UT Martin triumphs over Gardner-Webb 35-17 with Smith's 3 TDs

In Martin, Tennessee, UT Martin secured a 35-17 victory over Gardner-Webb in a college football matchup on Saturday. Patrick Smith was a standout player, rushing for 128 yards and scoring three touchdowns, including two short-yardage runs in the first half and a 30-yard touchdown that extended the lead to 35-3 late in the third quarter. Kinkead Dent contributed significantly, completing 15 of 23 passes for 167 yards and adding a rushing touchdown. His performance was crucial in maintaining the Skyhawks' momentum throughout the game. Gardner-Webb struggled to keep pace, despite a late-game surge. In the fourth quarter, Carson Gresock managed a 3-yard touchdown run, and Tyler Ridell connected with Quasean Holmes for an 8-yard touchdown pass. However, these efforts were not enough to overcome the substantial deficit. Edward Saydee also had a notable performance for the Bulldogs, rushing for 112 yards on 17 carries. This game marked an important moment for UT Martin, improving their record to 3-3 overall and 1-1 in the Big South-OVC Association. The victory showcased the team's offensive capabilities and resilience, particularly in the face of a challenging season. For Gardner-Webb, the loss dropped their record to 1-5 and 0-2 in conference play, highlighting the need for improvement as they continue their season. The game served as a reminder of the competitive nature of college football and the importance of each matchup in determining standings.