Texas Tech and Lindenwood advanced to DII Sweet 16 Saturday, beating Central Missouri and Northern Colorado, respectively.

Lindenwood’s win was dominant, as the Lions pounded UNC 53-5.

The second game, however, was much more competitive, with the Red Raiders edging the Mules 38-36. Central Missouri actually scored more tries than Lindenwood, six to Tech’s five, but the Texas champs nailed a penalty kick and an extra conversion.

Tech utilized No. 8 Reid Curry well, inserting him in the backline, where he drew the attention of multiple defenders and created space for speed on the wing.

The Red Raiders led by 14 points with about 10 minutes left in the game, but UCM charged back with some strong pack play. The Mules scored a try at full time, but what would have been the tying conversion was missed.

Sunday, Tech and Lindenwood meet in the title match. No matter what, both advance to the Sweet 16. The winner draws Northern Illinois, the Midwest runner up, and the loser gets the defending national champs – UW-Whitewater.

Unfortunately for Tech, Curry was injured in the match, and could be out Sunday.