The #12 ranked Hobart Statesmen travelled down I-90 to Worcester, Massachusetts to face the WPI Engineers. Both teams would turn over the ball on their opening offensive possessions, but the Engineers Nick Chambers 45 yard interception return would set up the home team with the first scoring opportunity of the game. Three plays later running back Chris Turner would find the end zone from 10 yards out to give WPI an early 6-0 lead. The Mitchell Lewis extra point would be wide left.
The Statesmen would recover and tie it on the ensuing drive capping an eight play, 54 yard drive with a two yard JR RB Steven Webb touchdown run. The Engineers would one up their nationally ranked opponents again, blocking the extra point attempt and returning it for a two point score to maintain an 8-6 lead in the first quarter.
Hobart would finally take the lead when SR QB Nick Strang found JR WR Yosh Karbownizcak 10 yards behind the defense. Karbownizcak would easily score on the 40 yard catch and run. The FY PK James Hull kick was good and giving Hobart a 13-8 lead with 44 seconds to go in the first quarter.
The Statesmen would expand their lead after a 39 yard SR WR Junior Woodard catch and run set up the Hobart offense in the WPI red zone. Another Woodard catch would set up Webb from the two yard line where he would score his second touchdown of the game. The Hull extra point was good and Hobart stretched their lead to 20-8.
With the defense asserting itself on the WPI offense, Hobart would drive 83 yards finding FY FB Chris Holoman for four yards. The catch was the first in Holoman’s collegiate career, and it was good for a touchdown. With the Hull extra point the visitors pushed their advantage to 27-8.
Hobart would add to their lead on a Hail Mary which would be caught by Karbownizcak at the two yard line and run into the end zone as the first half expired. The Hull extra point was good and Hobart took a 34-8 lead into halftime.
The Statesmen outgained WPI 367 to 52 yards in the first half and ultimately put the reserves in the second half coasting to a 61-8 victory. FY LB Trayvon Toney scored on a pick six and FY RB Conner Hartigan is looking at another LL Rookie of the Week award after a 16 carry, 106 rushing yard and one TD performance.
The final score tied a modern Hobart record for points scored in a game (the Statesmen defeated Kenyon 61-0 back in 1953). Hobart SID Ken DeBolt indicated that Hobart’s highest point total was 70 points all the way back in 1896.
Hobart improves to 5-0, 2-0 in the LL and WPI drops to 1-4, 0-2. Next week the Statesmen host Springfield at Boswell Field.
Saturday, September 29, 2012
Wednesday, September 26, 2012
The (No Snow) WPI Game Preview
The #12 ranked Hobart Statesmen will make their longest road trip of the season Saturday when they travel down I-90 to face the WPI Engineers in Worcester, Mass for a 12 PM kickoff. The addition of Springfield to the Liberty League (LL) in the offseason necessitated Hobart’s return trip to Worcester for scheduling purposes.
Last season the (then #25 ranked) Statesmen would score quickly off of two WPI mistakes in the first five minutes of the game en route to a 27-13 halftime lead. The second half would literally become a “Halloween whiteout” as a heavy snowfall hit all of New England (including my hometown of Avon, CT shutting down power and forcing my friends and family back home to head to hotels given the large number of downed power lines). Neither team could do much in the snowy conditions in the second half and the Statesmen hung on for a 27-13 win.
This weekend’s game is a one featuring programs headed in different directions. The Statesmen (4-0, 1-0) are coming off another big win. WPI (1-3, 0-1), while impressive in Week 1 vs. former New England Football Conference (NEFC) champion Curry College, has lost three in a row, the last two games by a combined score of 59-20.
The Engineers biggest struggles have come on offense where they rank seventh in the Liberty League (LL) in scoring (14.5 PPG), rushing offense (averaging 104.2 YPG) and are last in the conference in total offense (248.8 YPG). WPI’s six offensive TD’s scored in four games is tied for last with Saint Lawrence (0-4, 0-1). Defensively WPI has fared better and is in the middle of the pack, ranked fourth overall in rushing and total defense allowing 160.8 and 344.2 YPG, respectively.
Part of WPI’s struggles is a quarterback competition between JR QB Johnny Antonopoulos and SO Jacob Grills that does not seem to have resolved. Neither QB has been terribly effective with Antonopoulos and Grills completing only 44.4 and 45.7 percent of their passes and throwing for a paltry 67 and 94.2 YPG average. Another issue has been the running game. SO RB Zach Grasis rushed for 232 yards in the Engineers first two games, but has only gained 59 in the two games since (in the last game vs. RPI Grasis had three carries for seven yards which makes we wonder if he left the game due to an injury?).
Where WPI does have some playmakers however is on the defensive side of the ball. SR LB Shane Grogan is first in the LL in total tackles with 43 (10.8 TPG) and five tackles for a loss (TFL). SR DL Joe Everett is fourth in the LL with 7 TFL (all seven coming against local rival Worcester State which earned him a Defensive Performer of the Week nod by the LL in Week 2), and forced one fumble.
Keys to the Game:
1. Run. The. Ball. – Hobart’s passing game was fairly mediocre last Saturday with Hobart SR QB Nick Strang having one of, if not, his worst career start, completing only six of ten for 77 yards and three interceptions (INTs). By contrast the Statesmen ground out an impressive season high 303 rushing yards vs. the Mariners and should follow the same script against WPI.
2. Creating (and avoiding) turnovers – WPI shares a dubious distinction with Hobart in that they are second to last in the LL with a -4 turnover margin. Fortunately most of the Statesmen’s turnovers haven’t really come back to haunt them, other than allowing Utica and USMMA some hope until the offense settled and put those games out of reach by 19 and 20 points, respectively. Grills and Antonopoulos have combined for seven INTs and will likely need to pass the ball against the Hobart defensive front that is allowing only 85.5 rushing YPG (the Statesmen's rush defense stats were worsened after taking a 35-6 lead then allowing around 180 rush yards to the USMMA in the fourth quarter with the reserves in). This will make the Engineers susceptible to sacks (they’ve allowed 10 so far this season) and interceptions by the Statesmen secondary (JR CB Connor Garrett made a particularly spectacular one last Saturday against the USMMA).
3. Discipline – The Statesmen have looked great, if not dominant at times this season, but have yet to play a complete and disciplined game. The very high (30) number of penalties (not to mention what were mostly self-inflicted turnovers), particularly personal fouls, has to stop for this team to win a championship and advance (deep) into the playoffs. Aside from the final score of Saturday’s game, the stat I will watch most closely is to see if Hobart can avoid their current 73.2 YPG of penalties. By contrast, Statesmen opponents have been flagged for only 41.5 YPG.
Prediction:
Hobart is 8-0 all time vs. WPI winning those contests by an average score of 35-19. Fortunately the forecast for this weekend in Worcester is free of snow, but there is a (40%) chance of rain, and funny things can happen with a wet football. That said, while I expect the Engineers to give the Statesmen some trouble defensively, I can’t see the WPI offense being able to put up enough points to contend with Hobart.
I’ll take Hobart in another dominant win, 42-14.
Last season the (then #25 ranked) Statesmen would score quickly off of two WPI mistakes in the first five minutes of the game en route to a 27-13 halftime lead. The second half would literally become a “Halloween whiteout” as a heavy snowfall hit all of New England (including my hometown of Avon, CT shutting down power and forcing my friends and family back home to head to hotels given the large number of downed power lines). Neither team could do much in the snowy conditions in the second half and the Statesmen hung on for a 27-13 win.
This weekend’s game is a one featuring programs headed in different directions. The Statesmen (4-0, 1-0) are coming off another big win. WPI (1-3, 0-1), while impressive in Week 1 vs. former New England Football Conference (NEFC) champion Curry College, has lost three in a row, the last two games by a combined score of 59-20.
