LAS VEGAS, NV - DECEMBER 15: Fresno State Bulldogs running back Ronnie Rivers (20) runs for a gain during the Las Vegas Bowl featuring the Arizona State Sun Devils and Fresno State Bulldogs on December 15, 2018 at Sam Boyd Stadium in Las Vegas, NV. (Photo by Jordon Kelly/fi360news)
LAS VEGAS, NV – DECEMBER 15: Fresno State Bulldogs running back Ronnie Rivers (20) after getting player of the game in the Las Vegas Bowl featuring the Arizona State Sun Devils and Fresno State Bulldogs on December 15, 2018 at Sam Boyd Stadium in Las Vegas, NV. (Photo by Jordon Kelly/fi360news)
Las Vegas, NV – Fresno State running back Ronnie Rivers carries home the winning trophy. He racked up the MVP honor after scoring 2 touchdowns and rushing for 214 yards in the Fresno State 31-20 victory of Arizona State.
The Fresno State Bulldogs (11-2) faced off against the Arizona State Sun Devils (7-5) in the Mitsubishi Las Vegas Bowl on the opening Saturday to kickoff the 2018 Bowl season.
Fresno State opened the game with its Run pass option (RPO) offense. The quarterback has the option to run or pass depending on the defensive scheme. Fresno State Marcus McMaryion mixed the run and pass, eventually connecting on a 26 yard play to wide receiver KeeSean Johnson. That set up the their first points with a 39 yard field goal.
LAS VEGAS, NV – DECEMBER 15: Fresno State Bulldogs running back Dejonte O’Neal (11) runs for a gain during the Las Vegas Bowl featuring the Arizona State Sun Devils and Fresno State Bulldogs on December 15, 2018 at Sam Boyd Stadium in Las Vegas, NV. (Photo by Jordon Kelly/fi360news)
Arizona State star receiver N’Keal Harry elected to forego the game to focus on the NFL Draft. Running back Eno Benjamin came to play an entered the contest with 1,524 rushing yards, only needing 42 more yards to set the school single-season record.
LAS VEGAS, NV – DECEMBER 15: Arizona State Sun Devils quarterback Manny Wilkins (5) runs the ball during the Las Vegas Bowl featuring the Arizona State Sun Devils and Fresno State Bulldogs on December 15, 2018 at Sam Boyd Stadium in Las Vegas, NV. (Photo by Jordon Kelly/fi360news)
This Bulldogs top 15 defensive unit only allowed 3.6 yards per carry and seven rushing touchdowns, tied for the fewest in the FBS.
Benjamin rushed for 118 yards in the game and completed a drive with an elusive 17 yard run for a touchdown in first half.
LAS VEGAS, NV – DECEMBER 15: Arizona State Sun Devils running back Eno Benjamin (3) runs the ball for a gain during the Las Vegas Bowl featuring the Arizona State Sun Devils and Fresno State Bulldogs on December 15, 2018 at Sam Boyd Stadium in Las Vegas, NV. (Photo by Jordon Kelly/fi360news)
Fresno State defensive back Tank Kelly intercepted a pass and returned it 70 yards for a touchdown, the 3rd longest in Las Vegas Bowl history. This slowed to Arizona State offense with another turnover.
Fresno State running back Rivers sparked his team with two consecutive rushes totaling 34 yards. That ignited a 9 play 75 yard scoring drive, capped off McMaryion scramble for 9 yards as he vaulted into the endzone and 17-14 lead.
The postgame celebration was filled with the fanfare and speeches that you would expect from a victor. Fresno’s Head Coach Tedford praised his team for overcoming their 3 turnovers. He stated, “I’m most proud of the team that was able to produce two consecutive double digit winning seasons after being 1-11.” The Mountain West needs to prepare for the Bulldogs because they have yet to hit their full stride.
LAS VEGAS, NV – DECEMBER 15: Fresno State Bulldogs head coach Jeff Tedford receive the trophy after the Las Vegas Bowl featuring the Arizona State Sun Devils and Fresno State Bulldogs on December 15, 2018 at Sam Boyd Stadium in Las Vegas, NV. (Photo by Jordon Kelly/fi360news)
This standoff was led by two legendary coaches, both of whom had tenure with the NFL.
Two years ago, Fresno State Head Coach Jeff Tedford took over a 1-11 program. Tedford quickly turned around the program, producing two consecutive double digit winning seasons and being crowned the 2018 Mountain West Champion.
Arizona State first year Head Coach Herm Edwards, formerly with the New York Jet’s, led the Sun Devils to second in the Pac 12, with three upset wins against Michigan State, USC and Utah.
