No. 18 Virginia Edges Washington State in Thrilling 22-20 Comeback Win (10-18-25)
By: Xavier Jones
Headline Photo Credit: Arturo Jones-LMS Network
In a heart-pounding college football showdown at Scott Stadium, the No. 18 Virginia Cavaliers staged a dramatic fourth-quarter rally to defeat the Washington State Cougars 22-20, securing their fifth straight victory and bowl eligibility for the first time under head coach Tony Elliott. The Cavaliers (6-1, 3-0 ACC) overcame a 10-point deficit entering the final period, capitalizing on Washington State’s second-half miscues to pull off the narrow escape. The game-winner came on a tie-breaking safety, as linebacker Kam Robinson and defensive lineman Hunter Osborne stuffed Cougars running back Kirby Vorhees in the end zone with under two minutes remaining. Washington State (3-4), playing as an independent amid the Pac-12’s reconfiguration, dominated early and led 17-7 at halftime. But pre-snap penalties, turnovers, and a stalled offense allowed Virginia to flip the script.
Game Recap: A Tale of Two Halves
The Cougars struck first in the opening quarter when quarterback Zevi Eckhaus connected with wide receiver Joshua Meredith on a 32-yard touchdown pass, capping a crisp drive and giving Washington State a 7-0 lead. Virginia responded quickly, with wide receiver Cam Ross scampering for a 19-yard touchdown run to tie it at 7-7. Washington State regained control before the break. Eckhaus scored on a 1-yard quarterback sneak, and kicker Jack Stevens added a 37-yard field goal late in the second quarter, sending the Cougars into halftime with a 17-7 advantage. The visitors outgained Virginia 318-175 through three quarters, controlling the clock with five drives lasting over four minutes each and winning the rushing battle overall. But the Cavaliers’ offense, sluggish after a bye week, found its rhythm in the fourth. Running back Harrison Waylee ignited the comeback with a 2-yard touchdown plunge at the 9:45 mark, finishing a nine-play, 97-yard drive to cut the deficit to 20-17 (after Washington State had extended to 20-10 on a field goal earlier in the period). Kicker Will Bettridge then tied the game at 20-20 with a 34-yard field goal with 2:55 left. The stage was set for the decisive moment when Cougars returner Leyton Smithson fair-caught a kickoff at the 2-yard line. On the ensuing play, Robinson burst through the line. The safety gave Virginia the lead and the win, as the Cavaliers held possession for 10:36 of the final quarter to seal it.
Key Performances and Stats
• Virginia Offense: Wide receiver Jahmal Edrine led the receiving corps with 5 catches for 102 yards, providing big plays downfield. Waylee’s touchdown run was pivotal, though full rushing stats highlighted Washington State’s ground dominance.
• Washington State Offense: Eckhaus finished 18-of-27 for 183 yards, one touchdown pass, a rushing score, but two interceptions proved costly. Meredith starred with 7 receptions for 108 yards and the early TD. The Cougars’ run game outperformed Virginia’s, but second-half execution faltered.
Team totals underscored the closeness: Washington State held edges in total yards and time of possession early, but Virginia’s opportunistic defense and late surge made the difference.
Analysis: Resilience Defines Cavaliers’ Season
This victory keeps Virginia in contention for its first ACC Championship Game appearance since 2019, showcasing the grit Elliott has instilled. For Washington State, it’s another gut-wrenching near-upset against a ranked opponent, following a close loss to No. 4 Mississippi the previous week. The Cougars’ cross-country travel and defensive lapses in crunch time highlight areas for improvement as they navigate an uncertain independent schedule. Social media buzzed with reactions, from fans praising Virginia’s comeback to Cougars supporters lamenting the late collapse.
Looking Ahead
Washington State returns home to face Toledo next Saturday, seeking to snap a two-game skid. Virginia hits the road for an ACC clash against North Carolina, coached by NFL legend Bill Belichick, in what promises to be another test for the rising Cavaliers.
