After a poor performance from the Wildcat defense last week, ACU rose from the dead with new-found confidence.

A win over a deeply talented Delta State team was the booster shot the ‘Cats needed to bring them out of the 2-2 slump.

Defensive back Mike Wallace was the ‘mane’ event for the Wildcat defense. He and his dreadlocks were a nightmare for the Statesmen. He contributed with the first of two interceptions in the first few minutes of the game, putting the ‘Cats in the Delta State red zone early.

Soon after, ACU responded to the clutch defensive play by taking advantage of the good field position.

Running back Charcandrick West  gave the ‘Cats a much needed spark with the first ACU touchdown. He was back on the field after suffering a groin injury against Tarleton State.

But the Statesmen, not keeling over just yet, responded with two back-to-back touchdowns.

Demarcus Thompson and Mitchell Gale connected to put up six more on the board before the half.

Delta State quickly turned from being the favorites to playing catch-up, and were not able to advance the ball against the Wildcat defense. The option seemed to be Delta State’s only option of gaining any ground.

A third-quarter Lineberry field goal stretched the lead to 27-21 for ACU, but it didn’t take long for the Statesmen to respond. They regained the lead after a quick touchdown.

Taylor Gabriel displayed some of his magic with a  34-yard touchdown pass from Gale to give the Wildcats another six-point lead, 34-28.

The true test game down to the final minutes though, as the ACU defense was again tested under pressure. Delta State neared the end zone with seconds left, felt the pressure of the hungry ‘Cats and failed to even things up.

ACU crossed the Mississippi to bring home a final victory of 34-28.