LAS VEGAS, NV – DECEMBER 15: Arizona State Sun Devils quarterback Manny Wilkins (5) runs the ball during the Las Vegas Bowl featuring the Arizona State Sun Devils and Fresno State Bulldogs on December 15, 2018 at Sam Boyd Stadium in Las Vegas, NV. (Photo by Jordon Kelly/fi360news)
Fresno State offense was too potent to be denied the trophy. The Bulldogs had 436 total yards offense, compared to the Sun Devils 293 yards.
New Mexico Bowl 2018: North Texas Mean Green vs Utah State Aggies on Saturday December 15, 2018. Photo by Laura Domingue / fi360 News
New Mexico Bowl 2018: North Texas Mean Green vs Utah State Aggies on Saturday December 15, 2018. Photo by Laura Domingue / fi360 News
Albuquerque, NM- The Utah State Aggies winning the New Mexico Bowl in style along with tying a school record 11 wins. North Texas Mean Green had no real answer to put points on the board in 52-13 loss on opening bowl season Saturday.
Utah State quarterback Jordan Love took control right from the start to set the tone for a team in coaching turmoil. Love threw for 359 yards 4 touchdowns, 1 rushing touchdown and an interception.
Aaron Vaughns kicked game open scoring his second touchdown of the game with 37 yard curl route, to follow up his opening drive 72 yard touchdown catch.
New Mexico Bowl 2018: North Texas Mean Green vs Utah State Aggies on Saturday December 15, 2018. Photo by Laura Domingue / fi360 News
With one coach leaving Utah State to a new school, an Interim coaching the game while new head coach watches from afar.
“So happy for all of these players – especially the seniors,” said director of athletics Utah State John Hartwell, “The chemistry with this group was something special.”
The Aggies jumped out to 28-7 led in second quarter.
New Mexico Bowl 2018: North Texas Mean Green vs Utah State Aggies on Saturday December 15, 2018. Photo by Laura Domingue / fi360 News
USC graduate transfer Jalen Green joins the party with 67 yard touchdown catch making the score 35-7 with over 8 minutes left in the half.
“We all we got!,” said defensive MVP Utah State DJ Williams
Utah State gave up their first points of the game in 1st quarter after keeping North Texas offense on the field with two personal foul penalties. The Aggies made a great third down when quarterback Mason Fine tweaked his hamstring running after the pocket broke down. Next came the roughing punter penalty and new life. Few plays later a roughing the passer penalty kept the drive alive again.
New Mexico Bowl 2018: North Texas Mean Green vs Utah State Aggies on Saturday December 15, 2018. Photo by Laura Domingue / fi360 News
North Texas used three different quarterbacks in first half after Fine injury trying to create a spark for his offense. Fine didn’t return to action in the second half.
Utah State ground game had Gerold Bright rush 103 yards, 2 touchdowns and Darwin Thompson rushed for 93 yards.
Gary Anderson will return as the new Aggies coach in time for earlier signing period. This will be Anderson second stint with Utah State. He first arrived in 2009 coaching for three seasons before being plucked away.
New Mexico Bowl 2018: North Texas Mean Green vs Utah State Aggies on Saturday December 15, 2018. Photo by Laura Domingue / fi360 News
The Utah State Aggies are the 2018 New Mexico Bowl Champions.
“11 wins and a ton of great memories,” said Hartwell, “Thanks Men!”
Led by 2018 Player of the Year Tua Tagovailoa, top-ranked Alabama has six players on the Walter Camp Football Foundation All-America Teams, the 129th honored by the organization. The nation’s oldest All-America squad was announced on The Home Depot ESPN College Football Awards Show.
In all, 29 different schools from 10 conferences (including independents) were represented on the All-America First and Second Teams (a total of 50 players selected). Alabama has four First Team honorees, and two on the Second Team. LSU has four All-Americans (3 First Team, 1 Second Team), while three Clemson players were named to the First Team. Overall, the Southeastern Conference had the most honorees (15), followed by the Atlantic Coast Conference (9) and Big Ten (8).
The Walter Camp All-America teams are selected by the head coaches and sports information directors of the 130 Football Bowl Subdivision schools and certified by Marcum LLP, a New Haven-based accounting firm. Walter Camp Football Foundation President Michael Madera was pleased with the voting participation.
“Once again, we had more than 80 percent of the FBS schools participate in this year’s voting,” Madera said. “We are very appreciative of the continuing cooperation of the head coaches and sports information directors in our annual effort to honor the nation’s most outstanding college players.”
Leading the First Team offensive unit is Tagovailoa, a sophomore quarterback who was also selected the 2018 Walter Camp Player of the Year. Second in the nation in passing efficiency (202.3), Tagovailoa has passed for 37 touchdowns and 3,353 yards to lead a high-scoring Crimson Tide offensive unit, one that averages 47.9 points per game.
