9/2: Villanova @ Lehigh

[Lehigh Football Nation]

Does Lehigh have any sort of chance against the nationally-ranked Wildcats?

Know Your 2017 Opponents: Villanova (http://lehighfootballnation.blogspot.com/2017/08/know-your-2017-opponents-villanova.html)

[Fordham]

Engineers need to make sure they're not looking ahead to the Fordham game. Nova is good

[KPSUL]

Lehigh has a slight chance if they can get the offense moving at the start and make Villanova play catchup. Other than one Colgate game in the playoffs, every PL team UNH has played in recent years has run plays that just take too long to develop. If Lehigh does that against Villanova, they will get absolutely smothered by the NOVA defense. They could increase their chances if Fordham would loan the Engineers Chase Edmunds for the game.

[RichH2]

Going to be very tough. Unlike last year, Nova not coming off a Pitt game. They will be a fresh veteran squad. LU should be able to score but I think we will need to win TOP to protect our D to get a W. We have a very good RB in Dom behind a veteran OL. Even so we will need to establish pass 1st with Mayes and WRs to give the run game some room.

[Go Lehigh TU Owl]

Going to be very tough. Unlike last year, Nova not coming off a Pitt game. They will be a fresh veteran squad. LU should be able to score but I think we will need to win TOP to protect our D to get a W. We have a very good RB in Dom behind a veteran OL. Even so we will need to establish pass 1st with Mayes and WRs to give the run game some room.

Game comes down to Lehigh's front 7. They were pushed around by Nova and UNH last year. They have depth and 5th year guys which is something that hasn't existed since 2011. They MUST be able to control the 'Nova ground game. 'Nova is going to churn out yards but hopefully not 396 worth.

Lehigh's offense will have enough success to be in position to win. The defense win tell the tale....

[Go Green]

Does Lehigh have any sort of chance against the nationally-ranked Wildcats?



The Ivy won its last game against Nova.

[cx500d]

Does Lehigh have any sort of chance against the nationally-ranked Wildcats?

Know Your 2017 Opponents: Villanova (http://lehighfootballnation.blogspot.com/2017/08/know-your-2017-opponents-villanova.html)


I'd say yes, they have an excellent chance.

[van]

Lehigh has a slight chance if they can get the offense moving at the start and make Villanova play catchup. Other than one Colgate game in the playoffs, every PL team UNH has played in recent years has run plays that just take too long to develop. If Lehigh does that against Villanova, they will get absolutely smothered by the NOVA defense. They could increase their chances if Fordham would loan the Engineers Chase Edmunds for the game.

no doubt about Edmunds talent, but our RB, Dom, is excellent and RB will not be a weakness for our O, what we could use is a LB like Butkus

[RichH2]

no doubt about Edmunds talent, but our RB, Dom, is excellent and RB will not be a weakness for our O, what we could use is a LB like Butkus

Hell with Butkus gimme Groome.

[UNHWildcat18]

I think they have very little chance, Nova's defense is too good and Lehigh's defense is too ****ty

[Pard4Life]

Too early... go home...

[Go...gate]

They absolutely have a chance, especially at home.

[caribbeanhen]

They have a chance, Lehigh will not get shut down at home by the Nova D like S Dakota State

[RichH2]

I think they have very little chance, Nova's defense is too good and Lehigh's defense is too ****ty

If this were last year I agree. D this year is to a certain extent an unknown right now. UNH in playoffs faced a LU team with no healthy QBs, starting NG out and a patchwork 2ndary missing 2 starters rotating frosh back there. Right now DL and 2ndary are healthy. Our issue is replacing the LBs and Rover. We' ll see.

[LUHawker]

Too early... go home...

Yeah, you Lafayette guys are used to going home early after a couple of games.

[ngineer]

I agree the pass game needs to click early to open up the running lanes. A quick pass game. Defense, though, will be the key. If we keep 'nova under 30, like last year, the game is very winnable.

[Gangtackle11]

I don't think Nova's defense will be as strong as last season, but with the exception of some questions at the DE position it will be a good defense. The backers & backs will be among the top of the CAA & nationally.

The 3-3-5 defense requires DL to take on blockers to free up blitzing linebackers & safeties. Lehigh can be effective with the dinks & dunks if Nova has to commit more of their back 8 to generate a pass rush. If theLehigh QB can get it out quickly then Lehigh has receivers that can hurt Nova for sizable gains. Your small dynamo back is very good (I'm not buying AA status) and hard to find with a low center of gravity.

I can see Lehigh scoring anyway from the low 20s to low 30s. What I don't see them doing is stopping Villanova run 1st spread offense. Only untimely turnovers will do that. Nova should duplicate or come close to the 50+ carries& 400+ yards generated on the ground last year. I think if Lehigh's defense can answer back it will be a very tight game.

Fun game to start the season. Lehigh home is an advantage.

Will be something like 31-21 or 38-28. Of course, I like Nova here. Shocking right?

[RichH2]

I agree the pass game needs to click early to open up the running lanes. A quick pass game. Defense, though, will be the key. If we keep 'nova under 30, like last year, the game is very winnable.

+1

[RichH2]

I don't think Nova's defense will be as strong as last season, but with the exception of some questions at the DE position it will be a good defense. The backers & backs will be among the top of the CAA & nationally.

The 3-3-5 defense requires DL to take on blockers to free up blitzing linebackers & safeties. Lehigh can be effective with the dinks & dunks if Nova has to commit more of their back 8 to generate a pass rush. If theLehigh QB can get it out quickly then Lehigh has receivers that can hurt Nova for sizable gains. Your small dynamo back is very good (I'm not buying AA status) and hard to find with a low center of gravity.

I can see Lehigh scoring anyway from the low 20s to low 30s. What I don't see them doing is stopping Villanova run 1st spread offense. Only untimely turnovers will do that. Nova should duplicate or come close to the 50+ carries& 400+ yards generated on the ground last year. I think if Lehigh's defense can answer back it will be a very tight game.

Fun game to start the season. Lehigh home is an advantage.

Will be something like 31-21 or 38-28. Of course, I like Nova here. Shocking right?

Pretty much agree on score just not who gets the W. :)
Dom is a 4.4 guy who runs north south. Not much wiggle. But at 230 lbs I would not characterize him as small.

