Mishandled Snap Shifted Victory Bell Game
A bobbled field goal attempt during the third quarter altered momentum at TQL Stadium.
Updated on Sept. 19, 2026 in Football
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Miami RedHawks holder Pierse Stainton dropped a snap from Trey Wallman during a 36-yard field goal attempt. The miscue occurred with 10:54 remaining in the third quarter while the RedHawks held a 28-7 lead.
Why it matters
The error halted a scoring opportunity for the RedHawks and preceded a touchdown drive by the Cincinnati Bearcats. This shift in momentum fundamentally changed the character of the rivalry matchup.
The aborted 36-yard field goal attempt occurred while the Miami RedHawks led 28-7 with 10:54 left in the third quarter. The botched exchange prevented kicker Kellan McLaughlin from attempting the kick.
The players
Pierse Stainton
He is a punter for the Miami RedHawks who served as the holder during the game.
Trey Wallman
He is the long snapper responsible for the exchange during the attempted field goal.
Kellan McLaughlin
He is the kicker for the Miami RedHawks team.
Cincinnati Bearcats
They are the collegiate football team representing the University of Cincinnati.
Miami RedHawks
They are the collegiate football team representing Miami University.
The details
Trey Wallman delivered the snap, but Pierse Stainton failed to secure the ball, causing the play to break down before the kick could take place. The Cincinnati Bearcats capitalized on the transition by scoring a touchdown on their next possession.
Timeline
The Battle for the Victory Bell game took place on September 19, 2026.
The mishandled field goal occurred with 10:54 remaining in the third quarter.
Season Trajectory
This specific play directly impacted the competitive balance of the Battle for the Victory Bell, shifting momentum in a critical non-conference rivalry game. The outcome influences how both teams are viewed regarding their consistency under pressure within the season standings.
The turnover on downs denied the RedHawks three points and allowed the Bearcats to sustain a scoring drive. The failed conversion significantly narrowed the scoring margin at a pivotal moment in the third quarter.
The takeaway
Special teams execution remains a critical factor that can swing the outcome of high-stakes rivalry games. Securing the snap is a fundamental requirement that teams must maintain to avoid shifting momentum in their opponent's favor.
Further reading
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