Each of the last three years, San Jose State's football season ended with a loss in a bowl game. This time there was a 41-39 five-overtime loss to South Florida within the Hawaii Bowl.
In the fifth extra time, the Bulls began with the ball and converted the 2 points with a reception from Keshaun Singleton. As SJSU attempted to reply, a pass from SJSU quarterback Walker Eget intended for Justin Lockhart was deflected, ending the ballgame.
The Bulls led 21-10 at halftime but were outscored 17-3 by the Spartans within the second half.
SJSU took its first lead after linebacker Noah McNeal-Franklin took the ball to the two-yard line following a 27-yard return.
The Spartans' freshman running back Lamar Radcliffe struck out and gave them the lead.
But Floyd Chalk IV, his fellow tailback, was stuffed on a third-and-1 on their final regulation possession, forcing the Spartans to punt with 53 seconds left.
A 13-yard return by USF's Sean Atkins put the Bulls in prime position to push downfield.
Six plays later, Bulls kicker John Cannon converted a 41-yard kick that sent the sport into extra time.
Each team scored in the primary three extra time periods and neither reached the tip zone within the fourth period.
SJSU wide receiver Matthew Coleman, filling in for 2024 Fred Biletnikoff Award finalist Nick Nash, led the Spartans with 119 yards on 12 receptions, including a touchdown in the primary extra time and a two-point conversion within the third third extension.
Eget was 33 of 58 passing with two touchdowns and one interception.
Originally published:
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