[van]

actually, I like our running game against the 3-3-5 D, our OL might be the best we have had in a number of years

[caribbeanhen]

besides, Dom Bragalone is a beast.... sorry I tried to spell his name....

[Gangtackle11]

Pretty much agree on score just not who gets the W. :)
Dom is a 4.4 guy who runs north south. Not much wiggle. But at 230 lbs I would not characterize him as small.

4.4 230lbs. I didn't see that last season, but if you say so. Those 4.4 times laser or dad's stop watch? Jim Brown #s.

51 carries 400+ yards. & Nova QB had probably his worst game statistically. I don't see much tackling in your videos that I watched last season & saw it 1st hand. Nova will play keep away if you guys don't have an answer.

Until you can convince me that you are stopping that type of run production it's difficult to see Lehigh beating Nova.

[van]

51 carries 400+ yards. & Nova QB had probably his worst game statistically. I don't see much tackling in your videos that I watched last season & saw it 1st hand. Nova will play keep away if you guys don't have an answer.

Until you can convince me that you are stopping that type of run production it's difficult to see Lehigh beating Nova.

agree with until, check back on 9/2

[RichH2]

4.4 230lbs. I didn't see that last season, but if you say so. Those 4.4 times laser or dad's stop watch? Jim Brown #s.

51 carries 400+ yards. & Nova QB had probably his worst game statistically. I don't see much tackling in your videos that I watched last season & saw it 1st hand. Nova will play keep away if you guys don't have an answer.

Until you can convince me that you are stopping that type of run production it's difficult to see Lehigh beating Nova.
Not his Dad or us. He had a 4.37 at PSU combine, electronic time. He is 10 lbs heavier now so perhaps a tad slower but not all that much.
Tackling was pathetic eary last year. Once Lambert came back D improved. Too often 2ndary could not finish tackles. Agree it needs to improve substantially vs your run 1st O. DL now in a 4 set and all healthy should help there. LBs are the biggest issue for us. Lots of bodies but not much experiencr.

[PAllen]

4.4 230lbs. I didn't see that last season, but if you say so. Those 4.4 times laser or dad's stop watch? Jim Brown #s.

51 carries 400+ yards. & Nova QB had probably his worst game statistically. I don't see much tackling in your videos that I watched last season & saw it 1st hand. Nova will play keep away if you guys don't have an answer.

Until you can convince me that you are stopping that type of run production it's difficult to see Lehigh beating Nova.

Yeah, if you're looking for tackling, film of the Lehigh defense for the last 4-5 years is not the place to look.

[The Pud]

This should be a interesting matchup. I will go with Lehigh in an upset. Lehigh 24 Villa 20

[RichH2]

Yeah, if you're looking for tackling, film of the Lehigh defense for the last 4-5 years is not the place to look.

Yup. Some good hitters but too few to make a difference. Not sure whether this started when Chagani graduated or when Andy stopped practicing tackling. Either way it has been an ongoing issue.

[Lehigh'98]

I have a really bad feeling about this game. I hope I'm wrong.

[RichH2]

I have a really bad feeling about this game. I hope I'm wrong.


Naah. Dont sweat it. I alternatepreseason from rose colored glasses to foretaste of impending doom :).
We are what we are. Play our game well with a decent amount of D and its an even match with a slight edge to us. If not, learn and get ready for #2.

[CHIP72]

I hope the game is close but not so close that it is not decided when I need to leave to go to Dulles Airport that day at about 2:45 PM.

[ngineer]

Yup. Some good hitters but too few to make a difference. Not sure whether this started when Chagani graduated or when Andy stopped practicing tackling. Either way it has been an ongoing issue.

It is an issue everywhere. Ever since they have pussified practice to avoid concussions, the tackling has gone south.

[RichH2]

It is an issue everywhere. Ever since they have pussified practice to avoid concussions, the tackling has gone south.

Andy started using donuts like NFL squads do. Caveat NFL tackling techniqued very hit and miss. Mostly quite poor.
For LU, the number of missed and/ or brok en tackles is frustrating. Lack of strength or technique?

[Lehigh Football Nation]

http://image.lehighvalleylive.com/home/lvlive-media/width960/img/sports_impact/photo/lafayette-football-team-hosts-lehigh-on-nov-19-2016-a22eb96f9e227eb4.jpg

This picture doesn't really have a lot of relevance to the season opener. But I think it's important anyway

[RichH2]

http://image.lehighvalleylive.com/home/lvlive-media/width960/img/sports_impact/photo/lafayette-football-team-hosts-lehigh-on-nov-19-2016-a22eb96f9e227eb4.jpg

This picture doesn't really have a lot of relevance to the season opener. But I think it's important anyway

Well OK. :)
Great picture. Does set the tone at least for the fans for the upcoming season.

[Fordham]

poor guy is painfully in lust behind that crew.

[ngineer]

Andy started using donuts like NFL squads do. Caveat NFL tackling techniqued very hit and miss. Mostly quite poor.
For LU, the number of missed and/ or brok en tackles is frustrating. Lack of strength or technique?

Too many guys throw their bodies at runners like missiles thinking the mere force of their contact will do the job and many times it doesn't. Stick the shoulder in while still driving with the legs and wrap, goddamit!

[citdog]

http://image.lehighvalleylive.com/home/lvlive-media/width960/img/sports_impact/photo/lafayette-football-team-hosts-lehigh-on-nov-19-2016-a22eb96f9e227eb4.jpg

This picture doesn't really have a lot of relevance to the season opener. But I think it's important anyway

Yankee girls sure are UGLY...

The one on the right is a 4 at the College of Charleston or Ole Miss...

[CFBfan]

Yankee girls sure are UGLY...

The one on the right is a 4 at the College of Charleston or Ole Miss...

Cmon now dodge that's someone's daughter

[RichH2]

Too many guys throw their bodies at runners like missiles thinking the mere force of their contact will do the job and many times it doesn't. Stick the shoulder in while still driving with the legs and wrap, goddamit!
Yup like they are blocking on a sweep. God gave us arms to hug loved ones, carry groceries and tackle, not necessarily in that order :)

[Go Green]

Yankee girls sure are UGLY...

