On Thursday, Sept. 27, the Rhodes Field House was packed with students ready to share their excitement for the football team’s home opener on Sept.29.
Students piled into the Rhodes dressed in black and gold to show their support for the team. The atmosphere brought everyone to their feet as the team stormed the room and cheers could be heard even from the outside of the building.
Throughout the pep rally, multiple prizes were given away, including an iPad and a plane ride to an away game with Dr. David Burks.
Students said they loved that they were able to share their excitement with their team prior to the game.
“I thought the pep rally was a fantastic idea,” said junior Victoria Tyler. “It encouraged the players and the students, and made the students want to go to the game and cheer on the Bisons.”
The game, in addition to being the first home game of the season, coincided with Parents’ Weekend and the first Bison Days. Visitors, students and alumni alike were invited to tailgate outside the Ganus Athletic Center before the game. Hundreds gathered to participate in a pre-game American tradition as they set up tents, grilled burgers and hot dogs and threw footballs back and forth with friends.
Of course, the Walk of Brothers cannot be overlooked. Fans lined the sidewalks as the team paraded from the street to the GAC, dressed in black pants and button downs. Everyone cheered encouraged the players to fight for a victory during the game.
Entering the field with a 3-0 record, the Bison men said they were ready for any challenges the East Central Tigers would throw their way. The defense allowed only 84 yards for East Central, a record low for Harding in 26 years.
“I think our game this past weekend was a big test for us and we definitely took a huge step forward as a team,” said Joe Calvin, starting defensive tackle for the Bisons. “The rest of the season will be a great challenge as well, but it’s a challenge we’re really looking forward to accomplishing together.”
Offensively, the Bisons scored a total of 31 points. While the ball was fumbled occasionally, the Bisons accumulated 381 rushing yards and threw no interceptions against the Tigers.
At halftime, Harding trailed 14-7. The Bisons’ resilience was displayed throughout the third and fourth quarters as they dominated the half, scoring 24 points and stopping the East Central offense at every turn.
“We overcame a little adversity and took control of the game,” said quarterback Kelvin Martin. “Good teams find a way to win in spite of adversity and I think we’re going to continue to do just that.”
On Saturday, the Bisons will take on Southern Arkansas in El Dorado, Ark. at 1:30 p.m.
