Blew Haven

 Yale 37 Columbia 30

Why Yale Won

The Elis made adjustments on offense in the 2nd half, and QB Nolan Grooms passed and ran Yale all over the CU defense. The Bulldogs also woke up on defense just enough to hold off the Lions.

Why Columbia Lost

The Lions blew several chances to put the Elis away in 2nd and 3rd quarter, then suddenly failed to defend against Yale's long passing game. The offense was strong, but ultimately couldn't keep up.

Key Turning Points

-With two minutes left in the 1st half, Columbia leading 17-6, and the Lions seemingly in control of the game. Drew Schmid's punt bounced in front of Yale returner Melvin Rouse at the Yale 14... and Rouse proceeded to speed along the home sideline for an 86 yard TD return. 

-Columbia seemed to be back in control of the game with a 23-14 lead and 8:55 left in the 3rd quarter. But Yale started a drive from its own 25 at that point and in just two plays, two long passes from Grooms to WR Melvin Tipton had the Elis on the CU 7. Two plays and a 2-point conversion later, it was 23-22, and the Lion control was gone. 

-Columbia missed a 40-yard FG attempt on the ensuing Lion drive, and Yale needed just 7 plays, including one key 4th down conversion, to score another TD to take the lead the Bulldogs never gave up.

Columbia Positives

-Lion RB Ryan Young rose to the occasion in the very rainy conditions and rumbled for 92 yards, including a 60-yard TD run and two other TD's of one-yard each. 

-LB Scott Valentas had his best game of the season, with 12 tackles and two sacks.

-The Lions did not commit a turnover.

Columbia Negatives

-The Lion pass defense, which looked very strong since week 3, fell apart against Grooms and his frequent long passes.

-Later in the game, Columbia could not contain Grooms as a runner as he made several key 1st downs. 

-Once again, the officials hurt Columbia's chances, with a number of questionable calls as Yale was grabbing the momentum in the game.

Columbia MVP

-Ryan Young's clutch performance was a high point of the day.