The Engineers biggest struggles have come on offense where they rank seventh in the Liberty League (LL) in scoring (14.5 PPG), rushing offense (averaging 104.2 YPG) and are last in the conference in total offense (248.8 YPG). WPI’s six offensive TD’s scored in four games is tied for last with Saint Lawrence (0-4, 0-1). Defensively WPI has fared better and is in the middle of the pack, ranked fourth overall in rushing and total defense allowing 160.8 and 344.2 YPG, respectively.
Part of WPI’s struggles is a quarterback competition between JR QB Johnny Antonopoulos and SO Jacob Grills that does not seem to have resolved. Neither QB has been terribly effective with Antonopoulos and Grills completing only 44.4 and 45.7 percent of their passes and throwing for a paltry 67 and 94.2 YPG average. Another issue has been the running game. SO RB Zach Grasis rushed for 232 yards in the Engineers first two games, but has only gained 59 in the two games since (in the last game vs. RPI Grasis had three carries for seven yards which makes we wonder if he left the game due to an injury?).
Where WPI does have some playmakers however is on the defensive side of the ball. SR LB Shane Grogan is first in the LL in total tackles with 43 (10.8 TPG) and five tackles for a loss (TFL). SR DL Joe Everett is fourth in the LL with 7 TFL (all seven coming against local rival Worcester State which earned him a Defensive Performer of the Week nod by the LL in Week 2), and forced one fumble.
Keys to the Game:
1. Run. The. Ball. – Hobart’s passing game was fairly mediocre last Saturday with Hobart SR QB Nick Strang having one of, if not, his worst career start, completing only six of ten for 77 yards and three interceptions (INTs). By contrast the Statesmen ground out an impressive season high 303 rushing yards vs. the Mariners and should follow the same script against WPI.
2. Creating (and avoiding) turnovers – WPI shares a dubious distinction with Hobart in that they are second to last in the LL with a -4 turnover margin. Fortunately most of the Statesmen’s turnovers haven’t really come back to haunt them, other than allowing Utica and USMMA some hope until the offense settled and put those games out of reach by 19 and 20 points, respectively. Grills and Antonopoulos have combined for seven INTs and will likely need to pass the ball against the Hobart defensive front that is allowing only 85.5 rushing YPG (the Statesmen's rush defense stats were worsened after taking a 35-6 lead then allowing around 180 rush yards to the USMMA in the fourth quarter with the reserves in). This will make the Engineers susceptible to sacks (they’ve allowed 10 so far this season) and interceptions by the Statesmen secondary (JR CB Connor Garrett made a particularly spectacular one last Saturday against the USMMA).
3. Discipline – The Statesmen have looked great, if not dominant at times this season, but have yet to play a complete and disciplined game. The very high (30) number of penalties (not to mention what were mostly self-inflicted turnovers), particularly personal fouls, has to stop for this team to win a championship and advance (deep) into the playoffs. Aside from the final score of Saturday’s game, the stat I will watch most closely is to see if Hobart can avoid their current 73.2 YPG of penalties. By contrast, Statesmen opponents have been flagged for only 41.5 YPG.
Prediction:
Hobart is 8-0 all time vs. WPI winning those contests by an average score of 35-19. Fortunately the forecast for this weekend in Worcester is free of snow, but there is a (40%) chance of rain, and funny things can happen with a wet football. That said, while I expect the Engineers to give the Statesmen some trouble defensively, I can’t see the WPI offense being able to put up enough points to contend with Hobart.
I’ll take Hobart in another dominant win, 42-14.
Sunday, September 23, 2012
Hobart Up to #12 in D3football.com Poll
The Hobart Statesmen (4-0, 1-0) moved up one spot to the twelveth position in this week's D3football.com poll (see link below):
http://www.d3football.com/top25/2012/week4
Hobart received 325 points from a panel of 25 SIDs, Coaches and National Columists. Once again, this standing is the highest for the Statesmen in the D3football.com poll since it's inception in 2003.
More on the upcoming WPI contest later this week. Check out www.inthehuddlle.com for an interview with Hobart Defensive Coordinator Scott Yoder on the archive of tonight's (9/23/12) show.
Hobart also cracked the Top 10 of the AFCA Division III Football polls as well, but as previously stated, I put (a lot) more stock in the D3football.com rankings.
Thanks for reading and go 'Bart!
http://www.d3football.com/top25/2012/week4
Hobart received 325 points from a panel of 25 SIDs, Coaches and National Columists. Once again, this standing is the highest for the Statesmen in the D3football.com poll since it's inception in 2003.
More on the upcoming WPI contest later this week. Check out www.inthehuddlle.com for an interview with Hobart Defensive Coordinator Scott Yoder on the archive of tonight's (9/23/12) show.
Hobart also cracked the Top 10 of the AFCA Division III Football polls as well, but as previously stated, I put (a lot) more stock in the D3football.com rankings.
Thanks for reading and go 'Bart!
Saturday, September 22, 2012
#13 Hobart Sinks Mariners, 42-21
The #13 Hobart Statesmen donned their camouflage uniforms in honor of our troops today hosting the United States Merchant Marine Academy on Family Weekend in Geneva. With the Mariners pinned deep, Hobart fielded a short punt and only needed four plays to score a JR RB Steven Webb nine yard touchdown (TD) run to take an early 7-0 lead. The Statesmen would add a second rushing TD, this time a SR RB Bobby Dougherty four yard run to push the lead to 14-0 to close the first quarter.
The second quarter saw the Mariners take advantage of two SR QB Nick Strang miscues for interceptions. The Merchant Marine would drive into the Statesmen red zone twice but the Hobart defense would hold both times forcing the Mariners to settle for 22 and 21 yard Daniel Kennedy field goals.
The 14-6 score would hold at the half.
The Statesmen defense would come up big again to open the third quarter but a good Mariner punt would pin Hobart back at their own five yard line. The Statesmen would grind out an impressive 16 play, 95 yard drive which ended when SO FB Dominque Ellis dove into the end zone for a three yard TD with 3:28 to play in the third quarter.
Hobart would get the ball back almost immediately when JR CB Connor Garrett picked off Mariner SO QB Luke Stidham. Webb would effectively ice the game a few plays later on a 38 yard TD run. Webb would break a nearly identical play on the ensuing possession for a 39 yard TD to push the home team to a 35-6 lead.
Although the defense would allow two fourth quarter Mariner TDs, FY RB Conner Hartigan would score his first collegiate and Hobart's final TD of the game to give the Statesmen a hard fought 42-21 victory.
Hobart was lead by Webb with 150 rushing yards and three TDs. Defensively the Statesmen were lead by SR LB Andrew Klindera and SO LB Nolan Toran with eight total tackles and 1.5 TFL a piece.
The win moves Hobart to 4-0 on the season, 1-0 in the LL. Next week the Statesmen will travel to Worcester in their longest road trip of the season to face WPI (1-3, 0-1). More this game and a look at WPI next week.
Go 'Bart!
The second quarter saw the Mariners take advantage of two SR QB Nick Strang miscues for interceptions. The Merchant Marine would drive into the Statesmen red zone twice but the Hobart defense would hold both times forcing the Mariners to settle for 22 and 21 yard Daniel Kennedy field goals.
The 14-6 score would hold at the half.
The Statesmen defense would come up big again to open the third quarter but a good Mariner punt would pin Hobart back at their own five yard line. The Statesmen would grind out an impressive 16 play, 95 yard drive which ended when SO FB Dominque Ellis dove into the end zone for a three yard TD with 3:28 to play in the third quarter.
