INGLEWOOD, CA. – Hajj-Malik Williams threw two touchdowns and the UNLV Rebels shutout California in the second half to win the LA Bowl 24-13 on Wednesday night.
The first half was full of big plays from both sides providing an exciting first two quarters for the fans in attendance.
It started with UNLV (11-3) trailing Cal (6-7) 3-0 in the first quarter when the Rebels quarterback Hajj-Malik Williams found freshman wide receiver Kayden McGee for a 49-yard touchdown pass to score the first touchdown of the game.
Photo by Jordon Kelly / fi360 News
The Golden Bears answered with a 9 play 89 yards that was culminated by a 29-yard touchdown run by freshman wide receiver Josiah Martin. That gave Cal a 10-7 lead to end the first quarter.
Not to be outdone, UNLV used a fake punt to prolong their drive. Punter Marshall Nichols flipped the ball to Cameron Oliver for 52 yards to get the Rebels to Cal’s 9. On the next play Williams pitched the ball forward wide receiver Jacob De Jesus for the score putting Las Vegas up 14-10.
“My head was in the clouds and (special teams) coach (James) Shilbest said, `Hey, you want to run it?’ I mean, I didn’t’t figure out where the ball was and I said, go I’ve seen it every day in practice for a year or two years, ” UNLV interim coach Del Alexander said. “I think I was facing the wrong way, but I saw it go and said ‘OK, good.’”
Photo by Jordon Kelly / fi360 News
UNLV went into the half leading 14-13 over Cal.
The second half was all UNLV as their defense put the clamps on Cal’s offense keeping them scoreless.
The running game picked up in the second half for the Rebels as they finished the game rushing 143 yards. Running back Jai’Den Thomas led the way with 18 carries for 72 yards.
After forcing and recovering a Cal fumble, UNLV scored the decisive touchdown when running back Kaylin James found a hole to run for a 23-yard touchdown to put the Rebels up 21-13.
UNLV added a late field goal to completely put the game away.
Photo by Jordon Kelly / fi360 News
“The game came down to the fake punt they got a score off of, we had the ball at the 2-yard line and couldn’t quite get it in the end zone,” Cal coach Justin Wilcox said.
With the win, the Rebels won a bowl game for the first time since 2000 and the first outside of the Las Vegas Bowl. It also gave the Rebels 11 wins for the first time as an FBS program.
Coach Del gets LA Bowl belt from Gronk after the win. Photo by fi360 News
“This is exactly how we wanted to finish it. I mean, not many people can say they got 11 wins in a season,” said linebacker Jackson Woodard, who the Defensive MVP of the game.
Los Angeles, CA – Following a short power outage that briefly delayed warm-ups, pushing back the game’s tip-off 30 minutes late both teams came out ready with added eagerness to start the game as USC quickly determined the outcome to a blowout end over Elon Phoenix, 88 – 30. Sophomore guard JuJu Watkins dropped a game-high 26 points, despite limping off her home court towards the end of the game, causing much concern for her status against USC’s next matchup against, UCONN.
“They are great guards and we know it’s coming, so just building that confidence and seeing what we are capable of,” Graduate transfer guard Talia Von Oelhoffen explained on preparing for UCONN’s backcourt. “Next up, we know we will be facing veteran, All-American guards and I thought Malia and Kayleigh did a great job ball pressuring to make it easier for the rest of the team.”
Photo by DeAngelo Scruggs / fi360 News
Despite the expected quick start from USC, Elon hung around for the first few minutes, at one point, getting a steal and quick layup to tie the score until USC defensive pressure turned up a notch with a small lineup to end the first quarter on a 19-2 run, leading 23 – 6 into the second quarter.
“I think we’ve gotten to a point in our season where they know what the expectation is and I think they want to rise to that expectation,” Coach Gottleib said. “I know what we are capable of and just holding us accountable to the standard that we have.”
Photo by DeAngelo Scruggs / fi360 News
Trojans began the 2nd quarter just like they finished the first quarter with keeping that same small lineup of 4 big guards and one power forward to set off an 8 – 0 run. A few more substitutions from both squads and some game plan adjustments in real time resulted in trading baskets until USC capitalized off forced turnovers and scoring consecutive buckets to end the first half, 40-12.
“Everyone’s talking about chemistry on offensive end, but I think they are finally getting it together on the defensive end while trusting their teammates like Rayah in the back to allow them to try be more aggressive,” Coach Gottleib said.