Joining Tagovailoa in the backfield are the junior Darrell Henderson (Memphis) and sophomore Jonathan Taylor (Wisconsin). Henderson has rushed for 1,909 yards and 22 touchdowns, while Taylor has rushed for a nation’s leading 1,989 yards and has scored 15 touchdowns.
Senior Andy Isabella (Massachusetts) and sophomore Jerry Jeudy (Alabama) are the wide receivers. Isabella, who leads the nation with 141.5 receiving yards per game, has 102 catches for 1,698 yards and 13 touchdowns, while Jeudy has 59 catches for 1,103 yards and 12 touchdowns.
The tight end is Jace Sternberger (Texas A&M). Sternberger has 47 receptions for 804 yards and 10 touchdowns for the Aggies this season.
On the offensive line, junior Jonah Williams (Alabama) is joined by a trio of seniors – Ben Powers (Oklahoma), Beau Benzschawel (Wisconsin) and Mitch Hyatt (Clemson). Hyatt was a Second Team All-America honoree last season. Senior Garrett Bradbury (North Carolina State) is the offensive center.
Placekicker Andre Szmyt (Syracuse) earns First Team honors after converting 28-of-32 field goals and all 57 of his point-after-kicks this season for the Orange.
Leading the defensive unit is senior Christian Wilkins (Clemson), who was a Second Team All-American last season. Wilkins has 45 tackles and five quarterback sacks from his defensive tackle position. Wilkins is joined in the defensive interior by his Clemson teammate Clelin Ferrell, a junior defensive end, sophomore Quinnen Williams (Alabama) and junior Ed Oliver (Houston). Oliver is a repeat First Team All-America honoree.
Senior Josh Allen (Kentucky), who has 84 tackles and 14 quarterback sacks for the Wildcats, leads the linebacker corps. Allen is joined by juniors Devin White (LSU) and Devin Bush (Michigan). Bush was a Second Team All-American in 2017.
In the defensive secondary, senior DeAndre Baker (Georgia) is joined by junior Julian Love (Notre Dame) and sophomore teammates from LSU, Greedy Williams and Grant Delpitt.
The punter is junior Braden Mann (Texas A&M), who averages a nation’s leading 51.1 yards-per-punt. The kick returner is sophomore Savon Scarver (Utah State), who averages 34.1 yards per kickoff returns and has returned two for touchdowns.
Second Team Notables
Receiver David Sills V with a catch during the Kansas vs West Virginia game in Morgantown, WV on September 8, 2018. (Photo by Ed Thompson / fi360 News)
Leading the Second Team is junior quarterback Kyler Murray (Oklahoma). Murray has passed for 4,053 yards and 40 touchdowns for the fourth-ranked Sooners. Wide receiver David Sills (West Virginia) is a repeat Second Team honoree. Sills has caught 61 passes for 896 yards and 15 touchdowns for the Mountaineers.
Junior defensive end Sutton Smith (Northern Illinois) is honored again after earning First Team accolades a year ago. Punter Mitch Wishnowsky (Utah) is a Walter Camp All-American for the third straight year. Wishnowsky earned Second Team honors a year ago and was a First Team selection in 2016.
Members of the 2018 Walter Camp All-America team and other major award winners (Distinguished American-Archie Manning, Man of the Year-Mike Golic, and Perseverance Award-Jake Olson of USC), will be honored at the organization’s national awards banquet, presented by David McDermott Lexus of New Haven, on Saturday, January 12, 2019 at the Yale University’s Lanman Center.
Walter Camp, “The Father of American football,” first selected an All-America team in 1889. Camp – a former Yale University athlete and football coach – is also credited with developing play from scrimmage, set plays, the numerical assessment of goals and tries and the restriction of play to eleven men per side. The Walter Camp Football Foundation – a New Haven-based all-volunteer group – was founded in 1967 to perpetuate the ideals of Camp and to continue the tradition of selecting annually an All-America team.
The Walter Camp Football Foundation is a member of the National College Football Awards Association (NCFAA). The NCFAA was founded in 1997 as a coalition of the major collegiate football awards to protect, preserve and enhance the integrity, influence and prestige of the game’s predominant awards. The NCFAA encourages professionalism and the highest standards for the administration of its member awards and the selection of their candidates and recipients.
