Eli Sawyer leads SE Louisiana to last-second win over SFA

In a thrilling college football matchup on October 20, 2024, Southeast Louisiana triumphed over Stephen F. Austin with a score of 24-23. The game, held in Hammond, Louisiana, showcased intense competition, marked by several lead changes as each team's offense flourished. Eli Sawyer played a pivotal role for Southeast Louisiana, navigating a challenging game and ultimately pulling through in dramatic fashion during the final moments. After an evenly matched first half that ended with SE Louisiana ahead 14-7, Stephen F. Austin established a strong comeback in the second half. The Lumberjacks initially took the lead with a short touchdown run and a field goal, setting the stage for a nail-biting finish. Santiago Campos's field goal extended their lead to 23-17, putting pressure on the Lions to respond quickly. Faced with a daunting 75-yard drive starting from their own territory, Sawyer and his teammates remained unfazed. They executed a series of critical completions, including a fourth-and-8 conversion. In a masterful display of poise under pressure, Sawyer connected with Lewis for the decisive touchdown, sealing the victory with only two seconds left on the clock. This victory not only boosts SE Louisiana to a 4-4 overall record but also emphasizes their dominance in the Southland Conference, where they have won three straight games. The win underscores the team's resilience and competitive spirit as they look forward to the remainder of the season.