Bowling Green, KY
Sep 21, 2024
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The Western Kentucky Hilltoppers secured a dramatic 26-21 victory over the Toledo Rockets, overcoming a 14-point first-half deficit and a lengthy weather delay. Key plays, including a safety, critical interceptions, and clutch fourth-quarter touchdowns, turned the tide in Western Kentucky's favor. Toledo led 21-10 after a seven-yard touchdown pass from Tucker Gleason to Anthony Torres midway through the third quarter before lightning paused play for 75 minutes.
When action resumed, the Hilltoppers' defense played a crucial role. A safety by Devon Lynch provided the spark for a late-game rally, culminating in two rushing touchdowns by Caden Veltkamp. Veltkamp, making his first start, was pivotal with 242 passing yards, two rushing touchdowns, and a timely 44-yard touchdown pass to Kisean Johnson before halftime. The defense carried the momentum forward, halting Toledo’s red-zone attempts twice in the final minutes with interceptions by Devonte' Mathews. This victory reflects Western Kentucky's resilience and ability to thrive under pressure.
Tucker Gleason (Toledo Rockets)
Rushed for a 1-yard touchdown to complete a 10-play, 63-yard drive, giving Toledo a 7-0 lead early in the second quarter.
Caden Veltkamp (Western Kentucky Hilltoppers)
Connected with Kisean Johnson on a 44-yard touchdown pass, narrowing the deficit to 14-7 right before halftime.
Anthony Brackenridge (Western Kentucky Hilltoppers)
Recovered a key fumble by Tucker Gleason on the first play of the second half, setting up a field goal to bring WKU within four points.
Devon Lynch (Western Kentucky Hilltoppers)
Recorded a safety by tackling Toledo's Connor Walendzak in the end zone, shifting momentum towards WKU with the score at 21-12.
Caden Veltkamp (Western Kentucky Hilltoppers)
Scored on a 7-yard rushing touchdown to cut Toledo’s lead to 21-19, igniting WKU's comeback.
Caden Veltkamp (Western Kentucky Hilltoppers)
Rushed for a 3-yard touchdown, giving WKU a 26-21 lead with just over five minutes remaining.
Devonte' Mathews (Western Kentucky Hilltoppers)
Secured the victory with a game-clinching interception in the end zone, thwarting Toledo’s final scoring threat.
Caden Veltkamp (Western Kentucky Hilltoppers, QB)
Threw for 242 yards on 20-of-30 passing with one touchdown and rushed for two critical scores, leading a 16-point comeback in his first career start.
Tucker Gleason (Toledo Rockets, QB)
Completed 19-of-33 passes for 200 yards and two touchdowns while also leading the team in rushing with 56 yards, despite committing three turnovers.
Devonte' Mathews (Western Kentucky Hilltoppers, DB)
Recorded two game-saving interceptions in the fourth quarter, securing the victory for the Hilltoppers by halting Toledo's red-zone threats.
Kisean Johnson (Western Kentucky Hilltoppers, WR)
Leading receiver for WKU with 73 yards on six receptions, including a crucial 44-yard touchdown catch that shifted momentum before halftime.
Kent Robinson (Western Kentucky Hilltoppers, LB)
Key defensive player who recorded a sack late in the game, pushing Toledo out of scoring range and helping to secure the win.
Toledo Rockets
0
14
7
0
21
Western Kentucky Hilltoppers
0
7
5
14
26
