Sunday, October 27, 2013
Hobart Overcomes Slow Start, Shuts Down RPI 35-13
This past Saturday something unusual happened. Hobart actually trailed in a game for the first time all season. The plucky RPI Engineers (3-4, 0-4) surprised the Statesmen when they first caused a SR RB Steven Webb fumble. RPI QB Jesse Maynard then stunned the secondary with a 48 yard pass to get the ball to the Hobart three yard line. Although it took them four downs to go the remaining three yards, the Engineers scored and were up 6-0.
The Statesmen tied the game when JR QB Patrick Conlan connected with JR TE Mike Berkowitz for a 7 yard TD pass with 1:27 to go in the first quarter. The Statesmen took the lead after FY PK Sean Kirsche PAT was good. From there it was more fits and starts for Hobart, who to be fair were missing some key players such as SR OL Alex Bush and JR FB Dominique Ellis. Conlan, who hadn't been sacked since Week 1, was hit four times by the Engineer defense.
The Statesmen rallied however and after runs of 13 and 43 yards by Webb late in the 2nd quarter, Hobart added a 10 yard Conlan to JR WR Elvin Souffrant score to take a 14-6 lead into the half. I imagine Head Coach Mike Cragg's halftime speech was anything other than a wake up call, and the Statesmen sure did.
Hobart would shutdown RPI's offense and rattle off 21 unanswered points to post a 35-6 lead before calling the dogs off. WEOS PBP man Ted Baker provided me with these stats about the Statesmen defense:
Yesterday [Hobart] had a season high seven defensive stops of three and out, or better. Five were three and outs, one was a single play drive ended by a forced fumble and recovery and one two play drive was ended by an INT.
Of the 11 TDs allowed by Hobart this year, seven have come against the backups in the fourth quarter with the Statesmen leading by 21 or more points:
at Dickinson - leading 30-0, TD w/ 2:18 left
Utica - leading 34-13, TD w/ 3:51 left
@USMMA - leading 24-0, TD w/ 3:33 left
WPI - leading 41-0, TD with 11:51 to play
@ Springfield - leading 42-7, TDs with 12:03 and 6:01 left
RPI - leading 35-6, TD w/ 8:36 left
Oh yeah, this one was interesting too - Hobart hasn't lost a FB game in the last 707 days. And while Webb, keeps racking up the yards and TDs (scored his 49th career TD Saturday), other Hobart rushers have carried 161 times for 753 yards (4.7 YPC) and scored eight TDs.
While I know some Hobart fans were probably frustrated by the slow start yesterday, the above shows this is still an elite team. The Statesmen dropped a spot in the D3football.com poll, from six to seven, but that was mostly due to then #7 UW-Whitewater beating #9 UW-Oshkosh. In fact, Hobart (6-0, 4-0) had one more point, for a total of 473, than in Week 7. With Saint Lawrence's 21-20 loss to Springfield, the Statesmen are the only undefeated Liberty League team. While there are some potential tie breakers that could happen, Hobart remains in control of their own destiny, which is really all you can ask for, especially with the playoffs starting in only a few more weeks.
Thanks for reading and more on the upcoming game vs. Union College later this week. Go 'Bart!
Wednesday, October 23, 2013
RPI / 93 ToD Game Preview
The sixth ranked Hobart College Statesmen will look to make their push to the playoffs with four consecutive Liberty League games to close out the 2013 regular season. The first hurdle in their path is the RPI Engineers who will travel to Geneva this Saturday to take on Hobart (5-0, 3-0) at noon. RPI (3-0, 0-3) has struggled of late, and have had to overcome injuries and inconsistent play at the QB position in the past three weeks. The Statesmen had arguably their best game of the 2012 regular season dominating RPI in a 35-7 win at the East Campus Athletic Village in Troy.
In 2013 RPI is averaging 20.8 PPG on offense and ranks sixth in the LL with 324.3 YPG average. The Engineers have only scored 14 total TDs in six games. Part of this can be attributed to RPI’s struggles on third down. The Engineers rank last in the LL with a 30.6 conversion percentage. After starter SR QB Brendan McGlynn went down with a knee injury in RPI season opener, the Engineers have rotated between the duo of SO QB Jeff Avery and SR QB Jesse Maynard. Avery has slightly better overall numbers going 43 of 91 passing or 94.2 YPG with three TDs compared to two INTs. Maynard has gone 20 for 48 or 53.2 YPG, but has three INTs compared to only two TDs. However given Avery was injured in last weekend’s 37-31 loss to Rochester (4-2, 2-1), it appears as though Maynard will get the start this Saturday for RPI. Maynard is the more mobile QB of the two, but he’s not a very accurate passer. Overall the Engineers have a low passing efficiency, only completing 43.8% of their attempts.
