It was no secret heading into tonight;s game that Coach CleveNole has been fielding endless calls from programs around the nation looking for him to turn their program as he did with Utah State. Typically in these scenarios we see teams start to become distracted, players starting to look at their next options, and media speculation creating a division within the locker room. But thats what makes Coach CleveNole different, and the reason so many suitors are waiting in the wings.
Coach CleveNole was open and honest with his team before the media even had a whiff of him leaving for another opportunity, and this is perhaps what kept the team together and focused. He never shied away from being upfront and transparent with his players, and it showed on Senior Night as Utah State welcomed San Diego State, and also prepared to say goodbye to Coach CleveNole.
Senior Night started with fireworks as Senior Transfer QB Petras picked his way through the SDSU defense as he wanted. His defense wasn't going to be upstaged either as they plucked 2 interceptions helping lead to lead a 28-7 halftime lead, and ready to run away quickly into the night with a win.
But SDSU had other plans. Coach Hugme49 rallied his troops at halftime and exploded for 24 3rd quarter points. But everytime they seemed ready to strike and complete the comeback the seniors Petras and Faison were there to settle things for the Aggies and their nerves. Although the defense was gashed throughout the second half, they showed grit with a timely interception in the 4th quarter.
All said and done, tonight's game was a microcosm of this season as a whole for Utah State and Coach CleveNole. Times with the offense looking effortless, supported with defensive stops and game changing plays at just the right times. Coach CleveNole and the Aggies aren't done yet. They have one last dance together in a bowl game.
When asked for a comment about where his next gig may land him, Coach Clevenole offered very little, "Shoot, I'm more worried about going in the locker room, watching these boys celebrate after a hell of a season, and then start game planning for our bowl game. No other school is signing my check right now, so the only thing I'm worried about is the school that is". And with a click of his tongue and a finger gun shot at the camera, Coach Clevenole escaped into the faded tunnels of Merlin Olsen Field at Maverik Stadium.
In a thrilling, edge-of-your-seat showdown, the SDSU Aztecs fell just short against Utah State, losing 45-38. The Aztecs' comeback effort was nothing short of heroic—if only they had a few more minutes on the clock or, say, a few more defensive stops. With a game that felt more like a rollercoaster than a football match, SDSU made a valiant push to overcome a deficit but couldn't quite close the gap. It's like they tried to catch lightning in a bottle and nearly succeeded; unfortunately, the bottle just slipped out of their hands. Despite the loss, the Aztecs' spirited comeback showed they’ve got the heart and hustle, even if their timing was a bit off.
CONNECT WITH US ONLINE:
WHOS ONLINE:
14 Guests in the last 5 minutes Legend: NDL Admin | Conference Commish | Media Team | NDL Coaches
NDL Hall of Fame:
664 Coaches Newest Member: OracleHCR
HOME
Discord