2024 Playoffs Round 2: Lehigh @ #8 Idaho

[Professor Chaos]

Game kicks off at 6PM PT on Saturday 12/7 and will be streamed on ESPN+.


https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54177024661_02ce09327f_o.jpg

[Go Lehigh TU Owl]

Next week in Moscow...
https://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-apps/imrs.php?src=https://arc-anglerfish-washpost-prod-washpost.s3.amazonaws.com/public/TFTR42U6NQI6ZFBYEVLQTNWN3Q.jpg&w=1800&h=1800

[ngineer]

Like a sack of potatoes!!! GO LEHIGH!!

[ngineer]

Now, the question will be, "How healthy will Lehigh be?" We were down two starters before the game. Lost two during the game, and probably unlikely either cleared to play next week. The guys who stepped up were great today, but this will be a very tough assignment. They will likely have to fly out Thursday to practice Friday in the stadium.

[Pards Rule]

Game kicks off at 6PM PT on Saturday 12/7 and will be streamed on ESPN+. I'll post a stats breakdown when the numbers update with today's game.


6PM Mountain?

[Go Lehigh TU Owl]

9 ET, 7 MT if I read correctly....

ESPN game?

[SeattleCat]

We'll see which Idaho shows up, this is a very winnable game for Lehigh. That said I'll take Idaho 30-16.

[Pards Rule]

Last time Lehigh played Idaho was Nov. 13, 1993 in Moscow, Idaho losing 77-14. The next week they were home vs Lafayette, a 39-14 laugher win

[Go Lehigh TU Owl]

Last time Lehigh played Idaho was Nov. 13, 1993 in Moscow, Idaho losing 77-14. The next week they were home vs Lafayette, a 39-14 laugher win

I vividly remember this game because it was the same day as #1 Florida State vs #2 Notre Dame. Maybe 4 or 5 PM ET time kick time on SEC or WFMZ? It was shown in the Lehigh Valley.

I refer to the years from 1992 through 1996 as the "Malaise Era" of PL football: post-Holy Cross scholarship teams and pre-playoffs. There was a lot of mediocre football being played during those years. Lehigh opened 1993 with a 62-21 loss to a ranked Delaware team at The Tub. One of the 1993 highlights for me is attending the game against Princeton at Palmer Stadium. Having a good visual of that stadium is priceless. As was seeing Keith Elias....

Lafayete won the PL in 1994 losing every OOC game including a game to D2 East Stroudsburg.

There were some great All-American level players during the time but the depth simply wasn't there. A bunch of gutted programs imo....

[Pards Rule]

I vividly remember this game because it was the same day as #1 Florida State vs #2 Notre Dame. Maybe 4 or 5 PM ET time kick time on SEC or WFMZ? It was shown in the Lehigh Valley.

I refer to the years from 1992 through 1996 as the "Malaise Era" of PL football: post-Holy Cross scholarship teams and pre-playoffs. There was a lot of mediocre football being played during those years. Lehigh opened 1993 with a 62-21 loss to a ranked Delaware team at The Tub. One of the 1993 highlights for me is attending the game against Princeton at Palmer Stadium. Having a good visual of that stadium is priceless. As was seeing Keith Elias....

Lafayete won the PL in 1994 losing every OOC game including a game to D2 East Stroudsburg.

There were some great All-American level players during the time but the depth simply wasn't there. A bunch of gutted programs imo....

Yes loss to D2 ESU. And a final OOC loss at Annapolis BUT only 7-0!! Then ran PL table rest of season including 54-20 upset of Lehigh

[Outsider1]

Should be a good game if Lehigh is healthy but still take Idaho.

[KnightoftheRedFlash]

Idaho romps.

[ngineer]

[QUOTE=Go Lehigh TU Owl;3226824]I vividly remember this game because it was the same day as #1 Florida State vs #2 Notre Dame. Maybe 4 or 5 PM ET time kick time on SEC or WFMZ? It was shown in the Lehigh Valley.

I refer to the years from 1992 through 1996 as the "Malaise Era" of PL football: post-Holy Cross scholarship teams and pre-playoffs. There was a lot of mediocre football being played during those years. Lehigh opened 1993 with a 62-21 loss to a ranked Delaware team at The Tub. One of the 1993 highlights for me is attending the game against Princeton at Palmer Stadium. Having a good visual of that stadium is priceless. As was seeing Keith Elias....

