Wells proving big for Texans defense

Jordan Wells delivered big in his first start for the Tarleton State University Texans football team.

The Navasota High School graduate started at nose guard and finished with four tackles and a 7-yard sack in a win over Angelo State University. He forced a fumble and had four quarterback hurries as Tarleton State improved its record to 5-0.

Wells sacked the quarterback on Angelo State’s first play from scrimmage in the game. “We knew they liked to pass a lot,” he said. “I beat the guard with a good pass rush.”

He recorded tackles for loss on consecutive plays to end the first quarter. He tackled the running back for a 1-yard loss, then tackled the same back for a 4-yard loss and forced him to fumble. Although the running back recovered his own fumble, Angelo State was forced to punt.

Wells said he beat a blocking back on the one play and a lineman on the other.

The fumble was the first he forced this season. “The running back made one of my teammates miss,” he said. “As I was tackling him, I pulled the ball out and caused the fumble.”

He expected runs because he paid attention to the way the offensive linemen got ready for the plays. “Most of the linemen, they talk a lot,” he said. “They give their blocks away. They’ll be on a heavy stance.”

Through five games, Wells made 16 tackles and led the team with eight quarterback hurries. He tied for second with two sacks and seven and one-half tackles for loss.

More football

University of the Incarnate Word running back Keyondrick Philio rushed 13 times for 60 yards, including a 2-yard touchdown, against Houston Baptist. He played for the Rattlers.

Texas Southern University wide receiver Tren’Davian Dickson had a 6-yard catch against Alabama A & M. The former Rattler added a 15-yard punt return.

Send updates about area athletes to Barbara Boxleitner at jdanddoc@gmail.com .