The RedHawks (3-3, 1-1 Mid-American Conference) appeared to have the game under control with a seven-point advantage late in the fourth quarter. But UMass (4-2, 1-2) mounted a determined comeback, scoring a touchdown with one second remaining before Miami’s defense made the play that ultimately decided the contest.
With 2:21 left, Miami led 20-13 when the Minutemen took possession and began a nine-play, 70-yard drive. Backup quarterback Logan Inagawa completed the march by connecting with Max Dowling for a 21-yard touchdown with one second remaining on the clock.
Rather than settle for a potential tying extra point, UMass elected to go for the win with a two-point conversion. Reece Adkins attempted to reach the end zone, but Miami’s Malcolm McClain stopped him short, allowing the RedHawks to escape with the one-point victory.
Heavner, Smith Lead Miami’s Ground Attack
Caleb Heavner and Scoop Smith provided the scoring punch for Miami, each finding the end zone on the ground.
Heavner’s seven-yard touchdown run with 1:11 remaining in the first quarter broke a 7-7 tie and gave the RedHawks a lead they would maintain for the rest of the afternoon.
Although Heavner struggled to establish consistency as a passer, completing just six of 20 attempts for 95 yards, he made an impact with his legs. He finished with 54 rushing yards on 11 carries and added the crucial first-quarter touchdown.
Smith also contributed a rushing score as Miami built its advantage and worked to keep UMass at bay.
The RedHawks entered the closing minutes with a 20-13 lead, but the Minutemen’s late offensive surge forced Miami’s defense to make one final stand.
UMass Comes Up Just Short
UMass received 171 passing yards from starting quarterback Aedan McCarty before he was replaced by Inagawa.
The backup delivered an impressive performance in limited action, completing all six of his passes for 83 yards. His late touchdown strike to Dowling gave the Minutemen a chance to steal the victory, but the failed two-point conversion ended their comeback bid.
The narrow defeat was a frustrating result for UMass, which had an opportunity to complete the rally in front of its home crowd. Miami, meanwhile, relied on a critical defensive stop to preserve a hard-earned road win.
The result continued Miami’s historical advantage in the series. The RedHawks now hold a 6-1 edge in the 14-year-old matchup between the programs.
Up Next:
Miami (Ohio) returns home next Saturday to host Akron as it looks to build momentum in conference play.
UMass will travel to Buffalo next Saturday to face the Bulls, seeking to rebound from the one-point loss.