Hobart would get the ball back almost immediately when JR CB Connor Garrett picked off Mariner SO QB Luke Stidham. Webb would effectively ice the game a few plays later on a 38 yard TD run. Webb would break a nearly identical play on the ensuing possession for a 39 yard TD to push the home team to a 35-6 lead.
Although the defense would allow two fourth quarter Mariner TDs, FY RB Conner Hartigan would score his first collegiate and Hobart's final TD of the game to give the Statesmen a hard fought 42-21 victory.
Hobart was lead by Webb with 150 rushing yards and three TDs. Defensively the Statesmen were lead by SR LB Andrew Klindera and SO LB Nolan Toran with eight total tackles and 1.5 TFL a piece.
The win moves Hobart to 4-0 on the season, 1-0 in the LL. Next week the Statesmen will travel to Worcester in their longest road trip of the season to face WPI (1-3, 0-1). More this game and a look at WPI next week.
Go 'Bart!
Thursday, September 20, 2012
Hobart Goes Camo to Honor Our Troops at Homecoming
HWS SID Ken DeBolt (@HWSSID) tweeted today that the #13 ranked Hobart Statesmen (3-0) will don their camouflage jerseys in honor of our troops for this Saturday's 1 pm showdown against the US Merchant Marine Academy (2-1).
Hobart initially had this special jerseys made back in 2009 as part of supporting the Wounded Warrior Project and debuted in a home game against Saint Lawrence, which the Statesmen won 33-10, giving Head Coach Mike Cragg his (first) 100th win.
USMMA / Homecoming Game Preview
First off, thank you readers for visiting this site over 2,000 times this month. Last month was a record number of visits but September broke it a few days ago and cracked the 2k visits ceiling this morning.
Second, the #13 ranked Hobart Statesmen (3-0) will open their 2012 Liberty League (LL) slate against the United States Merchant Marine Academy Mariners (2-1) this Saturday at Homecoming on Boswell Field. Last season the Statesmen opened a huge 35-0 lead at halftime before cruising to a 42-14 victory at Kings Point. SR QB Nick Strang passed for 226 yards and two touchdowns (TDs) while a literal platoon of Hobart rushers racked up 161 rushing yards and two scores.
This year could be different however as the USMMA brings a stronger offensive team to the fore, scoring 27.7 PPG behind the second ranked LL rushing offense churning an impressive 308 YPG. The Mariners are tied with Hobart with 65 first downs on the season on offense but have allowed 11 more first downs than the Statesmen (49 vs. 38) on defense.
Leading the Mariner rushing attack is SR RB J.L. Gosselin with 284 yards on 51 carries and four TDs. SR QB Alex Coviello sat out the USMMA’s last game against rival SUNY-Maritime with a bad ankle and was spelled by SO QB Luke Stidham. The Baltimore native did well in his first collegiate start, gaining 189 total yards and scoring two rushing TDs against the Privateers (1-1).
On defense the Mariners are lead by SO DB Andrew Harmon with 20 tackles and FY CB Skyler Stone with a LL leading two interceptions. The USMMA defense has improved but began the season in a couple of shoot outs leading to their current 29.3 PPG scoring defense. Still the Mariners boast the third best rushing defense in the league, allowing only 131.3 YPG and three rushing scores over three games.
Where the USMMA appears susceptible is via the air. The Mariner defense has allowed 208 passing YPG and seven TDs so look for offensive coordinator Kevin DeWall to test this unit.
Keys to the game:
1. The unstoppable force meets the immovable object – The Mariners biggest strength (their vaunted 300+ YPG rushing attack) will collide with Hobart’s (allowing a paltry 37 rushing YPG). The Mariners are ranked second in the LL in third down conversions, going 21 for 42 (50%) on the season. Hobart’s defense is the best in the league at stopping opponents on third down, only allowing 12 of 46 conversion (26.1%) attempts. Ultimately the winner of these battles along the line of scrimmage will win the game.
2. Get in the (red) zone – While this may seem obvious or redundant at first, stay with me. Hobart leads the LL in red zone offense going 12 for 14 (85.7%) scoring 10 TDs and two FGs. Why this is even more relevant is the Mariners have been terrible on defense in the red zone, allowing a league high eight TDs and two FGs. In fact, the USMMA defense has not made a single stop (opponents are 10 for 10) backed up inside their 20 yard line. Ironically Hobart has also allowed 100% of their opponents to score inside their 20 yard line, but here’s the rub: the stat is misleading because it has only happened once (last Saturday night Utica scored on a TD pass from the 16 yard line with eight seconds in the 3rd quarter out to pull within five points before Hobart blew the game open in the fourth).
3. Turnovers and ball control – The Mariners are -4 on the season which is tied for last in the league with WPI (1-2). Hobart’s not much better after last Saturday at Utica where they fumbled four times and lost three to the Pioneers defense, moving their turnover margin to -2. The reason this is important is giving the ball back to the USMMA would play to one of the Mariners key strengths. The Mariners have controlled the clock better than any team in the LL, averaging an impressive 35:44 time of possession average. While the Statesmen defense is athletic and deep, the Mariners could wear them down with long drives and keep themselves in the game by keeping Strang and (a likely quick strike) Statesmen offense on the side lines.
Prediction:
While I do suspect the Mariners to be better than a .500 team this season, they are 0-8 against Hobart since joining the LL in 2004. The average margin of Statesmen victories over this time period has been 24 points. That said I’ll take the Statesmen at home to outlast a stronger, but still vulnerable Mariner squad by the score of 35-14.
Kickoff is slated for 1 PM and the game will be on WEOS 89.7 FM (www.weos.org). Go ‘Bart!
Second, the #13 ranked Hobart Statesmen (3-0) will open their 2012 Liberty League (LL) slate against the United States Merchant Marine Academy Mariners (2-1) this Saturday at Homecoming on Boswell Field. Last season the Statesmen opened a huge 35-0 lead at halftime before cruising to a 42-14 victory at Kings Point. SR QB Nick Strang passed for 226 yards and two touchdowns (TDs) while a literal platoon of Hobart rushers racked up 161 rushing yards and two scores.
This year could be different however as the USMMA brings a stronger offensive team to the fore, scoring 27.7 PPG behind the second ranked LL rushing offense churning an impressive 308 YPG. The Mariners are tied with Hobart with 65 first downs on the season on offense but have allowed 11 more first downs than the Statesmen (49 vs. 38) on defense.
Leading the Mariner rushing attack is SR RB J.L. Gosselin with 284 yards on 51 carries and four TDs. SR QB Alex Coviello sat out the USMMA’s last game against rival SUNY-Maritime with a bad ankle and was spelled by SO QB Luke Stidham. The Baltimore native did well in his first collegiate start, gaining 189 total yards and scoring two rushing TDs against the Privateers (1-1).
On defense the Mariners are lead by SO DB Andrew Harmon with 20 tackles and FY CB Skyler Stone with a LL leading two interceptions. The USMMA defense has improved but began the season in a couple of shoot outs leading to their current 29.3 PPG scoring defense. Still the Mariners boast the third best rushing defense in the league, allowing only 131.3 YPG and three rushing scores over three games.
Where the USMMA appears susceptible is via the air. The Mariner defense has allowed 208 passing YPG and seven TDs so look for offensive coordinator Kevin DeWall to test this unit.
Keys to the game:
1. The unstoppable force meets the immovable object – The Mariners biggest strength (their vaunted 300+ YPG rushing attack) will collide with Hobart’s (allowing a paltry 37 rushing YPG). The Mariners are ranked second in the LL in third down conversions, going 21 for 42 (50%) on the season. Hobart’s defense is the best in the league at stopping opponents on third down, only allowing 12 of 46 conversion (26.1%) attempts. Ultimately the winner of these battles along the line of scrimmage will win the game.
