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 University of Idaho defensive lineman Hank Bryant, left, and University of Nevada running back Vai Taua scramble for a fumble at the football game on Oct. 4 in the Kibbie Dome. File Photo
The University of Idaho Vandals football team played Fresno State University this weekend and stayed within striking distance throughout
the game.
Although the Vandals still lost, moving their record to 1-6 overall this season, the team showed progress Idaho coach Robb Akey has spoken about
all season.
“I like the way we showed improvement,” Akey said. “They fought to the very last second. That’s the effort that’s going to allow us to get it pushed through.”
Tight end Eddie Williams continued to put up consistent numbers with six catches for 66 yards. He echoed Akey’s sentiments about improvement and being on the brink of another victory.
“There were times where we showed flashes where we can move the ball, and that’s where we’re at,” Williams said. “We have to break through that barrier. We’re right on the brink.”
The Vandals fell to the Bulldogs 32-45.
It was the Vandals’ second best outing on offense of the season as they outgained the Bulldogs. They had a total of 452 yards.
“I wish they’d give us points for yards,” Akey said. “We moved the ball successfully.”
Akey said while he was happy with the improvements the team has made up to this point, the work isn’t done for the team just yet.
“We’re not satisfied,” Akey said. “We’re not going to be satisfied until we get that next win.”
UI running back Deonte’ Jackson turned out another solid performance on the ground running for 93 of the Vandals 215 yards rushing.
Freshman Troy Vital had 43 yards on eight carries, and fellow freshman wide receiver Preston Davis put forth his best effort as a Vandal with 6 receptions for 77 yards and 2 touchdowns.
The Vandals remained close to the Bulldogs throughout the game. The Bulldogs proved too much for the Vandals during the final minutes of the game when a fumble thwarted UI’s comeback chances.
After a successful two-point conversion, the Vandals found themselves down by only 10 points at 32-42.
The defense held Fresno State to a field goal on its next possession pushing the lead to 15 points with about five minutes remaining in the game.
The Vandals successfully executed another onside kick during the game but couldn’t make it happen twice after scoring with seven minutes remaining in the game.
UI football looks to win its second game of the year this week when it takes on Louisiana Tech University. The game starts at 4 p.m. Saturday in Ruston.
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