The one on the right is a 4 at the College of Charleston or Ole Miss...

The old John Cusack movie "The Sure Thing" made a similar joke, subbing UCLA for CoC/Ole Miss.

[Ivytalk]

Yankee girls sure are UGLY...

The one on the right is a 4 at the College of Charleston or Ole Miss...
But an 11 at Dartmouth.xnodx

[KPSUL]

Yankee girls sure are UGLY...

The one on the right is a 4 at the College of Charleston or Ole Miss...

But a 15 at The Military College of South Carolina:

http://www.anygivensaturday.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=25867&stc=1

[Go Lehigh TU Owl]

Back on track....

2 weeks!!! xhypedxxhypedxxhypedx

[RichH2]

Back on track....

2 weeks!!! xhypedxxhypedxxhypedx

Oh yes. My only wish is if we had a game before Nova.

[van]

But a 15 at The Military College of South Carolina:

http://www.anygivensaturday.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=25867&stc=1

OUCH!

[Gangtackle11]

But a 15 at The Military College of South Carolina:

http://www.anygivensaturday.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=25867&stc=1
Wait.....I thought the 4 horsemen was Notre Dame football legend?

[Go Green]

But an 11 at Dartmouth.xnodx

And one can only wonder what the Harvard men's soccer team would write about her if she were in Cambridge. :)

[Gangtackle11]

Villanova media day quotes:

http://www.villanova.com/sports/m-footbl/spec-rel/082217aab.html

[Gangtackle11]

Nice article on Villanova defense:

http://www.delcotimes.com/sports/20170823/wildcats-are-bent-on-staying-stingy

[Go...gate]

Both clubs look strong.

[Gangtackle11]

Both clubs look strong.

It will be a good game. xpeacex Villanova is a TD fav. That's about right.

[HailSzczur]

Been out of the loop with football a bit the last 2 season or so since graduating, completely forgot we had a game before Temple. Nothing going on next weekend, might have to make the trip up

[citdog]

Villanova will win by at least 24pts. If they do not then they are overrated.

[caribbeanhen]

It will be a good game. xpeacex Villanova is a TD fav. That's about right.

I'm thinking this one goes down to the wire, Lehigh shocks us with the upset....

[Gangtackle11]

Villanova will win by at least 24pts. If they do not then they are overrated.

Well we beat Lehigh 26-21 last season and finished about where we are rated in the preseason. Not sure I can buy into your comment, but you are welcome to voice it. xpeacex

I hope you are right about the margin of victory.

I think Lehigh fans are emboldened by last year's game. Nova was sleep walking in the 1st half with their annual week after FBS game letdown. To Lehigh's credit they came to play, but the second half Nova righted the ship and pushed a very poor tackling Lehigh defense all over the field. I believe you will see more of the same from Nova, but with no FBS hangover.

Im going 28-20, but Lehigh scores late to make it closer than the game really will be, but I like the way you think. xpeacex

[citdog]

Well we beat Lehigh 26-21 last season and finished about where we are rated in the preseason. Not sure I can buy into your comment, but you are welcome to voice it. xpeacex

I hope you are right about the margin of victory.

Last year was an aberration. A top half of the CAA team should WHIP the best of the patsy league. If you don't then you drop in the polls.

[Engineer86]

Last year was an aberration. A top half of the CAA team should WHIP the best of the patsy league. If you don't then you drop in the polls.

Either you need to remove your rose color glasses, or you need to slow the motor on your trolling boat. I am betting the latter. I have a large stack on your 24 put spread.

[citdog]

Either you need to remove your rose color glasses, or you need to slow the motor on your trolling boat. I am betting the latter. I have a large stack on your 24 put spread.

How large? I am Jew after all...

[van]

Been out of the loop with football a bit the last 2 season or so since graduating, completely forgot we had a game before Temple. Nothing going on next weekend, might have to make the trip up

hope Nova travels well, Goodman is a very nice venue although early Sept games can get a bit warm in the stands if it is a sunny day, don't forget the sun screen

[MR. CHICKEN]

How large? I am Jew after all...

http://www.anygivensaturday.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=25936&stc=1............AH'M GUESSIN'.........UH NOSE FULL UH NICKLES..............BRAWK!

[Gangtackle11]

We're focused:

https://mobile.twitter.com/novafbvideo/status/901425446302228480

[Lehigh'98]

Taking my almost 3 yr old girl to the game, can't wait. I've been stressing the importance of a strong OOC schedule to her, but it's almost like she doesn't care.

[RichH2]

Taking my almost 3 yr old girl to the game, can't wait. I've been stressing the importance of a strong OOC schedule to her, but it's almost like she doesn't care.
Wow 3 already. She will in another 10-12 years :)

[caribbeanhen]

my Lehigh upset pick is looking a little better .....

[cx500d]

Taking my almost 3 yr old girl to the game, can't wait. I've been stressing the importance of a strong OOC schedule to her, but it's almost like she doesn't care.

She must be a Sam Houston Fan....

[Go Lehigh TU Owl]

my Lehigh upset pick is looking a little better .....

Why won't Delaware come to Philly to play Temple? Temple has reached out to UD....

[ngineer]

Got some words from a former coach who has been out to Lehigh's practices and sees a real offensive show developing. Not only are Casey and Pelletier on fire, but Sasha Kelsey is 100% and running wild out of the slot. With the OL almost intact from last year as well as the backfield, this will be a tough operation to stop. Lehigh's key will be the growth of the LB corps. The DL is looking very good. the LB's are athletic, but limited game experience, so we will see how quickly they learn "in game" conditions. Special teams also look solid. I think it will be very important for Lehigh to get some early stops on D and score quickly to put pressure on 'nova. 'cats are expected to win. After all, they are from the exalted CAA and a legitimate top ten team. I agree that last year's game means nothing for comparison's sake. Both teams can take positives from it to build on for this game. Just too bad the game is on Labor Day weekend which will deflate the crowd. I would expect about 12,000 on any other weekend, but will be happy to see 8,000. Weather may also start to get warmer again by next weekend. Players have been coddled by this cool August--five straight days in the upper 70's. Yes, nova fans, if a sunny day, bring your sunscreen. The visitor's stands face right into the sun. My initial gut sense sees this a high scoring game and I'm calling Lehigh to redeem last year's loss, due in part to a missed field goal early in the game that took away a game winning field goal at the end, to upset the Wildcats 41-38.

