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Western Kentucky hands ODU football fifth straight loss in 35-31 thriller

Posted at 11:23 PM, Oct 20, 2017
and last updated 2017-10-21 00:03:30-04

NORFOLK, Va. -- Old Dominion University football team is entering the second half of its season on a five game losing steak. The Monarch's latest defeat came from the two-time defending Conference USA champions Western Kentucky. The Hilltoppers knock off ODU 35-31 Friday in front of the 58th consecutive sellout crowd at Foreman Field at S.B. Ballard Stadium.

ODU (2-and-5 overall, 0-and-3 C-USA) had its most offensive game this season with 448 total offensive yards and converting all four trips to the redzone.

Head Coach Bobby Wilder feels this team is on the verge of turning the season around.

The Monarchs were leading 31-21 into the fourth quarter, after senior running back Ray Lawry's 46-yard touchdown run late in the third quarter. Lawry finished the game with 166 yards and three touchdowns.  On Lawry’s third TD, it marked his  44th career and his fifth career game of three or more rushing touchdowns.

ODU was ahead by three points with eight minutes remaining in the game when freshman quarterback Stevie Williams threw his second interception of three picks on the night.

Four plays later, the Hilltoppers would score on a 30 yard pass from redshirt senior quarterback  Mike White to Quin Jernighan to take the lead for good. White had five touchdown passes and 304 yards through the air.

The Monarchs now head south to play North Texas on Saturday October 28th. The Mean Green is 4-and-2 on the season and currently sitting in first place of the C-USA West.

On a high note, it was the 58th consecutive sell out at Foreman Field at S.B. Ballard Stadium.