Lafayete won the PL in 1994 losing every OOC game including a game to D2 East Stroudsburg.

There were some great All-American level players during the time but the depth simply wasn't there. A bunch of gutted programs imo....[/QUOTE Twas at the usual problem
back in the day, and still is to some extent due to reduced rosters. Hopefully, change has arrived.

[KnightoftheRedFlash]

It would be nice if Northeast football (FBS & FCS) could return to elite status. After all, the sport was born and nurtured here.

But until it does, I am not pretending the current offer is worthy of anything but disdain.

[ming01]

Idaho by 10-14.

[gofurman]

6PM Mountain?

I just love your avatar. Meaning the picture that Pards Rule has. Sweet

[POD Knows]

Here is how you beat Idaho at home. Have a QB that runs around like a 10 year old kid in his backyard, throw 50/50 balls off your back foot and pray. That will do it. It is tried and tested.

[Southsider]

It would be nice if Northeast football (FBS & FCS) could return to elite status. After all, the sport was born and nurtured here.

But until it does, I am not pretending the current offer is worthy of anything but disdain.

So, your here just to bitch? Sad.

[caribbeanhen]

Here is how you beat Idaho at home. Have a QB that runs around like a 10 year old kid in his backyard, throw 50/50 balls off your back foot and pray. That will do it. It is tried and tested.

What QB was that?

[KnightoftheRedFlash]

So, your here just to bitch? Sad.

I am here to talk football, not sooth feelings.

[Pards Rule]

I just love your avatar. Meaning the picture that Pards Rule has. Sweet


Thanks yes two friends of WR Eli Steward from his NJ high school at Temple game in 2022. We lost but played them very well. He then was #86! He is # 1 jersey now. I have to figure out how to right it! Help? Thx anyone

[KnightoftheRedFlash]

Thanks yes two friends of WR Eli Steward from his NJ high school at Temple game in 2022. We lost but played them very well. He then was #86! He is # 1 jersey now. I have to figure out how to right it! Help? Thx anyone



Does this work?

[The Cats]

Idaho by a lot

[caribbeanhen]

Is Philly the closest and loudest decibel busting airport to Lehigh?

Lehigh should hold practice on the Tarmac to practice for that loud hanger Idaho plays in..... that place is worth 7 points

[POD Knows]

What QB was that?
You know who I am talking about. 😀

[caribbeanhen]

You know who I am talking about. 

ok just doing a wellness check on you.... you still got it

[Vandal03]

Like a sack of potatoes!!! GO LEHIGH!!

Moscow is closer to Seattle and Portland than the potato growing region of Idaho.

[ngineer]

Moscow is closer to Seattle and Portland than the potato growing region of Idaho.

So I've learned. Near the Iron Curtain. xsmiley_wix

[ngineer]

Should be a good game if Lehigh is healthy but still take Idaho.

Both defensive starters, DE Spotty and LB Ochojski, are being held out this week as a precaution. Both were discharged yesterday afternoon and given a good prognosis, but A.D. Sterrett announced that they are being precautious. IF, and I do mean IF, Lehigh can pull off another upset, we could see them return for the following week. Both are juniors and have another year.

[Go Lehigh TU Owl]

Ngineer,

Matt Spatney was the young man, not Spotty. He led the team with 11.5 sacks. Lehigh was very fortunate with injuries but they have now lost 3 fantastic players the last two weeks. 2 of which (DeNucci and Spatney) are legitimately among the very best in FCS at their respective positions.

[Go Lehigh TU Owl]

Is Philly the closest and loudest decibel busting airport to Lehigh?

Lehigh should hold practice on the Tarmac to practice for that loud hanger Idaho plays in..... that place is worth 7 points

PL teams have found their way into domes over the years: Lehigh (Kibbie Dome in 1993, UNI Dome, Fargo Dome), Colgate (Carrier Dome, DakotaDome, Fargo Dome), Lafayette (Fargo Dome), Holy Cross (Carrier Dome)

[ngineer]

They'll be practicing inside at the Rauch Fieldhouse with loud music pumped in this week. Won in the UNI-Dome, played well in Fargo Dome...biggest impediment was not being able to have Spadola at WR. That was a huge I impact on the offense. Noise can be disruptive. Saw the crowd in Montana cause UC Davis to have all sorts of motion penalties early in the game. But, they settled down and figured it out. I hope we can, too.

