Henry’s Heroics Secure Nail-Biting Victory for Roadrunners
In a dramatic non-conference finale, the UTSA Roadrunners edged the Colorado State Rams 17-16 on Saturday night, thanks to the explosive playmaking of running back Robert Henry Jr. The nation’s leading rusher delivered two long-range touchdowns that proved just enough to secure a hard-fought victory at Canvas Stadium in Fort Collins, Colorado.
The win improves UTSA’s record to 2-2 as they close out their non-conference schedule, while Colorado State falls to 1-2 on the season. The game, which was the third meeting between the two programs, was a tense affair that came down to the final seconds.
A Game of Big Plays
Robert Henry Jr., who entered the weekend leading the FBS in rushing, was the undisputed star of the game. He accounted for both of UTSA’s touchdowns in spectacular fashion. His first major impact came midway through the second quarter when he broke free for a 76-yard touchdown run, giving the Roadrunners their first lead of the contest.
However, his most crucial contribution came with just 4:49 remaining in the fourth quarter. With the Roadrunners trailing, quarterback Owen McCown connected with Henry on a short pass, which Henry turned into a 74-yard sprint to the end zone. This game-winning play put UTSA ahead 17-10 and showcased the running back’s versatile talent.
“Henry finished with 144 yards on 21 carries and added a 74-yard touchdown reception, accounting for both of the Roadrunners’ scores,” reports digitaltrendstoday.com.
A Dramatic Finish
Colorado State mounted a valiant comeback effort in the final minutes. Quarterback Jackson Brousseau, in a relief appearance, led the Rams down the field and connected with Rocky Beers for a 4-yard touchdown pass with only 29 seconds left on the clock, bringing the score to 17-16.
The Rams initially lined up for the tying extra point. However, a penalty on UTSA moved the ball closer to the goal line, prompting Colorado State’s coaching staff to gamble for the win. They opted for a two-point conversion, but the subsequent pass attempt failed, sealing the narrow victory for the visiting Roadrunners.
By the Numbers
Despite the loss, Colorado State statistically outplayed UTSA, gaining 407 total yards to the Roadrunners’ 345. The Rams’ offense showed balance, but they were unable to convert their yardage into enough points.
Key Performers:
- Robert Henry Jr. (UTSA, RB): 21 carries for 144 rushing yards and one touchdown; one reception for 74 yards and a touchdown.
- Owen McCown (UTSA, QB): 14-of-27 passing for 173 yards and one touchdown.
- Nnanna Anyanwu (UTSA, Defense): 3.0 sacks for a loss of 19 yards.
- Lloyd Avant (CSU, RB): 96 rushing yards.
- Brayden Fowler-Nicolosi (CSU, QB): 176 passing yards.
The game marks UTSA’s first victory over Colorado State in three attempts, with the Rams having won the previous encounters in 2015 and 2016. For UTSA, the victory provides crucial momentum as they prepare to enter American Conference play following a bye week. For Colorado State, it’s a heartbreaking home loss after a bold decision came up just short.
