HONOLULU, HI— A clutch fourth-quarter interception return by linebacker K’Vion Thunderbird proved to be the difference as Fresno State edged Hawai’i 23-21 on Saturday night in a thrilling Mountain West Conference opener for both programs.
Thunderbird, a sophomore, delivered the game-changing play with just over five minutes remaining. Disguising a rush off the edge, he dropped into coverage and snatched an errant pass before sprinting 59 yards to the end zone, extending the Bulldogs’ lead to 23-15 with 5:20 left on the clock.
It was Fresno State’s fourth consecutive win following a season-opening loss at Kansas, improving the Bulldogs to 4-1 on the year.
Late Comeback Falls Short for Hawai’i
Hawai’i (3-2) refused to go quietly. Quarterback Micah Alejado found Blaze Kamoku for a 10-yard touchdown with just 10 seconds remaining, pulling the Rainbow Warriors within two. But on the critical two-point conversion attempt to tie the game, Alejado’s pass to Brandon White was batted away.
Fresno State recovered the ensuing onside kick to seal the narrow victory.
Alejado, making just his second collegiate start, completed 28 of 42 passes for 219 yards, tossing two touchdowns but also throwing three interceptions, including two in the fourth quarter that proved costly.
Hawai’i Starts Fast, But Fresno State Responds
Hawai’i struck first, capitalizing on defensive pressure. De’jon Benton sacked Fresno State’s quarterback E.J. Warner in the end zone, forcing a safety for a 2-0 lead midway through the first quarter.
Moments later, Jamih Otis recovered a botched lateral and returned it 37 yards for a touchdown, giving the Rainbow Warriors a quick 9-0 advantage.
Fresno State answered late in the second quarter, as Warner found Richie Anderson III on a 13-yard touchdown pass to trim the deficit to 9-7 heading into halftime.
Defensive Battle Turns Into Fourth-Quarter Drama
The second half was largely controlled by both defenses, with scoring at a premium. Fresno State added a pair of field goals to take a 13-9 lead before Thunderbird’s interception return stretched the advantage to 23-15.
Alejado’s final touchdown drive gave Hawai’i one last opportunity, but the Bulldogs’ defense held firm when it mattered most.
Warner finished the night 22-of-29 for 230 yards and a touchdown, managing the game efficiently despite early struggles.
What’s Next
Fresno State (4-1, 1-0 MWC) will look to stay hot as they return home to host their next conference matchup.
Hawai’i (3-2, 0-1 MWC) heads back to the drawing board after a tough loss, preparing for their next challenge in Mountain West play.
