KENNESAW STATE OWLS vs CINCINNATI BEARCATS
10 63
Nippert Stadium 09/10/22 Cincinnati, OH.
Photos By: Toby Clark
In a resounding testament to their prowess, the Bearcats embarked on their 21st consecutive home opening victory, leaving an indelible mark on Nippert Stadium with a commanding 63-10 triumph over Kennesaw State.
In this symphony of football artistry, the Bearcats did not merely tighten their formation; they orchestrated a mesmerizing performance that left no room for doubt regarding their supremacy over the solid FCS opponent, the Owls of Kennesaw State. It was a display of excellence that saw Ben Bryant and the entire UC passing corps execute with hyper-efficient precision.
This masterpiece was woven upon the foundation of a fierce and relentless defense, which not only thwarted the opponent but also danced with the football, forcing two turnovers that materialized into touchdowns. The culmination of this synergy resulted in a performance that etched Cincinnati's legacy further into the annals of history.
Cincinnati's stage was illuminated by an orchestra of brilliance, as every player from 1 to 11 contributed to a virtuoso performance that reverberated across the field. In this harmonious display of unity, a different Bearcat player etched their name on the scoreboard for each of the nine touchdowns, creating a symphonic blend of collaboration and prowess.
The postgame sentiments of head coach Luke Fickell resonated with a mix of satisfaction and anticipation. His words painted a picture of a team that had embraced a challenge and delivered a cohesive and harmonious response. The triple option, a challenge of strategy and discipline, was unraveled with meticulous execution, a testament to the collective understanding and commitment of the team.
The narrative continued to unfold on the field, where the Bearcats' defense showcased a remarkable transformation. After a rugged encounter with Arkansas in the previous week, the defensive script was flipped, and every player from 1 to 11 embraced their roles with unwavering determination. The triple-option attack, a puzzle that requires precise handling, was dissected with poise and tenacity.
Ivan Pace Jr., a central figure in the defensive resurgence, stood at the forefront once again, leading the charge with 11 tackles, including a tackle for loss and a forced fumble. A tapestry of coordinated efforts saw six Bearcats contribute to tackles for loss, while the two turnovers transformed the field into a canvas of opportunity.
In the realm of strategic brilliance, stopping the triple option was a focal point. Jowon Briggs and Dontay Corleone, a dynamic defensive duo, combined their prowess to register 14 tackles and 1.5 tackles for loss. Their mastery at the line of scrimmage was akin to a symphony conductor guiding each note to perfection, as they consistently met KSU's interior ball carriers head-on.
The foundation for victory was further fortified by Cincinnati's ability to stifle chunk rushes, a crucial element in sustaining a triple-option drive. With remarkable discipline, the Bearcats permitted only one carry of 10-plus yards throughout the encounter. The resolute defensive display held Kennesaw State to a mere 142 yards on the ground, shattering the Owls' 73-game streak of achieving at least 150 rushing yards.
The offensive orchestration mirrored the defensive brilliance, with Ben Bryant assuming the role of the conductor. His performance was an embodiment of precision and mastery, a reflection of his commitment to the team's success. The rhythmic progression through reads and the artful utilization of opportunities epitomized his 85% completion rate, a career high.
Bryant's proficiency was mirrored by backup quarterback Prater, who seamlessly slotted into the role, showcasing his dual-threat capabilities. His 4-of-5 passing for 92 yards and an untouched 44-yard quarterback keeper added a dynamic layer to Cincinnati's offensive symphony.
In this tapestry of triumph, a recurring motif emerged—the focus on unity and shared success. The diverse array of touchdowns and contributions exemplified a team bound by a common goal. However, amid the euphoria, the discipline was not overlooked, as penalties posed a challenge that begged for refinement.
As the final notes of victory resounded, Cincinnati emerged victorious, leaving an imprint of brilliance that resonated far beyond the stadium. The symphony of unity, discipline, and strategic brilliance captured the essence of Cincinnati's triumph, a testament to their commitment to excellence and their journey towards an illustrious future.