Otherwise RPI's key offensive weapons are SR RB Andrew Armato and SR TE and Co-Captain Joe Cozzolino. Armato ranks eighth in LL with 61.3 YPG to go along with two rushing TDs. Cozzolino is RPI’s main passing threat, catching 19 passes for 274 yards and one TD.
The Engineers strength is on defense where they’ve only allowed a respectible 20 PPG average. Overall the RPI defense is ranked fifth in the LL allowing 336.7 YPG, which is somewhat high, yardage-wise. However, the Engineers rank second in LL with only 124.5 rushing YPG allowed. That mark will surely be tested by a Statesmen OL that’s helped Hobart runners average 286.6 YPG and score 18 rushing TDs in five games. RPI has also been efficient in passing defense, only allowing 55.2% completions by opposing QBs, good for second in the LL. The Engineers seven interceptions also rank them second in the LL in that category. The RPI D has been tough with a 38.3% opponents’ third down conversion mark as well.
The Engineers D is led by SO LB Brandon Cook with 48 tackles (8 TPG), including four and a half for a loss (TFL). SR DL and Co-Captain Ted Abriel has tallied 42 tackles, 10.5 TFL and three sacks. SR DL Arthur Kuyan has four sacks for -21 yards and seven TFL. The RPI secondary features JR DB Connor Young and SO DB Will Ash with eight and five pass break ups a piece. JR DB Philip Lanieri III leads the team with three INTs.
Although the Engineers rank last in the LL in kick and punt return yardage with 15.8 and 5.6 YPR, respectively; they are good in coverage. RPI special teams (and scoring) have been bolstered by the strong leg of JR PK Andrew Franks who has kicked eight of ten FGs (several in the 40-50 yard range) and making 13 of 14 PATs.
Keys to the Game:
1. Get Off to a Fast Start – Hobart has the ability to put up a lot of points, and if they get off to a fast start Saturday it will be extremely difficult for RPI to catch up. Although the Engineers did put up a season high 31 points last weekend, I don’t see them being able to match that against the Hobart defense which is allowing only 12.8 PPG.
2. Mess With Maynard – The Engineers passing game is not very strong and if the Statesmen take away Maynard’s ability to move in or outside the pocket, it’s going to be a long day for RPI. I am thinking we may see SR OLB Devin Worthington break the TFL record in front of the home crowd Saturday.
3. Focus on Fundamentals – This is an opportunity for the Statesmen to not only continue working on their bread and butter (i.e., running the ball and playing great defense), but also further develop. In particular getting some down field looks and improve the passing game.
Prediction:
While RPI has given Hobart fits in the past, these Engineers are in rebuilding mode and aren’t at 100% due to injuries. The Statesmen are coming off a bye week and should be rested and raring to go in front of the home crowd. The Statesmen have won 10 straight home games dating back to the 29-28 upset by the Mike Hermann led RPI on 11/5/11. I think Hobart comes out and piles it on early and wins this one going away. I’ll take the Statesmen in a 42-14 rout over the beat up Engineers.
Before I sign off I’d like to give a special shout out to my classmates and friends from the 1993 Hobart Football team that will be recognized at halftime as a “Team of Distinction” by the College. This was and is a great team and group of guys, so I am sorry I can’t be there in person to reminsce about the "good old days". Former Hobart OL and SAA Board Member David Gibbons ’94 gets a shout out for getting these guys back to campus for what should be a great reunion. Thanks for reading and go ‘Bart!
In 2013 RPI is averaging 20.8 PPG on offense and ranks sixth in the LL with 324.3 YPG average. The Engineers have only scored 14 total TDs in six games. Part of this can be attributed to RPI’s struggles on third down. The Engineers rank last in the LL with a 30.6 conversion percentage. After starter SR QB Brendan McGlynn went down with a knee injury in RPI season opener, the Engineers have rotated between the duo of SO QB Jeff Avery and SR QB Jesse Maynard. Avery has slightly better overall numbers going 43 of 91 passing or 94.2 YPG with three TDs compared to two INTs. Maynard has gone 20 for 48 or 53.2 YPG, but has three INTs compared to only two TDs. However given Avery was injured in last weekend’s 37-31 loss to Rochester (4-2, 2-1), it appears as though Maynard will get the start this Saturday for RPI. Maynard is the more mobile QB of the two, but he’s not a very accurate passer. Overall the Engineers have a low passing efficiency, only completing 43.8% of their attempts.
