INDIANA HOOSIERS vs CINCINNATI BEARCATS
24 45
Nippert Stadium 09/24/22 Cincinnati, OH.
Photos By: Toby Clark
In a gridiron spectacle that echoed with strategic brilliance and explosive plays, Ben Bryant, Cincinnati's maestro of the airwaves, orchestrated a symphony of passes that left the crowd in awe. His artistry was on full display in the first half, where he painted a canvas of 314 yards, illuminated by a career-high four touchdowns. Towering above the opposition, Tyler Scott emerged as the beacon of Cincinnati's receiving prowess, his name etched in the annals of history with a mesmerizing 185 receiving yards and three touchdown catches. The culmination of their efforts led Cincinnati to a commanding 45-24 victory over Indiana, an affirmation of their stature as a formidable force in collegiate football.
Yet, amidst the jubilation, Bearcats head coach Luke Fickell's measured words tempered the celebration. The scoreboard, though impressive, didn't reflect the depths of the challenge and the lessons that lay ahead. The sentiment echoed by Fickell, a testament to his commitment to excellence and growth, captured the essence of a team in pursuit of perfection. A quote that encapsulated their journey, “This is a team that still needs to do a good job of finishing. But it's another opportunity to learn and grow. This is a good football team.”
The backdrop for this encounter was steeped in history and symbolism. Cincinnati's win in Bloomington the previous season had set the stage for a triumphant 13-1 campaign and a coveted berth in the College Football Playoff. The lingering echoes of that victory infused the atmosphere, driving both teams to deliver a performance that would be etched into memory. Indiana, however, sought to reverse the tide, having fallen in the previous five meetings.
Byron Threats' inaugural career interception ignited Cincinnati's charge, setting the stage for a rapid progression towards the end zone. The culmination of their efforts saw them settle for a 24-yard field goal, a poignant reminder that every step forward was a hard-earned victory.
The swift response to Indiana's efforts came in the form of Bryant's connection with Scott, a breathtaking 75-yard touchdown that ignited the crowd and shifted the momentum. The score not only fortified Cincinnati's lead but also etched Bryant's name in the record books, marking the longest pass play since Scott's own 81-yard touchdown the previous season.
Bryant's exquisite orchestration continued with a 5-yard touchdown pass to Tre Tucker, a piece of artistry that extended Cincinnati's lead to 17-3 early in the second quarter. The symphony of precision and coordination showcased Bryant's keen understanding of his team's strengths and his ability to exploit the opposition's weaknesses.
As the narrative unfolded, Indiana answered with a blend of tenacity and resilience. Connor Bazelak's 19-yard touchdown pass to senior running back Josh Henderson narrowed the gap, a testament to their determination to carve out their own path. However, Bryant's second touchdown pass to Scott further solidified Cincinnati's dominance, elevating the score to 24-10, a lead they would carry into halftime.
In the realm of statistics, Bazelak's prolific passing stood as a testament to Indiana's determination. His 31 completions on a record-breaking 66 pass attempts underscored his commitment to the fight, even in the face of adversity. Similarly, Shaun Shivers' spirited rushes, amounting to 79 yards and a touchdown, showcased Indiana's unyielding spirit.
The second half, however, bore witness to Cincinnati's offensive momentum coming to a temporary standstill. Interceptions, punts, and a thwarted fourth-down attempt marked the journey through eight possessions. The symphony that had resonated in the first half took a brief intermission, yet the echoes of earlier brilliance still lingered.
Coach Fickell's strategic acumen and foresight were evident as he encouraged Bryant to seize opportunities downfield and empower his playmakers. Bryant's willingness to embrace this directive yielded tangible results, evident in the touchdowns spanning 75, 34, and 32 yards. The strategic shift unveiled Bryant's potential and underscored the Bearcats' adaptability.
The contest's crescendo unfolded with each team grappling for control. Indiana's aerial pursuits underscored their attempt to bridge the gap, with Bazelak's commentary capturing the essence of their tactical approach: ''We knew coming in we would have to throw the ball over their heads.'' However, Cincinnati's defensive mastery proved formidable, forcing Indiana to navigate a treacherous path.
As the final notes of the game resounded, Cincinnati emerged victorious, a testament to their collective effort and strategic brilliance. The echoes of Bryant's precision, Scott's spectacular receptions, and a resolute defense reverberated through the stadium. The narrative of this encounter served as a reminder of the complexities and nuances that define collegiate football, where moments of brilliance and moments of challenge coalesce to create an unforgettable symphony of competition.