TUCSON, Ariz. — Miami (Ohio) capped off their 2024 season in style, cruising to a 43-17 victory over Colorado State in the Snoop Dogg Arizona Bowl. The RedHawks’ explosive second half was the difference, as they scored 34 unanswered points after leading just 9-3 at halftime.
It wasn’t the cleanest start for either team, with a slow first half and plenty of missed opportunities on both sides. But Miami’s defense set the tone early with two takeaways and a turnover on downs, keeping Colorado State from finding any real rhythm. The RedHawks’ special teams also contributed, with kicker Dom Dzioban nailing all three of his field goals in the first half to keep Miami in control.
The real fireworks began in the second half, and it didn’t take long for Miami to show why they were the stronger team on the day. Kevin Davis, who was easily the game’s MVP, took over in a big way. He rushed for a career-high 148 yards and two touchdowns on just nine carries, including a jaw-dropping 97-yard touchdown run that stretched the lead to 29-3 early in the third quarter. Add in an 81-yard kick return, and Davis finished with 245 all-purpose yards, truly putting the game out of reach for Colorado State.
Miami’s running game was on point, totaling 217 yards and five touchdowns on the day. Davis wasn’t alone in the backfield—Jordan Brunson also punched in two rushing touchdowns, while quarterback Brett Gabbert added one of his own, a 10-yard scramble that capped a 47-yard drive in the third quarter.
Despite the game getting away from them in the second half, Colorado State did manage a few flashes of life. Quarterback Brayden Fowler-Nicolosi connected with Stephon Bailey for a 56-yard touchdown pass, and running back Pete Montini scored on a 1-yard rush. However, the Rams couldn’t overcome their turnover problems. Four turnovers—two interceptions, a fumble, and a turnover on downs—led to 19 points for Miami.
Miami’s efficient red zone offense was another key factor in the victory. The RedHawks scored on seven of their eight trips inside the 20-yard line, with four of those being touchdowns. With a 9-5 final record for the season, Miami ends their year on a high note, adding to their history of bowl game success.
For Colorado State, it’s a disappointing end to a promising season that saw them reach their first bowl game since 2017. Despite the loss, their run to the Arizona Bowl remains a milestone, and they’ll look to build on the experience in the future.
With Snoop Dogg’s presence adding a unique flair to the Arizona Bowl this year, Miami had all the momentum they needed to finish strong. And with performances like this, the RedHawks’ future looks bright.
Based in Los Angeles, California, Martin is a freelance photographer with Martin26Photos, specializing in sports and portrait photography. He has made a name for himself in Southern California’s sports photojournalism scene, covering local high school and college events as well as media days. With experience capturing high-profile Division 1 athletics, Martin aims to expand his work to professional sports in the near future.