2018 Walter Camp All-America Teams
First Team Offense
Pos. Name, School Hgt Wgt Class Hometown
WR Jerry Jeudy, Alabama 6-1 192 Soph. Deerfield Beach, FL
WR Andy Isabella, UMass 5-10 190 Senior Mayfield, OH
TE Jace Sternberger, Texas A&M 6-4 250 Junior Kingfisher, OK
OL Jonah Williams, Alabama 6-5 301 Junior Folsom, CA
OL Mitch Hyatt, Clemson # 6-5 310 Senior Suwanee, GA
OL Ben Powers, Oklahoma 6-4 313 Senior Wichita, KS
OL Beau Benzschawel, Wisconsin 6-6 315 Senior Grafton, WI
C Garrett Bradbury, N. Carolina State 6-3 300 Grad Charlotte, NC
QB Tua Tagovailoa, Alabama 6-1 218 Soph. Ewa Beach, HI
RB Jonathan Taylor, Wisconsin # 5-11 221 Soph. Salem, NJ
RB Darrell Henderson, Memphis 5-9 200 Junior Batesville, MS
PK Andre Szymt, Syracuse 6-1 195 Fresh. Vernon Hill, IL
First Team Defense
Pos. Name, School Hgt Wgt Class Hometown
DL Christian Wilkins, Clemson & 6-4 315 Grad Springfield, MA
DL Quinnen Williams, Alabama 6-4 295 Soph. Birmingham, AL
DL Ed Oliver, Houston * 6-3 292 Junior Houston, TX
DL Clelin Ferrell, Clemson 6-4 265 Junior Richmond, VA
LOS ANGELES, CA - SEPTEMBER 21: USC Trojansin a before a game between Washington State Cougars vs USC Trojans at Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum in Los Angeles, CA. Photo by Jordon Kelly/fi360news.
–KLIFF KINGSBURY NAMED USC OFFENSIVE COORDINATOR AND QUARTERBACKS COACH
LOS ANGELES–Kliff Kingsbury, one of college football’s top offensive minds who has produced explosive offenses and developed prolific quarterbacks, has been named the offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach at USC, Trojan head coach Clay Helton announced today (Dec. 5).
“We are very excited to welcome Kliff to the Trojan Family,” said Helton. “He is a brilliant offensive mind and is on the cutting edge of the game today. His offenses have consistently been at the top of the college football statistical rankings. With the talent on our team, along with his leadership and coaching, I truly believe that we can take our offense to new heights.”
Kingsbury, 39, has tutored such future NFL quarterbacks as first rounders Patrick Mahomes, Baker Mayfield and Johnny Manziel, along with Case Keenum, Davis Webb and Nic Shimonek.
Kingsbury spent the past 6 seasons (2013-18) as the head coach at his alma mater Texas Tech, where he also called the plays for the Red Raiders’ high-powered offense that each season ranked in the national Top 10 in passing yards and in the Top 20 in total offense. Each season during his tenure, his teams averaged at least 30 points per game (including twice over 40 points), 470 total yards (4 times over 500 yards) and 330 passing yards (twice over 460 yards). In 4 of those seasons, his teams also rushed for at least 140 yards per game.
Texas Tech went 8-5 in his initial 2013 season, including a win in the Holiday Bowl. Using a pair of true freshman quarterbacks in Webb and future Heisman Trophy winner and No. 1 NFL pick Mayfield, the Red Raiders were second nationally in passing offense (392.8) and eighth in total offense (510.7) while averaging 35.8 points per game.
With a team plagued by injuries in 2014, running back DeAndre Washington became the first Red Raider to rush for 1,000 yards since 1998 (1,103). Texas Tech was fifth nationally in passing offense (351.1) and 10th in total offense (504.1) while scoring 30.5 points en route to a 4-8 record.
In 2015, Texas Tech was second in the country in total offense (579.5), passing offense (388.2) and scoring offense (a school-record 45.1). The Red Raiders were one of just two schools to score at least 25 points in every game that year. Mahomes, just a sophomore, threw for 4,653 yards with 36 touchdowns and became the youngest quarterback in NCAA history to amass 5,000 yards of total offense as he led the nation in that category (393.0). He also ran for 10 TDs. Wide receiver Jakeem Grant set the school career receiving yardage record (3,164), while Washington ran for 1,000 yards again (1,492), becoming the first Red Raider with consecutive 1,000-yard rushing seasons since 1995 and 1996. It was the first season ever that Tech had a 4,000-yard passer, 1,000-yard rusher and 1,000-yard receiver. The Red Raiders went 7-6, including their first win at Texas since 1997, and played in the Texas Bowl.
Texas Tech led the nation in total offense (566.6) and passing offense (463.0) in 2016 and was fifth in scoring offense (43.7). Mahomes won the Sammy Baugh Trophy as he led the nation in passing (421.0), throwing for 5,052 yards (he was just the third quarterback ever to have back-to-back years with 5,000-plus yards of total offense) and 41 touchdowns while adding 12 rushing TDs. Tech went 5-7 in 2016.
The 2017 Red Raiders advanced to the Birmingham Bowl and finished with a 6-7 record. Behind Shimonek, Tech was ninth nationally in passing offense (333.7) and 16th in total offense (474.6).
In 2018, the Red Raiders ranked fourth nationally in passing offense (352.6), 12th in total offense (485.2) and 16th in scoring offense (37.3). Texas Tech had a 5-7 mark, giving Kingsbury a 6-year overall head coaching record of 35-40.
