no. 6 UC Davis Football Remains Undefeated with 27-16 Road Victory over Northern Colorado
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The UC Davis Aggies continued their remarkable season, securing a 27-16 victory over the Northern Colorado Bears on Saturday, October 25, 2025, at Nottingham Field in greeley, Colorado. This win keeps the Aggies undefeated in Big Sky Conference play with a record of 6-1 overall and 4-0 in conference matchups, while Northern Colorado falls to 3-5 with a 1-3 conference record.
Aggies Explode in First Half, Hold Off Late Charge
UC Davis established a commanding lead in the first half, utilizing an explosive offensive performance to build a cushion that ultimately proved sufficient to withstand a late rally from the Bears. The Aggies’ ability to capitalize on early opportunities and maintain composure in the face of Northern Colorado’s second-half adjustments was key to their success.
Harper Steps Up, Leads Aggies to victory
Redshirt senior quarterback Grant Harper was thrust into the starting role after Caden pinnick was sidelined due to illness during the week. Harper responded admirably, throwing three first-half touchdowns and finishing the game with 15 completions for 216 yards, three touchdowns, and two interceptions. His performance demonstrated the team’s depth and resilience.
Wide receiver Samuel Gbatu, Jr. proved to be a favorite target for Harper, finishing with 108 receiving yards on five catches, including one touchdown. This marked Gbatu Jr.’s third 100-yard receiving game of the season and the fifth of his career. The Aggies also showcased a strong running game, accumulating 236 rushing yards – the second-highest total of the season and
Initially, the game began on defense, but quickly turned the tide. northern colorado’s opening drive stalled in the red zone, resulting in a missed 41-yard field goal attempt after a block by Rayne Mayo Jr. UC Davis responded with a 40-yard field goal by Hunter Ridley to take a 3-0 lead.
Harper then connected with Jordan Fisher for a 24-yard touchdown pass,followed by another touchdown pass to Samuel Gbatu Jr., extending the lead to 17-0 midway through the second quarter. A fumble recovery by Psyk set up Laviel Pickett for a touchdown reception, increasing the Aggies’ advantage to 24-7 before halftime.
Northern Colorado attempted to mount a comeback in the second half, scoring a touchdown and a field goal to narrow the gap to 24-16. However, the Aggies controlled the clock with a dominant rushing attack on their final drive, culminating in a game-clinching 41-yard field goal by Ridley. The game concluded with an interception by Be Riddick, sealing the 27-16 victory for UC Davis.
Key Stats and Game Notes
- Samuel Gbatu Jr.’s 100-yard receiving game was his third of the season and fifth of his career.
- Grant Harper set career highs in touchdown passes, completions, passing attempts, and rushing yards (43).
- UC Davis recorded 18 team sacks on the season, with Jacob Psych now boasting seven total sacks, nationally ranked.
- The Aggies have opened their conference season with four straight wins for the second consecutive year.
- Head coach Tim Plough remains undefeated in his career following a bye week (3-0 2-0 this season).
Looking Ahead
The UC Davis Aggies (6-1, 4-0) will continue their season with the following schedule:
- Saturday, November 1st – vs. Idaho State – 1:00 PM PT
- saturday, November 8th – @ Idaho – 4:00 PM PT
- Saturday, November 15th – @ Montana State – 7:15 PM PT
- Saturday, November 22nd – vs. Sacramento State – 1:00 PM PT
Postseason TBD.
The Aggies remain tied atop the conference standings and look to continue their winning streak as they navigate a challenging schedule.
