News Summary
Saginaw Valley State University achieved a landmark win over Grand Valley State University in a thrilling football face-off, securing a 20-19 victory. This marks SVSU’s first triumph over GVSU since 2012 and their first win at Lubber Stadium since 2003. The game showcased a fierce contest, with SVSU breaking a lengthy losing streak against GVSU and solidifying its position in the Great Lakes Intercollegiate Athletic Conference. The match featured significant performances, including a game-winning touchdown run by the team’s quarterback late in the fourth quarter.
Saginaw, Michigan – Saginaw Valley State University (SVSU) triumphed over Grand Valley State University (GVSU) in a thrilling football match on Saturday, winning 20-19. This hard-fought victory marks SVSU’s first win against GVSU since 2012 and their first at GVSU’s Lubber Stadium since 2003.
The game was a part of the long-standing rivalry known as the Battle of the Valleys, a competition that began back in 1975. In a tense and closely contested matchup, SVSU managed to secure victory despite scoring only one touchdown. This game also represents a significant turning point for SVSU, snapping a streak of 12 consecutive losses to GVSU, and 20 losses in the last 21 meetings between the two schools.
With the win, SVSU improves its record to 4-3 and is currently on a three-game winning streak. The victory also elevates them to the top position in the Great Lakes Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (GLIAC), currently tied with defending champions Ferris State at 3-0.
The decisive moment of the game came in the fourth quarter when redshirt sophomore quarterback Mason McKenzie dashed 41 yards on a crucial third down to score a touchdown with just three minutes left on the clock. McKenzie led the rushing attack for SVSU, recording 100 net yards on 17 carries, while completing 11 of 25 passes for 131 yards, despite throwing two interceptions.
SVSU’s scoring for the game also included three field goals and a safety resulting from a sack in the end zone. The match started with GVSU leading 13-11 at halftime, having earned their points primarily through the performance of their quarterback Andrew Schuster. Schuster completed 19 of 29 passes for 260 yards and threw three touchdown passes caught by Paschal Jolman, Kellen Reed, and Lynn Wyche-El, contributing significantly to GVSU’s offense.
As the game progressed, SVSU gained momentum and managed to outgain GVSU in total yardage, recording 327 yards compared to GVSU’s 298. GVSU’s defense had initially been strong, with two interceptions and several stops that thwarted SVSU’s advanced attempts. However, late in the game, as GVSU sought to retake the lead, an attempt at a two-point conversion following their scoring was unsuccessful, with the pass falling incomplete. After a failed onside kick attempt, SVSU regained possession and was able to run out the clock for the win.
Next, SVSU will face winless Wayne State in their upcoming game, while GVSU prepares for the Anchor-Bone Classic against Ferris State. The rivalry between these two programs is one of the defining elements of their competitive history, and this latest game will undoubtedly be remembered by both teams as a pivotal moment for SVSU.
SVSU’s resurgence in this rivalry, propelled by a young quarterback and a resilient team, continues to build excitement in Saginaw and among their supporters.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
GVSU Football Suffers Narrow Loss to Saginaw Valley State
SVSU Football Upsets GVSU in Thrilling Match
SVSU Ends 12-Game Losing Streak Against GVSU
Ferris State Bulldogs Aim for GLIAC Football Championship
Grand Valley Dominates in Lacrosse Victory
Additional Resources
- FloFootball: SVSU vs. GVSU Live Updates
- Sporting News: GVSU vs. SVSU Watch Guide
- Gannon University Sports: Gannon Falls at SVSU
- Holland Sentinel: GVSU Upset by SVSU
- MLive: SVSU’s 50-Year Football Milestone
- Wikipedia: Saginaw Valley State University
- Google Search: Saginaw Valley State University football
- Google Scholar: Saginaw Valley State University football
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Saginaw Valley State University
- Google News: Saginaw Valley State University football
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