Why We Beat Cincinnati

The article describes a West Virginia University (WVU) win over Cincinnati, focusing on quarterback Michael Hawkins Jr. and the game’s key adjustments. It credits Hawkins’ passing and mobility, especially a 4th-quarter sequence on 3rd and 3 when he scrambled left, then right, and threw to DJ Epps for a 32-yard gain, followed by a touchdown to tie the game. While the writer says defense still had recurring issues, it delivered when needed in the 4th quarter and even stopped a fake punt. The piece also highlights Cincinnati having over 600 yards, yet WVU held Cincinnati to 134 rushing yards. It says Rich Rodriguez leaned more into the passing game, using RPOs and screens such as a TD to Cam Cook, and points to a final-drive 41-yard deep completion to Prince Strachan on 3rd and 9 from WVU’s 2-yard line with 1:48 left.