Otherwise RPI's key offensive weapons are SR RB Andrew Armato and SR TE and Co-Captain Joe Cozzolino. Armato ranks eighth in LL with 61.3 YPG to go along with two rushing TDs. Cozzolino is RPI’s main passing threat, catching 19 passes for 274 yards and one TD.
The Engineers strength is on defense where they’ve only allowed a respectible 20 PPG average. Overall the RPI defense is ranked fifth in the LL allowing 336.7 YPG, which is somewhat high, yardage-wise. However, the Engineers rank second in LL with only 124.5 rushing YPG allowed. That mark will surely be tested by a Statesmen OL that’s helped Hobart runners average 286.6 YPG and score 18 rushing TDs in five games. RPI has also been efficient in passing defense, only allowing 55.2% completions by opposing QBs, good for second in the LL. The Engineers seven interceptions also rank them second in the LL in that category. The RPI D has been tough with a 38.3% opponents’ third down conversion mark as well.
The Engineers D is led by SO LB Brandon Cook with 48 tackles (8 TPG), including four and a half for a loss (TFL). SR DL and Co-Captain Ted Abriel has tallied 42 tackles, 10.5 TFL and three sacks. SR DL Arthur Kuyan has four sacks for -21 yards and seven TFL. The RPI secondary features JR DB Connor Young and SO DB Will Ash with eight and five pass break ups a piece. JR DB Philip Lanieri III leads the team with three INTs.
Although the Engineers rank last in the LL in kick and punt return yardage with 15.8 and 5.6 YPR, respectively; they are good in coverage. RPI special teams (and scoring) have been bolstered by the strong leg of JR PK Andrew Franks who has kicked eight of ten FGs (several in the 40-50 yard range) and making 13 of 14 PATs.
Keys to the Game:
1. Get Off to a Fast Start – Hobart has the ability to put up a lot of points, and if they get off to a fast start Saturday it will be extremely difficult for RPI to catch up. Although the Engineers did put up a season high 31 points last weekend, I don’t see them being able to match that against the Hobart defense which is allowing only 12.8 PPG.
2. Mess With Maynard – The Engineers passing game is not very strong and if the Statesmen take away Maynard’s ability to move in or outside the pocket, it’s going to be a long day for RPI. I am thinking we may see SR OLB Devin Worthington break the TFL record in front of the home crowd Saturday.
3. Focus on Fundamentals – This is an opportunity for the Statesmen to not only continue working on their bread and butter (i.e., running the ball and playing great defense), but also further develop. In particular getting some down field looks and improve the passing game.
Prediction:
While RPI has given Hobart fits in the past, these Engineers are in rebuilding mode and aren’t at 100% due to injuries. The Statesmen are coming off a bye week and should be rested and raring to go in front of the home crowd. The Statesmen have won 10 straight home games dating back to the 29-28 upset by the Mike Hermann led RPI on 11/5/11. I think Hobart comes out and piles it on early and wins this one going away. I’ll take the Statesmen in a 42-14 rout over the beat up Engineers.
Before I sign off I’d like to give a special shout out to my classmates and friends from the 1993 Hobart Football team that will be recognized at halftime as a “Team of Distinction” by the College. This was and is a great team and group of guys, so I am sorry I can’t be there in person to reminsce about the "good old days". Former Hobart OL and SAA Board Member David Gibbons ’94 gets a shout out for getting these guys back to campus for what should be a great reunion. Thanks for reading and go ‘Bart!
Tuesday, October 22, 2013
Post-Bye Week Rewind
It's been a bit hectic in these parts, but if you were wondering how the Statesmen are doing in terms of the LL, here's a few superlatives. They remain #6 in th D3football.com national polls and if they should win out and end the season 9-0, there's a good chance we'll see the Statesmen host a home playoff game(s) come November.
Oh yeah, back to the stats:
#1 scoring offense (35.6 PPG)
#1 scoring defense (12.8 PPG)
#1 total offense (412.8 YPG, 25 TDs)
#2 total defense (281.6 YPG, 9 TD)
#2 rushing offense (286.6 YPG 18 TD)
#4 rushing D (150.4 YPG, 6 TD)
#6 pass offense (126.2 YPG)
#1 pass defense (131.2 YPG, 3 TD)
#1 kickoff returns (28.5 YPG)
#6 punt return (7.8 YPG)
#7 INT (3)
#5 punting (29.8)
2-4 FG and 22-25 PAT
#3 sacks by (10)
#2 sacks against (1)
#1 3rd down conv – OPP (32.4%)
#8 TOP (27:29)
#2 TOM (+5)
#1 Red zone D
Webb 766 total rush yards, 10 TDs, 153.2 YPG (#1 all purpose 176 YPG)
Conlan #4 114.8 YPG 40-75-2 6 TDs 574 yards 138.7 pass eff rating
Toney #4 w/ 8.5 tpg, 34 total in 4 games
Davis #19 6.4 tpg, 32 total in 5 games
Toran 4th in INT with 2, #1 in FF
It's clear from the above the team is playing at a high level. Sure the passing game has room for improvement and the Statesmen could do a better job in punting and punt returns. Time of possession remains low, but that's mostly due to Hobart's big play ability. Overall there's not much to critize with the above. Fortunately the better teams in the LL still remain ahead on the Statesmen's schedule. Saint Lawrence (5-1, 3-0) and Rochester (4-2, 2-1), in particular, should tough games.