Kingsbury began his coaching career at Houston for 4 seasons, first as the offensive quality control coach for 2 years (2008-09), then as the Cougars’ quarterback coach in 2010 and adding co-offensive coordinator duties in 2011. Houston led the nation in total offense (599.1), passing offense (450.1) and scoring (49.3) in 2011, while Keenum completed his record-setting career as the most prolific passer in NCAA FBS history (he was seventh in the Heisman Trophy voting and won the Sammy Baugh Trophy). Kingsbury was named FootballScoop.com Offensive Coordinator of the Year. In 2010, freshman quarterback David Piland replaced an injured Keenum early in the season and was third nationally in passing yards (330.1), earning Freshman All-American honors. Houston played in the 2008 and 2009 Armed Forces Bowl and beat Penn State in the 2012 TicketCity Bowl.
Kingsbury spent 2012 as the offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach at Texas A&M, helping Manziel become the first freshman to win the Heisman Trophy. The Aggies were third nationally in total offense (558.5), sporting a balanced attack that was 13th nationally in rushing offense (242.1) and 14th in passing offense (316.5). Texas A&M beat No. 1 Alabama on the road and No. 11 Oklahoma in the Cotton Bowl. For the second consecutive season, Kingsbury was the FootballScoop.com Offensive Coordinator of the Year.
Kingsbury had a record-setting career as a quarterback at Texas Tech from 1999 to 2002, the last 3 seasons playing under head coach Mike Leach. In his career, he had more than 12,000 passing yards and total yards, with 1,000-plus completions, making him only the third player in NCAA history to accomplish all 3 feats. He set 39 school records, 16 Big 12 marks and 17 NCAA records. As a 2002 senior, he won the Sammy Baugh Trophy and was the Associated Press Big 12 Offensive Player of the Year.
He received his bachelor’s degree in management from Texas Tech in 2001. He was a National Football Foundation Post-Graduate Scholarship winner and was the CoSIDA Academic All-America Player of the Year in 2002.
He was the New England Patriots’ sixth round pick in the 2003 NFL Draft. He spent 2003 on injured reserve with the Patriots, then was on the New Orleans Saints’ practice squad in 2004. He played for the New York Jets in 2005, appearing in 1 game, then attended the Buffalo Bills’ training camp in 2006. He played for the Cologne Centurions of NFL Europe in 2006, then signed with the Montreal Alouettes of the Canadian Football League in 2007 before spending that season with the Winnipeg Blue Bombers.
He played football for his father, Tim, at New Braunfels (Tex.) High, and also was on the baseball, basketball and track teams. He threw for 3,009 yards and 34 touchdowns as a senior. He was a 2018 inductee into the Texas High School Football Hall of Fame.
Born on Aug. 9, 1979, he is single.
(All hirings are contingent upon completion of USC employment policies and procedures.)
OFFENSIVE RANKINGS UNDER KINGSBURY
SCHOOL (YEAR) TOTAL OFF SCORE OFF PASS OFF RUSH OFF
MBK 2018: Nevada Wolfpack vs USC Trojans basketball game at Galen Center on Saturday December 01, 2018. (Photo by Rick Gurrola)
MBK 2018: Nevada Wolfpack vs USC Trojans basketball game at Galen Center on Saturday December 01, 2018. (Photo by Rick Gurrola)
Los Angeles, CA – USC started the game fast and aggressive against No. 5 Nevada, shooting 50 percent from the field in the first half and leading by as many as seven points.
The second half was a different story as the Wolfpack took the lead and never looked back en route to a 73-61 win over USC Saturday at the Galen Center.
“It was a tough game in the second half.,” USC coach Andy Enfield said. “Nevada played exceptional basketball in that opening stretch. We played hard, but went through a dry spell and they put the game away.
MBK 2018: Nevada Wolfpack vs USC Trojans basketball game at Galen Center on Saturday December 01, 2018. (Photo by Rick Gurrola)
Enfield said the defense played well enough to win but even at the end, they missed shots. That’s the way the second half went.
USC led by six points with a minute left in the first half but Tre’Shawn Thurman hit a three-pointer and a jumper to cut the lead heading into halftime, 35-34.
Nevada began the second half on a 9-0 run to open a 43-35 lead at 17:22. USC shot 35.7 percent in the second half while Nevada made 48.1 percent of its shots.
MBK 2018: Nevada Wolfpack vs USC Trojans basketball game at Galen Center on Saturday December 01, 2018. (Photo by Rick Gurrola)
“When they go on a run, you have to go with them, and we didn’t do that. “We took a lot of tough shots. We took some good ones and missed, and we too some contested shots.”
