Eagles Face Setback on the Road Against Cumberland

Eagles Face Setback on the Road Against Cumberland
Audio Video Live stats Box Score
September 7, 2025
Lebanon, TN - In a challenging matchup Saturday evening on the campus of Cumberland University, the Reinhardt Eagles faced off against the Phoenix at Nokes Lasater Field. The game was tightly contested, ending in an unfortunate 30-18 defeat for the Eagles. 
 
The first half saw commendable performances from the Eagles, concluding with a close score of 12-10 in favor of Reinhardt. Key plays included a notable touchdown pass from Taylor Jackson to Jakorrian Paulk, a safety coming from a sack with Emmanuel Olaitan and Adam Mweemba, and a 26-yard field goal from Alex Hanson. 
 
In the second half, the Eagles fell behind 24-12, but they showed resilience and fight storming back with Taylor Jackson's rushing touchdown with just ten minutes left in the fourth quarter.  The late touchdown brought the Eagles back to within six points of the Phoenix, 24-18. The defense got multiple stops in the second half, including the last drive of the Phoenix, which gave the offense a chance for a game-winning drive. Unfortunately, the Phoenix got the stop needed and scored, putting the game out of reach for Reinhardt.
 
The support from additional team members also highlighted the depth of the Eagles' roster. Jah Colbert contributed 43 yards over 11 rushes, while Harlem Diamond and Ethan Rice added yardage on the ground. Taylor Jackson threw for 178 yards and a touchdown to Jakorrian Paulk. Cam Curtis had three receptions for 49 yards and Jordan Ghant had 4 receptions for 41 yards.
 
NAIA All-American Tyress McKey had a great performance in the kickoff return game today. He had 7 returns for 187 yards, and his longest for 36 yards.
 
Defensively, Emmanuel Olaitan and Nathaniel Sanford put up strong resistance, with a combined total of three sacks, and Braylon Jones secured an interception amongst his nine tackles, demonstrating a solid defensive effort. Adam Mweemba had a strong game with 8 tackles, and Markell Sutton contributed with 6 tackles. Emmanuel Olaitan and Adam Mweemba combined for a safety in the first half.
 
Looking ahead, Reinhardt is set to play against Southeastern next Saturday in Lakeland, Florida, aiming to improve their current season record of 1-1. It will be another competitive game for the Eagles, facing the 17th-ranked Fire on their home turf.  The game is set for a 7 pm kickoff.
 
Replay of the game can be see here:
 
 
phoro courtesy of Cumberland Phoenix Athletics