Tulane Green Wave Claims 29-16 Victory Over UTSA Roadrunners
by Benita Bara / Tulane Contributor
In a thrilling showdown that showcased the resilience of the No. 23 Tulane Green Wave, they emerged victorious, securing a spot in the American Athletic Conference (AAC) title game for the second consecutive season. Tulane (11-1, 8-0 AAC) extended its impressive winning streak to 10 games, with its lone loss early in the season against No. 12 Mississippi—a game that saw Green Wave’s starting quarterback, Michael Pratt, sidelined due to a leg injury.
Facing off against AAC newcomer UTSA (8-4, 7-1), a team that had clinched the Conference USA title in the previous two seasons, Tulane knew it was in for a tough battle. Makhi Hughes stole the spotlight with a career-high rushing performance, amassing 166 yards and a crucial touchdown. The Green Wave’s defense proved to be a formidable force, generating five turnovers and executing a pivotal fourth-down stop on their own 10-yard line. This remarkable effort culminated in a 29-16 victory, sending Tulane to the AAC title game once again.
Despite facing challenges in the passing game with key receivers Lawrence Keys and Jha’Quan Jackson unavailable, Tulane found a hero in Chris Brazzell, who hauled in five passes for 93 yards and two touchdowns. Devean Deal’s crucial interception near midfield further solidified Tulane’s defensive prowess. The game was marked by moments of intense back-and-forth, exemplified when Pratt lost the ball on a sack by Jamal Ligon, only for UTSA to capitalize and tie the game shortly after on Rocko Griffin’s impressive 23-yard run.
However, it was Hughes’ electrifying 58-yard run, his second explosive rush of 30 yards or more, that set the stage for Valentino Ambrosio’s decisive short field goal, propelling Tulane to a 13-10 lead and ultimately sealing their place in the AAC title game. With anticipation building, Tulane is set to host the championship game on December 2nd, a testament to their remarkable season and their determination to claim the conference title once more.