More on the upcoming RPI game later this week. Go Bart!
Oh yeah, back to the stats:
#1 scoring offense (35.6 PPG)
#1 scoring defense (12.8 PPG)
#1 total offense (412.8 YPG, 25 TDs)
#2 total defense (281.6 YPG, 9 TD)
#2 rushing offense (286.6 YPG 18 TD)
#4 rushing D (150.4 YPG, 6 TD)
#6 pass offense (126.2 YPG)
#1 pass defense (131.2 YPG, 3 TD)
#1 kickoff returns (28.5 YPG)
#6 punt return (7.8 YPG)
#7 INT (3)
#5 punting (29.8)
2-4 FG and 22-25 PAT
#3 sacks by (10)
#2 sacks against (1)
#1 3rd down conv – OPP (32.4%)
#8 TOP (27:29)
#2 TOM (+5)
#1 Red zone D
Webb 766 total rush yards, 10 TDs, 153.2 YPG (#1 all purpose 176 YPG)
Conlan #4 114.8 YPG 40-75-2 6 TDs 574 yards 138.7 pass eff rating
Toney #4 w/ 8.5 tpg, 34 total in 4 games
Davis #19 6.4 tpg, 32 total in 5 games
Toran 4th in INT with 2, #1 in FF
It's clear from the above the team is playing at a high level. Sure the passing game has room for improvement and the Statesmen could do a better job in punting and punt returns. Time of possession remains low, but that's mostly due to Hobart's big play ability. Overall there's not much to critize with the above. Fortunately the better teams in the LL still remain ahead on the Statesmen's schedule. Saint Lawrence (5-1, 3-0) and Rochester (4-2, 2-1), in particular, should tough games.
More on the upcoming RPI game later this week. Go Bart!
Monday, October 14, 2013
Hobart Steamrolls Springfield, 49-21
I am moving into a new house so will be brief this week. Hobart moved up to sixth in the D3football.com poll and rolled over Springfield College (3-3, 0-3) last Saturday. I spoke with SR OL Alex Bush last night on www.inthehuddlle.com and it was a great perspective on the program.
It was great meeting the families of current players as well as seeing a few familiar faces in Springfield.
Thanks especially to the Davis and Guarino-Hyde families for including my Dad and I in their tailgate. A few game recap and related links are below:
www.hwsathletics.com/news/2013/10/12/HFB_1012132657.aspx?path=football
http://www.blogtalkradio.com/ith/2013/10/13/in-the-huddlle--liberty-league-football-talk-show
http://www.d3football.com/top25/2013/week6
http://www.d3football.com/postgame/2013/week6
Thanks especially to the Davis and Guarino-Hyde families for including my Dad and I in their tailgate. A few game recap and related links are below:
www.hwsathletics.com/news/2013/10/12/HFB_1012132657.aspx?path=football
http://www.blogtalkradio.com/ith/2013/10/13/in-the-huddlle--liberty-league-football-talk-show
http://www.d3football.com/top25/2013/week6
http://www.d3football.com/postgame/2013/week6
Wednesday, October 9, 2013
Springfield Game Preview
The seventh ranked Hobart College Statesmen will travel to Springfield College this Saturday. Once thought to be a potential number one contender to Hobart’s Liberty League championship defense in 2013, the Pride (3-2, 0-2) have lost two straight games and are effectively out of the LL race only five games into the season. Union College (1-3, 1-1) held the former #1 rushing offense in Division III to a paltry 85 total yards last Saturday in Springfield. The Dutchmen held the ball for an amazing 43:02, primarily due to the fact Springfield only converted three first downs.
The above really makes me wonder what kind of game we’ll see this Saturday. Last season Hobart defeated the Pride 28-7 in Geneva. Springfield was down 14-0 at the half but scored late in the third quarter to make it 14-7. The Statesmen would rattle off two more scores in the fourth quarter and take the win.
