Idaho State rallies past Utah Tech with 2 late defensive TDs, 34-27
GEORGE, Utah (AP) — Idaho State turned defense into offense twice in the final eight minutes to erase a seven-point deficit and rally past Utah Tech 34-27 on Saturday.The Bengals (6-3, 3-3 Big Sky) trailed 27-20 before Zion To’oto’o sacked Bronson Barben, recovered the fumble and returned it 32 yards for a touchdown to tie the game with 7:54 remaining.
On Saturday, Idaho State pulled off an impressive comeback victory against Utah Tech, overcoming a seven-point deficit to secure a 34-27 win. The Bengals trailed 27-20 heading into the final minutes of the game. Zion To’oto’o orchestrated a key play by sacking Bronson Barben, recovering the fumble, and returning it 32 yards for a touchdown, tying the game with just 7:54 left on the clock.
Trehsyn Fesili sealed the comeback with 55 seconds remaining, intercepting Barben and hauling it in 43 yards for the winning score. Idaho State, currently ranked No. 23 in the Stats Perform FCS poll, had already erased a 14-0 deficit in the first quarter. Jordan Cooke connected on touchdown passes of 4 and 26 yards to Tommy Poe, giving the Bengals their first lead at 20-17 in the third quarter.
Utah Tech regained the advantage on Barben's 9-yard touchdown pass to Darnell O’Quinn and Max Shepherd's 31-yard field goal. Titan Saxton recorded his first career interception for Idaho State in the second quarter. Jordan Cooke completed 178 yards and two touchdowns, while Poe amassed 96 yards and both of his team's scores on seven receptions.
Barben completed 260 yards and two touchdowns but turned the ball over four times. Idaho State will host Montana State next Saturday, while Utah Tech faces UC Davis in their upcoming game.
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