Morgantown, W.Va. — In a thrilling finish at Milan Puskar Stadium, West Virginia football earned its first Big 12 triumph of the season, edging Cincinnati 45-42 on a last‑second field goal.
Facing a third‑and‑9 from its own two‑yard line, the Mountaineers needed only a field goal to win. Quarterback Michael Hawkins Jr. snapped the ball and delivered a pass to receiver Prince Strachan, who secured the first down amid heavy contact. Hawkins then connected with Strachan again for a sizable gain that set up kicker Jack Cassidy’s 35‑yard game‑winning field goal as time expired.
Offensive fireworks
Hawkins dazzled all night, throwing for a career‑high 464 yards — the fifth‑most in program history — and completing 25 of 33 attempts. The Oklahoma transfer also rushed for 77 yards on 26 carries, scoring two rushing touchdowns. He added a passing touchdown on a screen to running back Cam Cook, finishing with three total passing scores.
West Virginia spread the ball widely, with nine different receivers catching a pass. D.J. Epps led the team with eight receptions, including a 43‑yard touchdown. The offense amassed 598 total yards, averaging 7.6 yards per play, and outgained Cincinnati 363‑256 in the second half.
Defensive key play
The decisive drive was made possible by a crucial defensive stop. Defensive coordinator Zac Alley and his unit held Cincinnati’s rushing attack and forced a third‑down punt, giving the Mountaineers the opportunity to drive for the winning field goal.
“They had to get a stop to win, and they got a stop,” head coach Rich Rodriguez said, emphasizing the importance of the defense’s timely play.
Opposition’s effort
Cincinnati quarterback J.C. French IV posted a season‑high 389 passing yards and three touchdowns, while running back Cole Tab contributed 118 rushing yards. The Bearcats’ defense allowed 42 points, marking the fourth consecutive game in which they surrendered 40 or more points and 622 total yards.
Looking ahead
Rodriguez praised the win but cautioned that the team still has work to do. “It’s hard winning, and it’s very frustrating to know we have some pieces in place, but we also have a lot of work to do,” he said.
The Mountaineers improve to 4‑3 on the season, breaking a three‑game losing streak and moving above the .500 mark. The victory provides a morale boost as West Virginia looks to build momentum for the remainder of its conference schedule.
Original reporting: Herald-Standard – latest news for Uniontown, Pennsylvania — read the source article.
