In a dramatic showdown, the San Jose State Spartans triumphed over the Hawaii Rainbow Warriors with a score of 45-38 on Saturday night, highlighted by a standout performance from wide receiver Danny Scudero. Scudero achieved a career-high of 215 receiving yards and scored two crucial touchdowns, contributing to the Spartans’ fifth consecutive victory in the Dick Tomey Legacy Game.
Despite facing a 31-14 deficit at halftime, Hawaii (6-3) made a spirited comeback, narrowing the gap to a single score with just 1:16 remaining in the match. However, their attempt at an onside kick rolled out of bounds, ultimately sealing the win for the Spartans (3-5).
Key Moments in the Game
Both teams showcased their offensive prowess, with the two leading passing offenses in the Mountain West Conference clashing in a high-scoring affair. Hawaii initiated the second half with an 8-yard touchdown pass from quarterback Micah Alejado to running back Landon Sims, bringing the score to 31-21 in favor of San Jose State.
Quickly responding, Spartans quarterback Walker Eget connected with Scudero for a 62-yard touchdown pass, re-establishing a two-touchdown lead for SJSU. Earlier in the second quarter, Alejado had struck back, hitting wide receiver Jackson Harris for a 68-yard touchdown, which cut San Jose State’s lead to 21-14.
On the next drive, Eget again found Scudero, this time for a 50-yard touchdown, extending the Spartans’ lead to 28-14. A pivotal sack by San Jose State linebacker Jordan Pollard disrupted a Hawaii drive, leading to a 24-yard field goal by Matthias Brown, securing a commanding 31-14 advantage by halftime.
Outstanding Performances
Eget completed 20 of 40 passes for 458 yards, including two touchdown passes to Scudero. The performance marked a significant achievement as all three of SJSU’s top wide receivers—Scudero, Leland Smith (113 yards), and Kyri Shoels (109 yards)—surpassed the 100-yard mark for the second time this season.
Defensively, Pollard stood out with eight tackles, two of which were for losses, including the crucial sack. For Hawaii, Alejado finished with 31 completions on 46 attempts, amassing 367 yards and three touchdowns without any interceptions.
Hawaii’s determination became evident in the fourth quarter as they narrowed the score to 38-35 following a 20-yard touchdown pass from Alejado to Pofele Ashlock Harris with 9:32 left in the game. The Spartans responded decisively, with running back Steve Chavez-Soto scoring on a 1-yard run, extending their lead to 45-35 with 5:37 remaining in regulation.
Chavez-Soto concluded the game with three rushing touchdowns, while he and fellow running back Lamar Radcliffe (10 carries, 97 yards) combined for 150 rushing yards and four touchdowns, showcasing a balanced offensive strategy.
San Jose State will return to action on November 8, 2023, against Air Force, with kickoff scheduled for 15:00. Following this thrilling victory, the Spartans look to build on their momentum as they pursue their goals for the remainder of the season.