October 27th 2024.
The Colorado School of Mines football team has been dominating the RMAC (Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference) for years now, but their hold on the top spot is now in jeopardy. For the second time in just four weeks, the 10th-ranked Orediggers suffered a defeat at the hands of one of their in-state rivals. This time, it was the unbeaten and 8th-ranked Western Colorado team that emerged victorious, racking up 469 total yards and securing a 38-28 win in front of a packed Marv Kay Stadium.
The Mountaineers wasted no time, jumping ahead with a commanding 31-7 lead by the beginning of the fourth quarter. Despite a valiant effort from the Orediggers to mount a comeback, Western Colorado held on to secure their victory. This loss drops Mines to fourth place in the RMAC standings, with two conference losses on their record for the season so far.
In the past five years, the Orediggers have only suffered two conference losses, and they have managed to win at least a share of the RMAC title every year since 2018. However, with only three conference games left and losses to two teams ahead of them in the standings, Mines now faces an uphill battle to maintain their streak.
The Mountaineers' quarterback Drew Nash was a force to be reckoned with, throwing for 209 yards and two touchdowns, as well as running for 88 yards and another touchdown. His final touchdown gave Western Colorado a comfortable 31-7 lead with just under 15 minutes left in the game. Running back Braeden Hogan also had an impressive performance, racking up 148 yards and two touchdowns on 19 carries.
The Orediggers' quarterback Evan Foster was under constant pressure from the Western Colorado defense, resulting in seven sacks, three of which came from Ricky Freymond. Despite this, Foster managed to complete 21 of 30 passes for 323 yards, with three of his four touchdown throws coming during a desperate comeback attempt in the fourth quarter. However, it was ultimately too little, too late for Mines as they were unable to overcome the Mountaineers' lead.
Foster's primary targets were receivers Flynn Schiele and Max McLeod, who both put in solid performances. Mark McCurdy also made a significant contribution, catching a 43-yard touchdown pass in the fourth quarter to bring the Orediggers within striking distance. However, Western Colorado responded with a quick 75-yard drive, capped off by Hogan's second touchdown of the day, effectively securing their victory.
In other RMAC action, Colorado Mesa defeated Fort Lewis 49-0, and Chadron State took on Black Hills State. Adams State also faced off against New Mexico Highlands, while Mines prepares for their next game against the latter. Fans of Mines and Colorado State University (CSU) can sign up for the Sports Omelette newsletter to get all the latest news and analysis on Denver's teams.
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