BETHLEHEM, PA – The longstanding football rivalry between Lehigh and Colgate has sparked renewed enthusiasm leading into this season’s matchup. Once dominant forces in the Patriot League, both teams have had their ups and downs, but the spirit of competition remains strong.
Lehigh enters the game riding high with a perfect 10-0 record, ranked fourth in the nation, and poised for a potential playoff berth. This stands in stark contrast to last year when the Mountain Hawks endured a challenging season that saw them finish with a disappointing 2-9 record. Their 45-17 victory over Colgate this past week marked a significant turnaround for the program, serving as both a statement of intent and a reminder of the rivalry’s intensity.
Defensive lineman Matt Spatny highlighted the team’s motivation, referencing last year’s humiliating loss to Colgate where Lehigh fell behind 30-0 before making a late comeback. His passionate comments reaffirmed the pride the team takes in this matchup, emphasizing that the players hold onto past experiences as motivation to succeed.
Head coach Kevin Cahill expressed excitement about the progress the team has made, focusing on self-improvement and consistency. His words signal a shift in culture and performance, building confidence as they head into critical matchups.
Meanwhile, Colgate, under the leadership of first-year head coach Curt Fitzpatrick, has faced various challenges, including injuries that have hindered their top offensive playmaker, wide receiver Treyvhon Saunders. Despite the setbacks, the Raiders have shown resilience with recent hard-fought victories, demonstrating a more cohesive unit as the season progresses. Players like Reed Swanson have stepped up, showing promise and skill that could disrupt Lehigh’s defense.
The upcoming game is set to showcase a compelling clash: Lehigh’s dominant defense, which has limited their opponents, allowing only 3 points in their last two games, against a rejuvenated Colgate offense that has been averaging 29.5 points per game. Defense will be critical for Lehigh to maintain their formidable record, while Colgate aims to challenge their senior rivals and establish a foothold against one of the top teams in the nation.
As the cold weather approaches, so too does the excitement of game day at Andy Kerr Stadium in Hamilton, NY. Fans from both sides will be eager to witness how this historic rivalry unfolds, and whether Colgate can topple a nationally-ranked foe, marking a significant milestone in their rebuilding efforts. The anticipation surrounding the game is palpable, embodying the passions and legacies of college football rivalries.