USC junior forward Nick Rakocevic scored a season-high 20 points and grabbed 12 rebounds for his fifth double-double of the season and 10th of his career.
MBK 2018: Nevada Wolfpack vs USC Trojans basketball game at Galen Center on Saturday December 01, 2018. (Photo by Rick Gurrola)
“The first half is a good sign we can be a top team,” Rakocevic said. “We have to come out better in the second half. When the shots aren’t falling, you have to stay composed and do it on the defensive end.”
USC’s next game will be against TCU in the Hall of Fame Classic at the Staples Center on Friday, December 7 at 6:30 p.m.
MBK 2018: Nevada Wolfpack vs USC Trojans basketball game at Galen Center on Saturday December 01, 2018. (Photo by Rick Gurrola)
Stanford head coach David Shaw reviewing his play sheet on the sideline. The Stanford Cardinal defeat the Cal Golden Bears 23-13 at California Memorial Stadium on Saturday, Dec. 1, 2018. (Photo by Aaron Nelson / fi360 News).
Stanford wide receiver J.J. Arcega-Whiteside (19) catches a deep pass near the sideline. The Stanford Cardinal defeat the Cal Golden Bears 23-13 at California Memorial Stadium on Saturday, Dec. 1, 2018. (Photo by Aaron Nelson / fi360 News).
Berkeley, CA – The Stanford Cardinal (8-4,6-3) took down the Cal Golden Bears (7-5,5-4) in California Memorial Stadium on Saturday, pulling out the win in the 121st Big Game rivalry match-up between the two Bay Area schools.
Cal entered the game coming off two consecutive victories over USC and Colorado in which they relied heavily on their defense to make-up for sputtering offensive play.
The Bears’ offensive struggles showed themselves again early in this one, allowing the Cardinal to jump out to a 10-0 lead in the opening quarter following the first of three made field goals from kicker Jet Toner (26), and a 46-yard touchdown pass from quarterback K.J. Costello (3) to running back Cameron Scarlett (22).
Cal fullback Malik McMorris (99) fights for extra yards after catching a pass out of the backfield. The Stanford Cardinal defeat the Cal Golden Bears 23-13 at California Memorial Stadium on Saturday, Dec. 1, 2018. (Photo by Aaron Nelson / fi360 News).
In all, the Bears failed to eclipse 50 yards from scrimmage in the first, to Stanford’s 164 yards in the quarter.
The Cal defense found their footing in the second, forcing three Stanford punts in the quarter and holding the Cardinal out of the end zone. The defense’s stout play allowed the Bears offense opportunities to get in more of a rhythm, leading to two made field goals from kicker Greg Thomas (39) to bring the score to 13-6 for Stanford heading into the half.
Though both offenses moved the ball more efficiently in the third quarter, neither could capitalize for points.
Stanford quarterback K.J. Costello (3) throws downfield. The Stanford Cardinal defeat the Cal Golden Bears 23-13 at California Memorial Stadium on Saturday, Dec. 1, 2018. (Photo by Aaron Nelson / fi360 News).
Fourth-quarter mistakes would prove to be the difference in this one, with Stanford capitalizing on the momentum generated by a costly roughing the passer penalty, extending the Cardinal’s penultimate drive, as well as two interceptions, the latter of which was returned 30 yards by corner Paulson Adebo (11) to give Stanford the ball inside the Cal five-yard line.
On the next play, Scarlett would provide the dagger for Stanford with his second score on the day, this one a three-yard rush that put the Cardinal up ten points with less than four minutes remaining.
Costello and the Stanford passing game were highly efficient, tallying nearly 240 yards and a score on 18-of-29 attempts. Wide receiver J.J. Arcega-Whiteside (19) lead both teams in receiving with 109 yards on five catches.
Cal quarterback Chase Garbers (7) takes off upfield. The Stanford Cardinal defeat the Cal Golden Bears 23-13 at California Memorial Stadium on Saturday, Dec. 1, 2018. (Photo by Aaron Nelson / fi360 News).
For Cal, quarterback Chase Garbers finished with 197 yards through the air on 22-of-39 tries with two interceptions and one touchdown, along with 44 net rushing yards on 12 carries.
The Bears’ senior running back Patrick Laird (28) lead the way rushing the ball with 116 yards on 19 carries, while Stanford’s standout back Bryce Love (20) lead the Cardinal with 77 yards rushing on 22 carries before being forced to leave the game in the fourth quarter with a lower-body injury.
Stanford pushes their Big Game win-streak to nine straight with the victory, dating back to Cal’s last victory over the Cardinal in 2009.
Stanford Cardinal running back Cameron Scarlett (22) cuts upfield. The Stanford Cardinal defeat the Cal Golden Bears 23-13 at California Memorial Stadium on Saturday, Dec. 1, 2018. (Photo by Aaron Nelson / fi360 News).