Like the Union game last Saturday, in 2012 against Hobart the Pride really struggled on third down only converting one of 12 conversions (8%) and was held to 159 yards of total offense (150 of which were from running plays).
Otherwise, Springfield’s cast of characters hasn't changed much from last year. SO QB Jonathan Marrero leads the Pride offense, rushing for 587 yards and seven TDs. Although the Pride doesn't call many passes (only 38 total in five games), Marrero has 102 passing yards and two passing scores. His primary targets are Jason Woods and James Poggio. Woods has caught six passes for 84 yards and two scores and Poggio has 4 catches for 54 yards and one score. SR FB Joel Altavesta is another key player on offense, running for 318 yards and one TD. RB Louis Fenaroli has 237 yards and four scores.
Defensively the Pride is led by SR FS Sam Weiss with 41 tackles and two INTs, one which he returned for a 93 yard TD. LBs Danny Macalena and Mike Dublin have also tallied 41 stops as well. Macalena leads the team with 12 TFL for -65 yards and four sacks for -27. Preseason All-American JR DE Max Nacewicz was injured early in the season and it has impacted Springfield’s ability to rush the QB and stop opposing offenses as well as they did in 2012.
Keys to the Game:
I am looking forward to getting a first hand look at Hobart this Saturday. Follow me @ITHuddLLe for pictures from the game. I'll post some here early next week.
Go 'Bart!
The above really makes me wonder what kind of game we’ll see this Saturday. Last season Hobart defeated the Pride 28-7 in Geneva. Springfield was down 14-0 at the half but scored late in the third quarter to make it 14-7. The Statesmen would rattle off two more scores in the fourth quarter and take the win.
Like the Union game last Saturday, in 2012 against Hobart the Pride really struggled on third down only converting one of 12 conversions (8%) and was held to 159 yards of total offense (150 of which were from running plays).
Otherwise, Springfield’s cast of characters hasn't changed much from last year. SO QB Jonathan Marrero leads the Pride offense, rushing for 587 yards and seven TDs. Although the Pride doesn't call many passes (only 38 total in five games), Marrero has 102 passing yards and two passing scores. His primary targets are Jason Woods and James Poggio. Woods has caught six passes for 84 yards and two scores and Poggio has 4 catches for 54 yards and one score. SR FB Joel Altavesta is another key player on offense, running for 318 yards and one TD. RB Louis Fenaroli has 237 yards and four scores.
Defensively the Pride is led by SR FS Sam Weiss with 41 tackles and two INTs, one which he returned for a 93 yard TD. LBs Danny Macalena and Mike Dublin have also tallied 41 stops as well. Macalena leads the team with 12 TFL for -65 yards and four sacks for -27. Preseason All-American JR DE Max Nacewicz was injured early in the season and it has impacted Springfield’s ability to rush the QB and stop opposing offenses as well as they did in 2012.
Keys to the Game:
- Win the LOS – all of the below is pretty self explanatory, almost obvious when it comes to football strategy. Springfield is a solid triple option program, so if you limit the run, you’ll beat them. Conversely, Hobart’s best defense is keeping the Pride offense off the field. Hobart is no slouch in the run game, averaging 278.8 YPG and scoring 12 rushing TDs. I expect a big game out of the Statesmen’s OL and DL Saturday.
- Know Your Role (i.e., stay in your gaps) – speaking of the DL, stopping the triple option is all about gap assignments and not over pursuing, thus creating lanes for the opposing QB and/or RBs to option. Having played a number of triple option teams Hobart is fairly familiar with this approach, but it’s easier said than done.
- Watch Out for Weiss - While I do expect Hobart to come out and grind out some runs, they will need to test the Pride secondary to keep them honest. The challenge with that is not falling for disguised coverage being called by Weiss, who's effectively the "General" for the defense. Weiss has a good nose for the ball and if JR QB Patrick Conlan isn't careful, Weiss could create some issues for the Statesmen passing game.
Prediction:
What was once billed by D3Football.com as the de facto "title game" for the LL in the preseason has lost its luster due to Springfield's struggles. Still, the Pride is a tough out and Hobart needs to be focused and not let their guard down. Springfield really has nothing to lose in the sense they've played themselves out of the conference title picture, but could play the role of spoiler. I don't think Hobart will be caught unprepared, and I'll take the Statesmen in a convincing 35-7 win. I just don't think Springfield's defense is up to par this season.
I am looking forward to getting a first hand look at Hobart this Saturday. Follow me @ITHuddLLe for pictures from the game. I'll post some here early next week.
Go 'Bart!