2. Get in the (red) zone – While this may seem obvious or redundant at first, stay with me. Hobart leads the LL in red zone offense going 12 for 14 (85.7%) scoring 10 TDs and two FGs. Why this is even more relevant is the Mariners have been terrible on defense in the red zone, allowing a league high eight TDs and two FGs. In fact, the USMMA defense has not made a single stop (opponents are 10 for 10) backed up inside their 20 yard line. Ironically Hobart has also allowed 100% of their opponents to score inside their 20 yard line, but here’s the rub: the stat is misleading because it has only happened once (last Saturday night Utica scored on a TD pass from the 16 yard line with eight seconds in the 3rd quarter out to pull within five points before Hobart blew the game open in the fourth).
3. Turnovers and ball control – The Mariners are -4 on the season which is tied for last in the league with WPI (1-2). Hobart’s not much better after last Saturday at Utica where they fumbled four times and lost three to the Pioneers defense, moving their turnover margin to -2. The reason this is important is giving the ball back to the USMMA would play to one of the Mariners key strengths. The Mariners have controlled the clock better than any team in the LL, averaging an impressive 35:44 time of possession average. While the Statesmen defense is athletic and deep, the Mariners could wear them down with long drives and keep themselves in the game by keeping Strang and (a likely quick strike) Statesmen offense on the side lines.
Prediction:
While I do suspect the Mariners to be better than a .500 team this season, they are 0-8 against Hobart since joining the LL in 2004. The average margin of Statesmen victories over this time period has been 24 points. That said I’ll take the Statesmen at home to outlast a stronger, but still vulnerable Mariner squad by the score of 35-14.
Kickoff is slated for 1 PM and the game will be on WEOS 89.7 FM (www.weos.org). Go ‘Bart!
Monday, September 17, 2012
Hobart Now Ranked #13 in the D3football.com Poll
The Hobart Statesmen (3-0) moved up one spot, to number 13, in this week's Division 3 national poll with 296 points.
A link to the poll is below:
http://www.d3football.com/top25/2012/week3
Just like last week, this is the highest the Statesmen have ever been ranked by a national or other publication. More on this weekend's Homecoming Game vs. an improved USMMA (2-1) team later in the week.
Go 'Bart!
PS - Hobart debuted at #12 in the AFCA poll (http://afca.com/article/article.php?id=2244) today as well. I put (a lot) more stock in the D3football.com poll, but it's still nice recognition for the Statesmen to be so highly rated by the AFCA.
A link to the poll is below:
http://www.d3football.com/top25/2012/week3
Just like last week, this is the highest the Statesmen have ever been ranked by a national or other publication. More on this weekend's Homecoming Game vs. an improved USMMA (2-1) team later in the week.
Go 'Bart!
PS - Hobart debuted at #12 in the AFCA poll (http://afca.com/article/article.php?id=2244) today as well. I put (a lot) more stock in the D3football.com poll, but it's still nice recognition for the Statesmen to be so highly rated by the AFCA.
Sunday, September 16, 2012
Utica Game Recap
The #14 ranked Hobart Statesmen (3-0) overcame three turnovers in the third quarter to defeat the Utica College Pioneers (2-1) on Saturday night. Hobart opened a 21-7 lead in the first half but Utica pulled within four and five points later in the game until a 59 yard SR RB Bobby Dougherty touchdown run helped the Statesmen pull away in the fourth quarter.
The Hobart recap is below:
http://www.hwsathletics.com/news/2012/9/15/HFB_0915121932.aspx
Most importantly the Hobart offense made big plays and never panicked when Utica caught breaks due to Statesmen mistakes (one offensive and two punt return fumbles). SR QB Nick Strang threw for 284 yards and two touchdowns. SR WR Junior Woodard more than made up for fumbling on punt returns with a game high 161 receiving yards and one touchdown performance.
Still I think it is fair to say that it was Dougherty who was the offensive star of the evening, following his OL to a career high 174 yards and three touchdown performance which was the highest rushing total since Doug Blakowski '07 ran for 214 yards vs. Merchant Marine on October 14, 2006. Overall the Statesmen out gained Utica 502 to 377 yards. We'll be chatting with "Bobby Doogs" tonight on ITH at 8:15 PM so please tune in live at www.inthehuddlle.com or catch it on the podcast archive.
In spite of a few nail biting moments mostly due to Hobart shooting themselves in the foot and Utica exposing a few chinks in the Statesmen's armor, this was a solid road win against a quality opponent.
More on this game and the Liberty League opener against the USMMA (2-1) at Homecoming this Saturday back at the Boz later this week.
The Hobart recap is below:
http://www.hwsathletics.com/news/2012/9/15/HFB_0915121932.aspx
Once again the defense was spectacular collecting an amazing 10 sacks and 15 tackles for a loss (TFL). SO DE Tyre Coleman was credited with four and a half sacks and five and a half TFL, both new Hobart records. The most significant defensive statistic of the evening was the Statesmen "D" holding the Pioneers to 13 rushing yards.
SR QB Andrew Benkwitt showed his skill and torched the Statesmen for 313 passing yards and three touchdowns. Still, the Hobart defense (specifically FY DE Mark Guarino-Hyde) intercepted him once and otherwise pressured him all game. The Pioneers went 5 of 16 on third downs.
Most importantly the Hobart offense made big plays and never panicked when Utica caught breaks due to Statesmen mistakes (one offensive and two punt return fumbles). SR QB Nick Strang threw for 284 yards and two touchdowns. SR WR Junior Woodard more than made up for fumbling on punt returns with a game high 161 receiving yards and one touchdown performance.
Still I think it is fair to say that it was Dougherty who was the offensive star of the evening, following his OL to a career high 174 yards and three touchdown performance which was the highest rushing total since Doug Blakowski '07 ran for 214 yards vs. Merchant Marine on October 14, 2006. Overall the Statesmen out gained Utica 502 to 377 yards. We'll be chatting with "Bobby Doogs" tonight on ITH at 8:15 PM so please tune in live at www.inthehuddlle.com or catch it on the podcast archive.
In spite of a few nail biting moments mostly due to Hobart shooting themselves in the foot and Utica exposing a few chinks in the Statesmen's armor, this was a solid road win against a quality opponent.
More on this game and the Liberty League opener against the USMMA (2-1) at Homecoming this Saturday back at the Boz later this week.
Saturday, September 15, 2012
Hobart Rises to the Occasion, beats Utica 45-26
The #14 ranked Hobart Statesmen traveled to Utica College for their first ever meeting with the Pioneers. Utica would give Hobart all it could handle causing three turnovers in the third quarter. Hobart’s defense clamped down to the tune of 10 sacks (4.5 coming from SO DE Tyre Coleman - a record) of Pioneer QB Andrew Benkwitt. The offense made the big plays they needed and SR RB Bobby Dougherty had 174 rushing yards and three touchdowns. The Statesmen would break the game open in the end and win big 45-26.
It’s late and it’s been a crazy day for me so I’ll be back to recap this one tomorrow.
(Sigh of relief)
Thursday, September 13, 2012
Saturday Night Lights - Utica Game Preview
The #14 ranked Hobart Statesmen will embark on their first road trip and only night game of the season when they travel roughly 100 miles down the NY State Thruway to face off against the Utica College Pioneers of the Empire 8 Conference. Utica (2-0) has mowed down St. Lawrence and Union College already and is looking to complete a sweep of the Liberty League (LL) in their out of conference schedule by scoring a big upset. Although both schools are relatively close in distance, this is the first time Hobart (2-0) has faced the Pioneers on the gridiron.
