ALPINE, Texas - Football hosted North American University on Saturday, falling 44-37 in a high-scoring exhibition at Homecoming.

"It wasn't the outcome we wanted, but we are learning how to compete," said head coach John Pearce. "The fast start was a learning experience for the Lobos. We haven't been in that situation with this team. Then we lost focus and let North American take the lead at the half. I thought the players did a great job battling back in the second half to tie the game. The offense is starting to be productive. We just need to be more consistent on defense and special teams when we have the opponent on their heels. I know the players are frustrated because we missed a few chances to win in the first half of the season but they need to trust the process and keep pushing."

The Lobos got on the board first when Tyler DeShields found Vicente Luevano through the air from 19 yards out for a 7-0 lead in the first.

Sul Ross scored again in the first quarter on a 27-yard touchdown pass from DeShields to Kendrick Jefferson for a 14-0 advantage.

North American scored the next 23 points for a 23-14 lead at the half.

Jaden Brown connected on a 21-yard field goal for a 23-17 score in the third.

DeShields and Luevano had a synergy all day, this time with a 57-yard touchdown connection. Brown's extra point was no good for a 23-23 tie late in the third quarter.

The Stallions took the lead back later in the third for a 30-23 advantage heading to the fourth.

DeShields continued to use the air to his advantage throughout the day, throwing his third touchdown of the day from 20 yards out to Austin Remo for a 30-30 tie early in the fourth quarter.

North American retook the lead later in the fourth quarter for 37-30 advantage with just over nine minutes left in the game.

DeShields led a quick drive to help tie the game again on a 12-yard rushing touchdown for a 37-37 tie with a little over seven minutes remaining.

The Stallions were able to chew clock and drive down the field for a go-ahead touchdown and a 44-37 score with just over two minutes left.

Sul Ross was unable to counter the drive for a 44-37 final in favor of North American.

The Lobos remain at 1-3 on the year and 1-3 in conference play.

Sul Ross resumes conference play on Saturday, October 16 against Belhaven.