2010 Week 5

Geno Smith hit a diving Will Johnson in the end zone with just 10 seconds remaining to give West Virginia a thrilling come-from-behind 24-20 victory over Syracuse Thursday night in Morgantown. The score capped a gutsy performance for the Mountaineers who raillied in the fourth quarter after trailing 20-10 at the end of three.

The Eers were led by Sophomore QB Geno Smith who rallied West Virginia after throwing a costly pick in the third that the Orange returned the length of the field for a score.

With the scored tied at 10 all in the third, WVU appeared headed for at least a field goal to take the lead when K Scott stepped in front of a Smith pass and returned it the entire length of the field. The Orange then added a field goal with just over a minute left in the third to take a 20-10 lead. But Smith and the Eers were not to be denied.

Smith found JD Woods on a 5 yard slant to get within a field goal at 20-17 with 2 and half minutes remaining. After the Mountaineer defense forced a three and out, Smith and his troops went to work. The drive culminated with a 9 pass to TE Will Johnson who made a diving catch that will be shown on Mountaineer highlight reels forever.

Smith finished the game 21 of 34 for 209 yards and three TDs. He did have the one costly pic. The Mountaineer running game for the most part was held in check by the Orange. Noel Devine was held to 75 yards on 22 carries. Forced to the air by the Orange D, WVU's receivers stepped up. Jock Sanders finished with 6 catches for 72 yards and JD Woods caught 7 balls for 90 yards and the one touchdown.

The WVU defense certainly stood up when it counted most. Needing a quick three and out was just what the doctor ordered after the Woods score and this veteran group was up to the challenge. The Eers were led by host of defenders. Eain Smith led the way with six tackles and was followed by Chris Neild, Keith Tandy, and Pat Lazier who all finished with five stops.

WVU returns to action next Saturday with another Big East matchup at home with Rutgers.