UC Davis Triumphs Over Adversity with the ‘Aggie Way’
The UC Davis Aggies are showcasing their resilience as they face numerous challenges this football season. Despite significant injuries and setbacks, the team has maintained a strong performance and remains a contender in the FCS.
Overcoming Challenges: The Aggie Way
This season, the Aggies have dealt with unexpected adversity, including injuries to key players. Notably, twin brothers Rex and Porter Connors have suffered season-ending injuries. Rex is an All-American safety, while Porter is recognized as an All-Big Sky Conference linebacker.
In addition, star quarterback Caden Pinnick, a redshirt freshman, missed the recent game against Northern Colorado due to hospitalization from severe tonsillitis. Despite his absence, the Aggies secured a 27-16 victory, continuing their impressive record.
A Winning Streak
- Current Record: 6-1 overall, 4-0 in Big Sky Conference
- Ranked: No. 6 in the FCS coaches poll
- Last Five Games: 5 consecutive wins since a loss to Washington
In Pinnick’s absence, fifth-year senior Grant Harper stepped in as quarterback, finishing with 216 passing yards and three touchdowns against Northern Colorado. Coach Tim Plough expressed confidence in both quarterbacks, having noted that either can lead the team effectively.
Upcoming Matchup Against Idaho State
This Saturday, the Aggies will host Idaho State, who enters the game with a 2-6 record and a four-game losing streak. The Bengals’ struggles include an earlier tough matchup against Montana, where they lost 42-38.
- Opponent: Idaho State (2-6, 1-3 in Big Sky)
- Location: UC Davis, 1 p.m. on Saturday
- Broadcast: Sactown Sports 1140 AM Radio, ESPN+
UC Davis has a favorable history against Idaho State, boasting an all-time home record of 4-0 and leading the series 7-1 since its inception in 2012.
Coaching Connection
This matchup will feature Cody Hawkins as the head coach for Idaho State. He previously served as an assistant at UC Davis under his father, Dan Hawkins, who led the Aggies until the end of the 2023 season. Dan is currently part of Idaho State’s coaching staff.
As the Aggies continue to overcome adversity, they exemplify the ‘Aggie Way’ of resilience and teamwork, seeking to secure another victory this weekend.