Saturday, October 5, 2013
Hobart Overwhelms WPI, 41-7
The seventh ranked Hobart College Statesmen dominated the WPI Engineers by the score of 41-7 today at Boswell Field. The Statesmen (4-0, 2-0) out gained WPI (2-3, 1-1) 501 to 270 yards.
Hobart opened the scoring off of two SR RB Steven Webb 38 and 42 TD runs early in the game. The Statesmen's JR QB Patrick Conlan found JR WR Elvin Souffrant on a five yard pass to push the Hobart lead to 21-0 with only 1:05 to play in the first quarter. Conlan found find the end zone again by calling his own number, scoring on a three yard TD rush early the in the second quarter. This score was set up by Hobart's second defensive interception of WPI QB Jacob Grills. The first was by SR CB Connor Garrett (resulting in Webb's second TD) and the second by JR OLB Nolan Toran.
The real fireworks didn't start though until Conlan and JR WR Troy Robinson executed the longest passing TD in Hobart history connecting on an 89 yard flea flicker to push the Statesmen lead to 34-0. Dan Suozzi '05 hauled in an 88 yard score from Craig Swanson '04 in a 35-3 beating of Union in 2003 which was the previous record. Pretty much everything went Hobart's way up until then, the only miscue being a FY PK Sean Kirsche pulling the PAT wide left. To be fair, Kirsche had a great game overall, going four of five on averaging 58 yards on kickoff, even handling punts later in the game.
Head Coach Mike Cragg would empty the bench in the second half and JR QB Kyle Bayly took advantage of the opportunity, scoring his first ever Hobart passing TD, finding Robinson for 27 yards and a 41-0 Statesmen lead.
The Engineers would avoid a shutout as SR QB Johnny Antonopoulos's play action pass to Larry McGillicuddy would connect for 70 yards late in the game. Blaine Bursey's point after was good and WPI was on the board, but down 41-7, which would be the final.
Leading the Statesmen on offense was Conlan in an impressive nine for 15, 208 passing yards and two TD performance. Webb added 113 yards on 10 carries and two scores. Robinson was the top target hauling in three catches for 127 yards and two scores.
Defensively the Statesmen were once again led by SR LBs Jacob Price and Cory Davis with five stops a piece. JR DE Tyre Coleman added three tackles, including a TFL and one sack. The latter leaves him only a 1/2 sack away from Hobart's all time mark of 33 set by Dave Russell '98.
Next week the Statesmen will travel to Springfield, MA to take on the reeling Pride (3-2, 0-2) of Springfield College. Once thought to be potential contenders to Hobart's LL crown, the Pride have lost back to back LL games and were otherwise man handled by previously win less Union College (1-3, 1-1). Hobart will do well not to look past to Springfield however. I am looking forward to seeing the Statesmen in person next weekend. Fans, friends of the program, let's meet up for a tailgate!
Thanks for reading and go 'Bart!
Hobart opened the scoring off of two SR RB Steven Webb 38 and 42 TD runs early in the game. The Statesmen's JR QB Patrick Conlan found JR WR Elvin Souffrant on a five yard pass to push the Hobart lead to 21-0 with only 1:05 to play in the first quarter. Conlan found find the end zone again by calling his own number, scoring on a three yard TD rush early the in the second quarter. This score was set up by Hobart's second defensive interception of WPI QB Jacob Grills. The first was by SR CB Connor Garrett (resulting in Webb's second TD) and the second by JR OLB Nolan Toran.
The real fireworks didn't start though until Conlan and JR WR Troy Robinson executed the longest passing TD in Hobart history connecting on an 89 yard flea flicker to push the Statesmen lead to 34-0. Dan Suozzi '05 hauled in an 88 yard score from Craig Swanson '04 in a 35-3 beating of Union in 2003 which was the previous record. Pretty much everything went Hobart's way up until then, the only miscue being a FY PK Sean Kirsche pulling the PAT wide left. To be fair, Kirsche had a great game overall, going four of five on averaging 58 yards on kickoff, even handling punts later in the game.
Head Coach Mike Cragg would empty the bench in the second half and JR QB Kyle Bayly took advantage of the opportunity, scoring his first ever Hobart passing TD, finding Robinson for 27 yards and a 41-0 Statesmen lead.
The Engineers would avoid a shutout as SR QB Johnny Antonopoulos's play action pass to Larry McGillicuddy would connect for 70 yards late in the game. Blaine Bursey's point after was good and WPI was on the board, but down 41-7, which would be the final.
Leading the Statesmen on offense was Conlan in an impressive nine for 15, 208 passing yards and two TD performance. Webb added 113 yards on 10 carries and two scores. Robinson was the top target hauling in three catches for 127 yards and two scores.
