Redding, Calif. — Mayville State Comets football showed grit and resilience on the road Saturday afternoon, overcoming a 10-point halftime deficit to earn a hard-fought 21-17 victory over Simpson University in Redding, California.

The Red Hawks struck quickly in the first half, with an early field goal in the first 5 minutes. Mayville State responded immediately on the next drive when quarterback Matthew Donovan hit Kelby Azure for a 31-yard touchdown strike, taking the lead 7-3. Simpson made their way down the field twice and a jumped out to a 17-7 lead at the break.

But the Comets refused to fold. Behind a powerful rushing attack, Mayville State controlled the second half on both sides of the ball. The turning point came in the third quarter, when the Comets orchestrated a marathon 18-play, 101-yard drive capped by a rushing touchdown from Isaiah Smith to pull within three.

Mayville's defense then held Simpson scoreless the rest of the way, tightening up against the pass and forcing the Red Hawks into long-yardage situations. With just over six minutes left in the game, the Comets took the lead for good on a 10-play, 85-yard drive. Moses Nuahpa broke free for a crucial touch down, giving Mayville State a 21-17 advantage.

From there, the Comets leaned on their defense and clock-eating ground game to seal the win. Mayville State finished with 344 rushing yards, dominating time of possession by nearly 20 minutes. Smith led the charge with 79 yards and a score on eight carries, while Donovan and Nuahpa combined for over 130 rushing yards.

The Comets improved their record to 3-1 overall and returns home this Saturday for Famers Bowl & Homecoming. They will host Arizona Christian on Saturday at 2:00pm at Jerome Berg Field.

For full Famers Bowl and Homecoming information visit: https://www.mayvillestate.edu/alumni-friends/events/farmers-bowlhomecoming-2025/