We saw clutch takedowns, unthinkable comebacks and some outstanding technique at this years University Trials in Akron.  Here were my top 8 favorite matches of the entire weekend! 

8. 70 kg Quarterfinal - Brandon Sorenson, University Of Iowa vs Colin Heffernan, Central Michigan

It was a tight one throughout, but Sorensen's late clutch scramble eeked it out late. 

7. 86 kg Quarterfinal - Peter Renda, Wolfpack vs Riley Lefever, Wabash

Lefever surprised Renda early with a filthy cradle.  They'd go back and forth.  The match was nearly lost by the NC State All American with Lefever close to a go behind late in the bout.

6. 97 kg Final - Nikko Reyes, Northern Colorado vs Kyven Gadson, Cyclone Wrestling Club Match 2

Gadson came in HOT for this one, single leg off the whistle to a lace.  What happened next was absolutely stunning to me. 

5. 70kg r3, Michael Kemerer, Iowa vs Oliver Pierce, ASU

This one started with a "potentially dangerous" headlock and ended with a furious comeback. 

4. 61 kg Quarterfinal - Zane Richards, IRTC vs Shelton Mack, Cavalier WC

An out of control SEVEN lead changes in this one.  Both these guys had their share of outstanding takedowns.  A late one brought it home for Zane Richards. 

3. 80kg r2, Alex Meyer, Iowa vs Nick Kee, App State

From down 6-0, then 8-2, then 13-6, Alex Meyer found a way.  I'm not sure there's a wrestler in the country who winds up in more crazy matches than Alex Meyer. I came away impressed with Kee's game from his feet. 

2. 74 kg Final - Isaiah Martinez, Illinois vs Chance Marsteller, Lock Haven

Some outstanding Freestyle wrestling here.  It wasn't just guys exchanging leg attack takedowns, we saw head pinches, multiple throws, dumps, etc.  Marsteller held the lead after 1, but it's tough to swim in IMAR's deep waters. 

1. 61 kg Final - Zane Richards, Illinois vs Tyler Graff, Wisconsin Match 2

All was going according to plan.  Freestyle stud Tyler Graff won match 1 convincingly and looked to be poised to close this out in two straight.  With Graff leading 6-0 in the 2nd, it was over in the eyes of many.  The 2nd period proved to be the property of Zane Richards outscoring Graff 11-5 in the match's final set including a takedown in the last 30 seconds that would give Zane the win.