Ohio Bobcats defeated the Miami RedHawks 24-20 in a thrilling Mid-American Conference (MAC) matchup on Tuesday night in Athens, Ohio. The win improved Ohio”s record to 6-3 overall and 4-1 in the conference.
Quarterback Parker Navarro had a solid performance, passing for 201 yards and throwing one touchdown. Running back Sieh Bangura contributed significantly with 102 rushing yards and a touchdown, showcasing his all-around skills. The game turned in favor of Ohio when Navarro connected with Rodney Harris II for a 49-yard touchdown with just 2:15 remaining, giving the Bobcats the lead.
Miami”s final drive was cut short when Jalen Thomeson intercepted a pass from Dequan Finn on the second play, effectively sealing the game for the Bobcats. Ohio managed to run down the clock with a series of plays that gained 11 yards.
Earlier in the fourth quarter, Finn had given Miami a brief 13-10 lead with a 4-yard touchdown pass to Braylon Isom. However, it was Bangura”s stunning 97-yard kickoff return that swung momentum back to Ohio, putting them ahead 17-13. Finn finished the night with 194 passing yards, two touchdowns, and one interception.
This victory created a four-way tie at the top of the MAC standings, with Ohio joining Miami, Buffalo, and Western Michigan, each boasting a 4-1 conference record. The competitive landscape of the MAC continues to intensify as the season progresses.
