LEBANON, Tenn. – Cumberland defeated former Mid-South rival Reinhardt 30-18 Saturday night at Nokes-Lasater Field, improving to 1-1 on the season.
The Phoenix used a balanced offensive attack and timely defensive plays to control the game despite nearly even yardage totals (Cumberland 250, Reinhardt 268).
Offensive leaders: Jacob Cornejo rushed for 115 yards on 21 carries, while quarterback Zach Holtzclaw threw for 99 yards and added a rushing touchdown. Kaiden Hatchett led receivers with 4 catches for 42 yards and a score.
Defensive standouts: Cannon Johnson dominated with 10 tackles, 3.5 tackles for loss, 2 sacks, and a fumble recovery touchdown. Daniel Smith sealed the victory with a 39-yard pick-six in the fourth quarter.
Game flow: After trailing 12-10 at halftime, Cumberland took control in the second half. Holtzclaw’s 1-yard TD run gave the Phoenix a 17-12 lead, then Johnson’s fumble recovery score extended it to 24-12. Reinhardt cut it to 24-18 on a Jackson touchdown run, but Smith’s late interception return put the game away at 30-18.
Reinhardt quarterback Taylor Jackson threw for 178 yards but was pressured into four sacks and the costly interception. The Eagles hurt themselves with two fumbles and poor red zone efficiency (1-of-2).
Cumberland hosts Ave Maria next week.
Source: Cumberland
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