[Go Lehigh TU Owl]

Lots of smoke to suggest Idaho's head coach interviewed with Utah State on Wednesday. Be interesting to see how this might factor into their game planning.

I'm hoping/assuming (outside of injuries) it's been a week of business as usual and finals prep at Lehigh?

[Pards Rule]

Does this work?


YES SIR THANK U!

[Pards Rule]

Is Philly the closest and loudest decibel busting airport to Lehigh?

Lehigh should hold practice on the Tarmac to practice for that loud hanger Idaho plays in..... that place is worth 7 points

PHL or EWR...both prob the same. Easier to get to EWR via I-78 I suppose

[caribbeanhen]

PHL or EWR...both prob the same. Easier to get to EWR via I-78 I suppose

they should be wearing ear plugs

[POD Knows]

They'll be practicing inside at the Rauch Fieldhouse with loud music pumped in this week. Won in the UNI-Dome, played well in Fargo Dome...biggest impediment was not being able to have Spadola at WR. That was a huge I impact on the offense. Noise can be disruptive. Saw the crowd in Montana cause UC Davis to have all sorts of motion penalties early in the game. But, they settled down and figured it out. I hope we can, too.There was only 12K people at the Montana/Tennesse game and it was outdoors. I remember the Lehigh game, that was a pretty full house and I think it was -17 air temp when we set up for tailgating at that game. It was a great crowd and that was early in the Bison run so the crowds were always up for the games.

[CHIP72]

The last time a team I rooted for played at the Kibble Dome, Temple suffered a horrible loss to a truly awful Idaho team during Matt Rhule's first year as the Owls' head coach.

Hopefully Lehigh can do better against a now lower classification but stronger Vandals squad.

[ngineer]

PHL or EWR...both prob the same. Easier to get to EWR via I-78 I suppose

mileage about the same, it’s the traffic/time of day that determines how long it takes!

[Go Lehigh TU Owl]

Does anyone know where Lehigh is flying into? Are they able to fly directly to Pullman/Moscow Regional? Or are they bussing it from Spokane?

[ngineer]

Do not know directly, but, since they are flying charter and not airline, my guess is that they are flying direct to Moscow.

[CHIP72]

Does anyone know where Lehigh is flying into? Are they able to fly directly to Pullman/Moscow Regional? Or are they bussing it from Spokane?

It appears Pullman-Moscow Regional Airport has a sufficiently long runway to handle larger jets.

[Vandal03]

Does anyone know where Lehigh is flying into? Are they able to fly directly to Pullman/Moscow Regional? Or are they bussing it from Spokane?

I don’t know where Lehigh will fly into. It is graduation weekend so I doubt Lehigh will be staying in Moscow or Pullman so my guess is they will fly into Lewiston (35 miles to the south). If the hotels in Lewiston are full they would fly into Spokane. I haven’t paid attention to where teams fly into or stay in over ten years. It was common for teams to fly into Lewiston and stay down there back when I was paying attention to it.

[Pards Rule]

It appears Pullman-Moscow Regional Airport has a sufficiently long runway to handle larger jets.


Hey Chip I would think PUW (Pullman WA) airport has a 7.101 ft runway which can accomodate a 737. Wiki says that entered into service 2019 replacing the former runway of 6730 feet (I presume they just extended same). Runway is NE-SW aligned on the NE with Moscow Mt, highest peak in area

[Pards Rule]

I don’t know where Lehigh will fly into. It is graduation weekend so I doubt Lehigh will be staying in Moscow or Pullman so my guess is they will fly into Lewiston (35 miles to the south). If the hotels in Lewiston are full they would fly into Spokane. I haven’t paid attention to where teams fly into or stay in over ten years. It was common for teams to fly into Lewiston and stay down there back when I was paying attention to it.


Thx Vandal. I never would have thought of a grad weekend in December but universities have them indeed. I guess hotel rooms are at premium said weekend. Interesting I live a 5 minute walk to the Atlantic Ocean in Long Beach Island NJ (basically only 7500 year round residents but hugh influx of 2nd home folks and visitors/renters) and I noted about 10 blocks north of me (not ON but NEAR Idaho Ave - streets here have preponderance of states names as we are 18 miles long) there flies on occasion an Idaho flag! Bout as far east as you can get to fly same huh? If I see whoever, I will stop and ask connection to the Vandals. Cool in that a lot of houses down here fly college flags and you see some interesting ones - Colorado, etc ones that are not local. Wonder if anyone plants a Lafayette flag out in Potato(e)?? state...Remember that? Who was the VP on the spellcheck?

