Feeling fresh after opportunity week, APSU football defeated Gardner-Webb 41-14 for their fourth straight win in Forbear Stadium on Saturday, Oct. 14, 2023. CARLEE KLUTTS| THE ALL STATE

“Fresh and lethal”

That’s the kind of football Austin Peay Football head coach Scotty Walden wants his team to play and that is how they played when the Govs (4-2) defeated Gardner-Webb(2-4) 41-14 Saturday at Fortera Stadium. 

While the Govs held a 13-7 lead at the half, it was Kory Chapman’s 26-yard interception return for a touchdown, 20-14, that started a 28-point second half.

Gardner-Webb was quick to respond after a 75-yard scoring drive with a 17-yard touchdown to put the Govs ahead just by one touchdown. 

The Govs defense kept Gardner-Webb at bay for the rest of the second half with Jau’Von Young contributing eight tackles and a sack for the night.

“Our defense deserves to be talked about,” said Walden. “I think we have one of the better groups in the country.”

Mike DiLiello passed for 372 yards and completed 31 out of 41 passes for two touchdowns. Brenen Hawkins had a seven-yard score for the 27-14 lead and Jaden Barnes’ 33-yard touchdown gave the Govs a 34-14 lead at the beginning of the fourth quarter. DiLiello’s eight-yard touchdown was the cherry on top of the night giving the Govs their 41-14 victory. 

Austin Peay travels to Cedar City, Utah to take on Southern Utah this Saturday, October 21. Kick off will be at 7 p.m.