Utica has been a .500 program for the past two seasons but is poised for a breakthrough season given the steady improvement of SR QB Andrew Benkwitt (from Mamaroneck, NY which is also where Statesmen FY QB Parker Thelander hails). Benkwitt has started every game of his college career for Utica and this season has lit up the opposition to the tune of 615 passing yards (307.5 YPG average) and eight touchdowns (TDs). Benkwitt has completed 63% of his passes (going 40 for 63) and throwing only one interception so far. For more on Benkwitt check out D3football’s Andrew Lovell’s piece in this week’s “Around the East” column.
Benkwitt has a trio of big and experienced receivers including 6’ 3” SR WR Jeremy Meier (10 catches for 196 yards and two TDs), 6’ 2” SR TE Matt Dunn (eight catches for 138 yards and three TDs) and 6’ SR WR Paul Smith (six catches for 103 yards and one TD). The Pioneers also field a strong, but younger, OL that has only allowed four sacks in their first two games of 2012. Utica is very effective in the red zone scoring on all five trips (by TD) they’ve made this season.
The Pioneers rushing attack is lead by JR RB Jesse Baldassare and SO RB Mike Cottle. Baldassare is a smaller, shifty back that has rushed for 141 yards on 24 carries and one TD. Cottle is a bigger more downfield runner and has gained 112 yards on 16 carries.
Defensively Utica has held opponents to only 12 PPG and has sacked opposing QBs six times for -46 yards. JR LB Joe Giametta leads all Pioneer tacklers with 30 overall including one and a half TFL and one forced fumble. SO FS James Lenahan is the Utica ball hawk in the secondary with two interceptions on the season.
Keys to the game:
1. Stay cool under fire – Although D3 attendance numbers are iffy at best, I would expect a big crowd supporting the home team In Utica on Saturday night. Hobart comes in as the favorites and the Pioneers fans should be out in force. The Statesmen need to keep their cool in the event Benkwitt drives Utica to an early TD (or more) in the beginning of the game. The Hobart defense needs to avoid letting this game turn into a shootout and the Pioneers have scored 62 of their 85 points in the first half this season. If Utica struggles to put points on the board, it would be a first for this season and would give Hobart the advantage by taking the crowd out of the game early.
2. Win the line of scrimmage – This is something that Coach Cragg has emphasized in both the Dickinson and Geneva games and should be a key theme to Hobart’s entire season. The Pioneers run a 4-3 defensive scheme and their front four has some size (averages 249 lbs). I expect Coach DeWall to open things up a bit more in this game and give Pioneers a few different looks. Even with their “struggles”, I was recently reminded this is a Statesmen team that has averaged 30 PPG and over 350 YPG on offense. If this offense plays to their potential, this game could be over by halftime.
3. Something’s got to give – Hobart is allowing a paltry 66 YPG passing on defense. Utica’s averaged over 300 YPG. Hobart will win the game if they can keep Benkwitt pinned back and under pressure. Ironically Geneva’s offense improved once Hayward (more of a drop back passer) was knocked out of the game and Colavecchia took over (more of a scrambler). Benkwitt can scramble and has rushed for 68 yards on 15 carries (5.1 YPR average) and one rushing TD in the first two games. That said I expect this usual pocket passer to be on the run more on Saturday night. The Statesmen ends will need to keep this contained and the secondary will have to stick to their men and not allow any broken plays turn into big gain.
The Statesmen have looked dominant but neither Dickinson nor Geneva is very strong and probably won’t break the .500 mark this season. Utica looks like they will be a tougher out, especially given Hobart’s prior struggles with strong passing teams with mobile QBs (e.g., RPI). Benkwitt may not be the best QB this team will face this season (I am still giving Mike Hermann that honor until proven otherwise), but he’s right up there. The size and variety of receivers could create matchup problems for Hobart’s inexperienced and smaller secondary. That said Hobart has played their first two games in inclement weather and has put the backups in on offense by the third quarter in both games (by comparison Utica has kept their first teams in for the majority of their contests). The forecast for this Saturday is a clear, cool September evening that should be perfect for a football game. I am hoping the conditions will allow the Statesmen to open up the playbook and provide Statesmen fans with more big plays than we’ve seen so far this season.
Although Utica will be very amped up for this contest, Hobart has played in bigger games on a more regular basis. The Pioneers look good in 2012 but their program did give up 113 points against Salisbury and Saint John Fisher (currently ranked number 7 and 9, respectively ahead of Hobart in the latest D3football.com national polls) last season. The Pioneers remind me a little bit of the Statesmen teams of the mid to late 90’s who had some talent but just came up short with regards to getting into the playoffs. Having a player like Benkwitt is a step in the right direction, kind of like how Greg Helmer ’97 changed what kind of QB and system Hobart would recruit/run back then. While I don’t suspect Utica will qualify for the post-season this year, they are getting closer and could get their breakthrough season (like the Statesmen had in 2000) fairly soon.
Prediction:
I will give the Statesmen an edge on defense and special teams which should be enough to help them escape Utica with a win. I also think the offense could awaken and make some big plays in this game. I’ll take the Statesmen in a somewhat close one, 30-21; especially given it’s a road game. Game time is 7 pm Saturday and will be broadcast on WEOS FM (www.weos.org). Thanks for reading and go ‘Bart!
Utica has been a .500 program for the past two seasons but is poised for a breakthrough season given the steady improvement of SR QB Andrew Benkwitt (from Mamaroneck, NY which is also where Statesmen FY QB Parker Thelander hails). Benkwitt has started every game of his college career for Utica and this season has lit up the opposition to the tune of 615 passing yards (307.5 YPG average) and eight touchdowns (TDs). Benkwitt has completed 63% of his passes (going 40 for 63) and throwing only one interception so far. For more on Benkwitt check out D3football’s Andrew Lovell’s piece in this week’s “Around the East” column.
Benkwitt has a trio of big and experienced receivers including 6’ 3” SR WR Jeremy Meier (10 catches for 196 yards and two TDs), 6’ 2” SR TE Matt Dunn (eight catches for 138 yards and three TDs) and 6’ SR WR Paul Smith (six catches for 103 yards and one TD). The Pioneers also field a strong, but younger, OL that has only allowed four sacks in their first two games of 2012. Utica is very effective in the red zone scoring on all five trips (by TD) they’ve made this season.
The Pioneers rushing attack is lead by JR RB Jesse Baldassare and SO RB Mike Cottle. Baldassare is a smaller, shifty back that has rushed for 141 yards on 24 carries and one TD. Cottle is a bigger more downfield runner and has gained 112 yards on 16 carries.
Defensively Utica has held opponents to only 12 PPG and has sacked opposing QBs six times for -46 yards. JR LB Joe Giametta leads all Pioneer tacklers with 30 overall including one and a half TFL and one forced fumble. SO FS James Lenahan is the Utica ball hawk in the secondary with two interceptions on the season.
Keys to the game:
1. Stay cool under fire – Although D3 attendance numbers are iffy at best, I would expect a big crowd supporting the home team In Utica on Saturday night. Hobart comes in as the favorites and the Pioneers fans should be out in force. The Statesmen need to keep their cool in the event Benkwitt drives Utica to an early TD (or more) in the beginning of the game. The Hobart defense needs to avoid letting this game turn into a shootout and the Pioneers have scored 62 of their 85 points in the first half this season. If Utica struggles to put points on the board, it would be a first for this season and would give Hobart the advantage by taking the crowd out of the game early.
