Thrilling Double Overtime Victory: Ottawa University’s Women’s Flag Football Triumphs Over Thomas, 19-13!

RIVERSIDE, Mo. – The Ottawa University women’s flag football team is making headlines again. They just clinched a spot in their fifth consecutive NAIA Women’s Flag Football Finals Championship Game, thanks to a nail-biting 19-13 double-overtime win against Thomas University.

The game started with Thomas seizing an early lead, scoring first and bringing the score to 7-0 by the start of the second quarter. Ottawa fought hard but struggled to find the end zone, leaving the score unchanged at halftime.

As the clock ticked down in the fourth quarter, Ottawa mounted a determined 11-play drive. Quarterback Madysen Carrera connected with Addison Orsborn for a touchdown, leveling the score with a successful extra point.

In the first overtime, Thomas grabbed the lead once more with a quick score, but Ottawa wasn’t done yet. The Braves responded rapidly with a four-yard touchdown run from Orsborn, keeping the game tied at 13.

As the second overtime began, Ottawa took charge. Carrera threw a touchdown pass to Alyssa Linkous. Despite a missed extra point attempt, this put them ahead 19-13. Thomas advanced close to the goal line but failed to score on fourth down, sealing Ottawa’s victory.

Game Stats:

• Ottawa accumulated 196 yards of offense, with 185 yards through the air and 11 on the ground.
• Carrera completed 29 of 43 passes for 185 yards and two touchdowns.
• Linkous and Jazlyn Camacho both caught eight passes.
• Dejonice Parris led defensively with nine flag pulls and one interception.

Upcoming Match
Ottawa (22-0) faces off in the NAIA Women’s Flag Football Finals Championship Game on May 8 at 1:00 p.m. at the KC Current Practice Facility.

In recent trends, flag football is gaining momentum in collegiate sports. A 2023 survey from the National Federation of State High School Associations found that participation in flag football rose by over 20% from the previous year. This growth highlights the sport’s rising popularity and the increasing opportunities for female athletes.

Experts believe that events like the NAIA Championship are crucial for showcasing talent and inspiring younger players. As more schools incorporate flag football into their programs, the sport could become a staple in women’s athletics.

With fans rallying around the teams and social media buzzing with excitement, the future of flag football looks bright.

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