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Fresno State Triumphs Over Miami (Ohio) in Snoop Dogg Arizona Bowl
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Fresno State Triumphs Over Miami (Ohio) in Snoop Dogg Arizona Bowl |
Bulldogs Secure 18-3 Victory with Stellar Defense and Warner's Leadership |
The Fresno State Bulldogs capped off their season with a commanding 18-3 win over the Miami (Ohio) RedHawks in the Snoop Dogg Arizona Bowl on Saturday, December 27, 2025, at Arizona Stadium in Tucson.
Leading the charge was quarterback E.J. Warner, son of Pro Football Hall of Famer Kurt Warner, who threw for 214 yards and a touchdown, earning him the game's MVP honors.
"It's awesome," Warner expressed postgame. "It's my first bowl game with these guys here. I love them all. A lot of ups and downs this year, but we persevered, got out with nine wins. I'm happy for all these guys, happy to be a part of it this year."
Whenever the Bulldogs needed a significant gain, Warner connected with senior receiver Josiah Freeman, who finished with seven receptions for 143 yards.
The game's sole touchdown came in the fourth quarter when tight end Richie Anderson III caught a 2-yard pass from Warner.
Fresno State's offense amassed 391 total yards, while their defense held Miami to just 192 yards, preventing any touchdowns and forcing two turnovers. Senior linebacker Jadon Pearson caused a fumble recovered by Jakari Embry, who also recorded an interception.
First-year head coach Matt Entz celebrated a bowl victory in his inaugural season, a notable achievement in college football.
"Hard-fought long season," Entz remarked.
**Game Highlights:**
**First Quarter:**
Miami initiated the scoring with a 33-yard field goal by kicker Dom Dzioban after advancing to Fresno State's 15-yard line.
The RedHawks' defense forced a three-and-out, but quarterback Thomas Gotkowski threw an interception to Embry, halting their momentum.
Fresno State's offense struggled early, managing only 45 yards compared to Miami's 85, yet trailed just 3-0.
**Second Quarter:**
The Bulldogs found their rhythm, with Warner leading a drive culminating in a 28-yard field goal by senior Dylan Lynch, tying the game at 3-3.
A botched Miami punt set up Fresno State at the RedHawks' 10-yard line, leading to another Lynch field goal and a 6-3 lead.
After Pearson forced a fumble recovered by Embry, Warner connected with Freeman for a 47-yard gain, followed by a 20-yard pass to tight end Ezekiel Avit. Lynch's third field goal extended the lead to 9-3 at halftime.
**Third Quarter:**
Miami's offense stalled, and Warner's 51-yard pass to Freeman set up a field goal attempt, but Lynch missed from 28 yards.
Both defenses dominated, resulting in a scoreless quarter.
**Fourth Quarter:**
Warner's 2-yard touchdown pass to Anderson, followed by a failed two-point conversion, increased the lead to 15-3.
Lynch added a 37-yard field goal, sealing the 18-3 victory.
Fresno State concludes the season with a 9-4 record, marking a successful campaign under Coach Entz's leadership. |

