KYLE BEERY | STAFF REPORTER

The Butler football team rebounded in a big way Saturday by topping the Stetson Hatters 49-41 on the road in DeLand, Fla. to improve to 3-2 overall and 1-1 in Pioneer Football League play.

The Bulldogs trailed the Hatters (2-2, 0-1 PFL) 20-14 before exploding for 35 second half points. Quarterback Matt Shiltz led the way for the Bulldogs with 194 yards passing and three touchdowns, as well as 26 yards and a touchdown on the ground.

After forcing a turnover on downs, running back Sam Schrader scampered in for a 26-yard run to give the Bulldogs a 49-35 lead with 1:53 remaining in the game.

Stetson quarterback Ryan Tentler answered quickly by throwing a 21-yard strike to Ryan Selimos to cut the lead to six, but the two-point conversion failed, leaving the Hatters in an 8-point hole.

The ensuing onside kick attempt failed and Butler was able to kneel out the clock to seal the win.

Despite being outgained 411-555 in total yards of offense, the Bulldogs were able to hold off the Hatters for the second straight year.

Butler headed into Saturday’s game fresh of a 35-7 loss against Jacksonville on Homecoming last weekend.

The Bulldogs stay on the road next weekend as they travel to Bules Creek, N.C. to face the Campbell Camels (2-3, 2-0). The Camels stayed undefeated in PFL play Saturday by coming away from Morehead State with a 31-24 win.

Butler has beaten Campbell 35-14 each of the last two seasons, with last year’s victory coming on Homecoming.