RENO, Nev. – The Nevada Wolf Pack delivered a statement victory on Saturday night, shocking No. 21 Fresno State 28-23 at Mackay Stadium. Behind an efficient performance from quarterback Brandon Lewis and a ball-hawking defense, the Wolf Pack secured just the second win over a ranked opponent in program history.
Lewis played one of his best games of the season, completing 18-of-23 passes for 214 yards and two touchdowns. His top target was wide receiver Jaden Smith, who hauled in five receptions for 107 yards, including a crucial touchdown that helped Nevada build momentum early.
“It was a total team effort,” Lewis said. “We knew coming in that we had to play a clean game, and we executed when it mattered most.”
Nevada’s defense was the real difference-maker, forcing three interceptions to keep the Bulldogs’ high-powered offense in check. Safety Kitan Crawford delivered the play of the game, jumping a route in the third quarter and returning an interception 52 yards for a pick-six, sending the home crowd into a frenzy.
“That was a game-changer,” head coach Grayson Hulett said. “Our defense played with intensity all night, and Kitan’s play was a perfect example of that.”
Fresno State attempted to mount a late comeback, scoring a touchdown in the final minutes to cut the lead to 28-23. However, Nevada’s offense was able to chew the clock, gaining a late first down to seal the win.
With the win, Nevada (3-2) makes history, earning just its second victory over a ranked opponent—the first since 2019 against No. 24 San Diego State.
“This means a lot to this program,” Hulett said. “But we’re not done. We have to build on this and keep playing at this level.”
The Wolf Pack will look to carry their momentum into next week as they prepare for another crucial conference matchup.
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