Howard Payne Defeated Nelson University 44-16
Howard Payne University secured a dominant home victory to finish its non-conference schedule undefeated.
Updated on Oct. 4, 2026 in Football
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Howard Payne University moved to a 4-0 non-conference record after a 44-16 win against Nelson University at Gordon Wood Stadium. The Yellow Jackets powered their offense to 487 total yards in the victory.
Why it matters
The decisive win keeps Howard Payne University momentum high as the team moves into the next phase of its season. This victory marks the fifth total win for the program this year.
Quarterback Bryce Still completed 17 of 24 passes for 243 yards and four touchdowns, while running back Blessing Ngene added 169 rushing yards on 16 carries.
The players
Howard Payne University
This is a private Christian university located in Brownwood that competes in the American Southwest Conference.
Nelson University
This is a private Christian university based in Waxahachie that fields football teams in collegiate competition.
Bryce Still
He is a quarterback for the Howard Payne University football team.
Blessing Ngene
He is a running back for the Howard Payne University football program.
Deuce Martin
He is a football player for Howard Payne University who contributed a long kickoff return in this game.
The details
Howard Payne University utilized a strong offensive performance and a 74-yard kickoff return from Deuce Martin in the third quarter to pull away. The team successfully converted six of 11 third-down opportunities to sustain drives.
Timeline
October 3, 2026, was the date of the game between Howard Payne and Nelson.
Season Trajectory
Howard Payne University remains undefeated in non-conference play, signaling a strong start as they prepare to transition into conference matchups. This victory solidifies their position in the standings as they aim for post-season contention.
Howard Payne improves to a 4-0 record against non-conference opponents, which serves as a critical boost for their overall power ranking. The 44 points scored reflects an efficient offensive scheme that converted 54.5% of third-down attempts.
The takeaway
Maintaining offensive efficiency and explosive special teams play provided the clear path to victory in this matchup. Building on this momentum will be essential as the team shifts focus to upcoming conference games.
What happens next
Howard Payne University is scheduled to play Mary Hardin-Baylor in Belton on an upcoming date at 1:00 p.m. Central Time.
Further reading
For more updates on local sports, visit the Football section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Brownwood News.
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