Getting into 2nd half, both teams found their scoring rhythm again at the same time,hitting back n forth baskets to keep the lead margin the same before Elon went ice cold on offense and USC remain hot in their transition game. Suddenly, USC bursted out into another 18-2 score run to close the quarter, leading 69-23.
Photo by DeAngelo Scruggs / fi360 News
USC got solid contributions from Graduate Transfer KiKi Iriafen, who finished with 18 points and seven rebounds. Hannah Heckel had 14 points and four steals on the night, playing passing lanes in their zone press. Three of her steals came within a minute.
With the game decided pretty much, Phoenix became physical and somewhat frustrated, as teams began subbing in bench players late. Trojans finally slowed down from their transition game, before an awkward landing by Watkins midway through the 4th quarter. Watkins immediately wobbled to the bench before abruptly heading to the locker room. During the post-game press conference, no status update was known or given on Watkins. Most attention remained on the game and how USC seized another game opportunity to gain momentum against a more formidable opponent in the Huskies.
Photo by DeAngelo Scruggs / fi360 News
In addition to the 26 points on 7-18 shooting, including 11-12 from the charity stripe, Watkins had 5 assists on the night. With 10 games played this season, Watkins moved up to No. 20 all-time in career scoring at USC.
The Women of Troy record improves to 10-1. USC will travel to Connecticut to face the Huskies (10-1) on Saturday, Dec. 21. Game time is 5:00 p.m., PST. The game will be televised on Fox. The next home game for the Women of Troy will be on Sunday, Dec. 29, at 7:00 p.m., when they face another top-20-ranked team, Michigan, for their first matchup of this season.
Colorado Travis Hunter does the "Heisman" pose after his third quarter interception of Central Florida at FBC Mortgage Stadium in Orlando, FL on Saturday September 28, 2024. Colorado won by a score of 48 to 21. (Photo by Laura Domingue/fi360 News)
New York, NY- In the city that never sleeps, the best athlete in college football has finally received the greatest honor as predicted by one of the best athletes that ever play college and professional sports Deion Sanders. As Hunter and Coach Prime hugged after Hunter named winner of the 80th Heisman Trophy winner.
Deion stated two years ago that he had two Heisman trophy candidates on his team and when he came to Colorado and he was bringing his luggage as in Louis Vuitton with him, but he forgot to mention the Lamborghini in Travis Hunter. Hunter has dazzled college football the last four years, two of those years being on a HBCU level where critics said he couldn’t play both ways at a power five school. And ultimately Hunter proved all doubters wrong, game after game year after year.
Now he has the hardware to prove it. Smiling ear to ear Hunter spoke about how important his support system of his fiancée who nursed him back to health when he was injured and his mother instilling belief in him that nothing was impossible . Hunter also flew his team to New York to Celebrate, as Hunter watched his teammates celebrate him he broke down in tears seeing his high school celebrate him on the screen.
No other athlete in college sports has dominated in a manner Hunter has ,this is the first time college player has played almost every major snap on offense and defense and has been effective to the effect of receiving all American honors on both sides of the ball. Hunter will be one of the top picks in the NFL draft along with Sheuders Sanders who was in attendance as well.
When I asked Sanders if him after their last blowout win against Oklahoma State if you will be present, he answered most definitely he stated Travis winning is like me winning because I threw him all those touchdowns and he’s the best player in college football. Sanders spoke how he appreciated how much Hunter gave up to come play with him in Jackson state and Colorado and how much he appreciate him being a brother to him, would be in the top four spots as Heisman finalist. But the brotherhood between Hunter and Sanders has come full circle with them playing together at Jackson State transferring to Colorado and putting the whole football on notice that they are the next franchise stars of the NFL.
Hunter road to the Hesiman came last year in his very first game as Colorado Buffalo against TCU catching 11 passes for 119 yards and a jaw dropping interception that sent shock waves through the internet even Lebron James weighed in on Hunters play saying he is out of this world. Hunter has made highlight play after highlight play in all four of his seasons under Coach Prime at Jackson State and Colorado. I believe Hunter will be the first player in the NFL that’s not a quarterback to draw a salary over the 200 million mark my words.
His Mom made the most powerful statement how what some said was the biggest mistake turned out to be the biggest blessing. With the trophy finally in his hands giving it a little kiss in the press conference. I can’t help but think what team NFL will be blessed enough to Travis apart of their franchise . Hunters Mom also stated that as long as you put God first nothing is impossible. Hunter proved that his family’s move from the inner city of Florida to Georgia was the right move and him picking Jackson State/Colorado and Coach Prime Leadership meant everything and here is the result of it . Ladies and Gentlemen Travis Hunter is HE12MAN your Heisman Trophy winner.
