ORONO, Maine — In a decisive matchup that closed out the season for both teams, New Hampshire triumphed over Maine with a score of 27-9 on Saturday. Caleb Mead made significant contributions for the Wildcats, rushing for 113 yards and scoring a touchdown.

The game began with Maine taking an early lead, scoring 9 points in the first quarter. Joey Bryson successfully kicked a 39-yard field goal, and Carter Peevy connected with Montigo Moss for an 8-yard touchdown pass, putting Maine ahead. However, as the second quarter progressed, New Hampshire adjusted their strategy and shifted momentum in their favor.

Midway through the second quarter, the Wildcats began a remarkable comeback, scoring 27 unanswered points. They first made a dent in Maine’s lead when Denzell Gibson plunged into the end zone from one yard out, capping a 13-play drive that traveled 81 yards and consumed over six minutes of the game clock, bringing the score to 9-7 just before halftime.

Things took a dramatic turn right at the start of the third quarter when Mead broke free for a 57-yard touchdown run, giving New Hampshire their first lead of the game at 14-9. The Wildcats continued to pile on the points as Nick Mazzie converted two field goals from 21 and 22 yards. Seth Morgan then added to the score with a 7-yard rushing touchdown, sealing the game with just over two minutes remaining.

For Maine, Peevy completed the game with 168 passing yards, but it wasn’t enough to secure the win against the Wildcats. Both teams ended their seasons with contrasting outcomes, with New Hampshire finishing with a record of 8-4, including 6-2 in the Coastal Athletic Association, while Maine ended at 5-7 with a 3-5 record in the same conference.