Prairie View A&M Claims Big Cat Cup With 30-19 Win Over East Texas A&M
COMMERCE, Texas (TXAN 24) — Prairie View A&M used a balanced offensive attack and a productive ground game to defeat East Texas A&M, 30-19, capturing the Big Cat Cup in a rivalry matchup between the Panthers and Lions.
The Panthers finished with 355 total yards, including 237 passing yards and 118 rushing yards. While East Texas A&M gained more yards overall, finishing with 378, Prairie View A&M found a way to turn its offensive opportunities into enough points to secure the victory.
The difference came on the ground. Prairie View averaged 3.6 yards per rushing attempt on 33 carries, while East Texas A&M managed just 45 rushing yards on 26 attempts, averaging 1.7 yards per carry.
The passing game also played a significant role for both teams. Prairie View completed 19 of 25 passes without throwing an interception, while East Texas A&M completed 31 of 52 attempts for 333 yards. Despite the Lions’ advantage through the air, their limited rushing production made it more difficult to establish balance offensively.
East Texas A&M recorded 25 first downs compared with Prairie View’s 20 and converted nine of 18 third-down opportunities. The Panthers were more efficient on third down, converting seven of 12 attempts.
Penalties were another difference, with Prairie View flagged four times for 28 yards, compared with seven penalties for 49 yards for the Lions. Both teams recorded one turnover.
The victory gives Prairie View A&M the Big Cat Cup after the teams entered the matchup looking to build momentum during the 2026 season. The game was played in Commerce, where East Texas A&M hosted the Panthers for the Hall of Fame game and the annual rivalry trophy.
For Prairie View A&M, the 30-19 win delivers bragging rights and another important result as the Panthers continue their season. East Texas A&M will look to regroup after producing more total yards but falling short on the scoreboard.
Comments