With little to no surprise, Top seeded UCLA handled their business against Long Beach State,102 – 51, at the Walter Pyramid arena, securing their 10th win (10-0) of the season to give head coach, Cori Close, her 297th career win and become UCLA all time winningest women’s basketball coach.
“She doesn’t like to give herself a lot of credit, but she really is an amazing coach and I’m just super grateful to play for you and everything that you’ve done for me, ” Junior transfer Center Lauren Betts said about Coach Close’s milestone achievement.
Long Beach State (5-4) got to celebrate some milestone history too, competing against an outsized, outstanding team whom open the game with a knockout punch in the first few minutes of the game giving the first time host of a No. 1 ranked women’s basketball team their second introduction to another Big 10 league. Not to be overshadowed, Long Beach women’s basketball coach, hall of famer, Joan Bonvicini, received honors during half time for her legendary winning record in 12 seasons.
Meanwhile, Long Beach State headed to their locker room, attempting to figure out a way to come back from down 29-points, 49-20, and how to slow down UCLA’s dominating frontcourt, Betts and Graduate student forward Angela Dugalic.
“It’s hard to simulate that in practice, in terms of their knock down shooters, their patience, their discipline. They’re just a really good, confident team right now,” Long Beach State head coach Amy Wright said.
Offensively, Long Beach State got better the 2nd half and Sophomore forward Jada Crawshaw, got it rolling with buckets from inside the paint and midrange jumpers. Struggling continued on the defensive end for The Beach as no one came close to matching up with 6’7” Betts and 6’4” Dugalic who continued tallying up points, extending Bruin’s lead to 45 points by the end of the 3rd quarter.
“I think it’s just the foundation that Long Beach has built for us,” Crawshaw answered on not giving up despite UCLA height advantage and huge point deficit from beginning to end. “Every time we step in between the lines, we’re always fighting,” Crawshaw added.
Crawshaw carried her team most of the fourth quarter, finishing as the sole double digit scorer, with 19 points. Dugalic and Betts both finished with 22 points apiece and combined for almost half of their team’s 51 rebounds.
“It’s so cool, it’s like a full circle moment,” Betts said of beating her parents’ Alma mater in the arena they once played as basketball and volleyball student- athletes. “We want you to win, but don’t embarrass them,” Betts shared sympathetically about the text messages received from her parents. Both teams kept a heavy rotation with frequent substitutions that resulted in UCLA ending the game with 5 players scoring in double figures.
“Kudos to UCLA. They’re a great team, well balanced, and very deep, and I thought we got better and better as the game went on, it just takes time, “ Coach Wright said.
Crawshaw forced Close to call a 20 second time out mid 4th quarter after exposing weaknesses of UCLA’s defense, leading later to post game recognition for Junior Guards Kiki Rice and Londynn Jones as Close described Jones performance as “winning plays” that don’t show up on any stats sheet.
Close acknowledged coach Wright and Long Beach for providing a great environment that seems to be a collective sentiment felt among other southern Cal collegiate coaches.
“We want to grow this together and that’s really important to us,” Close said.
On a similar note, Coach Wright said,“I think Cori and I’s perspective was, women’s basketball is on such a rise, and it should be shared, but that hasn’t always been. Them coming to us is a big deal.” Wright continued, “USC coming to us last year is a big deal, because it’s highlighting the style of basketball, the level of play in Southern California, and it’s showing it to the entire nation.”
Both teams will be back in action next week before New Year’s, UCLA welcomes Cal Poly to Pauley Pavillion on Monday and Long Beach State welcomes Elon to Walter Pyramid on Thursday.
Los Angeles, CA – USC fired up on all cylinders led by their front court and freshmen, pulling away from Fresno St for a 89-40 win at the Galen Center.
Another in-state opponent home victory, USC continued to bounce back with a 4 game winning streak since that tough home loss to Notre Dame as Coach Lindsay Gottlieb utilized several defensive schemes and lineup rotations to prepare for more upcoming conference matchups.
“I thought we took some more good steps tonight. I thought we really shared the ball and tried to limit our turnovers,” Coach Gottlieb said. “We keep going in the right direction.”