[caribbeanhen]

Why won't Delaware come to Philly to play Temple? Temple has reached out to UD....

I have heard from good sources that Delaware tried to play Temple and was told no thanks.... Delaware fans would love to see this game

[ngineer]

I have heard from good sources that Delaware tried to play Temple and was told no thanks.... Delaware fans would love to see this game
That is a another UD rivalry that should be renewed...along with ours!

[ngineer]

Lehigh HC Coen announced this year's captains as selected by the players: Brandon Short (OL), Zach Duffy (OL), Jimmy Mitchell (DL) and Sam McCloskey (S). Short and Duffy are fifth year seniors on medical redshirts. Mitchell has really stepped up since last year and McCloskey is only a junior. It has been almost 15 years since an underclassmen was chosen as a captain, to my memory...and another DB named Salvatore, I think. Annual "Steak Fry" is tomorrow, so we'll see what else is learned from that.

[Go Lehigh TU Owl]

I have heard from good sources that Delaware tried to play Temple and was told no thanks.... Delaware fans would love to see this game

From what I gather Delaware wants the game in Baltimore similar to the JMU-VTech game at FedEx Field.

[PAllen]

From what I gather Delaware wants the game in Baltimore similar to the JMU-VTech game at FedEx Field.

Why in the world Baltimore? Both teams are in the Philly area.

[Go Lehigh TU Owl]

Why in the world Baltimore? Both teams are in the Philly area.

Delaware doesn't want to play at the Linc or have it a true Temple home game.

[RichH2]

ngineer
Thanks for the eyewitness view, even if 2nd hand :).
Does appear that Woetxel and Seighman are makimg biggest impression on Andy at LB.

[Gangtackle11]

hope Nova travels well, Goodman is a very nice venue although early Sept games can get a bit warm in the stands if it is a sunny day, don't forget the sun screen

We travel, but not well unless it's to the Final Four. xpeacex

[caribbeanhen]

From what I gather Delaware wants the game in Baltimore similar to the JMU-VTech game at FedEx Field.

I haven't heard that, Delaware would want to play the game at the LInc.... going to Baltimore would pizz both fan bases off

[MR. CHICKEN]

.....WOODN'T GO TA BALTIMORE......TA SEE FLACCO/AQUARIUM/ORIOLES/TITTIE BARS.......(OK,,,,, MAYBEAH DUH BARS)........NOT ALONE DUH OWLS........YOU-DEE......HAS TAKEN 'EM ON SEVERALAH TIMES......IN PHILLY.......WHAA.....NOT NOW....xconfusedx.............AH'D GO WHIFF.........POPPYCOCK!......AWK!

[Lehigh Football Nation]

No really, insisting the game is in Baltimore is completely whack. That's like Lehigh saying to UMass, "We'll only play you if it's in the Linc". Stupid.

[Go Lehigh TU Owl]

No really, insisting the game is in Baltimore is completely whack. That's like Lehigh saying to UMass, "We'll only play you if it's in the Linc". Stupid.

Does it make any less sense than JMU and VTech playing in DC?

[ngineer]

ngineer
Thanks for the eyewitness view, even if 2nd hand :).
Does appear that Woetxel and Seighman are makimg biggest impression on Andy at LB.

Yes. I spoke with our DC today and he confirms that they excellent young athletes. The question is how fast they pick up the new system and recognize the reads. Any issues will more likely be proper adjustments as opposed to physical. No serious injuries coming out of camp. Of course, without two-a-days and limited contact why should there be??!!! Everyone very high on the "O". Mayes looks like a freaking linebacker! Pelletier has become a real leader on the "O" and the addition of a healthy Kelsey will put much more pressure on the any D's secondary. Also met our our new special teams coach. Kicking game should be very solid this year. Mish has come back very well from off season rehab. Very exciting time for Lehigh football.

[Gangtackle11]

Very exciting time for Lehigh football.

If your defense can stop the run & tackle against teams outside the PL. Otherwise it's last season all over again. xpeacex

[PAllen]

Does it make any less sense than JMU and VTech playing in DC?

Yes very much so. Much of VT's support comes from Northern Virginia, plus VT is making a concerted effort to be a force in the DC market at least on par with Univ of Maryland. Add in that JMU also gets quite a few students from north of Richmond and yeah it actually makes a lot of sense. VT and WVU are playing at FedEx this year.

[PAllen]

Yes. I spoke with our DC today and he confirms that they excellent young athletes. The question is how fast they pick up the new system and recognize the reads. Any issues will more likely be proper adjustments as opposed to physical. No serious injuries coming out of camp. Of course, without two-a-days and limited contact why should there be??!!! Everyone very high on the "O". Mayes looks like a freaking linebacker! Pelletier has become a real leader on the "O" and the addition of a healthy Kelsey will put much more pressure on the any D's secondary. Also met our our new special teams coach. Kicking game should be very solid this year. Mish has come back very well from off season rehab. Very exciting time for Lehigh football.

But can they tackle. That's the real question that won't be answered until week 1.

[Gangtackle11]

But can they tackle. That's the real question that won't be answered until week 1.

Bingo. Agreed. Definitely an interesting game to open the season. xpeacex

[Go...gate]

Go get 'em, Engineers!

[Gangtackle11]

http://scout.com/college/villanova/Article/Villanova-Football-Coach-Ferrante-Week-One-QA-106587468

[Gangtackle11]

Lehigh Game Notes:

http://static.lehighsports.com/custompages/Game%20Notes/Football/2017/Game%20one%20Lehigh%20vs%20Villanova%20090217.pdf# _ga=2.15614070.1126901043.1504059217-141449189.1504059217

[Go...gate]

Why won't Delaware come to Philly to play Temple? Temple has reached out to UD....

That is a fine old Middle Atlantic Conference rivalry - UD should go to Philly to play. Game would be a good draw.

