December 6th, 2025 2:00pm
From West Texas A&MM sports information:
CANYON, Texas – West Texas A&M ended their season in style on Saturday afternoon as a defensive stand with seconds remaining gave the Buffs a wild 28-27 victory over the Arkansas Tech Wonder Boys during the 2025 Heritage Bowl Powered by Riot at Community National Bank & Trust Stadium in Corsicana, Texas.
The Buffs finish the 2025 campaign riding a four-game win streak for an overall record of 8-4. The eight victories by WT is the most since the 2019 campaign.
West Texas A&M began by receiving the opening kickoff, with Jayden Hibbler returning it 18 yards to the WTAM27. Despite a strong start with RJ Martinez completing a 23-yard pass to Hibbler, a false start penalty negated the play, forcing them into a longer second down situation. Ultimately, the team was unable to convert a first down, resulting in a punt.
Arkansas Tech capitalized on their possession with a 14-play, 80-yard drive culminating in a 2-yard touchdown run by Keegan Vest, putting them ahead 7-0 with 1:02 remaining in the first quarter. The Buffs' defense had a notable moment when Ashton Reynolds sacked the Arkansas Tech quarterback, causing a 7-yard loss. Despite several first downs on their subsequent drive, the Buffs concluded the period without points, trailing 7-0.
RJ Martinez led the Buffs with a precise passing attack, connecting with Sean Johnson for a 23-yard touchdown early in the second quarter to tie the game at 7-7 after Drew Cox's successful PAT. A pivotal defensive stop by the Buffs turned the ball over on downs at their own 29-yard line with 9:18 remaining. Later, Martinez executed a critical 83-yard touchdown pass to Zach Phipps, extending their lead to 14-7 with just over two minutes left in the half. Although a late interception by Arkansas Tech's Diego Sanchez halted another drive, the Buffs maintained their advantage.
West Texas A&M capitalized on their offensive momentum in the third quarter with RJ Martinez leading a methodical drive downfield. Martinez connected with C'ing Blanton for an 8-yard touchdown at the 11:15 mark, extending their lead. Arkansas Tech responded with a touchdown of their own, but the Buffs blocked the extra point attempt, with Jahmek Armstrong making a critical play. The quarter concluded with Martinez rushing for a 6-yard touchdown, solidifying a 28-13 lead for the Buffs by the end of the period.
In the fourth quarter, Matthew Bryant initiated a crucial stop with a tackle for loss on Arkansas Tech's Lorenzo Bowers, resulting in a turnover on downs. Martinez then led the offense, completing a pivotal 6-yard pass to Sean Johnson to secure a first down, moving them forward despite penalties hindering their progress. Although the Buffs fumbled during a drive, their defense held firm, including a key pass breakup by Cody Chapman, maintaining their lead.
Arkansas Tech responded with a touchdown pass from Carter Hensley to Scout Brazeal, narrowing the margin. As the final seconds ticked down, Arkansas Tech scored another touchdown but failed to convert the two-point attempt as Miles Hill knocked away the ball, securing the Buffs' victory with a final score of 28-27.
RJ Martinez, named the game's Most Valuable Player, completed 32 of 44 passes for 407 yards and three touchdowns while adding a rushing touchdown on six carries for 27 yards. Sean Johnson was dominant for the Buffs as the Orland product caught 16 passes for 180 yards and a touchdowns, Zach Phipps contributed with two receptions for 91 yards and a score. Jamel Acosta-Lewis led the defense with six total tackles from his position in the secondary. Lucas Jarnagin recorded a team-high 13 tackles, anchoring the defense effectively.