Sacramento State Hornets Claim Dramatic Last-Minute Victory Over Idaho
The Sacramento State Hornets delivered a spectacular performance on Saturday night, securing a thrilling 23-20 victory against Idaho. Quarterback Cardell Williams’ heroic game-winning touchdown in the final seconds propelled the Hornets to their third consecutive win and ignited excitement among local fans.
Williams’ Clutch Run Secures the Win for Sac State
With the clock ticking down and the Hornets trailing 20-16, quarterback Cardell Williams orchestrated a masterful 14-play, 67-yard drive. Demonstrating incredible composure, Williams executed a decisive fake handoff before charging for a 2-yard touchdown run, untouched, with just nine seconds left on the clock. This pivotal play not only sealed the 23-20 comeback but also highlighted Williams’ passing prowess, as he completed 14 of 18 attempts for 176 yards and a touchdown pass earlier in the contest.
Dominant Ground Game Powers the Hornets
Sacramento State’s formidable rushing attack was a cornerstone of their offensive strategy. Running backs Rodney Hammond Jr. and Jaquail Smith both delivered outstanding individual performances, each surpassing the century mark. Smith led with an impressive 122 yards on 14 carries, while Hammond Jr. added a solid 120 yards from 26 carries. Their powerful ground game was instrumental in maintaining offensive pressure and setting up critical plays throughout the tight contest.
Building Momentum: Hornets Extend Winning Streak
This hard-fought triumph marks a significant milestone for Sacramento State, extending their winning streak to three games and their impressive run to five victories in their last six outings. The Hornets now boast a strong 7-4 overall record and a 5-2 standing in the competitive Big Sky Conference, showcasing their consistent improvement and determination as the season progresses.
Idaho’s Resilient Effort Falls Short
The Idaho Vandals (4-6, 2-5) displayed remarkable resilience, staging a comeback with two crucial fourth-quarter touchdowns to take a 20-16 lead with only 3:17 left. Quarterback Joshua Wood showcased his dual-threat capabilities, throwing for 162 yards and adding 117 yards on the ground, including a 10-yard touchdown run. Nate Thomas also contributed with a 7-yard touchdown run, but ultimately, their efforts weren’t enough to withstand Sac State’s final surge.
Key Rushing Stats for Sacramento State
| Player | Rushing Yards | Carries |
|---|---|---|
| Jaquail Smith | 122 | 14 |
| Rodney Hammond Jr. | 120 | 26 |
Frequently Asked Questions
- What was the final score of the Sacramento State vs. Idaho game?
Sacramento State secured a 23-20 victory over Idaho. - Who scored the game-winning touchdown for the Hornets?
Quarterback Cardell Williams ran for a 2-yard touchdown with nine seconds remaining. - Which players led Sacramento State in rushing?
Jaquail Smith rushed for 122 yards and Rodney Hammond Jr. rushed for 120 yards. - What is Sacramento State’s current record after this win?
The Hornets improved to 7-4 overall and 5-2 in the Big Sky Conference. - When did Idaho take the lead in the fourth quarter?
Idaho led 20-16 with 3:17 left in the game after scoring two fourth-quarter touchdowns.
This thrilling victory is a testament to the Hornets’ resilience and talent, providing a memorable moment for Sacramento State fans and affirming the team’s strong presence in college football.
Sac State Hornets Williams Clutch Run Secures Win
