Fort Hays State Prepares for Senior Day Clash with central Missouri
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Fort Hays State University will host Central Missouri in a pivotal MIAA showdown on Saturday, November 1st, at 1 p.m.at Lewis Field Stadium in Hays, Kansas. Teh Tigers (5-4,4-3 MIAA) aim to finish the 2025 season strong,while the Mules (3-5,3-3 MIAA) seek to rebound from a recent losing streak.
A Thrilling Victory Fuels Tiger Momentum
Fort Hays State enters the contest riding high after a dramatic 13-10 overtime victory against Washburn last week in Topeka. In a stunning turn of events, starting safety Michael Polley was called upon to kick the game-winning 34-yard field goal, securing the win after the Tigers trailed 10-0 at halftime. This victory underscores the team’s resilience, as they now boast a 4-1 record in games decided by eight points or less.
Mules Seek to break Slump
Central Missouri, however, is looking to snap a three-game losing streak following a 31-27 defeat at home against Emporia State. Despite a promising 3-0 start in MIAA play, the Mules have struggled to maintain momentum. Like Fort hays State, Central Missouri has been involved in several close contests, with a 2-3 record in games decided by eight points or fewer.
Historical Rivalry with a Recent Tiger Tilt
The all-time series between the Mules adn Tigers favors Central missouri, 11-9, including an 11-7 record within the MIAA.However, the recent history paints a different picture, with Fort Hays State winning seven of the last ten meetings. Last year, FHSU emerged victorious with a 31-21 win against a then-ranked Central Missouri team (No. 12/13 nationally). Notably,the Tigers have won all five contests against the Mules when Central Missouri has been ranked in the top 25 while playing in Hays. The historical data suggests a high-scoring affair, as the winner of this matchup has consistently scored at least 20 points in the last 11 meetings.
Defensive prowess Defines Fort Hays State
Fort Hays State has distinguished itself this season with a knack for creating turnovers. the Tigers lead the MIAA in forced fumbles with 11,resulting in nine fumble recoveries and six interceptions. They are one of eight MIAA teams to record defensive touchdowns, boasting two, second only to Nebraska-Kearney’s three.
Key Players to Watch
Leading the Tiger offense is Caleb Heavner, who has amassed 1,416 passing yards and 427 rushing yards, averaging 204.8 yards of total offense per game. Cale Cormaney is Heavner’s primary target,leading the team with 272 receiving yards. Defensively, John Johnson anchors the unit with 87 tackles, ranking second in the MIAA and ninth nationally. Gaven Haselhorst leads in sacks with 4.0, while Polley and Michael Chavez each have two interceptions.
Central Missouri’s offense is spearheaded by Donovyn Omolo, who has thrown for 1,821 yards, and Latravious Boyd, with 395 rushing yards. Hogan Wasson is the team’s leading receiver with 695 yards.On defence, Garrett Hormann leads the Mules with 72 tackles, and Michael Harris has recorded 4.0 sacks.
Game Day Promotions Add to the Excitement
Saturday’s game will feature several special promotions, including Senior Day recognition for Tiger players 28 minutes before kickoff, a halftime festivity of the Tiger Sports Hall of Fame, and recognition for the band, cheer, and dance teams. Military Recognition Day will offer free admission to all veterans and active duty military personnel, while Scouts in Uniform and children in costumes participating in Trunk or Treat will also receive free admission.
