UPLAND, Ind. – The Olivet Nazarene University football team opened its season in dramatic fashion, knocking off Taylor 48-42 in an overtime thriller at Turner Stadium Thursday night. This season-opener was especially significant as it marked the second consecutive overtime game against Taylor, a team that had previously edged out Olivet 58-51 in an overtime showdown last season.
The first quarter opened with Olivet initially struggling to gain momentum, starting with a penalty that pushed them back to their own 10-yard line. Despite a promising 25-yard pass connection from Christian Dhue-Reid to Jalen Wallace, the drive was halted and resulted in a punt. The Trojans capitalized on their possessions, scoring twice with a 1-yard rush from Nathan Parker at 9:53 and another 1-yard run by Kyle Turanchick at 1:53. As the quarter closed, Jack Miller found rhythm for Olivet, completing a series of passes totaling 37 yards to Nakoa Kahana-Tr, Brandon Jackson, and Mike White, positioning the team at Taylor’s 28-yard line.
The second quarter began with Olivet Nazarene striking early as Miller connected with Kahana-Tr for a 35-yard touchdown at 14:12, although the extra point was unsuccessful. Dhue- later led a strong offensive drive, culminating in a 23-yard touchdown pass to Lehiwa Kahana-T, followed by a successful conversion with Blake Lamb at 7:00. Despite a late scoring push by Taylor, including a touchdown that tied the game at 14:14, Olivet maintained a competitive edge with strategic plays and timely scoring, leaving the teams tied at the end of the half.
The third quarter began with a strong offensive effort from Taylor, who scored a touchdown just 50 seconds into the quarter. However, Olivet swiftly responded with a series of strategic plays, as Aaron Bennett‘s consistent rushing, including a 13-yard touchdown run at 10:23, highlighted the team’s resilience. Dhue- contributed significantly with precise passing, connecting with Lamb for a 37-yard touchdown, and later rushing for a 2-yard score at 01:08, tying the score by the end of the quarter.
In the fourth quarter, Olivet made significant strides, beginning with a defensive stop by Jalen Perkins, causing a five-yard loss for Taylor. The offensive momentum continued as Dhue-Reid connected with Lamb for a 22-yard gain, setting up a one-yard touchdown run by Keshawn Huguely at 10:22. Despite a later interception, Olivet’s defense, led by Kennarius Chand with a key sack, held firm as the game ended with both teams scoring seven points each in the quarter.
In overtime, Olivet started strong with Dhue- connecting with Ray Coffey for a 25-yard touchdown pass right at the 15:00 mark. Despite missing the extra point, this put Olivet ahead 48-42. On the defensive end, Perkins made a critical interception at the Olivet nine-yard line, effectively stalling Taylor’s drive and securing the victory for the Tigers as the quarter concluded. This thrilling overtime victory mirrored the intensity of their previous season’s matchup against Taylor.
Dhue-Reid led Olivet with a standout performance, completing 19 of 29 passes for 322 yards and three touchdowns, and adding a rushing touchdown. Lamb contributed significantly with five receptions for 90 yards and a touchdown, while also converting a two-point conversion. On defense, Perkins was notable with 10 total tackles and an interception. John Harman made an impact by tallying eight tackles and recovering a fumble.
With the win, Olivet Nazarene improves to 1-0 on the season. They will host their season-opener “White Out” game under the lights at Ward Field on Sept. 6. Kickoff is slated for 7 p.m.
For more information about the athletics program, contact Evan Wild, Sports Information Director, ewwild@olivet.edu.
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— Republished 9/01/2025 —
