Story and photo courtesy of Lindenwood Athletics
The Lindenwood football team ended its regular season on Saturday afternoon with a 38-13 victory over Truman in Kirksville, Mo. With the win, the Lions remain alive for a possible postseason bowl bid.
The Lions took control of the game early with three touchdowns on their first four possessions. The last touchdown in that span made the score 21-3 and Lindenwood had a 21-6 advantage at halftime.
In the second half, both teams made big touchdown plays midway through the period to make the score 28-13. The Lions then put the game away with a field goal and touchdown in the final quarter.
Lindenwood finished with 539 offensive yards, with 216 on the ground and 323 through the air. The defense held Truman to 318 yards, forced two turnovers, and four turnovers on downs.
Andrew Helmick and Denodus O’Bryant each scored two touchdowns, including a 69-yard touchdown reception by Helmick and a 79-yard run by O’Bryant. Helmick finished with 10 catches for 213 yards, while O’Bryant rushed for 171 yards and caught four passes for 41 yards.
Helmick broke two records in the game, setting the school record for career receptions (144) and single-season receiving yards (1162).
Dillon Miller threw for 314 yards and three touchdowns. The other receiver touchdown was caught by Tony Ritzman.
Connor Harris led the team’s defensive effort with 13 tackles and a fumble recovery. Justin Broome had seven tackles and two pass breakups, Brock Reed had six tackles and two pass breakups, and Pierre Desir had an interception and two pass breakups. Cody Reider had the team’s only sack.