Missouri Southern reclaimed the Miners’ Bowl Trophy with a 23-13 win over Pittsburg State, using two fourth-quarter touchdowns to seal its second straight victory. David Bethune’s 91-yard kickoff return put the Lions back in front, and Allen Mitchell’s late touchdown run secured the rivalry win.

By the Numbers
  • Final score: Missouri Southern 23, Pittsburg State 13.
  • David Bethune: 91-yard kickoff return touchdown.
  • Missouri Southern: 239 total yards, including 194 rushing yards.
  • Narkel LeFlore: 110 rushing yards on 20 carries.
  • Pittsburg State: 264 total yards, including 68 rushing yards.
Yes, But

The Lions won despite producing only 45 passing yards and throwing an interception. Their defense held firm, while the fourth-quarter kickoff return and a late scoring drive made the difference.

State of Play
  • Missouri Southern improved to 3-6 overall and 2-5 in the MIAA, matching its 2025 win total.
  • The Lions reclaimed the trophy for the first time since 2013 and earned their first home win over Pittsburg State since 1993.
  • The victory marked Southern’s second straight win and its most MIAA victories since 2023.
What’s Next

Missouri Southern hosts Central Oklahoma for Senior Day on Nov. 7, with kickoff scheduled for 1 p.m. CT.

Bottom Line

A defense-led rivalry win, punctuated by Bethune’s game-changing return, gave the Lions a trophy and a second consecutive victory.