Defensively the Statesmen were once again led by SR LBs Jacob Price and Cory Davis with five stops a piece. JR DE Tyre Coleman added three tackles, including a TFL and one sack. The latter leaves him only a 1/2 sack away from Hobart's all time mark of 33 set by Dave Russell '98.
Next week the Statesmen will travel to Springfield, MA to take on the reeling Pride (3-2, 0-2) of Springfield College. Once thought to be potential contenders to Hobart's LL crown, the Pride have lost back to back LL games and were otherwise man handled by previously win less Union College (1-3, 1-1). Hobart will do well not to look past to Springfield however. I am looking forward to seeing the Statesmen in person next weekend. Fans, friends of the program, let's meet up for a tailgate!
Thanks for reading and go 'Bart!
Wednesday, October 2, 2013
WPI Game Preview
It’s October!
Thanks to all the readers who made the month of September the best one yet with over 4,200 visits to the site. At this rate we’ll crack 50K before the end of the month!
The seventh ranked Hobart College Statesmen (3-0, 1-0) host the WPI Engineers, in a rare home game, Saturday in Geneva at noon. The Statesmen will once again don their camouflage / Wounded Warrior uniforms (see below) in honor of America’s troops. Funds raised from the game will go to assist “Honor Flight”, a charity organization that provides travel services for veterans to Washington, DC.
Last season Hobart had their way with WPI in a 61-8 blowout that saw the Statesmen rack up 542 total yards and hold the ball for 39:46 in the contest. Hobart tallied 27 compared to WPI’s six first downs and the Engineers only gained 78 total yards in the game.
This year WPI is coming into this contest with a better overall team and record (2-2, 1-0) than 2012. Last Saturday they had a resounding 27-14 win over LL and “industry” rival RPI in the annual “Transit Trophy” game. WPI has had a “Jekyll and Hyde” type of season of sorts, with dominant victories over Curry (0-3, 0-1) and RPI (3-1, 0-1) while playing quite the opposite in a 31-14 loss to Norwich (1-2) in Week 3. The Engineers could easily be 3-1, but lost a 15-14 heart breaker to cross town rival Worcester State (3-1, 1-1) in the final seconds of that game, in Week 2 (and perhaps the hangover lasted until after Week 3?).
WPI ranks just behind Hobart in scoring offense (25.8 compared to 29.3 PPG) and boasts one of the best running backs in the conference, if not the country, in JR Zach Grasis who’s averaging 131.2 YPG, scoring seven touchdowns (TDs) in four games. Grasis ranks 10th in the nation in total rush yards (525) and is tied for sixth in rushing TDs (6). It appears after last week that JR QB Jacob Grills has earned the starting job over SR QB Johnny Antonopoulos, and he looked good, going 17 of 30 for 184 yards and one TD against RPI. Grills’ top target is SR WR Ehab Hamdan who leads the LL with 89 receiving YPG and six TDs. The six receiving TDs also ranks Hamdan as second in the nation according to the NCAA DIII stat sheet.
Defensively WPI has struggled a bit, allowing 22 PPG and allowing a LL-worst 400.5 YPG and 12 TDs. The Engineers have been particularly susceptible against strong passing teams, allowing 221.2 YPG and eight receiving TDs to their opponents. SO DB Eric Lacroix leads the Engineers with 34 total tackles (8.5 TPG), two interceptions and one sack. Lacroix earned LL honors as Co-DPOY after tallying eight stops against RPI, including five solo tackles, one for a loss and a 33 yard interception return. JR LB Jake Brown has 25 tackles and one sack.
On special teams WPI has a solid kicker in FY Blaine Bursey. He’s two for two on FGs this season and has converted 11 of 14 PATs. SO PK Vincent Tavernelli leads the LL in punting, averaging 42.5 YPP with a long of 74 yards.
Keys to the Game:
1. Zack Attack (or really, Attack Zach) – Stuffing WPI’s run game is the key to beating WPI. In the Engineers’ two wins, Grasis has run for 342 yards and six scores. In the two losses, he ran for 183 and just one TD. Against Norwich WPI really struggled on third down, only converting two of 13 attempts. If the Statesmen can force the Engineers to be one dimensional, they can pin them back and rush Grills, potentially forcing…
2. Turnovers – WPI is -1 on the season in turnover margin, and their struggles with possession have played a role in their losses this season. The Engineers have thrown a league high six interceptions, so if the Statesmen bottle up Grasis, players like JR OLB Nolan Toran or SR FS Jolyon Davis could collect a pick (or two) Saturday
3. Rush for 300(+) – Norwich ran for 374 yards on the WPI defense and I expect Hobart will be shooting to eclipse the 300 rushing yard mark as well. While the Statesmen may test the Engineer pass defense, I don’t see it happening until after a steady dose of SR RB Steven Webb and SO RB Connor Hartigan
Prediction:
The Statesmen are very tough to beat at the “Boz”, and this game will be no exception. I think WPI’s issues on defense and ball control on offense should make for another home win for Hobart. I’ll take the Statesmen to win going away, 30-10.