[Bill]

Thx Vandal. I never would have thought of a grad weekend in December but universities have them indeed. I guess hotel rooms are at premium said weekend. Interesting I live a 5 minute walk to the Atlantic Ocean in Long Beach Island NJ (basically only 7500 year round residents but hugh influx of 2nd home folks and visitors/renters) and I noted about 10 blocks north of me (not ON but NEAR Idaho Ave - streets here have preponderance of states names as we are 18 miles long) there flies on occasion an Idaho flag! Bout as far east as you can get to fly same huh? If I see whoever, I will stop and ask connection to the Vandals. Cool in that a lot of houses down here fly college flags and you see some interesting ones - Colorado, etc ones that are not local. Wonder if anyone plants a Lafayette flag out in Potato(e)?? state...Remember that? Who was the VP on the spellcheck?

Yep! And Penn State was concerned with this back in April:
https://radio.wpsu.org/2024-04-17/penn-state-football-ncaa-playoffs-move-fall-2024-graduation-ceremonies-university-park#

[CHIP72]

Hey Chip I would think PUW (Pullman WA) airport has a 7.101 ft runway which can accomodate a 737. Wiki says that entered into service 2019 replacing the former runway of 6730 feet (I presume they just extended same). Runway is NE-SW aligned on the NE with Moscow Mt, highest peak in area

I saw the same information. :)

[Lehigh Football Nation]

https://www.college-sports-journal.com/preview-of-lehigh-at-idaho-2nd-round-of-the-2024-fcs-playoffs-as-mountain-hawks-hit-national-stage-skeptics-question-lehighs-ability-to-keep-up-with-vandals/

Almost everyone thinks Lehigh is going to get the doors blown off. I honestly don't think so. I see a team with a real chance to win, if their lines can hold up.

[crusader11]

I can see this game playing out similar to HC - SDSU a few years ago.

Lehigh, due to their strong defense and running game, are able to keep it close for three quarters, but Idaho pulls away in the end to win by a couple of scores.

31-20 kind of game.

[Southsider]

I can see this game playing out similar to HC - SDSU a few years ago.

Lehigh, due to their strong defense and running game, are able to keep it close for three quarters, but Idaho pulls away in the end to win by a couple of scores.

31-20 kind of game.

This is about how I see it. And if it turns out so, for me it would cap off a great season!

[Pards Rule]

This is about how I see it. And if it turns out so, for me it would cap off a great season!

Yes it would an 11 pt loss like Lafayette had at App State 2005 playoff!

[Pards Rule]

https://www.college-sports-journal.com/preview-of-lehigh-at-idaho-2nd-round-of-the-2024-fcs-playoffs-as-mountain-hawks-hit-national-stage-skeptics-question-lehighs-ability-to-keep-up-with-vandals/

Almost everyone thinks Lehigh is going to get the doors blown off. I honestly don't think so. I see a team with a real chance to win, if their lines can hold up.

Whats the spread?

[Lehigh'98]

Idaho -15.5.

[JimKLU72]

Idaho -15.5.

The Oregon score scares me. If we cover, I’ll be thrilled.

[ElCid]

Hey Chip I would think PUW (Pullman WA) airport has a 7.101 ft runway which can accomodate a 737. Wiki says that entered into service 2019 replacing the former runway of 6730 feet (I presume they just extended same). Runway is NE-SW aligned on the NE with Moscow Mt, highest peak in area

7000' is more than adequate for small to mid size commercial aircraft.

[Southsider]

The Oregon score scares me. If we cover, I’ll be thrilled.


opening game. Don’t read too much into it. Would LU lose by 35 to Army today. Doubtful

[Go Lehigh TU Owl]

If you look at the Idaho's first 3 weeks it's easy to think; Lehigh is in trouble. However, the last half of the year the Vandals were generally far from dominant against some "meh" teams and got run out of Bozeman (which I think will happen to either team next week). If Lehigh is prepared for noise and can hold up along the LOS they can make this a 60 minute fight. If the OL brings their A-game Lehigh's offense has the ability to push Idaho's defense around some imo. The injuries absolutely suck, both for the individuals obviously, and for the team. With DeNucci and Spatney Lehigh could absolutely GATA. As it is, the Vandals offense will not miss the mark like Richmond did last week.

