UCLA fans may not feel this way, in fact they may despise Fresno State’s quarterback Jake Haener because of his gutsy performance this past Saturday. However, for the rest of the nation, the Bulldog’s quarterback exemplified the story that we love to see in college football; the underdog story.
Haener, a senior quarterback, has already racked up over 1,400 passing yards in four games this season, and has led the Bulldogs to being ranked 22nd in the most recent AP Top 25 Poll. Growing up in California, Haener’s dream was to play a game in the famous Rose Bowl stadium, and when he got his opportunity he did not disappoint.
Backing it up a little, Haener, coming out of high school, committed to play for the Washington Huskies, but the hero’s tale would take a turn for the worse. He only attempted 13 pass attempts for the Huskies, leading him to transfer to Fresno State and get his first opportunity to start in college last year and did not disappoint. He threw for over 2,000 yards in the shortened season, however the Bulldogs had an average season going 3-3.
Coming into the game against the Bruins, Haener almost led the Bulldogs to a shock upset against the now ranked third Oregon Ducks. This game for Haener simply meant more, the moment he dreamed of in the backyard, playing in the Rose Bowl had finally come. However, instead of being the starter for a school like UCLA or Washington, he came in as a PAC 12 reject with everything to prove.
Throwing for 455 yards, two touchdowns, and an interception, he finished the night off with the game winning touchdown drive that started with 54 seconds remaining. The stats are impressive and knocking off the 13th ranked team on the road is special, but it was the grit and determination that Haener showed that was truly immaculate. On the drive before, Haener took a massive hit to the hip that seemed to be potentially game ending. However, while hobbling around and appearing to be in intense pain, he knew he was not coming out of the game and was going to win that game.
Haener’s performance may have been missed due to it appearing on “PAC 12 After Dark”, but it is one for the ages and a game that reminds us all why we all love college football.