Both teams will await tomorrow’s Bowl Schedule release, before beginning preparation for their respective postseason match-ups.
Cal head coach Justin Wilcox alluded to the fact that his team might need some time to get their heads straight after the loss but said they looked forward to the next opportunity to play and improve.
“It hurts really bad, and it hurts because we had chances. They know we had opportunities and that stings,” he said after the game. “But not all is lost. We get to play again.”
Stanford Cardinal cornerback Paulson Adebo (11) intercepts a tipped pass. The Stanford Cardinal defeat the Cal Golden Bears 23-13 at California Memorial Stadium on Saturday, Dec. 1, 2018. (Photo by Aaron Nelson / fi360 News).
Washington Huskies running back Myles Gaskin #9 being slowed down during the Washington vs Utah Utes NOV 30 at the Levi Stadium in Santa Clara, Ca. on November 30, 2018 (Photo by Jevone Moore)
Utah Utes wide receiver Britain Covey #18 being taken down during Washington vs Utah Utes NOV 30 at the Levi Stadium in Santa Clara, Ca. on November 30, 2018 (Photo by Jevone Moore)
SANTA CLARA, CA – Washington Huskies win the Pac-12 Football Championship behind a strong defensive performance at Levi’s Stadium.
Washington won a Rose Bowl berth with tonight’s 10-3 victory over the Utah Utes.
After a season-opening loss to Auburn, the Huskies quietly rebounded during the country’s fascination with Gardner Minshew and the rival Washington State Cougars. Today, however, the Huskies reclaimed the spotlight with an impressive defensive performance. CB Byron Murphy was named the game’s MVP after recording two interceptions, the first of which he returned 66 yards for what proved to be the game-winning touchdown.
Utah Utes running back Armand Shyne #6 rushing during Washington vs Utah Utes NOV 30 at the Levi Stadium in Santa Clara, Ca. on November 30, 2018 (Photo by Jevone Moore)
Despite the league’s penchant for showcasing offensive powerhouses, the Pac-12 Championship featured defense. The game began with a scoreless first quarter and ended with no offensive touchdowns.
Utah’s defense held Washington’s offensive stars, seniors RB Myles Gaskin and QB Jake Browning, largely in check. The Utes also secured the game’s first turnover when DB Javelin Guidry intercepted a Browning pass.
After the game, Washington head coach Chris Petersen said, “those guys were good the first time we played them, and they were better the second time.”
Battle in the trenches during Washington vs Utah Utes NOV 30 at the Levi Stadium in Santa Clara, Ca. on November 30, 2018 (Photo by Jevone Moore)
Not to be outdone, Washington’s defense held Utah to no points in the first half, making the 3-0 halftime score the lowest scoring half in Pac-12 Football Championship Game history. Washington’s defense would go on to force three second half turnovers – enroute to holding Utah to only 188 yards of total offense. It was ultimately Washington’s defense that scored the game’s only touchdown and broke up a 4th down pass to crush any hopes of a Utah comeback.
Despite the defenses taking center stage, Washington’s offense managed to rack up 308 yards. Gaskin rushed for 71 yards on 23 carries and Browning went 21 of 23 for 187 yards, with 1 interception, to lead a balanced attack. Yet, the Huskies’ offense only managed to get 3 points behind a PK Payton Henryfield goal just before halftime.
Utah finally scored in the third quarter with a Matt Gay 53-yard field goal, but that was it. Head Coach Kyle Whittingham acknowledged that his team had to “handle adversity and just keep fighting,” despite entering the game without their starting quarterback and running back.
Washington Huskies running back Myles Gaskin #9 finds a crease during the Washington vs Utah Utes NOV 30 at the Levi Stadium in Santa Clara, Ca. on November 30, 2018 (Photo by Jevone Moore)
Behind backup quarterback Jason Shelly, the Utes did not have any sustained success moving the ball. After Murphy first career pick-6, Utah’s most promising drive ended with another Shelly interception at the Washington 6-yard line.
In the end, turnovers ended the Ute’s first appearance in the Pac-12 Championship Game. Utah, however, can take solace that it hung tough with Washington, and can hopefully use that momentum for its upcoming bowl game. Meanwhile, Washington will wait for the results of Saturday’s other league championship games to learn who it will likely face in the Rose Bowl.
Washington Huskies head coach Chris Petersen after the win with confetti in the background after the Washington vs Utah Utes NOV 30 at the Levi Stadium in Santa Clara, Ca. on November 30, 2018 (Photo by Jevone Moore)
Brian Agler Resigns as Head Coach of Los Angeles Sparks
WNBA 2017: Los Angeles Sparks Media Day for WNBA Champions coach Brian Agler general manager Penny Toler at Los Angeles Athletic Club in Los Angeles, Ca on May 16, 2017. (Photo by Jevone Moore/Full Image 360)
Los Angeles, CA (Nov. 30, 2018) –The Los Angeles Sparks announced today that Brian Agler has resigned as head coach of the team.