Both teams started off slow, with Fresno able to take an early lead with a couple three-pointers while USC looked conservatively inside to get their frontcourt involved early, scoring their first basket by Senior forward Rayah Marshall. Freshman guard Kayleigh Heckel got into passing lanes for a couple easy fast break points, finishing with a game high 3 steals.
“She [Marshall] has been elite defensively, and it is so much more than her shot blocking,” Gottlieb explained. “In addition to leading us in assist-to-turnover ratio.”
Fresno St. never came close after opening the game with a couple of threes in the first quarter by Mia Jacobs and Mariah Elohim. The Bulldogs broke 30 in the 4th quarter, but USC had cleared their bench already after holding them to only six points in the third quarter, 72-26. Senior forward KiKi Iriafen led all scorers, enroute to her 4th consecutive double-double with 24 points and 12 rebounds while shooting 10-11 from the free throw line. Sophomore guard JuJu Watkins added 21 points and a perfect 8-8 from the charity stripe.
USC sent a message early in the second half, drawing multiple fouls in the opening two minutes and using a 8-0 run to seize control of the game. The Women of Troy’s defensive pressure and free throw shooting, 22-of-25 (88%), eclipsed any chance of a comeback or desperate run for the Bulldogs.
“They were kind of running five around the perimeter and not attacking the basket as much and we like to get into the paint both with our guards penetrating and our bigs in there,” Gottleib stated.
Fresno racked up over 20 turnovers which was another key factor in their lopsided loss. “We did our work to get to the free throw line, but they also fouled JuJu on two three attempts, ” Gottleib added. “So I think it was more of a byproduct of the way that we play.”
The Bulldogs (7-4) were led by Jacob’s with 11 points and Holly Griffiths with 11, but they struggled with USC’ defensive intensity, committing 9 turnovers and the team being outrebounded 48-20. Fresno shot 27.1% from the field but close to 50% from three-point range.
For USC, Marshall added 13 rebounds to her 4 assist performance. Freshman forward Avery Howell had 9 points, while Heckel contributed 9 points and 1 block. Sophomore guard Malia Samuels continued improvement in her role off the bench, dishing 4 assists and scoring 4 points in 18 minutes.
“I think one thru 15, anyone on this team can get a bucket” Iriafen said of her confidence in her teammates’ effort. “I have so much confidence especially for my freshmen.”
Next up for the Women of Troy is back to back Sunday home games , beginning with a matchup against Elon University Phoenix, December 15. Then Women of Troy will host the to play their second conference opponent before the New Year.
Kenyon Sadiq jumping over Jalen Kimber for the first touchdown of the Big Ten Championship #3 Penn State Nittany Lions vs #1 Oregon Ducks at Lucas Oil Stadium on, December 07, 2024. (photo by Andre Hollis / fi360 News)
Indianapolis, IN- A year ago, Oregon’s season ended in heartbreak, falling 34-31 to Washington in their final Pac-12 battle. Fast forward to today, and in their first season in the Big Ten, the Ducks walked off the field at Lucas Oil Stadium as champions.
“I don’t know what to say except for how proud I am of these guys,” Oregon head coach Dan Lanning said after the Ducks’ Big Ten Championship victory. “We’ve talked about moments this year where guys had to put each other on their backs. I thought the offense tonight did an unbelievable job. I thought the defense made a critical stop when it mattered most.” Lanning’s words encapsulated a hard-fought 45-37 win over Penn State that secured Oregon’s place in the College Football Playoff.
Big Ten Championship #3 Penn State Nittany Lions vs #1 Oregon Ducks at Lucas Oil Stadium on, December 07, 2024. (photo by Andre Hollis / fi360 News)
Top-ranked Oregon wasted no time asserting dominance in the Big Ten Championship, opening with a masterful drive led by veteran quarterback Dillon Gabriel in his 62nd career start. The Ducks capped it off in electrifying fashion with a highlight-reel 28-yard touchdown catch-and-hurdle by Kenyon Sadiq to take an early lead. Penn State responded on their opening possession, moving efficiently downfield. A stunning 40-yard burst by running back Nicholas Singleton set up kicker Ryan Barker, who calmly nailed a 33-yard field goal to keep the Nittany Lions in striking distance. The game promised fireworks from the very start.
