October 25th, 2025 3:00pm
From IUP sports information:
INDIANA, Pa. — Matthew Rueve threw for 260 yards and two touchdowns to lead Indiana University of Pennsylvania to a 38–30 victory over California (Pa.) in the 16th annual Coal Bowl on Saturday at George P. Miller Stadium.
The win improves IUP's record to 5–2 overall and 3–1 in the Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference Western Division, while California (Pa.) falls to 5–3 and 2–3 in the conference.
The Crimson Hawks trailed 14–7 after the first quarter but rallied with 14 unanswered points in the second quarter to take a 21–17 lead into halftime. IUP added 17 more points in the second half, including a game-clinching 10-point fourth quarter.
Rueve's performance was complemented by running back Leon Parson, who rushed for 47 yards and a touchdown, and wide receiver Devin Whitlock, who caught six passes for 69 yards and a touchdown.
California (Pa.) was led by quarterback Phaeton Hill, who passed for 214 yards and a touchdown, and running back Deontae Williams, who rushed for 108 yards and a touchdown.
The Coal Bowl rivalry, which dates back to 1908, has been closely contested in recent years. IUP now leads the all-time series 65–31–3, including snapping California (Pa.)'s two-game winning streak with Saturday's victory.
Whitlock earned the Lippencott Most Valuable Player for his performance in the game.