Dillon, TX - Jared Howell returned to the Tigers lineup in a big way as he helped the Dillon Tech Tigers (6-3) defeated in-state rival Houston Cougars in a non-conference match up at Dillon Stadium. Howell had 16 receptions for 195 yards and 4 touchdowns in the 45-31 victory. Howell was probable to return to action today after suffering a strained shoulder a few weeks ago. The Tigers were forced to rely heavily on Howell and the passing game when Smash Williams left the game in the second quarter with a strained Achilles tendon.

Dillon Tech got on the board first when Matt Saracen found Mike Rogers for a 22 yard touchdown reception. The Cougars responded when their defense returned a Matt Saracen fumble for a 14 yard score to tie things up at 7.

In the second quarter, Bryce Beall scored on a 4 yard run to put the Cougars up 14-7. Moments later, Matt Saracen found Jared Howell on a slant route for a yard touchdown to tie things up at 14. Freddie Tucker added a field goal late in the half to give the Tigers a 17-14 lead at half time.

In the third quarter, the Cougars regained the lead with a 1 yard touchdown run by Bryce Beall to put the Cougars back on top at 24-17. The Tigers responded with two quick touchdowns late in the third quarter to pull ahead 31-24 after three quarters.

In the fourth quarter, Houston tied things up at 31 with a 5 yard Charles Sims touchdown run.

Cotton Turner who was starting at quarterback for the Cougars in place of the injured Case Keenum threw two costly interceptions late in the game to give The Tigers a chance to win the game.

On 4th and 10 at the Cougars 37 yard line with 3:41 remaining, the Tigers decided to take a gamble and it payed off as Matt Saracen connected with Travis Lowery for a first down. A few plays later, Saracen found Howell for the game winning touchdown on 10 yard pass play. The Tigers went on to add one more touchdown to seal the victory.

The Tigers extended their winning streak to seven games with this victory and they will be looking to capture their first Sun Belt title next week as they host Middle Tennessee Blue Raiders.