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OGDEN — In an exhilarating clash between UC Davis and Weber State, it was the final quarter that proved to be the most decisive, with UC Davis narrowly securing a 17-16 victory Saturday night.
The Aggies took an early lead when Miles Hastings delivered a touchdown pass to give the visiting team a 7-3 lead after Weber State's Kyle Thompson converted a 42-yard field goal.
The first half saw both teams engaging in an intense battle, featuring impressive offensive and defensive plays. The two traded possessions, but the Aggies had the edge.
Entering the second quarter, the Aggies displayed a dominant drive, which resulted in another touchdown when Hastings connected with Samuel Gbatu Jr. for a 10-yard score. With a successful PAT, the Aggies extended their lead to 14-3.
After a Weber State touchdown, Thompson later managed to make a 51-yard field goal attempt in the third quarter to narrow the score to 14-13.
A standout connection between Hastings and wide receiver Samuel Gbatu Jr. came into play on a crucial fourth-and-1 situation, enabling the Aggies to maintain possession and set up a game-winning field goal.
Hunter Ridley stepped up for the Aggies and successfully converted a 41-yard field goal attempt, pushing the lead back up by 4 points. But the lead didn't last long.
In the fourth quarter, freshman Richie Munoz ignited the Wildcats' offense with a 27-yard pass to Tajon Evans, securing a crucial first down. The pass set the stage for the Wildcats to continue moving the chains, ultimately positioning themselves for another field goal attempt. Thompson's successful kick from 30 yards out cut the Aggies' lead to just 1 point, marking the second time they had done so during the night.
In their final possession of the evening, the Wildcats couldn't convert and turned the ball over on downs, handing the Aggies their second conference win of the season.
Jahiel Budget was a standout on the defensive line for the Aggies, leading the way with eight tackles.
On the offensive side, Hastings completed 22-of-35 passes for 184 yards.
The Aggies now hold a 2-2 record in the Big Sky conference and will continue their road campaign by facing Northern Arizona on Oct. 28. Meanwhile, the Wildcats fall to 1-3 and head to the northwest to take on Eastern Washington next Saturday.
