchdown through the air.
 
UP NEXT
 
The Cardinals will have a short trip to San Marcos for a battle against Texas State on Saturday, Oct. 1 at 6:30 p.m. at Bobcat Stadium.
 
STAY TUNED
 
UIW will host Sam Houston at 6 p.m. on Oct. 8 at Benson Stadium. The contest will serve as the team's annual cancer awareness game. Fans are encouraged to wear pink.
 
For the most up-to-date information on UIW Athletics visit uiwcardinals.com. Be sure to follow UIW Athletics on Twitter @UIWAthletics and like UIW Athletics on Facebook at UIW Athletics.