Big Ten Championship #3 Penn State Nittany Lions vs #1 Oregon Ducks at Lucas Oil Stadium on, December 07, 2024. (photo by Andre Hollis / fi360 News)
Saturday’s conference championship game delivered fireworks from the opening whistle, with a total of three touchdowns and a field goal lighting up the first quarter. Quarterback Dillon Gabriel highlighted the importance of sophomore tight end Kenyon Sadiq’s performance after Oregon’s Big Ten Championship win.
“But they just maximized the moment,” Gabriel said. “Kenyon making an unreal play when we needed it the most in that second-and-long. And him getting it as well on the left side of the field.” Gabriel connected with Sadiq for Oregon’s first two touchdowns, setting the tone for the Ducks’ high-scoring 45-37 victory.
On the other side, Penn State’s tight end Tyler Warren, a reliable playmaker all season, set the stage for quarterback Drew Allar to hit running back Nicholas Singleton for a score. By the end of the quarter, Oregon held a slim 14-10 lead, setting the tone for a thrilling, fast-paced showdown.
Big Ten Championship #3 Penn State Nittany Lions vs #1 Oregon Ducks at Lucas Oil Stadium on, December 07, 2024. (photo by Andre Hollis / fi360 News)
Oregon wasted no time responding in the second quarter, capitalizing on excellent field position to continue their offensive dominance. The Ducks’ high-powered attack put together another efficient touchdown drive, capped by a scoring catch from tight end Terrance Ferguson. Remarkably, all three of Oregon’s opening possessions resulted in touchdowns to their tight ends, pushing the score to 21-10 and cementing their early control of the game.
In a game dominated by offensive fireworks, Oregon’s defense made its mark with a crucial play. Dontae Manning snagged an interception and returned it to the Penn State 1-yard line, setting up the Ducks’ offense perfectly. On the next play, running back Jordan James punched it in to extend Oregon’s lead to 28-10. Penn State quickly responded, as quarterback Drew Allar led an 8-play drive, culminating in a wide-open touchdown catch by Omari Evans to narrow the gap to 28-17.
Penn State’s defense stepped up in the second quarter, forcing Oregon to punt twice, with the second one proving pivotal. The Nittany Lions took full advantage of the great field position, marching 64 yards on a 10-play drive. Quarterback Drew Allar capped it off with a QB run, igniting the crowd and pulling Penn State to within striking distance. With under two minutes left in the half, Oregon led 28-24, setting up an exciting second half.
Big Ten Championship #3 Penn State Nittany Lions vs #1 Oregon Ducks at Lucas Oil Stadium on, December 07, 2024. (photo by Andre Hollis / fi360 News)
Just before halftime, Oregon appeared poised to score, but Penn State’s defense stepped up, making crucial plays to stall the drive. A 10-play, 61-yard march by the Ducks ended with a 32-yard field goal by Atticus Sappington, making the score 31-24. The first half set a Big Ten Championship record for combined points, with both teams surpassing 250 yards of offense. Now, the question remained: which defense could make a game-changing stop to shift the momentum in their favor?
Penn State opened the second half with a strong rushing attack and key catches by Tyler Warren, but the drive ended with a missed field goal wide right. Oregon wasted no time capitalizing on the miscue, as quarterback Dillon Gabriel connected with Tez Johnson on a 48-yard touchdown strike. The score, Gabriel’s fourth touchdown of the game, pushed Oregon’s lead to 38-24. With a stat line of 15-for-23 passing, four touchdowns, and a 65% completion rate, Gabriel continued to shine as the game rolled on.
Big Ten Championship #3 Penn State Nittany Lions vs #1 Oregon Ducks at Lucas Oil Stadium on, December 07, 2024. (photo by Andre Hollis / fi360 News)
The third quarter saw defenses shine, with only one touchdown scored. Penn State carried that momentum into the fourth, completing a 6-play, 97-yard drive with a rushing touchdown, though a missed two-point conversion left Oregon ahead 38-30. On the ensuing drive, Oregon narrowly avoided a fumble, while Penn State’s defense delivered big hits, keeping the game on edge. But in a battle where too many chances for a high-powered offense spell disaster, Oregon struck back. The Ducks orchestrated a methodical 12-play, 75-yard drive, consuming nearly seven minutes and capped by Jordan James’ second rushing touchdown, extending their lead to 45-30. With their offense firing on all cylinders, Oregon stayed in command.
