Did Idaho Fall to San Jose State on a Last-Minute Field Goal?

The Idaho Vandals faced a narrow defeat against the San Jose State Spartans, losing 31-28 after a last-minute 47-yard field goal by kicker Denis Lynch. Despite a strong start, the Vandals were unable to maintain their lead, with the game ultimately showcasing a series of competitive exchanges between both teams.

Last updated: 14 October 2023 (BST)

Key Takeaways from the Match

• Idaho took an early lead with a score of 14-0 in the second quarter.
• San Jose State managed to equalise before halftime, ending the first half at 14-14.
• Joshua Wood had a standout performance, throwing for two touchdowns and adding a rushing touchdown.
• The Vandals led in time of possession, controlling the ball for 39:01 compared to 20:59 for San Jose State.
• Idaho's record now stands at 2-2, with both losses coming against FBS schools by a total of six points.
• The Vandals will next face the University of Montana in their Big Sky Conference opener.

Match Overview

The game held at CEFCU Stadium in San Jose, California, saw the Idaho Vandals make a quick impact with a scoring spree that gave them a 14-0 lead in the second quarter. Sophomore quarterback Joshua Wood played a crucial role in this early success, demonstrating his versatility as both a passer and a runner.

First Half Highlights

Wood's performance included completing 18 out of 32 passes for a total of 232 yards, and he also rushed for a touchdown, showcasing his dual-threat capability. The Vandals' running game, led by sophomore Art Williams, contributed significantly with 65 rushing yards and a touchdown on 18 carries. Emmerson Cortez-Menjivar also shone brightly, making five receptions for 84 yards, proving to be a reliable target for Wood.

However, the Spartans were not to be outdone. They clawed back into the game, tying the score at 14-14 just before halftime. This comeback set the stage for a tense second half, where both teams traded scores, demonstrating their resilience and competitive spirit.

Second Half Developments

The second half was marked by a series of strategic plays from both sides. Idaho maintained an edge in time of possession, with their defence and offensive control allowing them to dominate the game clock. Yet, the Spartans capitalised on their opportunities, with each team finding the end zone and keeping the scoreboard ticking.

Defensive Efforts

Idaho's defence was led by junior linebacker Dylan Layne, who made six tackles, including half a tackle for loss. Cruz Hepburn, also a junior linebacker from Lewiston, matched his career-high with five total tackles, contributing to a strong defensive effort that kept the Vandals competitive throughout the match.

Final Moments

The game's climax came in the final seconds when San Jose State's Denis Lynch successfully kicked a 47-yard field goal, sealing the fate of the Vandals. This last-minute score highlighted the thin margins in college football, where games can swing dramatically in the final moments.

Implications for the Season

With this loss, the Vandals now hold a record of 2-2. Both defeats have come against Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS) teams and have been by a combined margin of just six points. This statistic underscores the competitive nature of Idaho's schedule and emphasises the need for the team to regroup as they prepare for their upcoming games.

Looking Ahead

The Vandals will shift their focus to the Big Sky Conference, with a critical matchup against the University of Montana on the horizon. This game will be significant not only for standings but also for momentum as the Vandals aim to turn their season around. The match is scheduled to be televised on ESPN2, providing a platform for the Vandals to showcase their skills against a formidable opponent.

Conclusion

The Idaho Vandals showed promise in their latest match against the San Jose State Spartans but ultimately fell short in a tightly contested game. As they prepare for their upcoming conference play, the team will need to address their late-game execution and build on the positives from their performance. The resilience demonstrated against FBS opponents suggests that the Vandals could still make a strong case in the remainder of the season. Can they bounce back against Montana and make a statement in the Big Sky Conference? Only time will tell.

FAQs

What was the final score of the Idaho Vandals vs. San Jose State Spartans game?

The Idaho Vandals lost to the San Jose State Spartans with a final score of 31-28.

Who was the standout player for the Idaho Vandals in the game?

Sophomore quarterback Joshua Wood had an impressive performance, completing 18 of 32 passes for 232 yards and two touchdowns, along with a rushing touchdown.

When is the next game for the Idaho Vandals?

The Idaho Vandals will face the University of Montana in their Big Sky Conference opener, which will be televised on ESPN2.

What is Idaho Vandals' current season record?

The Vandals currently hold a record of 2-2, with both losses coming against FBS opponents by a combined six points.

How did the Idaho Vandals perform in terms of time of possession?

The Vandals dominated time of possession, holding the ball for 39 minutes and 1 second, while San Jose State had it for 20 minutes and 59 seconds.