Sport: Football Country: United States Category: Scores & Results

William & Mary rallies late to edge Villanova 35-32 in season opener

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 29, 2026, 2:10 AM

Last updated Aug 29, 2026

William & Mary rallies late to edge Villanova 35-32 in season opener

Summary

William & Mary scored 13 points in the final minute to defeat Villanova 35-32 in their season opener on August 28, 2026. Max Lipinski kicked a 45-yard field goal as time expired, marking his fifth field goal of the game. The Tribe had been trailing late but rallied, with Cade Ellis returning an interception to set up a touchdown, tying the game shortly before Lipinski's game-winner. Villanova had previously led 32-22, aided by two touchdowns in the closing minutes, following Jamie Tyson's interception return. This match was part of both teams' Patriot League debut after moving from the Coastal Athletic Association.

Source Links

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Status Watch

•William & Mary rallied from a 10-point deficit in the final minute.
•Max Lipinski completed five field goals, including the game-winner.
•Winston Watkins threw for 254 yards and two touchdowns.
•Villanova had previously enjoyed a nine-game win streak in season openers.
•Both teams were making their Patriot League debuts.

Latest Updates

2:10 AMYahoo Sports — William & Mary scores 13 points in final minute to beat Villanova 35-32 in season opener

What they're saying

"
Max Lipinski kicked a 45-yard field goal as time expired to cap a run of 13 William & Mary points in the final minute and the Tribe beat Villanova 35-32 on Friday night in a season and Patriot League opener. Lipinski's winner was his fifth field goal of the game and came after Cade Ellis returned an interception 24 yards to the Wildcats' 28. Winston Watkins passed for a 37-yard touchdown to Kai Austin and the PAT tied the game with 22 seconds remaining.
— Yahoo Sports

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