2. Win the line of scrimmage – This is something that Coach Cragg has emphasized in both the Dickinson and Geneva games and should be a key theme to Hobart’s entire season. The Pioneers run a 4-3 defensive scheme and their front four has some size (averages 249 lbs). I expect Coach DeWall to open things up a bit more in this game and give Pioneers a few different looks. Even with their “struggles”, I was recently reminded this is a Statesmen team that has averaged 30 PPG and over 350 YPG on offense. If this offense plays to their potential, this game could be over by halftime.
3. Something’s got to give – Hobart is allowing a paltry 66 YPG passing on defense. Utica’s averaged over 300 YPG. Hobart will win the game if they can keep Benkwitt pinned back and under pressure. Ironically Geneva’s offense improved once Hayward (more of a drop back passer) was knocked out of the game and Colavecchia took over (more of a scrambler). Benkwitt can scramble and has rushed for 68 yards on 15 carries (5.1 YPR average) and one rushing TD in the first two games. That said I expect this usual pocket passer to be on the run more on Saturday night. The Statesmen ends will need to keep this contained and the secondary will have to stick to their men and not allow any broken plays turn into big gain.
The Statesmen have looked dominant but neither Dickinson nor Geneva is very strong and probably won’t break the .500 mark this season. Utica looks like they will be a tougher out, especially given Hobart’s prior struggles with strong passing teams with mobile QBs (e.g., RPI). Benkwitt may not be the best QB this team will face this season (I am still giving Mike Hermann that honor until proven otherwise), but he’s right up there. The size and variety of receivers could create matchup problems for Hobart’s inexperienced and smaller secondary. That said Hobart has played their first two games in inclement weather and has put the backups in on offense by the third quarter in both games (by comparison Utica has kept their first teams in for the majority of their contests). The forecast for this Saturday is a clear, cool September evening that should be perfect for a football game. I am hoping the conditions will allow the Statesmen to open up the playbook and provide Statesmen fans with more big plays than we’ve seen so far this season.
Although Utica will be very amped up for this contest, Hobart has played in bigger games on a more regular basis. The Pioneers look good in 2012 but their program did give up 113 points against Salisbury and Saint John Fisher (currently ranked number 7 and 9, respectively ahead of Hobart in the latest D3football.com national polls) last season. The Pioneers remind me a little bit of the Statesmen teams of the mid to late 90’s who had some talent but just came up short with regards to getting into the playoffs. Having a player like Benkwitt is a step in the right direction, kind of like how Greg Helmer ’97 changed what kind of QB and system Hobart would recruit/run back then. While I don’t suspect Utica will qualify for the post-season this year, they are getting closer and could get their breakthrough season (like the Statesmen had in 2000) fairly soon.
Prediction:
I will give the Statesmen an edge on defense and special teams which should be enough to help them escape Utica with a win. I also think the offense could awaken and make some big plays in this game. I’ll take the Statesmen in a somewhat close one, 30-21; especially given it’s a road game. Game time is 7 pm Saturday and will be broadcast on WEOS FM (www.weos.org). Thanks for reading and go ‘Bart!
Tuesday, September 11, 2012
Remembering Andy
It was eleven years ago today my former Hobart teammate Andy Golkin '93 was killed in the terrorist attacks on 9/11.
In memory of Andy I hope everyone will consider a donation of any size to the Andrew Golkin Memorial Scholarship Fund:
http://www.seo-usa.org/andrewgolkinfund/index.html
In memory of Andy I hope everyone will consider a donation of any size to the Andrew Golkin Memorial Scholarship Fund:
http://www.seo-usa.org/andrewgolkinfund/index.html
Monday, September 10, 2012
Monday Morning Quarterback - Geneva Game GBU, #14 ranking and other thoughts
This weekend was a whirlwind of activity for my family and I so unlike prior weeks I wasn't able to get my thoughts / recap of the Geneva game up on Saturday afternoon. I spoke about it a little bit last night on ITH (www.inthehuddlle.com if you missed it and want to listen to the archive), but I had mixed emotions about the Geneva game.
HWSAthletics.com posted the following recap you can check out here:
http://www.hwsathletics.com/news/2012/9/8/HFB_0908122847.aspx
Here is my "Good, Bad and Ugly" regarding last Saturday's game:
The Good:
Hobart is 2-0 and is now ranked #14 in the Nation by D3football.com pollsters (http://www.d3football.com/top25/2012/week2). This is the highest ranking the Statesmen have ever received and it is very nice recognition of the program.
The defense and special teams are playing lights out. Hobart's punt return group has blocked 4 punts in their last three games (including the playoff game at Wesley) and effectively all four blocks have resulted in touchdowns. The Statesmen are currently ranked fourth in all of Division III in total defense allowing a paltry 115 YPG.
JR OLB Devin Worthington, last year's Liberty League (LL) Defensive Player of the Year, came back with a venegence Saturday, leading the Hobart defense with seven total tackles, four and a half tackles for loss (TFL) and two sacks.
This year's FY class is already contributing. FY DE Mark Guarino-Hyde was named the LL Rookie of the Week for his seven tackle, one and half sack debut against Dickinson in Week 1. Last Saturday FY RB Conner Hartigan (who I profiled back in a post on 4/15/12) ripped off a 40 yard run against Geneva and ended up as the Statesmen's leading rusher in the game with 66 yards on seven carries. FY PK's James Hull and Josh Neuss have done well in their point after, field goal and kickoff duties. Hull is third on the team in scoring with 11 points.
The Bad
The rain on Saturday certainly didn't help but the offense (who would have though the old mudders of the Boz would evolve into a finesse offense? Just kidding, sort of...) still seems like it's getting it's bearings. Take away the punt blocks and the PPG average drops to 19 which isn't very prolific. Some tough games loom on the schedule, the first being Utica College (2-0) which so far has easily defeated LL teams by an 85 to 24 point margin. The Pioneers' offense has thrived under QB Andrew Benkwitt to the tune of 307 passing YPG and eight TD passes. The Utica OL has enabled their rushing attack to gain 170 YPG on the ground. Their defense has been pretty strong as well only allowing 119 rushing PG and 216 YPG through the air.
The game Saturday will be at Utica under the lights and could be a defining win for a Pioneers program that has been improving over the past several years. Hobart is still the clear cut favorite but I worry about this game. SR QB Nick Strang has been accurate, completing over 60% of his passes, but that number would be better if the inexperienced receiving corps didn't allow a number of throws to hit them in the chest or bounce off their fingertips. The offense will need to post better numbers to defeat a strong QB and defense like Utica's.
The Ugly
At one point during the Geneva game Hobart had been flagged for five personal fouls. Now to be fair, although a Christian college, the Tornadoes were fairly chippy (whatever happened to turn the other cheek?). That said the Statesmen have racked up 18 flags in the first two games for 185 penalty yards. It's one thing to get flagged when clearly in control of a game, but a personal foul call could really impact a close contest, and the 10+ penalty per game habit Hobart has needs to improve.
That's all I have for now. Will be back later in the week to discuss Utica in more detail. This will be a great final OOC test for the Statesmen before the LL schedule kicks into gear.
Thanks for reading and go 'Bart!
HWSAthletics.com posted the following recap you can check out here:
http://www.hwsathletics.com/news/2012/9/8/HFB_0908122847.aspx
Here is my "Good, Bad and Ugly" regarding last Saturday's game:
The Good:
Hobart is 2-0 and is now ranked #14 in the Nation by D3football.com pollsters (http://www.d3football.com/top25/2012/week2). This is the highest ranking the Statesmen have ever received and it is very nice recognition of the program.
The defense and special teams are playing lights out. Hobart's punt return group has blocked 4 punts in their last three games (including the playoff game at Wesley) and effectively all four blocks have resulted in touchdowns. The Statesmen are currently ranked fourth in all of Division III in total defense allowing a paltry 115 YPG.
