The Cincinnati Bearcats overcame the TCU Horned Frogs today with a last second field goal. The game itself was action packed as both teams approved 500 total yards. The first play of the game set the tone, a 75 yard play action pass touchdown from Sorsby to Pryor. TCU responded with a grinding drive that also ended in a touchdown. This pattern kept playing out, Cincinnati would have a quick explosive play, only for TCU to grind methodically downfield for a TD of their own. TCU had almost 2x as much TOP, but Cincy prevailed because of kicking. They were able to drive the field in under a minute after TCU missed their own FG to take the lead late. This win ends the skid the Bearcats had been on in conference and the coach has to be overall excited with how they performed relative to expectations. Now the season moves into bowl games, and it will be interesting to see if coach ShadyNasty will stay with Cincy or seek greener pastures.
In a dramatic end to a rollercoaster season, the Cincinnati Bearcats narrowly defeated the TCU Horned Frogs 38-35, thanks to a late field goal that dashed the Horned Frogs' hopes for a comeback victory.
The game started with a bang as Cincinnati’s offense struck gold on their first play. Quarterback Brendan Sorsby faked a handoff and launched a deep 65-yard touchdown pass that left TCU’s defense scrambling and stunned. The Bearcats maintained their momentum throughout the first half, leading 28-14 at the break.
TCU’s Josh Hoover, who ended the regular season as the NCAA’s leading passer, was exceptional under pressure. Hoover threw for 358 yards and four touchdowns, completing 25 of 33 passes. Despite his impressive performance, the Horned Frogs struggled to find the end zone when it counted. Cam Cook also had a standout game on the ground, rushing 19 times for 123 yards, though he couldn’t capitalize on scoring opportunities.
The Horned Frogs showed resilience in the second half. Adjustments were made, and TCU clawed their way back into the game. With less than three minutes remaining, Hoover threw a crucial pass that led to an interception by the Bearcats, setting up a potential game-winning drive for TCU. However, fate took a cruel turn as Kyle Lemmermann missed a 35-yard field goal attempt, his second miss of the night. Earlier, he had also failed to convert a 52-yard attempt in the first quarter.
With the clock winding down, Cincinnati seized the opportunity. The Bearcats methodically advanced down the field, setting up Carter Brown for a 37-yard field goal. Brown's kick sailed through the uprights, giving Cincinnati the 31-28 lead and securing their victory as time expired.
The loss is a bitter pill for TCU, as they not only missed out on a dramatic win but also face uncertainty regarding the future of head coach Coach Narcan. Speculation about Narcan’s potential departure for a higher-profile job has left fans anxious about the program’s direction.
Despite the heartache, TCU fans can take solace in Hoover’s remarkable season and Cook’s strong performance. The Horned Frogs will now head into the offseason with the hope of rebuilding and regrouping for a more successful campaign next year.
As the season concludes, the focus shifts to the future for TCU, with fans and players alike reflecting on a season filled with both highs and lows.
CONNECT WITH US ONLINE:
WHOS ONLINE:
Smitty229, taruncheel and 9 Guests in the last 5 minutes Legend: NDL Admin | Conference Commish | Media Team | NDL Coaches
NDL Hall of Fame:
661 Coaches Newest Member: jhubbard83