TTU extends FCS-best 14-game streak with comeback win

COOKEVILLE, Tenn. – In a display of sheer grit and determination, the Tennessee Tech Golden Eagles orchestrated a stunning 27-21 comeback victory over the Gardner-Webb Runnin’ Bulldogs on Sunday at Tucker Stadium, extending their Football Championship Subdivision (FCS)-leading winning streak to an remarkable 14 games. The Golden Eagles overcame a significant deficit, rattling off 24 unanswered points to snatch victory from the jaws of defeat.

Trailing 21-3 deep into the third quarter, a palpable shift in momentum ignited the Cookeville crowd of 8,500. The home side, known for their tenacious play, refused to concede, launching a relentless offensive and defensive surge that left Gardner-Webb reeling.

A pivotal force in Tech’s fourth-quarter explosion was junior running back Tre’ Holloway. Holloway, who had been a consistent threat throughout the game, punched in two crucial touchdowns during the final frame. His first score, a powerful 15-yard run early in the fourth quarter, narrowed the gap and injected life into the Golden Eagle sideline. He followed that up with an 8-yard sprint to the end zone with just under five minutes remaining, giving Tennessee Tech their first lead of the game, 24-21, after a successful two-point conversion. The Golden Eagles later added a field goal to seal the score.

Equally instrumental in halting Gardner-Webb’s offense and enabling Tech’s comeback was the dominant performance of senior defensive end Maurice LaPierre. LaPierre was a constant menace in the Runnin’ Bulldogs’ backfield, recording a career-high three sacks. His pressure disrupted pass plays, forced errant throws, and directly contributed to critical third-down stops that kept Gardner-Webb from extending their lead and gave the Golden Eagle offense opportunities to capitalize.

“I’ve never seen a team with more heart,” said head coach Mark Davidson after the game. “We talked at halftime about playing for all 60 minutes, and our guys absolutely bought in. Tre’ Holloway made some incredible plays when we needed them most, and Maurice LaPierre was simply unblockable. This team just finds a way to win.”

The 14-game winning streak is not only the longest active streak in the FCS but also marks a historic period for the Tennessee Tech football program, surpassing the previous record set in 1972. The streak began last season and has seen the Golden Eagles establish themselves as a force to be reckoned with, both offensively and defensively.

Gardner-Webb (3-4, 1-2 Big South-OVC Football Association) had controlled much of the first half, showcasing a balanced attack that kept Tech’s defense on its heels. However, the Runnin’ Bulldogs were unable to contain the Golden Eagles’ late-game surge, failing to score after their final touchdown midway through the third quarter.

The victory improves Tennessee Tech’s overall record to 7-1, with a perfect 4-0 mark in conference play, solidifying their position at the top of the Big South-OVC Football Association standings. The win significantly bolsters their playoff aspirations as the season enters its crucial final stretch.

Tennessee Tech will look to continue their historic run next Saturday, November 2, when they travel to face the [Next Opponent Name] at [Next Opponent’s Stadium/City]. Kickoff is scheduled for [Time, e.g., 2:00 PM CT]. For full game statistics and future schedule information, visit the official Tennessee Tech Athletics website at tntechsports.com.