LAS VEGAS, N.M. (October 24, 2015) – A 14 play, 80 yard touchdown drive in the closing minutes of the fourth quarter propelled Adams State University to a 17-14 win over New Mexico Highlands University on Saturday afternoon.
It marked the first road win in 2015 for the Grizzlies (3-5, 3-3 RMAC) who trailed 13-10 at halftime before completing their comeback against the Cowboys (0-8, 0-6 RMAC).
After a combined six punts during the second and third quarters, the Grizzlies mounted their game-winning drive thanks to a pair of costly NMHU penalties and two fourth down conversions. Facing fourth-and-15,
Johnny Feauto connected with
Chad Hovasse for a 26-yard gain to move ASU to midfield. Four plays later ASU faced another fourth down situation but Feauto found
Phil Romero for an 11-yard gain to keep hope alive.
The Grizzlies quickly entered the red zone thanks to a double reverse play call with
Addie Brown on the receiving end of a 30-yard throw. The trick play pushed ASU to the 8 yard line. With momentum clearly on their side the Grizzlies reached paydirt with a 6-yard touchdown strike from Feauto to Romero with 42 seconds remaining.
The Cowboys were unable to move the ball on the ensuing drive to seal the 17-13 victory for ASU.
The ASU defense made the comeback possible as
Wesley Brandon forced a NMHU fumble which was scooped up by
Ryan Holland at ASU's 20 yard line. Holland finished with a game-high 10 tackles (9 solo).
Feauto wrapped up the conference tilt with 223 passing yards by completing 16 of his 33 throwing attempts. The freshman also accounted for a touchdown and interception. On 14 attempts Brown accounted for 57 yards rushing and also led the team with 63 yards receiving on 3 receptions.
The Cowboys held the advantage in total yards (403) and time of possession (35:53) but ASU's crucial fourth quarter drive has NMHU still searching for their first win of the season.
The Grizzlies take their two-game winning streak into an Oct. 31 meeting with Western New Mexico University. Kickoff is slated for 1:00 p.m. from Rex Stadium.
