MIAMI GARDENS, Fla. (October 12, 2024) - The St. Thomas University (STU) Football team continued their 2024 season opener today against the University of Fort Lauderdale Eagles, after the first meeting was postponed due to lightning. This was a game that saw a lot of different names for the Bobcats on both sides of the ball, and some guys that proved a ton on the field. This is STU's second highest amount of points scored since the programs birth in 2019.

The Bobcats started strong, with Keely Watson connecting with David Hayes for a 19-yard touchdown pass just 12:35 into the game, followed by a successful extra point from Zachary Alvarez. The defense quickly stepped up, as Caleb Walker intercepted a pass and returned it for a touchdown, extending the lead to 14-0 just minutes later. Reggie Foster added to the score with a 7-yard rushing touchdown, making it 21-0. Before the quarter ended, Alvarez capped off a solid opening frame with a 34-yard field goal, bringing the score to 24-0.

St. Thomas continued to dominate in the second quarter. Watson found Hayes again, this time for a 34-yard touchdown pass, pushing the lead to 31-0. Hayes wasn't done yet, as he caught another long pass from Watson, this time for 65 yards, increasing the lead to 38-0. Foster capped off the quarter with a 1-yard touchdown run, concluding a series of strong plays that put the Bobcats ahead 45-0 at halftime.

The second half began with an electrifying 70-yard punt return for a touchdown by Jerome Mitchell, followed by a pair of interceptions returned for touchdowns by Keyon Martin and Rashard Farmer. With Alvarez consistently successful on the extra points, the Bobcats extended their lead to an impressive 66-0. The Bobcats kept their momentum going in the final quarter, with Sean Speed connecting with Jaelyn Thomas for a 3-yard touchdown pass. Speed then added a rushing touchdown of his own from 4 yards out, finalizing the score at 80-0.

This game showcased the Bobcats' explosive offense and a defense that was relentless, forcing turnovers and capitalizing on every opportunity. With this victory, the Bobcats continue to assert their dominance in the league, leaving fans eager for what's next.

Box Score Notables

Offense

David Hayes- 5 receptions, 153 yards, 3 touchdowns
Keely Watson- 10 for 14, 213 yards, 3 touchdowns
Kyrell Logan- 6 attempts, 78 yards, 13 yard avg.

Defense

Rashard Farmer- 2 pick sixes, 1 tackle
Keyon Martin- 2 tackles, 1 pick six
DJ Dunbar- 2 sacks