Washington State Cougars Fall Short Against James Madison Dukes in Fourth Quarter Battle

The Washington State Cougars faced a challenging matchup against the James Madison Dukes at Bridgeforth Stadium/Zane Showker Field. The game ended with the Dukes securing a 24-20 victory, improving their record to 10-1, while the Cougars fell to 5-6.

First Quarter

Both teams started strong, each scoring a field goal to end the first quarter tied at 3-3. The Cougs' kicker Jack Stevens was reliable as ever, converting his attempt from 36 yards out.

Second Quarter

The second quarter saw an offensive surge from both sides. Washington State's quarterback Zevi Eckhaus connected with Tony Freeman for a remarkable 48-yard touchdown pass, showcasing Eckhaus's precision and Freeman's agility. However, the Dukes responded with their own touchdown drive and added another score before halftime, leading by just one point at 10-17.

Third Quarter

Defense dominated in the third quarter as both teams struggled to find their rhythm offensively. The only points came from James Madison’s offense as they extended their lead with another touchdown drive. Despite efforts from Wazzu’s defense forcing three-and-outs and Caleb Francl intercepting a pass, they couldn't capitalize on these opportunities.

Fourth Quarter

In the final period of play, Washington State attempted a comeback starting with Stevens adding another field goal to narrow down the gap. Zevi Eckhaus then led an impressive rushing attack that culminated in his own rushing touchdown bringing them within four points of JMU’s lead. Unfortunately for Wazzu fans hoping for more late-game heroics or defensive stops like Parker McKenna’s earlier sack contribution; time expired without further scoring changes leaving them short-handed against Duke's resilient defense which held firm till end whistle blew signaling defeat yet again this season round-up session here today!

As fans reflect on what went wrong for Washington State Cougars during this intense contest filled ups downs throughout all quarters played out there today; post-game thoughts suggest improvements needed across board especially when facing tough opponents such upcoming Oregon State Beavers next week home turf Gesa Field Martin Stadium scheduled November twenty-ninth six-thirty PM EDT broadcast live CW network viewers nationwide!

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