Central Connecticut State 24 Columbia 14
Why CCSU Won
The Blue Devils stopped Columbia's offense several times deep in their territory late in the game, and the offense put together a handful of big plays to keep the Lions behind.
Why Columbia Lost
The Lions offense struggled to get into a groove and finally failed on numerous chances to tie the game or take the lead late. The defense played well overall, but finally wilted late in the game.
Key Turning Points
-With CCSU leading 10-7 and 1:34 left in the half. a good Drew Schmid punt pinned the Blue Devils at their own 5. CCSU promptly went on a seven play, 95-yard drive to extend their lead to 17-7 at the half.
-With CCSU now leading 17-14 and 9:44 left in the game, a Mike Roussos 20-yard punt return set the Lions up at the Blue Devil 45. But Columbia went three-and-out and had to punt.
-On the ensuing possession, Roussos pulled off a brilliant 55-yard punt return to set up Columbia at the CCSU 25 with 6:04 left in the game. But the Lions went three-and-out and Alex Felkins missed a 43-yard field goal on 4th down.
Columbia Positives
-The Lions defensive line had its best game of the year, registering five sacks and mostly keeping the CCSU rushing game in check.
-WR Josh Wainwright had his best game of the year and finally grabbed a nice long TD pass.
Columbia Negatives
-Overall, the Lion offense wasn't effective enough. The rushing game averaged less than two yards per carry.
-Columbia may have over-substituted at crucial moments, especially when QB Josh Bean was pulled from a 2nd half series just as he was getting into a groove.
-The clock management at the end of the 1st half, considering how punchless the offense had been, was ill-advised. The CCSU final TD of the half was thus aided by a CU time out early in their drive.
Columbia MVP
Mike Roussos had brilliant punt and kick returns all day, and he grabbed a TD pass in the 3rd quarter
3 comments:
Good analysis by Jake.... Play calling was better and could you believe it we threw the ball down field! But we didn't turn it into Air Whipple...Even saw some trickery! I think that Coach Bags believes in quickness on the d line but... I was wondering about converting some of those big O lineman into D linemen... we have a few weighing in at over 300... How about moving one or two to the other side? Ok maybe not in mid season but give it some thought? We seem to be having trouble with the other team's speed , especially at QB.. BUT I thought that Coach Ferraro did a great job at half time with his adjustments.. Beating Penn will require some deep balls to Wainright.. especially if he gets single coverage...Tight ends coming alive! R.Pelletreau
Thanks for such a succinct report. We need the O line to get in the game!
Any idea how long Bagnoli's contract is at Columbia? This is his 5th year. I wonder maybe there was some fear among recruits that he might be leaving/retiring soon. Not sure what the depth is with underclassman.
Last season would have been better except for the major injuries. I thought this might have been the time that the Lions were in contention for the coveted Ivy League championship. How much longer do folks think that Bagnoli will be in charge? All speculation as private schools do not typically discuss the contracts or length. Hope that the Lions won't have this window shut on the chance to win. Bags has brought so much so far but as we know it is a tough task.
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