Jack Cassidy Leads Mountaineers Past Cincinnati 45-42
A last-second 35-yard field goal seals a dramatic victory for West Virginia over the Cincinnati Bearcats.
Updated on Oct. 27, 2026 in Football
The West Virginia Mountaineers secured a 45-42 win against Cincinnati after kicker Jack Cassidy converted a 35-yard field goal as time expired. The game-winning drive featured a critical 41-yard reception by Prince Strachan that moved the team to the Cincinnati 18-yard line.
Why it matters
This victory continues a positive streak for West Virginia, maintaining momentum following their recent win over TCU. The successful final drive highlights the team's ability to execute under high-pressure conditions while tied late in the game.
West Virginia relied on a 35-yard field goal to break the 42-42 tie. The final drive was set up by a 41-yard reception from Prince Strachan, who brought the ball to the 18-yard line.
The players
Jack Cassidy
He is a kicker for the West Virginia Mountaineers who successfully converted the game-winning 35-yard field goal.
Prince Strachan
He is a wide receiver for the West Virginia Mountaineers who recorded multiple key receptions during the final drive of the game.
Michael Hawkins Jr.
He is the quarterback for the West Virginia Mountaineers who completed the decisive 41-yard pass during the game-winning drive.
The details
With the score tied at 42 and the ball on their own two-yard line, quarterback Michael Hawkins Jr. connected with Prince Strachan on a 41-yard pass. Strachan added another reception on the drive before Cassidy successfully split the uprights to end the game.
Timeline
October 3, 2026: Prince Strachan recorded three receptions for 41 yards against Iowa State.
October 10, 2026: Prince Strachan recorded five receptions for 121 yards against Arizona.
October 20, 2026: Prince Strachan participated in media availability.
October 24, 2026: West Virginia defeated TCU with a final score of 24-20.
October 27, 2026: This article was published regarding the victory.
Season Trajectory
This win follows a pattern set by the West Virginia win over TCU on October 24. The Mountaineers are successfully building a late-season streak that bolsters their standing within the current football campaign.
The win moves West Virginia to a 2-0 record in their most recent pair of games. Prince Strachan continues to be a primary target for Michael Hawkins Jr., proving his reliability after recovering from a shoulder injury.
The takeaway
Reliable kicking and explosive downfield passing remain critical components for West Virginia to secure close-game victories. Fans should watch for continued chemistry between the quarterback and his receivers in future matchups.
Further reading
For more on the current season, visit Morgantown Football.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Tribune242.