Thanks for reading and go 'Bart!
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The seventh ranked Hobart College Statesmen (3-0, 1-0) host the WPI Engineers, in a rare home game, Saturday in Geneva at noon. The Statesmen will once again don their camouflage / Wounded Warrior uniforms (see below) in honor of America’s troops. Funds raised from the game will go to assist “Honor Flight”, a charity organization that provides travel services for veterans to Washington, DC.
Last season Hobart had their way with WPI in a 61-8 blowout that saw the Statesmen rack up 542 total yards and hold the ball for 39:46 in the contest. Hobart tallied 27 compared to WPI’s six first downs and the Engineers only gained 78 total yards in the game.
This year WPI is coming into this contest with a better overall team and record (2-2, 1-0) than 2012. Last Saturday they had a resounding 27-14 win over LL and “industry” rival RPI in the annual “Transit Trophy” game. WPI has had a “Jekyll and Hyde” type of season of sorts, with dominant victories over Curry (0-3, 0-1) and RPI (3-1, 0-1) while playing quite the opposite in a 31-14 loss to Norwich (1-2) in Week 3. The Engineers could easily be 3-1, but lost a 15-14 heart breaker to cross town rival Worcester State (3-1, 1-1) in the final seconds of that game, in Week 2 (and perhaps the hangover lasted until after Week 3?).
WPI ranks just behind Hobart in scoring offense (25.8 compared to 29.3 PPG) and boasts one of the best running backs in the conference, if not the country, in JR Zach Grasis who’s averaging 131.2 YPG, scoring seven touchdowns (TDs) in four games. Grasis ranks 10th in the nation in total rush yards (525) and is tied for sixth in rushing TDs (6). It appears after last week that JR QB Jacob Grills has earned the starting job over SR QB Johnny Antonopoulos, and he looked good, going 17 of 30 for 184 yards and one TD against RPI. Grills’ top target is SR WR Ehab Hamdan who leads the LL with 89 receiving YPG and six TDs. The six receiving TDs also ranks Hamdan as second in the nation according to the NCAA DIII stat sheet.
Defensively WPI has struggled a bit, allowing 22 PPG and allowing a LL-worst 400.5 YPG and 12 TDs. The Engineers have been particularly susceptible against strong passing teams, allowing 221.2 YPG and eight receiving TDs to their opponents. SO DB Eric Lacroix leads the Engineers with 34 total tackles (8.5 TPG), two interceptions and one sack. Lacroix earned LL honors as Co-DPOY after tallying eight stops against RPI, including five solo tackles, one for a loss and a 33 yard interception return. JR LB Jake Brown has 25 tackles and one sack.
On special teams WPI has a solid kicker in FY Blaine Bursey. He’s two for two on FGs this season and has converted 11 of 14 PATs. SO PK Vincent Tavernelli leads the LL in punting, averaging 42.5 YPP with a long of 74 yards.
Keys to the Game:
1. Zack Attack (or really, Attack Zach) – Stuffing WPI’s run game is the key to beating WPI. In the Engineers’ two wins, Grasis has run for 342 yards and six scores. In the two losses, he ran for 183 and just one TD. Against Norwich WPI really struggled on third down, only converting two of 13 attempts. If the Statesmen can force the Engineers to be one dimensional, they can pin them back and rush Grills, potentially forcing…
2. Turnovers – WPI is -1 on the season in turnover margin, and their struggles with possession have played a role in their losses this season. The Engineers have thrown a league high six interceptions, so if the Statesmen bottle up Grasis, players like JR OLB Nolan Toran or SR FS Jolyon Davis could collect a pick (or two) Saturday
3. Rush for 300(+) – Norwich ran for 374 yards on the WPI defense and I expect Hobart will be shooting to eclipse the 300 rushing yard mark as well. While the Statesmen may test the Engineer pass defense, I don’t see it happening until after a steady dose of SR RB Steven Webb and SO RB Connor Hartigan
Prediction:
The Statesmen are very tough to beat at the “Boz”, and this game will be no exception. I think WPI’s issues on defense and ball control on offense should make for another home win for Hobart. I’ll take the Statesmen to win going away, 30-10.
Thanks for reading and go 'Bart!
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