“We’d like to thank Brian for his contributions to the Sparks organization over the last four seasons, including helping the team win the 2016 title,” Executive Vice President and General Manager Penny Toler said. “We wish Brian nothing but the best moving forward.”
A comprehensive search to identify the next Sparks head coach will start immediately.
Nenka Ogwumike, Brian Agler and Jantel Lavender before the Chicago Sky vs Los Angeles Sparks game after being awarded their trophies on September 28, 2016. (Photo by Jevone Moore/Full Image 360)
ABOUT THE LOS ANGELES SPARKS
Founded in 1996, the Los Angeles Sparks play in the Western Conference of the Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA). The Los Angeles Sparks have won three WNBA Championships (2001, 2002, 2016), and remain the only active team in the league to have won back-to-back titles and have qualified for the playoffs in 18 of their 22 seasons. Led by an ownership group led by five-time NBA Champion Earvin “Magic” Johnson and Mark Walter, the Los Angeles Sparks are dedicated to ensuring each home game at Staples Center has a championship level entertainment experience, while showcasing the best female athletes from around the world on the court. The team plays their regular season annually from May through September. To purchase tickets, visit http://sparks.wnba.com/tickets/.
NCAA Basketball Long Beach State vs USC at Galen Center on November 28, 2018. (Photo by Rick Gurrola / fi360 News)
NCAA Basketball Long Beach State vs USC at Galen Center on November 28, 2018. (Photo by Rick Gurrola / fi360 News)
Los Angeles, CA – USC junior center Nick Rakocevic recorded his fourth double-double of the season to lead the Trojans to a 75-65 win over Long Beach State Wednesday night at the Galen Center.
“That was a tough game,” USC coach Andy Enfield said. “Long Beach played very hard. We played well enough to win. We struggled at times offensively, missed shots and didn’t pass well.”
Rakocevic finished with 19 points, 13 rebounds and has averaged 11.7 rebounds per game this season, sixth nationally and tops in the Pac-12.
NCAA Basketball Long Beach State vs USC at Galen Center on November 28, 2018. (Photo by Rick Gurrola / fi360 News)
“My teammates were making all the right plays,” Rakocevic said. “I was just cutting. I missed some easy ones I usually don’t miss. Overall, we got the win and that’s what counts.”
The Trojans took a 47-33 lead early in the second half but the 49ers went on a 10-0 run to keep the game close.
USC missed a lot of wide open shots from close range and from beyond the arc. The Trojans were held to 40 percent shooting from the floor.
NCAA Basketball Long Beach State vs USC at Galen Center on November 28, 2018. (Photo by Rick Gurrola / fi360 News)
“Our defense was okay,” Enfield said. “Long Beach came with a lot of intensity. But give our players credit for figuring out how to win.”
Derryck Thornton hit a 3-pointer to give USC a five-point lead with 1:48 left in the first half. Ron Freeman responded with a three of his own.
Jonah Matthews and Shaquan Aaron nailed back-to-back 3-pointers with a minute left to put USC up, 36-28, at halftime.
NCAA Basketball Long Beach State vs USC at Galen Center on November 28, 2018. (Photo by Rick Gurrola / fi360 News)
USC’s next game will be against No. 5 Nevada on Saturday at the Galen Center at 1:30 p.m. Nevada is 7-0 after defeating Loyola Chicago, 79-65, on Nov. 27.
“Nevada is the oldest team in the country, experience and age-wise,” Enfield said. “They are physical, long and play well together.”
American Athletic Conference Coach of the Year 2018
Cincinnati coach Luke Fickell on November 23, 2018 Photo by Austyn McFadden / fi360 News
Bearcats head coach Luke Fickell was named as Coach of the Year. Fickell was chosen by his peers as The American’s Coach of the Year after he orchestrated a six-win improvement in his second year on the Cincinnati sideline. After going 4-8 in his first year, Fickell has led the Bearcats to a 10-2 overall record, a 4-0 in mark in non-conference games and a 6-2 conference mark in 2018. The Bearcats returned to the national polls for the first time since 2013, ranking as high as No. 19 in the Nov. 11 Associated Press poll.
Kingsbury spent the past 6 seasons (2013-18) as the head coach at his alma mater Texas Tech, where he also called the plays for the Red Raiders’ high-powered offense that each season ranked in the national Top 10 in passing yards and in the Top 20 in total offense. Each season during his tenure, his teams averaged at least 30 points per game (including twice over 40 points), 470 total yards (4 times over 500 yards) and 330 passing yards (twice over 460 yards). In 4 of those seasons, his teams also rushed for at least 140 yards per game.
