New Hampshire Routs Ball State 35-21 in Saturday Afternoon Upset

New Hampshire scored 35 points in a dominant second half performance to defeat Ball State 35-21 on Saturday afternoon at Scheumann Stadium.
Cardinals Stumble to Third Straight Loss
The loss dropped Ball State to 0-3 on the season, continuing their winless start under first-year head coach Mike Uremovich. The Cardinals entered the game as slight favorites against the FCS Wildcats but were overwhelmed after a competitive first half that ended 14-14.
Ball State managed just 158 yards of total offense compared to New Hampshire’s balanced attack. Quarterback Kiael Kelly completed 20 of 32 passes for 158 yards but threw no touchdown passes. Running back Qua Ashley provided the Cardinals’ lone rushing touchdown on a 43-yard run in the first quarter.
Wildcats Dominate After Halftime
New Hampshire quarterback Matt Vezza threw for 315 yards and two touchdowns on 21-of-38 passing. The Wildcats’ ground game was powered by Myles Thomason, who rushed for 122 yards on 41 carries.
The game was tied 14-14 at halftime after an eventful first quarter that featured four touchdowns. New Hampshire scored first on a blocked punt returned for a touchdown by Brendan Tighe. Ball State answered with Kelly’s 40-yard rushing touchdown before the Wildcats regained the lead on a 13-yard touchdown pass from Vezza to Chase Wilson. Ashley’s long touchdown run capped the first-quarter scoring.
Special Teams Make the Difference
New Hampshire’s special teams provided the decisive advantage, highlighted by the blocked punt touchdown return. The Wildcats also controlled field position throughout the game with strong punting and kick coverage.
Ball State had entered the game seeking their first win after losses to Purdue (31-0) and Auburn (42-3) to open the season. The Cardinals now face an uphill battle to achieve bowl eligibility in Uremovich’s inaugural campaign.
New Hampshire improved to 3-0 on the season and demonstrated why they remain a top FCS program capable of competing with FBS opponents.
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