Penn State refused to back down, with Drew Allar escaping a sack on a do-or-die 4th down to deliver a clutch touchdown pass to Harrison Wallace III, cutting the score to 45-37. The Nittany Lions’ defense then forced a critical stop, giving their offense one last chance. But they say defense wins championships, and Oregon’s proved it when it mattered most. Cornerback Nikko Reed’s game-sealing interception secured the Ducks’ victory, as they ran out the clock to claim the Big Ten title and a first-round bye in the College Football Playoff.
Big Ten Championship #3 Penn State Nittany Lions vs #1 Oregon Ducks at Lucas Oil Stadium on, December 07, 2024. (photo by Andre Hollis / fi360 News)
ARLINGTON, TX - DECEMBER 7: Arizona State head coach Kenny Dillngham celebrates with running back and offensive MVP Cam Skattebo at the conclusion of Big 12 Championship at AT&T Stadium on December 7, 2023 in Arlington, Texas. Photo by Jeff Dahlia / fi360 News
Dallas, TX- At this time one year ago, the Arizona State Sun Devils walked off their stadium in Tempe, falling 59-23 to rival Arizona and mercifully ending a 3-9 season in the Pac-12. 378 days later, the Sun Devils are hoisting the Dr. Pepper Big 12 Championship Trophy and belt at AT&T Stadium with a 45-19 rout over Iowa State and are heading to the College Football Playoff.
“Players played really well,” Head Coach Kenny Dillingham said, then paused. “Our players are… good. They are good people. It’s a good combination. We’re 11-1 with our starting quarterback beating four ranked teams [and] won the Big 12 Championship. Because we made the standard that the quarterback is that valuable, I think there should be a real chance that we get a first-round bye,” Dillingham added.
ARLINGTON, TX – DECEMBER 7: Arizona State running back Cam Skattebo (4) runs for the end zone during the first half of the Big 12 Championship at AT&T Stadium on December 7, 2023 in Arlington, Texas. Photo by Jeff Dahlia / fi360 News
Saturday’s conference title game had Cam Skattebo’s name written all over. The Sun Devils running back tied a Big 12 Championship record for a running back with three total touchdowns and eighteen points on his 208 scrimmage yards afternoon (170 on the ground).
“I’ve been disrespected my whole life. I’ve always been the underdog, and nobody respects the fact that I’m the best running back in the country. I’m going to stand on that,” Skattebo said when asked about the Heisman celebration on each touchdown today. “No matter winning the Heisman or losing the Heisman, I should still be in that situation.”
ARLINGTON, TX – DECEMBER 7: Arizona State defensive back Javan Robinson (12) tackles Iowa State receiver Jaylin Noel (13) during the first half of the Big 12 Championship at AT&T Stadium on December 7, 2023 in Arlington, Texas. Photo by Jeff Dahlia / fi360 News
Sam Leavitt followed that afternoon with 219 yards passing and 33 yards rushing with four total touchdowns.
“Big-time players make big-time plays in moments, and I’d call a royal player for that,” Same Leavitt said regarding the team win on Saturday.
Arizona State marched down the field in their first three plays, going for 53 yards. The Cyclone’s defense didn’t break as the opening drive stalled with a Carston Kieffer 32-yard field goal. Then, on Iowa State’s opening drive, they moved down the field on 11 plays and 75 yards (with the assistance of two Arizona State penalties). The drive capped off with a 3-yard touchdown toss from Rocco Becht to Carson Hansen.
The Sun Devils answered thanks to a 63-yard Sam Leavitt pass to Melquan Stovall on a fourth down to set up Arizona State at the Cyclones’ three-yard-line. After several tries, Leavitt took it to the left side into the end zone, jumping Arizona State back up 10-7. On the ensuing possession, Iowa State moved the ball, closing the closing quarter with 4 of their final 5 plays going for more than 10 yards. However, the change in field stalled the Cyclones, and they settled for a game-tying 36-yard field goal from Kyle Konrardy to even the score at 10 one minute into the second quarter.
ARLINGTON, TX – DECEMBER 7: Arizona State receiver Melquan Stovall (5) gets behind Iowa State defensive back Darien Porter (10) for a big first down during the first half of the Big 12 Championship at AT&T Stadium on December 7, 2023 in Arlington, Texas. Photo by Jeff Dahlia / fi360 News
In their first possession of the second quarter, Arizona State relied on the legs of Skattebo. Skattebo started the drive with a 47-yard run and finished the scoring drive with a 3-yard carry up the middle to the end zone, putting the Sun Devils back up 17-10. On the final first-half drive, Skattebo took over with two more carries and a catch, 60 yards on the drive, totaling his second touchdown of the half, putting Arizona State up 24-10 at halftime. The 317 yards allowed for Iowa State at halftime was just under the threshold of yards allowed per game for the Cyclones.
