MUNCIE, Ind. — In a thrilling matchup on Tuesday night, Brett Gabbert excelled by throwing three touchdown passes, while Dom Dzioban contributed with two key field goals in the fourth quarter, leading Miami (Ohio) to a 27-21 victory over Ball State.
The triumph marked Miami’s fifth win in their last six contests and extended their winning streak to five against Ball State.
Dzioban’s successful field goals—one from 28 yards and another from 39 yards with just 1:48 remaining in the game—accounted for the only points scored in the final quarter.
Gabbert finished the game with a passing completion rate of 50%, achieving 16 passes out of 32 attempts for a total of 219 yards. Notably, his 10-yard touchdown pass to Javon Tracy late in the second quarter enabled the RedHawks to secure a 21-13 advantage going into halftime.
Reggie Virgil was a standout receiver for Miami, catching five passes for a total of 101 yards, which included a notable 34-yard touchdown reception. Moreover, Tracy contributed with six catches amounting to 85 yards, and Kevin Davis also found the end zone with a touchdown catch.
For Ball State, quarterback Kadin Semonza completed 23 out of 36 passes, racking up 280 yards along with a touchdown and two interceptions. A significant highlight for Semonza was his 55-yard touchdown throw to Justin Bowick, which, along with a successful two-point conversion, leveled the score at 21 midway through the third quarter. Bowick finished with a remarkable performance, making eight catches for 171 yards.
Additionally, the Cardinals’ defense was bolstered by Brandon Berger, who achieved a 46-yard interception return for a touchdown during the first quarter.
As the season progresses, both teams look to build on their respective performances in the Mid-American Conference.