Arkansas State wins its second straight after rallying to defeat Tulsa 28–24

Jonesboro, Arkansas – To secure Arkansas State’s second-straight home-field victory to begin the season, Courtney Jackson returned a punt 77 yards for a touchdown in the third quarter, and Jaylen Raynor found Corey Rucker with a five-yard scoring pass to lead Arkansas State to a 28-24 comeback victory over Tulsa on Saturday night.

The Red Wolves won the game with three touchdowns in the third quarter after Tulsa had taken a 17–7 lead at the half.

In the second half, Jackson returned Angus Davis’ 58-yard punt for a touchdown to give Arkansas State a 21-17 lead after forcing Tulsa into a three-and-out. Raynor had opened the half by running 15 yards for a touchdown, cutting the Golden Hurricane’s advantage to three points.

Tulsa immediately regained the lead, 24-21, with a three-play, 65-yard drive. On first down, Kirk Francis found Kamdyn Benjamin for a 45-yard connection, moving Tulsa to the Arkansas State 20. Anthony Watkins scored from the 2 after the Red Wolves were called for pass interference.

With one interception, Raynor completed 21 of 32 throws for 255 yards and two touchdowns. He also gained 65 yards and a touchdown on 19 rushes.

Francis led Tulsa (1-0) with 16 of 28 passing for 199 yards, a touchdown, and an interception.