Homecoming weekend in Martin turned into a storybook ending for Skyhawk fans. The University of Tennessee at Martin football team delivered a heart-stopping 4th quarter comeback to claim victory on Saturday, sending the Homecoming crowd into a frenzy and keeping their Ohio Valley Conference title hopes alive.
For much of the game, the Skyhawks found themselves on the ropes. Costly turnovers and missed opportunities left UTM trailing 31-20 heading into the final quarter. But as true Skyhawks do, they refused to fold.
Led by quarterback Jase Bauer, the offense came alive late, piecing together back-to-back scoring drives that reignited the crowd and flipped momentum. The defense, which had bent but not broken all afternoon, came up huge down the stretch—forcing a critical turnover that set up the go-ahead touchdown and the win was sealed when the defense blocked a potential game-winning 48-yard field goal by the Leathernecks with 44 seconds left.
When the final whistle blew, the scoreboard told the story of grit, resilience, and belief—UT Martin 32 Western Illinois 31. It wasn’t just a win—it was a statement.
The comeback win capped off a weekend full of Skyhawk pride, alumni celebrations, and campus festivities—reminding everyone why Homecoming in Martin always hits different.
Next up, the Skyhawks hit the road looking to build on the momentum and continue their push toward another OVC championship run. But for now, this one will be remembered—a Homecoming classic for the record books.