ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. — UTEP played so well in the New Mexico Bowl against heavily favored Fresno State in a 31-24 loss that it left the Miners with a sea of what-ifs.
Ultimately, though, the reason UTEP's bowl-win drought will extend to 55 years is because on this day, a Bulldogs team that was supposed to win by two touchdowns was one touchdown better.
UTEP's last gasp at a huge upset and its first victory this season over a team with a winning record ended when quarterback Gavin Hardison fumbled at the Bulldog 42 with 3:55 remaining, one play after a stunning 27-yard fourth-down strike to Tyrin Smith kept the Miners alive.