WKU Football: Tops Fall Apart in the Moonshine Throwdown against Marshall, 38–14
Following an emotionally charged first win in last week’s game over rivals MTSU, the Tops were focused on continuing the momentum as they…
Following an emotionally charged first win in last week’s game over rivals MTSU, the Tops were focused on continuing the momentum as they were looking to go 2–2 on the season. This would require a round of home cooking, courtesy of the guests, Marshall Thundering Herd. The 2020 installment of the Moonshine Throwdown kicked off at The Houch on Saturday night.
After a 2–0 start for the CUSA offensive juggernauts, the Herd wanted to play spoiler on Homecoming Night. They didn't waste any time making their way down the field after receiving the opening kickoff. This resulted in a Brendan Knox rushing touchdown after a quick two-play drive with 14:22 left in the first quarter.
On the Tops' second offensive drive, Tyrell Pigrome elevated the game with his arm and his legs. This was only short-lived as he fumbled the ball trying to convert on a 4th and 1 play. This was a turnover, heading in favor of Marshall. The rushing attack continues as Sheldon Evans could not be stopped. The Herd once again scored, as the lead goes to 14–0 with 2:21 left in the first.
In the second quarter, things started to look up for Western. They have stopped the Marshall offense twice and on offense, was able to convert on 3rd down after four attempts. After punting the ball, Marshall went back to their dominant ways as quarterback Grant Wells shredded the secondary. Knox once again was able to find the end zone, increasing the lead 21–0 with 2:14 left in the second quarter. On ensuing drives for the Hilltoppers, Pigrome had fumbled the ball twice over conversion plays. Knox’s day continued all the way into halftime as he was able to gain another touchdown over the beleaguered Tops defense. Over ten carries and 82 yards, he scored his career-high third touchdown in the game. With 27 seconds left, the Herd still led 28–0 into the final whistle before halftime. Marshall outgained Western on total offense, 263–86 on complete yardage.
Heading into the third quarter, Western received the kickoff. This didn't translate for any good fortune as John Haggerty punted the ball for Marshall’s turn. On defense, Damon Lowe Jr. recorded the first sack of the night for Western’s. During the third quarter, Pigrome fumbled the ball on a handoff attempt, which brought the number of turnovers to three. The fumble resulted in a third recovery for defensive end Tavante Beckett. Beckett returned the ball for a touchdown, bringing the score now to 35–0. After a poor showing for Pigrome, quarterback Kevaris Thomas was pulled into the game for some much-needed relief.
Shane Cuicci kicked a field goal for Marshall after they were held back in their red zone possession. This increases the Thundering Herd lead into 38–0. The offense was finally able to show some life. Thomas moved the ball effectively, including a 51-yard pass to Xavier Lane.
Two plays later, Thomas was able to end the shutout on a 2-yard quarterback keeper. After almost three full quarters of inept activities, the Tops trail 38–7.
in the fourth quarter, time was going fast due to a continuous clock. On offense, Thomas had some opportunities to showcase his talent. In the final minutes, Thomas was able to find Dalvin Smith for a 26-yard touchdown.
As time ran out, Marshall went on to win this year’s Moonshine Throwdown with the final score, 38–14.
Notes from the game:
Marshall has now beaten Western four years in a row. The Moonshine Throwdown was more of a sit down for the boys in red. You would have to wonder how this rivalry will play out as Grant Wells remains at quarterback for Marshall.
For most of the game, the offense was not syncing at all. The running game was at its flattest all season. Josh Simon had two dropped catches on potential conversion plays. Xavier Lane continues to be the next man up at receiver alongside Craig Burt Jr.
The defense was obliterated. The group is experiencing a shift of confusion after last year’s success. It also doesn’t help that in the first four games, the Tops had to face some dominant offenses.
Thomas looked like the better option at quarterback even if it wasn’t for a long duration on Saturday. His throws looked well-timed and he had no issue with ball security. Despite Pigrome being one of the conference leaders in passing, tonight just was not his night. Hopefully, this QB change can benefit us in the long run.
The Tops are now 1–3 (1–1 in CUSA) on the year and will face a tough road test next Saturday in Birmingham against UAB. Here are the final stats from The Houch:
