It was a close game in Weatherford, Okla. as the Bisons lost their season opener against Southwestern Oklahoma State University 27-23 at Fast Lane Field Thursday night.
The game started well as the Bisons forced their first turnover of the year off of Erik Ragsdale’s interception in the end zone, giving the Bison offense an opportunity to put points on the scoreboard first.
Quarterback Jacob Moore, filling in for the injured Keenan Kellett, drove the Bisons down after linebacker Erik Ragsdale’s turnover and scored the first touchdown of the 2013 season, giving the Bisons an early 7-0 lead.
“I can only speak for myself and admit to the several mistakes I (wish) I could have back,” Moore said. ” We put our defense in terrible positions because of our mistakes on the offensive side of the ball.”
The Bisons turned the ball over three times in Thursday night’s defeat, one turnover leading SWOSU to the touchdown that ultimately led to their victory over the Bisons.
Even with the late turnover, the Bisons had one chance with one minute and 30 seconds left in the game but fell short after a last-second throw from Moore was intercepted in the end zone.
The Bisons defense gave up 390 yards of offense and three touchdowns Thursday night.
“For me, I think as a defense we need to keep our composure and minimize the mistakes that we create for ourselves,” senior safety Aston Williams said. “If we can learn from the errors, I think we can be as good as anyone in the conference.”
Williams said if the defense can continue to mold together, they will be able to accomplish great things this year.
Throughout the game a lot of things go unnoticed, especially after a loss. Red shirt freshmen Park Parish said he will remember this game for a long time.
Parish, a third string quarterback, entered the game late in the second quarter after Moore sustained a minor injury. Parish ran one play and scored his first college football touchdown.
“It was awesome, I was on cloud nine; (I) just wish it could have gotten the win tonight,” Parish said. “I have to give a shout out to all my blockers on that play. I could have driven a truck through that hole.”
The Bisons said they look to rebound quickly after this loss to SWOSU and improve on their mistakes made in week one.
“I absolutely hate losing,” Williams said. “We need to have the mindset to work, work, work and focus on the little details that make us better.”
Moore said the Bisons will get increasingly better and the loss will help the team to work harder together.
The Bisons’ home opener is Sept. 14 against Northwestern Oklahoma State University.
