Full Breakdown
Troy Trojans Rally for Overtime Victory Against Texas State Bobcats
10/12/2025, 1:21:27 PM
Game Overview and Key Moments
In a thrilling matchup on October 11, 2025, the Troy Trojans (4-2, 2-0 Sun Belt Conference) overcame a significant early deficit to defeat the Texas State Bobcats (3-3, 0-2) 48-41 in overtime at UFCU Stadium in San Marcos, Texas. The Bobcats surged to a commanding 21-0 lead in the first quarter, scoring on their first four possessions, including touchdowns from quarterback Brad Jackson and running backs Greg Burrell and Lincoln Pare. However, the Trojans responded with a 57-yard touchdown pass from quarterback Tucker Kilcrease to RaRa Thomas, igniting their comeback.
Second Half Comeback
Troy entered halftime trailing 31-17 but emerged revitalized in the second half. Kilcrease connected with DJ Epps for a 48-yard completion, setting up a touchdown run by Jarris Williams, narrowing the gap to 31-24. Following an onside kick recovery, Troy added a 47-yard field goal, bringing the score to 31-27. Texas State managed to extend their lead to 38-27 with a one-yard touchdown run from Pare, but Troy continued to press, scoring a two-yard touchdown pass to Trae Swartz, making it 38-33.
Dramatic Finish and Overtime
With just over a minute left in regulation, Kilcrease orchestrated a drive that culminated in an 18-yard touchdown pass to Epps, tying the game at 41-41 after a successful two-point conversion. Texas State had a chance to win in regulation but missed a 42-yard field goal attempt, sending the game into overtime.
In the extra period, Kilcrease found Epps again for a six-yard touchdown pass, giving Troy a 48-41 lead. The Bobcats' attempt to respond was thwarted when they failed to convert on fourth-and-one, sealing Troy's victory.
Player Performances
Tucker Kilcrease had a standout performance, completing 30 of 39 passes for 415 yards and five touchdowns, marking one of the best games of his career. DJ Epps was a key target, catching 10 passes for 148 yards and two touchdowns. For Texas State, Brad Jackson completed 19 of 22 passes for 248 yards, adding 77 rushing yards and a touchdown. Burrell and Pare combined for 249 rushing yards, with Pare scoring three times.
Official Statements & Responses
Troy head coach Gerad Parker praised his team's resilience, stating, “The resilience and toughness of this football team is unlike anything I’ve seen before.” Texas State head coach G.J. Kinne acknowledged Kilcrease's performance, saying, “We were hitting [Kilcrease], we were right there in his face and his guys made plays, it’s a credit to him.”
Criticism & Opposition
Despite the loss, Texas State's performance was criticized for their inability to maintain their early lead and for defensive lapses in the second half. Kinne noted, “In the second half, we couldn’t get off the field,” highlighting the team's struggles to stop Troy's offense.
What's Next
Following this game, Texas State will look to rebound against Marshall, while Troy will continue their conference campaign against Louisiana-Monroe. The outcome of this game adds to Troy's momentum as they strive to maintain their undefeated conference record.
