Baylor Edges Out Cincinnati in Thrilling Big 12 Clash

Despite trailing 29-14 as they entered the fourth quarter, Cincinnati managed to outscore Baylor 15-3 in the final period. However, their comeback efforts fell short, and Baylor secured the win, improving their season record to 3-4 (2-2 in the Big 12).

Baylor's quarterback, Blake Shapen, had an impressive performance, amassing 316 passing yards with 25 completions out of 42 attempts and one touchdown. He frequently connected with Ketron Jackson Jr., who recorded 130 receiving yards. Cincinnati had two standout rushers in the game, with Corey Kiner gaining 129 yards and Myles Montgomery contributing 108 yards along with two touchdowns. Notably, Xzavier Henderson, who had been without a catch in their previous game against Iowa State, made a significant impact with eight catches for 82 yards and two touchdowns.

Cincinnati outperformed Baylor in total offense with 450 yards compared to Baylor's 396, and they dominated the rushing game, outrushing the Bears 288-80.

Mistakes haunted Cincinnati once again, as early errors cost them scoring opportunities and, in some cases, resulted in points for Baylor. In their opening drive, Cincinnati advanced to Baylor's 20-yard line, but a fumbled snap by quarterback Emory Jones thwarted their chance to score. While they managed to take a 7-3 lead in the second quarter with a touchdown pass from Jones to Henderson, a familiar pattern emerged. Baylor swiftly regained the lead, similar to their previous game against Iowa State, with a touchdown by Shapen and a muffed kickoff return by Braden Smith. This time, Jeremy Evans of Baylor caused the fumble, which Byron Vaughns recovered for a touchdown, resulting in a 14-point swing in Baylor's favor.

Cincinnati closed the gap with a 38-yard touchdown by Montgomery before halftime, but their opportunity to take the lead just before the half ended with a failed offensive possession. The score at halftime favored Baylor, with Cincinnati trailing 20-14.

In the third quarter, Cincinnati reached the Baylor 15-yard line but chose to go for it on a 4th-and-3 instead of attempting a field goal. Baylor's defense stopped them, extending their lead to 29-14. However, Cincinnati mounted a comeback effort in the fourth quarter, narrowing the deficit to 32-29, but their last drive fell short, resulting in their fifth consecutive loss.

With this defeat, Cincinnati's season record stands at 2-5, and they face Oklahoma State in their next game.

Cincinnati faced another challenging loss in the Big 12 conference against Baylor, falling short in a game that was characterized by mistakes and missed opportunities. Despite their strong offensive performance, they were unable to secure a win, extending their losing streak.

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