The San Diego State Aztecs (2-3) started the conference schedule strong by defeating the Hawai’i Rainbow Warriors (2-3), 27-24, in front of an announced crowd of 31,307 at Snapdragon Stadium.
After blowing a ten-point second-half lead and falling behind by four in the 4th quarter, the Aztecs offense put together its most important drive of the season to retake the lead.
8 plays. 87 yards. Marquez Cooper 2-yard touchdown run.
“There was no doubt that we were going to go down and score,” said QB Danny O’Neil postgame. We all have belief in each other and belief in coach, and that he is going to put us in the best position possible.”
The drive was kick-started by Nate Bennett’s 48-yard reception. After getting behind the cornerback, QB Danny O’Neil found Bennett streaking down the left sideline untouched.
O’Neil mentioned postgame the play to Bennett was a double move they set up all game but saved for a “desperate moment.”
“On that play, we got the look that we wanted,” O’Neil recalled. “I looked to my right, made sure I had the safety in the middle of the field so he couldn’t be a factor on (Bennett’s one-on-one). He dropped the corner, and he was wide open. I was just making sure that I could give him a nice catchable ball.”