Former Rattlers square off

Keyondrick Philio had a career-best performance in a recent University of the Incarnate Word football win.

The Navasota High School graduate rushed 10 times for 73 yards and two touchdowns, all career bests, in a victory over Texas Southern. “I was very excited,” the junior running back said.

On his first carry, he rushed for a 5-yard touchdown to open the game’s scoring. “It was right up the middle,” said Philio, who also had a 1-yard rushing score in the fourth quarter.

Though he said he enters games mostly in short-yardage situations, especially in the red zone, he sees action on long-yardage downs too.

Against Texas Southern, he was able to exploit the zone defense for long runs. On a first-and-10 in the first quarter, he raced 24 yards for the longest carry of his UIW career. On a third-and-9 in the third quarter, he rushed 20 yards. “I got the ball. I was running right behind the center,” he said. “Our line made good blocks.”

After the win, he talked with Texas Southern wide receiver Tren’Davian Dickson. Former Rattler Dickson led all receivers with eight catches for 221 yards, including touchdowns of 87 and 15 yards. “I told him ‘Good game,’” Philio said.

Through two games, Philio had 12 rushes for 80 yards, more yards on half the rushes he had in 10 games last year.

More football

Quarterback Shelton Eppler completed 21 of 38 pass attempts for Northwestern State University of Louisiana against LSU. The past Rattler threw for 225 yards, including touchdowns of 17 and 26 yards. He rushed once for 4 yards in the loss.

Defensive lineman Jordan Wells of Tarleton State University made three tackles in a win over Doane. The junior played for the Rattlers.

Texas A & M University tight end Ryan Renick had a 19-yard reception against Lamar. It was the first catch this season for the junior from Iola High.

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