Quarterback Kolton Browning remembers being awestruck during his first game against the Arkansas Razorbacks as a redshirt freshman. Two years later, Browning showed the world who the big man on campus really was as he and his team downed the then-eighth ranked Razorbacks 34-31 in overtime on Saturday.
“Coming in to this game I told coach Berry I’m not a youngin’ anymore,” Browning said. His stats prove it, too.
Browning threw for 412 yards and rushed for another 69. He scored four touchdowns in the effort, leading his team back from a 21-point deficit.
His efforts have led to being named the Walter Camp National Offensive Player of the Game and the Sun Belt Conference Offensive Player of the Week.
But the first big play of the night for either team came from the Warhawk defense.
The Warhawks drew blood first on Saturday at War Memorial field following an interception by Junior corner Vincent Eddie on the first drive.
“That play was good for our momentum and started our it offense with great field position,” said Eddie. “The win shows what we can do and how big this year could be for us. Going in to next week against Auburn our focus will be doing our jobs and trying to get a win again.”
Another notable defensive back in the game was redshirt freshman safety Mitch Lane. Lane led the team with nine tackles, and in overtime Lane broke up two possible touchdown passes. Lane’s final breakup held the Razorbacks to a field goal and set the offense up for the final score by Browning.
“This extra week really helped us see who Arkansas liked to go to and learn their favorite targets.” Lane said, “It felt great to be in my hometown and get this win.”
The offense line also played a big role for ULM against the Hogs and gave Browning the time he needed to make plays. Senior lineman Jonathan Gill was a part of that line who stepped up.
“This win is awesome for the team and community. It’s a great way to start off a senior season,” said Gill. “We are going to approach Auburn like a normal game. We must stay confident and humble and work as hard as we can next week.”
After asking Browning what it took to get this win and what it meant to him he said, “This is big for ULM. We prepared well in offseason getting stronger and faster. Our coaches did a great job during camp and over the past couple weeks getting ready for Arkansas. They had a great game plan coming in and we executed it. This puts us on the map, and we are where we want to be right now.”
Browning sealed the game in overtime on a 16 yard TD run. The final play was a roll out pass designed to go to Brent Leonard or Tavarese Maye, but the defense switched and both receivers were covered. Browning then looked for Jyruss Edwards, but a defensive tackle covered him.
“When no one was open I looked backside and there was a big hole. My first thought was get the first down, but once I saw it was open for a touchdown I went for it and dove to make sure I got in,” Browning said.
The win was a combined effort where everyone rallied back, even after falling behind 21 points.
“I owe it all to my teammates, they did a heck of a job. Receivers made plays, O-line was holding up front, and our defense played great only giving up 10 points in the second half. Everyone was clicking tonight.”
Next week the Warhawks face the Auburn Tigers who will be looking to avenge their loss to Mississippi State.
