Chadron State Rallies To Stop Jimmies’ Upset Bid

Chadron State College Eagles Hold Off Jamestown Jimmies 30-27 in Season Opener

Chadron State Battles Back from 10-Point Deficit to Secure Victory

The Chadron State College Eagles kicked off their 2023 football season with a thrilling 30-27 victory over the Jamestown Jimmies on Thursday night at Elliott Field in Chadron, Nebraska.

The Jimmies, an NAIA program from Jamestown, North Dakota, gave the Eagles of the Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference all they could handle. Jumping out to a quick 10-0 lead, the Jimmies held the Eagles scoreless until late in the second quarter.

With just over two minutes remaining before halftime, Eagles quarterback Jonn McLain connected with wide receiver Isaiah Alston for a 20-yard touchdown pass, cutting the Jimmies' lead to 10-7.

The Jimmies extended their lead to 17-7 with a touchdown early in the third quarter, but the Eagles battled back once again. McLain found Alston for a second touchdown pass late in the third quarter and ran for the two-point conversion, bringing the score to 17-15.

The Eagles took their first lead of the game, 22-17, early in the fourth quarter when Devontae Dean returned a fumble 25 yards for a touchdown. Jamestown answered quickly, however, tying the game at 24-24 with a touchdown pass with just over nine minutes remaining.

The Eagles regained the lead for good, 30-24, on a 35-yard field goal by Cooper Hayzlett with 2:46 remaining. The Jimmies had one last chance to tie the game, but their field goal attempt was blocked as time expired.

McLain finished the game 13-for-25 passing for 164 yards and two touchdowns. He also rushed for 60 yards and a touchdown. Alston caught seven passes for 102 yards and two touchdowns.

The Eagles will return to action next Saturday, September 9, when they travel to Wayne, Nebraska, to face the Wayne State College Wildcats. The Jimmies will also play on September 9 when they host the Dordt University Defenders in Jamestown.