How did Arkansas State secure bowl eligibility against Appalachian State?

Arkansas State clinched bowl eligibility by defeating Appalachian State 30-29 with a touchdown in the final minute and a missed field goal by the Mountaineers.

What was the final score between Arkansas State and Appalachian State?

The final score of the game was Arkansas State 30, Appalachian State 29.

Who was the key player in Arkansas State's win over Appalachian State?

Jaylen Raynor was a key player for Arkansas State, throwing for 363 yards and three touchdowns in the victory.

Home / Sports / Arkansas State Stuns Appalachian State in Last-Second Thriller

Arkansas State Stuns Appalachian State in Last-Second Thriller

30 Nov, 2025

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Summary

Jaylen Raynor passed for 363 yards and three touchdowns for the win.
Kenyon Clay scored the winning touchdown with 42 seconds remaining.
Appalachian State missed a game-winning field goal as time expired.

Arkansas State Stuns Appalachian State in Last-Second Thriller

Arkansas State secured bowl eligibility with a thrilling 30-29 win against Appalachian State on Saturday, decided in the final seconds. Quarterback Jaylen Raynor delivered a standout performance, amassing 363 passing yards and three touchdowns to lead the Red Wolves' offense.

The pivotal moment came with just 42 seconds remaining when Kenyon Clay punched in a 1-yard touchdown. This score capped a swift 75-yard drive orchestrated by Raynor, highlighted by a crucial 34-yard completion to Corey Rucker. The Red Wolves' defense then held firm as Appalachian State's final field goal attempt missed.

Appalachian State's hopes for a bowl game were dashed when kicker Dominic De Freitas' 45-yard attempt failed as time expired. The Mountaineers had taken a brief 29-23 lead minutes earlier, but a crucial penalty nullified a potential touchdown. Despite efforts from quarterback JJ Kohl and running back Jaquari Lewis, they couldn't secure the victory.