Kent State (3-6, 2-3 Mid-American Conference) fell to the University at Buffalo (5-4, 3-2 MAC) 18-17 after the Bulls scored a touchdown with 58 seconds remaining in the game.

The Flashes defense allowed 12 unanswered points, including an eight-yard pass from senior Joe Licata to senior tight end Matt Weiser that sealed the win for the Bulls.

“Just a play here and a play there that makes the difference,” Head Coach Paul Haynes said. “But our guys fought hard. I’m proud of them.”

Youth, once again, played a huge role in the demise of Kent after penalties — primarily a pass interference call on 4th and 19 — helped the Buffalo make a run in the second half.

“You never want to just put it on one play,” Haynes said. “We had chances to put them away and we didn’t. It’s a tough one. It’s something that you learn from but it’s a hard lesson to learn in this situation”

Senior safety Jordan Italiano became yet another key player for the Flashes to be ejected from a game due to a targeting call

Sophomore cornerback Demetrius Monday recorded his sixth interception of the season and his second defensive touchdown on a 69-yard touchdown in the second quarter of the game.

The Flashes have four defensive touchdowns on the year, with Monday having two and senior defensive lineman Nate Terhune and sophomore linebacker Ryan Siebert each having one each.

The Flashes used contributions from both junior Colin Reardon and freshman George Bollas in the contest. Bollas was 13-of-21 for 107 yards and one touchdown. Reardon went 6-of-10 for 48 yards and threw one interception.

“We went into the week knowing that he was going to play,” Haynes said. “It’s just like how George played a series or two when Colin was the starter. Same thought process here, in case something happens, we keep them both ready to go.”

Junior safety Nate Holley led the way defensively for the Flashes with 12 tackles.

Licata led the way for Buffalo completing 25-of-39 passes for 190 yards and two touchdowns.

The Flashes will have a quick turnaround next week as they face Ohio University on Tuesday, Sept. 10.

“Adversity makes you stronger and makes you better,” Haynes said. “How we deal with this will tell a lot about this football team. We can’t sit and sulk about we have to get ready for Ohio.”

Kickoff is at 8 pm. In Athens, Ohio.

Contact Stephen Means II at [email protected].