[van]

Lehigh Game Notes:

http://static.lehighsports.com/custompages/Game%20Notes/Football/2017/Game%20one%20Lehigh%20vs%20Villanova%20090217.pdf# _ga=2.15614070.1126901043.1504059217-141449189.1504059217

when does Nova get around to posting their notes?

[Go Lehigh TU Owl]

The Wedge's Lehigh preview

http://thefcswedge.com/a-look-at-what-is-happening-around-the-country/patriot-league-preview-lehigh/

[LUHawker]

The Wedge's Lehigh preview

http://thefcswedge.com/a-look-at-what-is-happening-around-the-country/patriot-league-preview-lehigh/

This was an excellent preview. Accurate, well-balanced and objective assessment of Lehigh. I'll be reading other reviews.

[RichH2]

This was an excellent preview. Accurate, well-balanced and objective assessment of Lehigh. I'll be reading other reviews.
They are all as good. Man does the research and understands college football.
Fingers are crossed for Saturday.

[Lehigh Football Nation]

What does Villanova have to hide re: their game notes? xeyebrowx

[Gangtackle11]

What does Villanova have to hide re: their game notes? xeyebrowx

Always slow to the dance. Comes out on Thursday usually. Like it or not we are a basketball school that plays FCS football.

- - - Updated - - -

Article on defense/special teams:

http://scout.com/college/villanova/Article/2017-Villanova-Football-Preview-Defense-Special-Teams-106657600

[Gangtackle11]

Aug. 29, 2017BETHLEHEM, Pa. – During the first weekly CAA Football teleconference of the season on Monday, Head Coach Mark Ferrante (http://www.villanova.com/sports/m-footbl/mtt/mark_ferrante_11187.html) talks about his first offseason as a head coach, this weeek’s matchup against Lehigh and breakout players to look for this season. Below is a transcript of Ferrante’s comments.

Villanova Head Coach Mark Ferrante (http://www.villanova.com/sports/m-footbl/mtt/mark_ferrante_11187.html)

On what the biggest difference has been going from assistant coach to head coach: The biggest difference for me has been not having to coach a specific position, not having those pre-practice meetings and not having those individual periods on the field. Also, each day there is more things coming across your desk, typically not football related, but day-to-day things seem to go a lot faster and two hour practices on the field seems to go a lot slower. It’s been a smooth transition and hopefully we can show that on the field.

On starting the season with an FCS team as opposed to an FBS team: I can’t remember the last time that we didn’t open up with an FBS opponent. When you have those games (FBS) the expectations might not be as high because you’re playing a level up. From our perspective, it doesn’t matter who we’re playing. Lehigh is a very formidable opponent, they went 9-2 and won the Patriot League championship last year and then faced a tough opponent in New Hampshire so, it will be interesting but we’re excited to get underway regardless of who were playing. They’re a top 20 ranked team, so we have more than our hands full.

In response to the game against Lehigh last year at Villanova and how much he compares that game to this upcoming one: A little bit of both, but each year is a different year regardless of who you’re playing. I know they have a lot of depth back on both sides of the ball, as do we, but no matter how many people you have coming back each year is going to be different. We look forward to going up there and hope to be a little more consistent offensively than we were a year ago and hopefully continue the strong defense we had a year ago to combat one of the best returning offenses in the country.


On the atmosphere around the team this year: We have a huge amount of enthusiasm. We have a great senior nucleus coming back and the theme of this preseason has been to finish. We struggled to finish some games last year and struggled to score in some losses. I think the team is super excited to get started again with as many people returning as we have. We’re striving for consistency across the board for four quarters every game. That’s what the seniors have been pushing, to go out and finish each game.

On one player from each side of the ball that fans will be surprised by this upcoming season: I don’t know if you’ll be surprised by Zach (Bednarczyk) but he has continued to improve and I think he’ll be a guy people will notice for sure. We’re healthy at running back and healthy at wide receiver, so I think you’ll see Zac Kerxton (http://www.villanova.com/sports/m-footbl/mtt/zac_kerxton_1023229.html), Alex Padovani (http://www.villanova.com/sports/m-footbl/mtt/alex_padovani_905655.html) and Taurus Phillips (http://www.villanova.com/sports/m-footbl/mtt/taurus_phillips_905641.html)at wide out. (Aaron) Forbes and (Matt) Gudzak at running back. On defense, Rob Rolle (http://www.villanova.com/sports/m-footbl/mtt/rob_rolle_905643.html) is a name everyone is familiar with; at line backer we have Ed Shockley (http://www.villanova.com/sports/m-footbl/mtt/ed_shockley_905644.html) and Jeff Steeb (http://www.villanova.com/sports/m-footbl/mtt/jeff_steeb_905658.html). Maybe Drew Wiley (http://www.villanova.com/sports/m-footbl/mtt/drew_wiley_974990.html) at linebacker replacing Austin Calitro (http://www.villanova.com/sports/m-footbl/mtt/austin_calitro_812936.html) because the other names are ones people know. Also, up front, our biggest area of replacement, we’re moving young guys around so Trajan Anderson (http://www.villanova.com/sports/m-footbl/mtt/trajan_anderson_1052666.html), Jafonta Johnson (http://www.villanova.com/sports/m-footbl/mtt/jafonta_johnson_974960.html) and Aaron Seigle (http://www.villanova.com/sports/m-footbl/mtt/aaron_seigle_1023352.html) will be the guys on the rise where you’ll hear their name more.

On the challenges Lehigh presents: We have to slow down that explosive offense. They have all their playmakers back. They’re top 10 in just about every offensive category a year ago, so I’m looking for our experienced secondary to match up against their experienced skill on offense. Hopefully we can hang in there defensively and slow them down and then on offense, again, consistency. We averaged over 30 points a game in our nine victories from last year and in our losses we scored seven or less. That’s been the theme, consistency and finishing the game. I know they (Lehigh) have a lot of guys back on defense as well so it should be a close contested game with our strengths matching up against each other.

On how he is feeling being just four days away from head coaching his first collegiate game ever: I’m a little nervous, very excited and really looking forward to the challenge. It’s a lot of emotions wrapped up in one and its only Monday. Ask me again maybe Saturday morning and we’ll see how that goes.

[Lehigh Football Nation]

The LFN preview!

http://lehighfootballnation.blogspot.com/2017/08/villanova-at-lehigh-game-preview-battle.html

Drinks, burgers, an early look at the teams, Lehigh's two-deep analysis.

