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SALT LAKE CITY — After a slow start, the Utah Utes managed to come from behind, forcing the Oregon State Beavers into overtime. However, their luck eventually ran out as the Beavers put the finishing touches on an emotional game, winning 51-48.
The emotional roller coaster likely left many fans with heartburn and ulcers in a hard-fought battle between the two schools. But at the end of the day (or early morning) fans were optimistic.
"What a game. Tough loss for the Utes," Bryan Kilpatrick tweeted. "That didn't look like a @UtahCoachWhitt defense, but it was a nice rally and Wilson was spectacular."
"What have you learned today?" tweeted @HotCorner_10. "That Travis Wilson is the real deal and is only going to get better for my Utes."
Others, however, took the loss a little harder.
"I'm just gonna cuddle my Utes blanket, and squeeze my Utes pillow and fall asleep crying to, 'A Utah Man Am I,' " @Paytonscotty tweeted.
Despite some early struggles and three game-changing interceptions, sophomore quarterback Travis Wilson single handedly took control of the game. Wilson ended the game going 19 of 33 for 279 yards and two touchdowns. He also led the team with 142 rushing yards and 3 touchdowns, including a game-tying score to send the game into overtime.
I'm really enjoying the Utes having a quarterback that can play well. He's learning, but I actually enjoy watching him. Nice change.
–Jessica (@mrsjbagby)
"If you don't know who Travis Wilson is, you might want to find out," tweeted Briton Limburg. "He's kinda a big deal."
Some even called for the Heisman Trophy to be awarded immediately to Wilson.
"T Wilson 4 Heisman!!! Boom Shaka Lake!!!" tweeted Josh Wright.
Others were impressed with Wilson, but recognized he's still a young quarterback and is learning.
"I'm really enjoying the Utes having a quarterback that can play well," tweeted Jessica. "He's learning, but I actually enjoy watching him. Nice change."
Above all, the offensive effort from the Utes was encouraging, which is in stark comparison to last year's lack of offensive plays. The Utes ended the game with 539 total yards, outmatching the Beavers' 491 total yards on offense.
The Utes had 12 total yards on offense at the end of the first quarter before Wilson ignited the flame under the team.
"12 total offensive yards for Utah in the 1st quarter, pretty pathetic," tweeted Casey Hatch.
Utah ended the game with 260 rushing yards and 279 passing yards for a balanced approach on offense.
