On Saturday, the Hilltopper football team did something they haven’t done in 1,127 days. For the first time in 3 years, they left L.T. Smith Stadium winners. Heading into the game, many students were optimistic, but on paper, the Rajin’ Cajuns of the University of Louisiana Lafayette were heavy favorites. ULL entered the game boasting a 6-1 record with the lone loss coming from #3 Oklahoma State. The Rajin’ Cajuns were looking for a big game out of Bobby Rainey, but there was no way to predict that both Rainey (RB) and Kawaun Jakes (QB) would have a career day.
The Hilltoppers started off strong with their first drive ending with a 1-yard TD run by Bobby Rainey. From this point on, the Hilltoppers would never lose the lead. This was due in part to an exceptional offensive performance all around lead by Jakes and Rainey. Jakes arguably had the best game of his career completing 15 of his 18 passes for 242 yards and a touch down. This performance prevented the defense from expecting the run and forced them to play deep. This opened up the field and Rainey took advantage. Rainey ran for 206 yards on 32 carries and found the endzone a career high 3 times. This exceptional performance earned Rainey national recognition. He received an ESPN College Gameday helmet sticker, along with the honor of being named national running back of the week from the College Football Performance Awards.
The performance on the field was great, as well as the fan support (on the field). The loyal WKU students have been waiting a while to rush the field, and on Saturday they finally got the chance. WKU had its biggest win of the season in front of its home crowd and the Hilltoppers definitely have momentum heading into the final stretch of the season. If the Hilltoppers can secure a win on the road this weekend against the University of Louisiana-Monroe, they will extend their winning streak to four. It would be the first time since 2005 the Hilltoppers have achieved this feat.
If you missed any of the exciting action from the Homecoming win last Saturday, check out this video courtesy of HSSN.
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