Later today: Narrative Alert, and tomorrow, X and O breakdown.

[Gangtackle11]

Lehigh's local paper take:

http://www.mcall.com/sports/college/mc-spt-lehigh-football-villanova-preview-20170830-story,amp.html

[OldKat95]

She must be a Sam Houston Fan....
Ya know, however true that may be, it still hurts....

[Lehigh'98]

Anyone got a good weather forecast for the game? Is this going to be played in a downpour?

[RichH2]

Anyone got a good weather forecast for the game? Is this going to be played in a downpour?
40% chance of showers

[CHIP72]

Does it make any less sense than JMU and VTech playing in DC?

The state of Virginia is across the Potomac River from D.C. The state of Delaware is at least 50 miles from Baltimore.

Mind you, with both Virginia Tech and James Madison located in the Shenandoah/Great Valley, that game should be played out there IMO.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[Gangtackle11]

Villanova Game Notes:

http://grfx.cstv.com/photos/schools/nova/sports/m-footbl/auto_pdf/2017-18/release/release_20170831aaa.pdf

[Lehigh Football Nation]

All your Lehigh game narratives in one place:

https://lehighfootballnation.blogspot.com/2017/09/villanova-at-lehigh-game-narratives.html

[Go Lehigh TU Owl]

All kinds of good stuff for this game..

The Wedge's Preview
http://thefcswedge.com/patriot/game-preview-9-villanova-at-19-lehigh/

[Go Lehigh TU Owl]

All your Lehigh game narratives in one place:

https://lehighfootballnation.blogspot.com/2017/09/villanova-at-lehigh-game-narratives.html

This game feels a little like Delaware in '99 and 'UNH in 2011. This game is rolled out like a red carpet for Lehigh, good or bad....

[Gangtackle11]

All kinds of good stuff for this game..

The Wedge's Preview
http://thefcswedge.com/patriot/game-preview-9-villanova-at-19-lehigh/

Nice write up by Coach Coen. xpeacex

[Lehigh Football Nation]

Game Breakdown and Fearless Prediction:

https://lehighfootballnation.blogspot.com/2017/09/villanova-at-lehigh-game-breakdown-and.html

[Go Lehigh TU Owl]

Game Breakdown and Fearless Prediction:

https://lehighfootballnation.blogspot.com/2017/09/villanova-at-lehigh-game-breakdown-and.html

It feels a little like Delaware in '99 and 'UNH in 2011. Villanova has been circled since the UNH dumpster fire in the playoffs. This game is rolled out like a red carpet for Lehigh, good or bad....

[Go...gate]

Game Breakdown and Fearless Prediction:

https://lehighfootballnation.blogspot.com/2017/09/villanova-at-lehigh-game-breakdown-and.html

Nice job. Liked that you had the guts to bring up Massimino's complicated legacy.

[Gangtackle11]

Nice job. Liked that you had the guts to bring up Massimino's complicated legacy.

Not enough Villanova basketball fans that care about our football team. RIP Rollie.

[Gangtackle11]

Ik all u Patriot League fans are circling the wagons supporting the Mountain Hawks, but just a little dose of reality on the eve of this game.

Villanova is 29-4 against Patriot League opponents. That's a 87.9% winning percentage.

So like I've said all along Lehigh has a shot tomorrow, but it's about as good as an FCS team playing an FBS team.


We'll see you Brownies tomorrow!! Sleep well tonight. xpeacex

[LUHawker]

Ik all u Patriot League fans are circling the wagons supporting the Mountain Hawks, but just a little dose of reality on the eve of this game.

Villanova is 29-4 against Patriot League opponents. That's a 87.9% winning percentage.

So like I've said all along Lehigh has a shot tomorrow, but it's about as good as an FCS team playing an FBS team.


We'll see you Brownies tomorrow!! Sleep well tonight. xpeacex

We just ramped up to a full squad of schollies and even have some 5th year guys, so for the first time in well, forever, we're competing on close to equal footing, so I don't think the historical record is a strong barometer. Still the Wildcats should be favored, but the gap is definitely shrinking.

[CHIP72]

Not enough Villanova basketball fans that care about our football team. RIP Rollie.

That would be true.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[Lehigh Football Nation]

Thanks for all the bits on Rollie Massimino. I debated whether to put it in there, and originally I had it as the lede, which was tripping me up because it wasn't germane to the football preview. I'm glad I put it in there and I'm glad it was well received.

[Gangtackle11]

https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=UfuskhK_uAo&feature=share

[Kemo]

Sorry if this was asked/answered already:

What are the viewing options for this game? Streaming anywhere?

[CHIP72]

Sorry if this was asked/answered already:

What are the viewing options for this game? Streaming anywhere?

Because it is a Lehigh home game, it will be available for streaming for free via the Patriot League Network.

[Kemo]

Because it is a Lehigh home game, it will be available for streaming for free via the Patriot League Network.
Awesome. Thanks.

[RichH2]

Weather update
Sun and clouds mid 60s

[Go Lehigh TU Owl]

Game time!

[HailSzczur]

Patriot League Network not working for anyone else? I'm just spinning in circles here waiting to load

[HailSzczur]

NVM, all good now

[HailSzczur]

We are a first down machine

[Engineer86]

Can't get video to work either

[dwtime]

Villanova made that look easy, never even had a 3rd down on that drive.

[Lehigh'98]

Lol. Defense still a joke. 7-0

[dwtime]

Can't get video to work either
Go to watchstadium.com

[HailSzczur]

Villanova made that look easy, never even had a 3rd down on that drive.

We didn't even see a 2nd down....poor chain gang

[dwtime]

We didn't even see a 2nd down....poor chain gang
You are right!

[caribbeanhen]

Can't get video to work either


me neither...

[RichH2]

D clueless on that drive. Not even token fight. Ugh.
O best score a real lot.

[HailSzczur]

How did he not get out of the way? ugh

[dwtime]

me neither...
watchstadium.com

[caribbeanhen]

Go to watchstadium.com

Video is not available at the moment. Please try again later.

[JSUSoutherner]

Lehigh looks like their getting some good blocking up front but the quarterback is just taking days.