Turnovers were the key word to describe the third quarter. Iowa State turned over the ball on an Abu Sama fumble, which gave the Sun Devils possession immediately in the Cyclones’ territory. Then, on a ten-play drive, it was a Leavitt to Xavier Guillory touchdown connection, taking advantage of the first Iowa State turnover. On the next drive, it was a Bocht pass that deflected at the line of scrimmage, falling into the hands of Keith Abney II. The interception led to another Leavitt to Guillory connection, 21 yards.
“Sam makes it easy. He works hard [and] probably the hardest worker on the team. When he stepped on campus, I knew I had something with him,” Guillory said in his connection to the last few games with Leavitt.” We were by ourselves on the field getting our timing down, and that’s with everybody.”
ARLINGTON, TX – DECEMBER 7: Arizona State receiver Malik McClain (12) makes an acrobatic catch during the first half of the Big 12 Championship at AT&T Stadium on December 7, 2023 in Arlington, Texas. Photo by Jeff Dahlia / fi360 News
The wheel fell off after another Cyclones’ fumble (second fumble for Sama). Three plays into the drive, Leavitt found Skattebo for 33 yards, equaling three touchdown throws for Leavitt in the third quarter. A Konrardy 24-yard field goal and a Jaylin Noel touchdown catch from Becht added some positive energy for Iowa State, but there was too much heat to overcome. Fans that came from Tempe to Arlington roared the house of the Dallas Cowboys with a 26-point domination victory for Arizona State.
“I thought we had a really good plan early, a lot of checks with me, and a lot of getting themselves into good plays [and] good numbers. I think Coach Ward did a nice job combating it. Then I think our players got comfortable,” Coach Dillingham said.
For the Sun Devils, the question arises if Saturday’s domination of Iowa State is enough to secure a bye in the first round of the College Football Playoff. Nevertheless, fans, alums, players, and coaches can celebrate their first trip to the College Football Playoff. Something most, if not all, thought wasn’t possible before the 2024 season started.
“They predicted us to be last in this conference,” Sun Devils Senior Defensive Back Xavion Alford said. “I guarantee you, nobody in the building thought we were the worst team in the conference and it’s because we believe in each other.”
Westwood, CA – The UCLA men’s basketball team led from nearly start to finish as they took down the Washington Huskies and their first ever big 10 conference game.
The Bruins came away with a 69–58 win over the Huskies at the Pauley Pavilion on Tuesday night. It was another big game from UCLA’s leading scorer Tyler Bilodeau, who finished the game with 16 points.
However, it was UCLA guard Sebastian Mack who stole the show for the Bruins. Mack had 16 points off the bench in an offensive outburst as he finished tied with Bilodeau as the game’s leading scorer.
UCLA head coach Mick Cronin said that he’s come to expect high-scoring games like this from Mack, especially when the starting five can’t get much going offensively.
“He’s been great all year. He’s been the only consistent offensive threat for us on the perimeter. He still needs to improve on the defensive end, but it’s nice to have somebody like him who can create offense for us when we’re struggling,” Cronin said.
Mack credited his teammates for helping him get hot early on and feeding him the ball. UCLA finished with 16 assists in the win over Washington.
“My teammates knew I had the hand tonight, and I realize it when my other guys have the hand too. We’ve got a lot of great guys on our team, so we can bounce off of each other,” Mack said.
Cronin added that UCLA won the game because of the way they handled the ball, both offensively and defensively.
“I told the guys, we won because we only had eight turnovers and we took care of the ball. We had 16 assists, and that’s with missing a bunch of shots that were extremely makeable. Our passing, our team play, our execution was good. We rebounded it as hard as we could. The first half, that’s we were winning. When you take care of the ball, play defense, and get second shots, it puts pressure on the other team. Eventually, the ball goes in. But our constant is our defense,” Cronin said.
It was a back-and-forth affair in the first ten minutes of the game. Neither team could find much separation until UCLA picked up a 21-12 lead with 9:54 left in the first half.
Washington whittled away at UCLA’s lead and just as quickly as they went up, the Huskies brought it back to a 23-21 game with 3:33 left in the half.
The Bruins escaped into the half with a 29-24 lead, but opened the second half with a bit more juice.