JR OLB Devin Worthington, last year's Liberty League (LL) Defensive Player of the Year, came back with a venegence Saturday, leading the Hobart defense with seven total tackles, four and a half tackles for loss (TFL) and two sacks.
This year's FY class is already contributing. FY DE Mark Guarino-Hyde was named the LL Rookie of the Week for his seven tackle, one and half sack debut against Dickinson in Week 1. Last Saturday FY RB Conner Hartigan (who I profiled back in a post on 4/15/12) ripped off a 40 yard run against Geneva and ended up as the Statesmen's leading rusher in the game with 66 yards on seven carries. FY PK's James Hull and Josh Neuss have done well in their point after, field goal and kickoff duties. Hull is third on the team in scoring with 11 points.
The Bad
The rain on Saturday certainly didn't help but the offense (who would have though the old mudders of the Boz would evolve into a finesse offense? Just kidding, sort of...) still seems like it's getting it's bearings. Take away the punt blocks and the PPG average drops to 19 which isn't very prolific. Some tough games loom on the schedule, the first being Utica College (2-0) which so far has easily defeated LL teams by an 85 to 24 point margin. The Pioneers' offense has thrived under QB Andrew Benkwitt to the tune of 307 passing YPG and eight TD passes. The Utica OL has enabled their rushing attack to gain 170 YPG on the ground. Their defense has been pretty strong as well only allowing 119 rushing PG and 216 YPG through the air.
The game Saturday will be at Utica under the lights and could be a defining win for a Pioneers program that has been improving over the past several years. Hobart is still the clear cut favorite but I worry about this game. SR QB Nick Strang has been accurate, completing over 60% of his passes, but that number would be better if the inexperienced receiving corps didn't allow a number of throws to hit them in the chest or bounce off their fingertips. The offense will need to post better numbers to defeat a strong QB and defense like Utica's.
The Ugly
At one point during the Geneva game Hobart had been flagged for five personal fouls. Now to be fair, although a Christian college, the Tornadoes were fairly chippy (whatever happened to turn the other cheek?). That said the Statesmen have racked up 18 flags in the first two games for 185 penalty yards. It's one thing to get flagged when clearly in control of a game, but a personal foul call could really impact a close contest, and the 10+ penalty per game habit Hobart has needs to improve.
That's all I have for now. Will be back later in the week to discuss Utica in more detail. This will be a great final OOC test for the Statesmen before the LL schedule kicks into gear.
Thanks for reading and go 'Bart!
Thursday, September 6, 2012
Geneva Game Preview (seriously)
The #18 ranked Hobart Statesmen (1-0) will host the Geneva College Golden Tornadoes (0-1) of Beaver Falls, PA this Saturday at Boswell Field. In somewhat of an ironic occasion, Geneva (PA) will travel to Geneva (NY) for a rare Liberty League (LL) vs. President’s Athletic Conference (PAC) matchup. Geneva is relatively new to Division III, and was a NAIA / NCCAA (National Christian College Athletic Association) school until they officially joined the NCAA about five years ago. Since that time the Tornadoes have averaged six wins a season as a DIII program; the best years being 2007 and 2009 when they finished 8-3. Last year Geneva had a losing season going 4-6 overall, but went 4-4 in the PAC.
While this isn’t the first time Hobart and Geneva have faced off on the gridiron, it’s been such a long hiatus you could say this is the first “modern meeting” between the two programs. In fact, you have to go all the way back in 1900, which was a game that the Tornadoes (if they were even called that back then) won 6-0. Geneva also deserves credit for keeping this year’s game alive; they could have easily backed out much like Widener (of the MAC) did in 2011 causing the Statesmen to lose a game and have a large gap between their season opener and Saint John Fisher. The Tornadoes also get a nod for good sportsmanship for allowing this to be a home game for Hobart. Originally the series was scheduled as Geneva hosting in 2012 and Hobart hosting in 2013, but the Tornadoes switched it since they cancelled the 2013 game due to the expansion of the MAC (adding Stevenson) and the emergence of the annual “MAC/PAC Challenge.”
Last weekend the Tornadoes lost in a 56-53 shootout to the Frostburg State Bobcats (MD) of the Empire 8 Conference (which went 7-0 overall in Week 1). Geneva racked up 709 yards of total offense but coughed up the ball twice and lost the time of possession battle 34:02-25:58. JR QB Zack Hayward had a big game against Frostburg passing for 530 yards completing nearly 80% of his passes (39 of 49) and throwing seven passing touchdowns. A converted QB, JR RB Rocco Colavecchia lead the Tornado rushing attack with 79 yards on 13 carries. He also threw six passes, completing two, for 27 yards.
SR WR Corey O’Patchen and SO RB/WR Josh Guiser were the Tornado QB’s favorite targets. O’Patchen had seven receptions for 141 yards and a touchdown. Guiser added six receptions for 131 yards and two scores.
On defense the Tornadoes were lead by SR LB Brett Hutira with a game high 20 tackles.
While the above Week 1 Geneva statistics are impressive, a closer look shows that Frostburg finished in the bottom 25-30% in total defense back in 2011. That said I expect the Tornadoes to have a tougher time against the Statesmen defense.
Keys to the game:
1. Grind it out – In the Dickinson post game interview, Hobart head football coach Mike Cragg indicated he and his coaches decided to run the ball more against the Devils than they had in prior years. I think this strategy also makes sense against a spread, high scoring offense like Geneva’s as well. The Statesmen OL averages 283 lbs and with the variety of running and fullbacks Hobart has, they can grind out long, time-consuming drives and effectively keep Hayward and the Geneva offense on the sidelines for most of the game.
2. Hassle Hayward – Last weekend the Tornadoes dropped back to pass on 53 of their 83 total plays from scrimmage. The Statesmen did not blitz Dickinson given the front four and linebackers provided sufficient pressure to keep Red Devil QB Cole Ahnell on the run and unable to find many openings in the secondary. Geneva’s receivers are probably on par, if not better than Dickinson’s and Hayward (on paper at least) appears to be a stronger passer. If the Tornado OL can give Hayward some time (they only allowed one sack against Frostburg), we will quickly see whether or not the Hobart secondary is still susceptible to a strong vertical passing game.
3. More discipline – The Statesmen committed way too many penalties in last Saturday’s game. Although they won handily, you want to see your team play with discipline and I expect Coach Cragg and his staff made this a focus in practice this week.
Prediction:
Hobart’s defense is in a completely different class than Frostburg’s. I expect the Statesmen to follow a similar script to the Dickinson game on offense, but throwing in a few blitz packages on defense depending on how well the Geneva OL blocks for Hayward and the ability of O’Patchen and Guiser to get open.
I think the Tornadoes will have some success passing against the Statesmen, but I think it’s highly unlikely they’ll crack over 150-175 yards given the amount of pressure Hobart’s front four will bring.
I’ll take Hobart 42-7 in another dominant win. Kickoff is at 12 PM on Saturday, live coverage starts on WEOS (www.weos.org) around 11:45 AM.
Thanks for reading and go ‘Bart!
While this isn’t the first time Hobart and Geneva have faced off on the gridiron, it’s been such a long hiatus you could say this is the first “modern meeting” between the two programs. In fact, you have to go all the way back in 1900, which was a game that the Tornadoes (if they were even called that back then) won 6-0. Geneva also deserves credit for keeping this year’s game alive; they could have easily backed out much like Widener (of the MAC) did in 2011 causing the Statesmen to lose a game and have a large gap between their season opener and Saint John Fisher. The Tornadoes also get a nod for good sportsmanship for allowing this to be a home game for Hobart. Originally the series was scheduled as Geneva hosting in 2012 and Hobart hosting in 2013, but the Tornadoes switched it since they cancelled the 2013 game due to the expansion of the MAC (adding Stevenson) and the emergence of the annual “MAC/PAC Challenge.”