Also I have no sound. Anyone else having that problem?

[RichH2]

LU not much better on 1st drive. Ugh.
We are better than this, well at least on O we should be :)

- - - Updated - - -

D picked it up forced a 3 and out.

[Engineer86]

watchstadium.com

Yep says video is not available no try back later

[HailSzczur]

Lehigh looks like their getting some good blocking up front but the quarterback is just taking days.


Also I have no sound. Anyone else having that problem?

Defaulted to volume off for me. Had to turn it on at the bottom right

[dwtime]

Video is not available at the moment. Please try again later.
Strange I'm getting a good feed.

[Go Lehigh TU Owl]

Lehigh settling in. They can run on nova

[RichH2]

Bragalone and Pelletier LU driving

[HailSzczur]

Strange I'm getting a good feed.

Real good quality, I've got it casting up on the 54" curve and it looks great. Well done Lehigh/PL

[RichH2]

LU at the 14 on back to back Mayes passes

[Go Lehigh TU Owl]

Run run run....TD Lehigh

[dwtime]

Real good quality, I've got it casting up on the 54" curve and it looks great. Well done Lehigh/PL
Yeah way better than ESPN3, that feed is terrible for football games.

[PAllen]

what game are the zebras watching?

The spots are terrible, that wasn't a first down, that wasn't a false start.

[Lehigh'98]

7-7 . Let's go LU

[PAllen]

Holy crap! an open field tackle by a DB!

I'll stop now.

[caribbeanhen]

Real good quality, I've got it casting up on the 54" curve and it looks great. Well done Lehigh/PL


your out deep sea fishing and watching the game too.... man

[HailSzczur]

Hell of a scarmble Zack. Fantastic job stepping through that late blitz

[Go Lehigh TU Owl]

7-7 end of 1Q

Teams seem evenly matched...

[Kemo]

Looked like it might be a boat race after the 4 play TD drive for Villanova followed by the Lehigh 3-and-out, but the Hawks stabilized and equalized.

[Go Lehigh TU Owl]

Cant get off the field on 3rd down. Defense still cant stepup...

[HailSzczur]

Great gritty drive there. Some big plays from Zack B and Bell throwing those tacklers off him

[WestCoastAggie]

For the stadium feed, Lehigh is spelled "Lehight." xeyebrowx

[RichH2]

Well that didnt last long.
Nova 14-7

[Kemo]

For the stadium feed, Lehigh is spelled "Lehight." xeyebrowx

Sounds like a case of Napoleon Complex to me.

[Go Lehigh TU Owl]

The Lehigh D is tissue soft still. My goodness...

Lehigh can move the ball. Need points on this drive....

[RichH2]

Nova 21-7

[2ram]

i think the all the PL teams running the spread offense is somehow killing the league's ability to play defense.

[van]

swiss cheese

[RichH2]

LU D still giving up big plays . Not much different than last year.

[HailSzczur]

I feel like all Gudzak does is make big runs. First TD was a 70 yard run in garbage time on parents weekend his FR year

[van]

sorry Rich, but so far worse than last year

[Kemo]

i think the spread offense is somehow killing the ability to play defense in the patriot league.
Practicing against the spread (or scout players recruited to run the spread) really hurts the defense when they square up off against a power oriented team like Villanova.

[PAllen]

I'm about done with this team until they can find some D and some play calling. We traded away Air Lehigh for this vanilla spread/read option nonsense. Our defense went from mediocre to Hank Small bad.

[Go Lehigh TU Owl]

Mayes to keep it once on the reae

[Go Lehigh TU Owl]

Huge penalty

[Go Lehigh TU Owl]

Huge response!

[Kemo]

Lehigh has some fight in them.

[CHIP72]

Lehigh needs to get a defensive stop here. Villanova has had their way offensively on their last two drives.

[HailSzczur]

Amazed Lehigh got out of the 3rd and 22

[2ram]

Practicing against the spread (or scout players recruited to run the spread) really hurts the defense when they square up off against a power oriented team like Villanova.

or army...

[HailSzczur]

Dear god, Bell is just having his way with tacklers

[RichH2]

Excellent drive. Pelletier and Christiano.

[HailSzczur]

Are these announcers a 75 year old married couple? Their arguments are....interesting

- - - Updated - - -

Interesting play call. 30 yard wheel route on 3rd and 11

[RichH2]

D makes a couple of good plays. Then gives up a big one. Scenario of our D last year.

[RichH2]

Finally a stop. Lu 2 mins left at oen 39

[Go Lehigh TU Owl]

Villanova got away with targeting to pelletier

[RichH2]

Pelletier gets us to Nova red zone.

[Go Lehigh TU Owl]

Brutal fumble

[Lehigh'98]

Just unbelievable. Huge fumble by us.

[PAllen]

If LU gives up a TD here, we're done. Nova the better coached squad.

[HailSzczur]

#1 better sit his ass down the rest of the game

[Kemo]

Villanova got away with targeting to pelletier
Disagree. Pelletier dropped his head.

[RichH2]

Stripped ball. Holy crap. Huge mistake. Could be a game changer. Ugh

[Go Lehigh TU Owl]

The LU run defense is terrible. Nova really cant stop Lehigh O but it likely wont matter....

[van]

swiss cheese

[HailSzczur]

Spiking the ball is too much now?

[RichH2]

Disagree. Pelletier dropped his head.
Makes no difference under rule. Still a penalty.

[Go Lehigh TU Owl]

28 first half points against an offensively challenged team....yikes

[PAllen]

Villanova got away with targeting to pelletier

Nah, good non call. Pelletier ducked his head into the tackler's shoulder pad.

[RichH2]

28 -14.
One hell of a hole with our swiss cheese D. That fumble a game changer .

[Go Lehigh TU Owl]

Lehigh needs at least 3 here

[HailSzczur]

Dear god these penalties

[PAllen]

Makes no difference under rule. Still a penalty.

Sure it does. Not a penalty if the ball carrier lowers his head to initiate the contact.

[RichH2]

Refs suck. The standard issue PL crew.
We have a shot here. LU desperately needs a score.

