Trojans Stun Bobcats in Thrilling Overtime Comeback

The Troy University Trojans pulled off a spectacular rally Saturday night, erasing a 21-point first-quarter deficit to defeat the Texas State Bobcats, 48-41, in an overtime classic at UFCU Stadium.

Trailing 28-7 after a dismal opening quarter, Troy (4-2, 2-0 Sun Belt) outscored the Bobcats 41-13 the rest of the way, culminating in a game-winning catch by DJ Epps in overtime. The victory marks the second time this season quarterback Tucker Kilcrease has engineered a 17-plus-point comeback, further cementing his reputation for clutch play.

Kilcrease was sensational, completing 30 of 39 passes for 415 yards and a career-best, school-record-tying number of touchdowns. His favorite target, Epps, hauled in 10 passes for 148 yards and two crucial touchdowns. Epps’ 18-yard grab and subsequent two-point conversion with just 1:13 left in regulation tied the game at 41-41.

The comeback was fueled by more than the air game. Kicker Paddy McAteer nailed a school-record-tying 53-yard field goal before halftime and successfully executed an onside kick, giving the Trojans extra possessions.

While Texas State (3-3, 0-2) racked up 574 yards of total offense, including 326 on the ground from backs like Lincoln Paré (113 yards, 3 TDs) and Greg Burrell (136 yards, 1 TD), the Troy defense tightened when it mattered most. Linebacker Jordan Stringer led the effort with a career-high 15 tackles.

“The resilience and toughness of this football team is unlike anything I’ve seen before,” said Troy Head Coach Gerad Parker. “We took chances. We took risks. An unbelievable effort by everyone, and when their best was required on defense, they got the job done to finish the game.”

The stunning win keeps the Trojans undefeated in conference play and improves their record against Texas State to 14-2.