TSU outlasts UAPB in Southern Heritage Classic Thriller

In a thrilling 35th-anniversary edition of the Southern Heritage Classic, Tennessee State University (TSU) outlasted the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff (UAPB) 41-28 in a game that kept fans on edge until the final whistle. With an attendance of over 27,500 at Simmons Bank Liberty Stadium, the Tigers delivered an impressive display of resilience and control to secure the victory.

TSU dominated early, racking up 21 points in the second quarter to create a solid lead, which UAPB was unable to overcome despite moments of brilliance. Draylen Ellis, TSU’s quarterback, showcased his playmaking ability with three touchdown passes, completing 20 of 33 passes for 228 yards.

UAPB struck first with a 33-yard touchdown pass from Mekhi Hagens to JaVonnie Gibson, but the Tigers quickly responded. Jalen Rouse’s 3-yard run and James Lowery’s field goal capped a strong first quarter for TSU. From there, the Tigers surged ahead in the second quarter, adding 21 points, including two touchdown passes from Ellis, to extend their lead to 31-14 by halftime.

UAPB fought back in the third quarter with a pair of touchdowns, including a 5-yard pass from Hagens to Kevin English and a 2-yard run by Oshawn Ross, closing the gap to 38-28. However, TSU’s defense held strong in the final quarter, allowing only a field goal by James Lowery to seal the victory.

TSU’s balanced offense, featuring 196 rushing yards and 228 passing yards, proved too much for UAPB. CJ Evans led the rushing attack with a standout 38-yard touchdown run. On the defensive side, TSU’s pass rush was relentless, recording seven sacks and preventing UAPB from sustaining any momentum in the critical moments.

With this win, TSU improves to 2-1, while UAPB drops to 1-2. Both teams look ahead to conference play, but this Southern Heritage Classic will be remembered for its electrifying plays and the passionate crowd celebrating a milestone in Memphis’ rich sports tradition.