LITTLE ROCK, Ark. – October 31, 2026 – Arkansas Baptist College struggled to find its offensive rhythm Saturday afternoon, falling to OUAZ, 43-0, at home.

The Buffaloes (2-7, 2-4) were unable to overcome a strong OUAZ (5-2, 4-1) performance on both sides of the football as the visitors scored in all four quarters to secure the shutout victory.

OUAZ wasted little time getting on the scoreboard, taking advantage of an early possession to score on a 29-yard touchdown run by Luke Giron just over a minute into the contest. The visitors added another rushing touchdown in the second quarter, with Jelani Guerrero finding the end zone from six yards out to give OUAZ a 14-0 halftime advantage.

Arkansas Baptist continued to battle defensively, but OUAZ found additional success after the break. Giron connected with Frankie Valentino on a six-yard touchdown pass late in the third quarter to extend the lead to 21-0.

The fourth quarter proved difficult for the Buffaloes as OUAZ added three more touchdowns. Giron connected with AJ Williams on a 13-yard scoring pass early in the quarter. Brody Osen later found Marques Reese for a 20-yard touchdown, and Tija Tate capped the scoring with a one-yard rushing touchdown in the closing minute.

Despite the final score, Arkansas Baptist showed flashes offensively, particularly on the ground. Deshawn Hawkins led the rushing attack with 68 yards on 10 carries, including a game-long 45-yard run. Darryl Searcy Jr. added 28 yards on 13 carries, while Kawann Johnson contributed 13 yards.

Quarterback Charles Coney completed 8 of 21 passes for 41 yards, while Aaron Jacob Rowell completed 6 of 12 attempts for 38 yards. The Spirit combined for 79 passing yards.

Taylor Poole and Jeremiah Banks led Arkansas Baptist receivers with two catches apiece for 15 yards each. Joshua Griffin added a 14-yard reception, while Leon Elloie finished with two catches for 12 yards.

Defensively, Vernon Grant led the Buffaloes with nine total tackles. Darreion Williams recorded five tackles, while Alik Freeman and Sterling Barthelemy each added four. Arkansas Baptist also forced a turnover, with Antonio Taylor Jr. intercepting a pass in the second quarter.

The Buffaloes finished with 203 yards of total offense, including 124 rushing yards, but were held to just 2.9 yards per play. OUAZ finished with 368 total yards and converted five of its nine third-down opportunities.

Arkansas Baptist also faced challenges sustaining drives, converting six of 17 third-down attempts and going 0-for-3 on fourth down.