By Randy Burns And Pk Bartley
When Nate Smith put the Cards up 3-0 by nailing a 44-yard field goal with 13:18 left in the first quarter, it was the first time that Florida State had trailed to an opponent all year.
The James Greene’s blocked punt, which was recovered by the Cards on the FSU 2-yard line, made the fourth blocked punt by the Cards’ special teams this year. Greene is the third different U of L player to block a punt this season.
With 43 yards rushing, QB Dave Ragone became the Uof L record-holder for career rushing yards by a Cardinal QB with 536 yards (Wally Oyler was the previous record holder with 501 from 1966-68).
Dave Ragone’s 30-yard touchdown pass to Joshua Tinch in the third quarter gave him at least one touchdown pass in 15 consecutive games and 28-of-30 for his career.
Nate Smith’s two first-half goals gave him 23 for his career, moving him into a fourth-place tie on the U of L career charts.
Dewayne White’s third-quarter sack of Chris Rix gave him 29.5 for his career, moving him past Kendrick Gholston and into second place on the U of L career list. He now trails only Michael Josiah, who holds the record with 31.
Dewayne White moved into a tie with Michael Josiah for the U of L career record for tackles for loss (43).
“This is a huge make up after the Kentucky game. It was worth sitting through the rain,” said sophomore business major Robert Tom.
“By far, this is the biggest win in Conference USA history,” said Conference USA Assistant Commissioner Brian Tetar.
