Tucson, Az-The Miami University Redhawks showcased an explosive second half to defeat Colorado State 43-17 in the inaugural Snoop Dogg Arizona Bowl on Saturday afternoon, marking their largest bowl game victory in program history.
Redhawks running back Kevin Davis delivered a career-best performance, rushing for 148 yards and two touchdowns on just nine carries. His electrifying 97-yard touchdown run in the third quarter was the second-longest in Miami history and solidified his place as the game’s MVP. Davis also amassed 245 all-purpose yards, including an 81-yard kickoff return. The outgoing senior shared his thoughts on his last game with the team “It’s like a dream come true. It doesn’t even feel real. The biggest thing about it is I get to do it with the guys I love. “
The Redhawks (9-5, 7-1 MAC) led 9-3 at halftime, with kicker Dom Dzioban contributing three field goals. Defensive efforts in the first half included a forced fumble by Ambe’ Caldwell and an interception by Adam Trick, setting the stage for Miami’s offensive explosion.
The third quarter belonged to the Redhawks. Miami Head Coach Chuck Martin remarked “We got going in the third quarter.” Setting a tempo and “It worked and then the next drive it worked and next thing you know the floodgates opened.” Brett Gabbert, in his final game as Miami’s quarterback, orchestrated multiple scoring drives, including a 4-yard touchdown by Davis and his own 10-yard rushing touchdown. A forced fumble by Matt Salopek, recovered by Silas Walters, further fueled the momentum. After Colorado State failed to convert on fourth down, Davis’ 97-yard dash widened Miami’s lead to 29-3.
The Rams (8-5, 6-1 Mountain West) fought back with a 56-yard touchdown pass from Brayden Fowler-Nicolosi to Stephon Daily, but Miami’s defense, led by seniors Ty Wise and Salopek, kept the game out of reach. Jordan Brunson added two rushing touchdowns in the fourth quarter to seal the win.
Colorado State’s season ended with turnovers playing a critical role. The Rams committed four, leading to 19 Miami points. Commenting on the game Rams Head Coach Jay Norvell said “We talked a lot about what we had to do to win this game. And we didn’t execute what we talked about.” In what was their first bowl game appearance since 2017.
Miami’s win improved its all-time bowl record to 9-7 and provided a triumphant finish to a memorable season.
The Arizona Bowl is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization supporting programs in southern Arizona. They are the only bowl game in the country that gives 100% of net proceeds to non-profit organizations.