Last weekend the Tornadoes lost in a 56-53 shootout to the Frostburg State Bobcats (MD) of the Empire 8 Conference (which went 7-0 overall in Week 1). Geneva racked up 709 yards of total offense but coughed up the ball twice and lost the time of possession battle 34:02-25:58. JR QB Zack Hayward had a big game against Frostburg passing for 530 yards completing nearly 80% of his passes (39 of 49) and throwing seven passing touchdowns. A converted QB, JR RB Rocco Colavecchia lead the Tornado rushing attack with 79 yards on 13 carries. He also threw six passes, completing two, for 27 yards.
SR WR Corey O’Patchen and SO RB/WR Josh Guiser were the Tornado QB’s favorite targets. O’Patchen had seven receptions for 141 yards and a touchdown. Guiser added six receptions for 131 yards and two scores.
On defense the Tornadoes were lead by SR LB Brett Hutira with a game high 20 tackles.
While the above Week 1 Geneva statistics are impressive, a closer look shows that Frostburg finished in the bottom 25-30% in total defense back in 2011. That said I expect the Tornadoes to have a tougher time against the Statesmen defense.
Keys to the game:
1. Grind it out – In the Dickinson post game interview, Hobart head football coach Mike Cragg indicated he and his coaches decided to run the ball more against the Devils than they had in prior years. I think this strategy also makes sense against a spread, high scoring offense like Geneva’s as well. The Statesmen OL averages 283 lbs and with the variety of running and fullbacks Hobart has, they can grind out long, time-consuming drives and effectively keep Hayward and the Geneva offense on the sidelines for most of the game.
2. Hassle Hayward – Last weekend the Tornadoes dropped back to pass on 53 of their 83 total plays from scrimmage. The Statesmen did not blitz Dickinson given the front four and linebackers provided sufficient pressure to keep Red Devil QB Cole Ahnell on the run and unable to find many openings in the secondary. Geneva’s receivers are probably on par, if not better than Dickinson’s and Hayward (on paper at least) appears to be a stronger passer. If the Tornado OL can give Hayward some time (they only allowed one sack against Frostburg), we will quickly see whether or not the Hobart secondary is still susceptible to a strong vertical passing game.
3. More discipline – The Statesmen committed way too many penalties in last Saturday’s game. Although they won handily, you want to see your team play with discipline and I expect Coach Cragg and his staff made this a focus in practice this week.
Prediction:
Hobart’s defense is in a completely different class than Frostburg’s. I expect the Statesmen to follow a similar script to the Dickinson game on offense, but throwing in a few blitz packages on defense depending on how well the Geneva OL blocks for Hayward and the ability of O’Patchen and Guiser to get open.
I think the Tornadoes will have some success passing against the Statesmen, but I think it’s highly unlikely they’ll crack over 150-175 yards given the amount of pressure Hobart’s front four will bring.
I’ll take Hobart 42-7 in another dominant win. Kickoff is at 12 PM on Saturday, live coverage starts on WEOS (www.weos.org) around 11:45 AM.
Thanks for reading and go ‘Bart!
Monday, September 3, 2012
Hobart Cracks D3 Top 20
The Hobart Staesmen moved up 4 spots in this week's D3football.com Top 25, cracking the Top 20 for the first time since 2009.
The Statesmen came in at #18 based on a poll of 25 coaches, SIDs and media. A link to the poll is below:
http://d3football.com/top25/2012/week1
The Statesmen came in at #18 based on a poll of 25 coaches, SIDs and media. A link to the poll is below:
http://d3football.com/top25/2012/week1
This Saturday Hobart will host Geneva College (PA). Kickoff is scheduled for noon.
Sunday, September 2, 2012
Hobart SR LB to Appear on Tonight's ITH
SR LB and Co-Captain Andrew Klindera will join "ITH" tonight at 7:30 PM ET to discuss his team high eight tackles in Hobart's 31-0 shut out of Dickinson College.
Tune in tonight at 7:30 PM ET at www.InTheHuddLLe.com or www.BlogTalkRadio.com/ith for the only Division III podcast that exclusively covers the players, coaches and newsmakers of the Liberty League.
Tune in tonight at 7:30 PM ET at www.InTheHuddLLe.com or www.BlogTalkRadio.com/ith for the only Division III podcast that exclusively covers the players, coaches and newsmakers of the Liberty League.
Saturday, September 1, 2012
Hobart Gives Devils Hell, Wins 31-0
The #22 Hobart Statesmen (1-0) shut out visiting Dickinson College (0-1) 31-0 this Saturday behind an excellent defensive effort. Hobart held the Red Devils to 54 yards and only four first downs in a lopsided game.
After a somewhat slow start on offense, the Statesmen found the end zone capping an 83 yard drive when SR QB Nick Strang found SO TE Mike Berkowitz on an 11 yard touchdown pass. The defense would strike next when FY LB Trayvon Toney blocked a punt which was recovered for a touchdown by JR DE Juan Breton.
FY PK James Hull added a 27 yard field goal to push Hobart's lead to 17-0 at the half.
The second half was more Hobart as Coach Cragg emptied the benches after touchdowns by SO FB Dominque Ellis and SR Co-Captain Bobby Doughtery in the 3rd quarter.
Hobart would finish the day with 399 yards on offense lead by Strang with 117 through the air and 88 yards on the ground by Dougherty. On defense the Statesmen were lead by SR LB and Co-Captain Andrew Klindera with eight total tackles and FY DE Mark Guarino-Hyde with seven tackles and one and a half sacks in his first collegiate game.
The only real downside to this game for Hobart was getting flagged 11 times for 124 yards and a missed field goal, but otherwise the team looked dominant in their season opener.
The Statesmen will host the Golden Tornadoes of Geneva College (PA) from the President's Athletic Conference in Geneva (ironic, no?) next Saturday at Boswell Field. More analysis on this game and others in Week 1 will occur tomorrow night at 7:30 PM on www.IntheHuddLLe.com on BlogTalkRadio.
Thanks and go 'Bart!
After a somewhat slow start on offense, the Statesmen found the end zone capping an 83 yard drive when SR QB Nick Strang found SO TE Mike Berkowitz on an 11 yard touchdown pass. The defense would strike next when FY LB Trayvon Toney blocked a punt which was recovered for a touchdown by JR DE Juan Breton.
FY PK James Hull added a 27 yard field goal to push Hobart's lead to 17-0 at the half.
The second half was more Hobart as Coach Cragg emptied the benches after touchdowns by SO FB Dominque Ellis and SR Co-Captain Bobby Doughtery in the 3rd quarter.
Hobart would finish the day with 399 yards on offense lead by Strang with 117 through the air and 88 yards on the ground by Dougherty. On defense the Statesmen were lead by SR LB and Co-Captain Andrew Klindera with eight total tackles and FY DE Mark Guarino-Hyde with seven tackles and one and a half sacks in his first collegiate game.
The only real downside to this game for Hobart was getting flagged 11 times for 124 yards and a missed field goal, but otherwise the team looked dominant in their season opener.
The Statesmen will host the Golden Tornadoes of Geneva College (PA) from the President's Athletic Conference in Geneva (ironic, no?) next Saturday at Boswell Field. More analysis on this game and others in Week 1 will occur tomorrow night at 7:30 PM on www.IntheHuddLLe.com on BlogTalkRadio.
Thanks and go 'Bart!
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