UCLA kept their foot on the gas, but never ran away with the game. Washington would get within four points early in the second half, but never capitalized as the Bruins kept the Huskies at bay.
UCLA moves to a 7-1 record, a more promising start compared to last season’s 5-3 start. The Bruins will travel to Oregon to take on the undefeated No. 12-ranked Ducks. The game will be broadcasted on the Big Ten Network and tip-off is at 3 p.m
Los Angeles, CA – The No. 6 Women of Troy came out clicking on all cylinders as they defeated the winless Cal Baptist University Lancers 94-52. Sophomore guard JuJu Watkins set a USC record with nine three-pointers as she scored 40 points in USC’s victory to help them advance to 7-1.
“I say to people, you should get to Galen whenever you can because you never know when something ridiculous is going to happen from Juju. And tonight, what a night from the three-point line”! Head coach Lindsay Gotlieb said after JuJu’s remarkable performance that left her two points shy of tying her Galen Center record of 42 points that was previously set on Feb. 23, 2024, vs. Colorado last season.
Photo by DeAngelo Scruggs / fi360 News
The Trojans led by 30 at halftime 50-20, thanks to their defense which recorded 8 of their 12 blocks in the first half. The Lancers were held to 28% shooting from the field making 9 of 32 attempts. USC shot 51% in the first half, making 17 of 33 attempts, and shot 54% from behind the arc connecting on 6 of 11 attempts from deep.
In the second half, USC continued their offensive onslaught. The Trojans shot 53% from the field and defensively held CBU to 37% from the floor. Juju nailed five of her nine three-pointers helping the Trojans round out the game by shooting 52% from the floor and 45% from behind the three-point line.
Talia von Oelhoffen scored 14 points, while Kiki Iriafen and Rayah Marshall each recorded double-doubles with 18 points and 10 rebounds, and 10 points and 10 rebounds.
Photo by DeAngelo Scruggs / fi360 News
Grace Schmidt led the Lancers in scoring with 12 points and 7 rebounds. Claudia Fiel added 10 for CBU.
The Trojans’ highly anticipated Big Ten debut will come against a familiar opponent, the Oregon Ducks. The two teams will clash in Eugene on Saturday. Lindsay Gotlieb has this to say as USC prepares for the matchup with the Ducks.“ Saturday is the most important one on our schedule you know thus far because it’s the beginning of conference play and Conference play I think is really the true indicator of how tough you are over the course of a season”.
EUGENE, OR – For only the second time in program history, the Oregon Ducks finished the regular season undefeated after they beat the Washington Huskies 49-20 in what head coach Dan Lanning described as their “most complete game of the season”.
Only hours before kickoff the Huskies announced a quarterback change, electing to start true freshman Demond Williams Jr. over fifth-year senior Will Rogers. Williams Jr. finished his debut 17/20 with 201 yards and 1 touchdown, but was unable give the Huskies the spark they had hoped for due to the physical dominance of Oregon’s defensive front who recorded 10 sacks on the night.
Momentum briefly swung in Washington’s favor early in the first half when they recovered a fumble on Oregon’s 21 yard-line while trailing by only 4 points. Washington was unable to capitalize on the field position and settled for their second field-goal of the night bring the score to 7-6.
The Ducks quickly flipped the energy in Autzen, responding with a 4-play scoring drive that was capped with a 1-yard touchdown run from Jordan James. Washington running back Jonah Coleman fumbled on their next play from scrimmage, giving the Ducks the ball back in the red zone where James would punch in another 1-yard touchdown extending their lead to 15 at 21-6 after only 25 seconds of game time.
Oregon’s offense was efficient and well-rounded Saturday in large part due to the return of star wide receiver Tez Johnson. Tez suffered what was feared to be a season ending injury in week 6 against Ohio State but appeared to be back at full strength, logging 3 receptions for 36 yards and a touchdown.
When speaking about the importance Johnson’s return, quarterback Dillon Gabriel stated “More than playing I think it just helps with overall morale… We love Tez, we need him. He’s a big part of what we do”.
In their first season as part of the Big Ten conference the Ducks have earned a spot in the conference championship game where they will face the Penn State Nittany Lions in Indianapolis on December 7th.
With a victory next week the No. 1 ranked Oregon Ducks will secure a bye week in the College Football Playoff, where they look to win their first National Championship. The only other time the Ducks had an undefeated season was in 2010, where they ultimately lost 22-19 in the BCS National Championship Game against Cam Newton and the Auburn Tigers.
