Springfield Standard

Missouri State University Bears secured a 24-17 overtime victory against New Mexico State on Wednesday in Las Cruces, New Mexico, during Conference USA play. The win was highlighted by four interceptions from the Bears' defense, including a decisive pick by Dylan Dixson in overtime.

Quarterback Jacob Clark returned to the starting lineup after missing time due to injury and completed 28 of 44 passes for 283 yards and three touchdowns. His performance included a seven-yard touchdown pass to Ronnel Johnson in overtime that proved to be the game-winner. This marked Clark’s 47th career touchdown pass, tying him with Cody Kirby for Missouri State's all-time record.

Johnson led the team with six receptions totaling 99 yards. After Missouri State scored in overtime, New Mexico State's first play resulted in an interception by Dixson, sealing the outcome. New Mexico State dropped to 3-4 overall and 1-3 in conference play.

The Bears' defense also saw contributions from Jordan Dunbar, Maguire Neal, and Thomas Anderson, who each recorded an interception. New Mexico State quarterback Logan Fife finished the game completing 22 of 34 passes for 207 yards and one touchdown.

Fife’s only touchdown came late in regulation following a short Missouri State punt that gave the Aggies favorable field position. He connected with Donovan Faupel on an 11-yard score with under two minutes left to tie the game at 17-17.

Missouri State attempted a potential game-winning field goal at the end of regulation, but Yousef Obeid’s 50-yard attempt missed just right.

Shomari Lawrence led Missouri State’s rushing attack with 97 yards and added a key seven-yard run in overtime. Defensively, Anderson made eleven tackles while Davon Townley Jr. recorded two sacks and blocked a field goal attempt.

In the third quarter, Missouri State took advantage of an interception by Dunbar to set up an 18-yard touchdown pass from Clark to Ramone Green Jr., giving them a lead they held until late in regulation.

Missouri State will return home on Wednesday, October 29, for a nationally televised game against FIU at Plaster Stadium. Tickets are available through MissouriStateBears.com or at the box office at Great Southern Bank Arena during business hours (10 a.m.–5 p.m., Monday–Friday). The upcoming contest is designated as Ag Day and will feature stadium-wide promotions including $2 hot dogs and a halftime drone show.

"Tickets for the game are available online at MissouriStateBears.com or at the Missouri State Box office at Great Southern Bank Arena, (417) 836-7678, during regular box office hours (10-5, M-F)."

"The Oct. 29 game is Ag Day at Plaster Stadium. The contest also includes stadium-wide promotions for $2 hot dogs and a halftime drone show."