On Saturday night, the University of Wyoming Cowboys celebrated Homecoming with a commanding 27-10 win over the Hawai’i Rainbow Warriors at War Memorial Stadium. The 20,999‑strong crowd witnessed a performance that set a positive tone for the Cowboys’ Mountain West campaign.
Key Plays and Player Highlights
Midway through the third quarter, Wyoming’s defense held firm with a goal‑line stand that kept the Warriors out of the end zone. The momentum shifted dramatically when running back Markell Holman capped an 11‑play, 99‑yard drive with an 18‑yard touchdown run in the fourth quarter.
Holman finished the game with 87 rushing yards and two touchdowns. He was ably supported by Samuel “Tote” Harris, who added 94 rushing yards and an 18‑yard touchdown with just 1:46 left, sealing the victory.
Quarterback Tyler Hughes was efficient, completing 17 of 23 passes for 204 yards, distributing the ball to nine different receivers. Wide receiver Deion DeBlanc led the receiving corps with 41 yards, while Eric Richardson and Jacob Wilson contributed key catches on crucial third‑down conversions.
Defensive Effort
Wyoming’s defense was anchored by safety Jones Thomas, who recorded seven tackles and three pass breakups. Defensive end Esaia Bogar added 1.5 tackles for loss, and defensive tackle Jayden Williams earned his first career sack.
Notable defensive moments included Desman Hearns’ tackle at the one‑yard line to stop a Hawai’i touchdown and Jack Dunkley’s pressure on Hawai’i quarterback Micah Alejado on a fourth‑and‑goal play.
Coach Sawvel’s Outlook
Head coach Jay Sawvel praised his team’s preparation, saying, “We were going to empty the tank for 60 minutes. Players, coaches, everything to it. You should see the same energy every single week the rest of the way through.” He added, “There was a completely different feel. It’s one game. Tomorrow, we go back to work, and we’ve got to get this right and do it again.”
Looking Ahead
Following the win, the Cowboys will travel to Fargo, North Dakota, to face undefeated North Dakota State at the Fargodome next Saturday at 1:30 p.m., a test that will further gauge the team’s early‑season progress.
Wyoming’s offense outgained Hawai’i 205‑90 in total yards, and kicker Erik Sandvik contributed field goals of 28 and 23 yards. The victory improves the Cowboys’ record to 2‑2 overall and 1‑0 in Mountain West play, positioning them well for the remainder of the conference schedule.
Original reporting: K2 Radio (Casper) — read the source article.
