11. Wyoming gives up a Hail Mary but wins anyway
San Diego State’s game against Wyoming took a strange turn after the Aztecs’ prayers were answered on a Hail Mary, leading to one of the most exciting finishes to any game in 2016.
The No. 24 Aztecs entered the November 19 matchup in Laramie at 9-1 and were looking to remain in contention for the G5 berth in the New Year’s Six. While favored by over a touchdown, San Diego State figured to get a test from an improved 7-3 Wyoming team that was enjoying its best season in five years.
Wyoming kept it close throughout, eventually tying the game at 27 early in the fourth quarter. With just over a minute to go, the Cowboys took their first lead of the game on Josh Allen’s 29-yard touchdown pass to C.J. Johnson.
San Diego State quickly moved down the field and got all the way to the Wyoming 23 yard line with one snap left in the game. After the ensuing pass was originally ruled incomplete, referees determined that Quest Truxton somehow came down with a batted down Hail Mary as time expired, getting the Aztecs within an extra point.
Rather than send the game to overtime, Rocky Long decided to go for the win on a two-point conversion. Christian Chapman’s pass was swatted down, giving Wyoming a dramatic 34-33 victory that helped them earn a berth in the Mountain West Championship Game.
The Aztecs would get revenge by beating the Cowboys in that title game, but the win over San Diego State on November 19 was a highlight of a banner season for a Wyoming program that is quickly improving under Craig Bohl.