Moment #52: A Defensive Statement

Josh Martin, (95), lays waste to Cornell's Jeff Mathews

Columbia’s defense, under now-former defensive coordinator Kevin Lempa, was an improved unit in 2012.

It gave up 56 fewer points, almost 400 fewer total yards, and 24 fewer first downs.

But rarely was it as dominant as it was during one key stretch of Columbia’s week five game against Penn at Franklin Field.

Now leading 13-10 with about six minutes left in the 3^rd quarter, the Lions kicked off to the Quakers who got a great 40-yard return by Eric Fiore to start their drive at their own 49.

Penn coach Al Bagnoli decided to insert his better passing QB, Andrew Holland, into the game in hopes of cashing in on the good field position.

But those hopes were dashed as the Columbia defense came up with three dazzling defensive plays in a row to set the Quakers back on their heels.

One 1^st down, Niko Padilla and Nick Melka combined to sack Holland for an eight yard loss.

On 2^nd down, Holland was able to connect on a pass to RB Jeff Jack, but Josh Martin was all over him and tackled Jack for a two yard loss.

On 3^rd down, Holland just gave in and slipped ahead for a two yard run.

It wasn’t the only three-and-out of the game for the CU defense, but it was the most impressive.