[Go Lehigh TU Owl]

TP not the same

[2ram]

'nova imploding with penalties and turnovers, ala 2013 when fordham upset them.

[Go Lehigh TU Owl]

Lehigh not ready to win this game. An atrocious kick....

[HailSzczur]

As long as we don't keep making stupid stupid mistakes, I feel really good about us so far

[PAllen]

So instead of waving this:

https://media.giphy.com/media/l0HlNOtch2D0XOXxS/source.gif

Should LU fans start wearing these:

https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/originals/b6/62/bc/b662bc374279a61de9b40331f1f9f9a2.jpg

[RichH2]

2 drops inside the Nova 5. Ugh.Missed the FG. Cluster f* ck series for LU. Not the way to go into 2nd half.

[CHIP72]

Andy Coen is one frustrated coach.

[Lehigh'98]

one of the most frustrating games I can remember. Blown opportunities and no defense

[Go Lehigh TU Owl]

Lehigh offense is as good as i expected but the D is so soft against the run. Nova is obviously very good but they dont really have elite playmakers by CAA standards.

Very frustrating first half

- - - Updated - - -


one of the most frustrating games I can remember. Blown opportunities and no defense

Indeed!

[HailSzczur]

I miss you Andy

[van]

Nova may or may not have elite play makers but they know how to block, down field blocking especially good

[RichH2]

one of the most frustrating games I can remember. Blown opportunities and no defense

Frustrating to watch. LU has had their chances. Total clutch by O at the end. Nova O just not that good but we keep forgetting QB can run. We gave up 185 yds 1st half.. Sutyak had to know Nova runs. Players clueless. 4 man DL has not made any difference so far.

[HailSzczur]

Nova may or may not have elite play makers but they know how to block, down field blocking especially good

Someone teach the Defense how to do that now

[Go Lehigh TU Owl]

Well that didnt take long! TD Lehigh!

[HailSzczur]

Well this just got interesting

[van]

how about a Penn second half?

[Go Lehigh TU Owl]

Lol....you cant make this up....10 yards behind the secondary

[HailSzczur]

Lehigh just got 1 up-ed on the HR ball

[PAllen]

Why call a delayed blitz to the weak boundary side on 3-10 at midfield?

[van]

Why call a delayed blitz to the weak boundary side on 3-10 at midfield?

exactly!

[Lehigh'98]

Painful to watch. Getting beat deep on 3&10. No pressure on qb. Nova is a good team, we are making them look like the 1999 Rams here though.

[Go Lehigh TU Owl]

This could be the nail in the coffin drive for the nova O

[PAllen]

And the receivers pick themselves on the crossing patterns. smfh

[HailSzczur]

Looking through the NFL roster moves, looks like Nova OL Brad Seaton was cut by the Titans today

[RichH2]

one of the most frustrating games I can remember. Blown opportunities and no defense
Blown call by Sutyak. Weak late blitz no pressure. Another big play given up by D.

[HailSzczur]

Bell is practically un tackle-able today

[PAllen]

Glad I didn't trek the family 4+ hours for this hot mess.

[PAllen]

I'm sorry, but these play calls on both O and D are idiotic. LU's coaching staff needs to go.

[Go Lehigh TU Owl]

Run the ball! Dom is getting solid yards

[HailSzczur]

After 2 TD in the first 1:30, I did not expect 4 straight punts

[RichH2]

one of the most frustrating games I can remember. Blown opportunities and no defense

Brisson is not Folmar. He is overthinking. Sutyak s/b better but he hasnt shown much today. Thd curse of new OC and DC.

[RichH2]

one of the most frustrating games I can remember. Blown opportunities and no defense
That said he does habe his guys bettdr set so far in wnd half. Forcing punts.

[Go Lehigh TU Owl]

TD Lehigh! The O is still nasty!

Time for the D to have another meltdown....

[HailSzczur]

I love watching Gudzak run

[Go Lehigh TU Owl]

Brisson is not Folmar. He is overthinking. Sutyak s/b better but he hasnt shown much today. Thd curse of new OC and DC.

Offense playinv great against a really good D. All complaints should be directed towards pathetic D

[HailSzczur]

Touchdown here and some decent clock management, and we should be set

[RichH2]

one of the most frustrating games I can remember. Blown opportunities and no defense
Well we gotta win the 4th.

[Go Lehigh TU Owl]

And nova manages to execute a fg. Up 2 possessions

[HailSzczur]

HOLY **** WE ACTUALLY MADE A FIELD GOAL

[Go Lehigh TU Owl]

HOLY **** WE ACTUALLY MADE A FIELD GOAL

Nova doing the little things better than Lehigh is the difference in this game

[HailSzczur]

Nova doing the little things better than Lehigh is the difference in this game

I wouldn't call this a little thing given our track record.....

[Go Lehigh TU Owl]

Couldnt get a foot. Should be the game

[HailSzczur]

That 4th down stop could be the dagger

[Go Lehigh TU Owl]

Lehigh D steps up!

[HailSzczur]

Gudzak just having one of those days. Dude's a machine. 10 carries 143

[smilo]

Just try a field goal! I'm fine with a 38 yarder! Gotta learn sooner or later

[HailSzczur]

Kicker looked good from 32, so we decided to go for it on 4th and 7 from the 21.

....That'll do wonders for the kid's confidence

[PAllen]

Lehigh's new favorite play, the WR screen with no screen.

- - - Updated - - -


Kicker looked good from 32, so we decided to go for it on 4th and 7 from the 21.

....That'll do wonders for the kid's confidence

First large mistake by nova coaching staff.

[HailSzczur]

Lehigh's new favorite play, the WR screen with no screen.

- - - Updated - - -



First large mistake by nova coaching staff.

If we hadn't just made a FG, I would have agreed with the decision

[Go Lehigh TU Owl]

TD Lehigh! A little luck there...

- - - Updated - - -

This game is living up the hype!

[Go Lehigh TU Owl]

Lehigh cant get a stop now

[RichH2]

one of the most frustrating games I can remember. Blown opportunities and no defense
38-35. Question Cane LU not choke at the end of this half like they did at the end of the 1st???? Hope so.
Hell of a game by LU O.

[PAllen]

Great game Nova. You clearly had the better coached team. Amateur coaches vs professionals.