San Diego State ventured to the Midwest for a somewhat bizarre matchup between California coast and Michigan farmland. One definitive commonality between the two schools is their reverence for the indigenous culture that their nicknames represent. The Chippewas and Aztecs are mascotless squads that work in tandem with their local and regional Native American communities. Both teams put their pride on display for this Saturday afternoon inter-conference clash.
A boisterous pregame moved into Kelly/Shorts Stadium for what would prove to be a thrilling finish. Throughout the game, both teams took turns with the lead. Ahead 21-19 late in the fourth, San Diego State had two short field goal opportunities to extend their advantage – both drifted off the mark leaving Central Michigan with an opening.
The Chippewas put together a few plays on their final drive that set up a 46-yard field goal attempt. Tristan Mattson, who had knocked through two kicks earlier, launched the ball toward the uprights. With 5 seconds left on the clock, the ball floated through giving the Chippewas a one point victory and sending the maroon and gold into a frenzy.
Lost opportunities plagued San Diego State, and Central Michigan seized on their miscues. The Chippewas put forth a gritty effort that paid off. As conference play approaches, they can look back to this victory as a reference for their own resilience.