I truly believed Lehigh was either going to win last week or lose at the finish line. This week I think Lehigh has a chance to win but Idaho is the clear favorite. The 15.5 line does seem high to me given the trajectory of both teams over the last 4-5 weeks. I would have it closer to 9.5 or so. Idaho is going to put up points like Bucknell and Yale IF Lehigh does not execute on offense imo...

Idaho 38 Lehigh 27 or something in that ballpark seems like a relatively unbiased prediction? If Lehigh wins I think it will be in the 24-20 range which is how the Abilene Christian, Northern Arizona and UC Davis games played out. Lehigh's offense needs to control the game/possessions. 3 or 4 scoring drives that take about 6-7 minutes would be fantastic. Hunt had a blueprint to beat James Madison in a similar situation....

I believe this game, relative to others, does have solid upset potential. Illinois State vs UC Davis is the other. The Aggies gave Montana State a good game, but overall, the Bobcats have distanced themselves from everyone in the Big Sky. I also think Villanova will give IWU a much closer game than many think...

[JimKLU72]

I’m not familiar with the specifics regarding runway length requirements for various types of aircraft. I do know that Lehigh Valley International (ABE) runways are too short to allow fully loaded, fully fueled medium or larger sized commercial jet to take off safely. For this reason the longest regularly scheduled flights are to Denver (I guess not fully fueled?). I think Pullman is a bit further. I’m curious if they left from ABE or Philly….

[Go Lehigh TU Owl]

Also of note, Lehigh has a history of brutally tough second round/quarterfinal opponents. Very little luck of the draw when they advance...

1998 Beat Richmond then lost to Umass; Minutemen won the national championship
2000 Beat Western Illinois then lost to Delaware: Hens were ranked #1 for much of the season, they ended up getting "upset" by eventual (and defending) national champion Georgia Southern in Newark in the Semifinals.
2001 Beat Hofstra then lost to Furman: Paladins lost in the national title game to Montana
2010 Beat Northern Iowa then lost to Delaware: Hens lost in the national title game to Eastern Washington
2011 Beat Towson then lost to North Dakota State: NDSU won the national championship
2024 Beat Richmond then?

Also, their heartbreaking 14-13 first round loss in 2004 was to eventual national champion JMU.

[Go Lehigh TU Owl]

I’m not familiar with the specifics regarding runway length requirements for various types of aircraft. I do know that Lehigh Valley International (ABE) runways are too short to allow fully loaded, fully fueled medium or larger sized commercial jet to take off safely. For this reason the longest regularly scheduled flights are to Denver (I guess not fully fueled?). I think Pullman is a bit further. I’m curious if they left from ABE or Philly….

I know the regional airport in Manhattan, KS (home of Kansas State) allows chartered "large jets" to land. Although, being located in the middle of the country naturally influences fuel load. When we played Texas in 2022 there had to be 10 or so private jets parked there 4-5 hours prior to the game (I drove by to check it out). Just next level stuff....

[ncspiderfan]

If you look at the Idaho's first 3 weeks it's easy to think; Lehigh is in trouble. However, the last half of the year the Vandals were generally far from dominant against some "meh" teams and got run out of Bozeman (which I think will happen to either team next week). If Lehigh is prepared for noise and can hold up along the LOS they can make this a 60 minute fight. If the OL brings their A-game Lehigh's offense has the ability to push Idaho's defense around some imo. The injuries absolutely suck, both for the individuals obviously, and for the team. With DeNucci and Spatney Lehigh could absolutely GATA. As it is, the Vandals offense will not miss the mark like Richmond did last week.

I truly believed Lehigh was either going to win last week or lose at the finish line. This week I think Lehigh has a chance to win but Idaho is the clear favorite. The 15.5 line does seem high to me given the trajectory of both teams over the last 4-5 weeks. I would have it closer to 9.5 or so. Idaho is going to put up points like Bucknell and Yale IF Lehigh does not execute on offense imo...

Idaho 38 Lehigh 27 or something in that ballpark seems like a relatively unbiased prediction? If Lehigh wins I think it will be in the 24-20 range which is how the Abilene Christian, Northern Arizona and UC Davis games played out. Lehigh's offense needs to control the game/possessions. 3 or 4 scoring drives that take about 6-7 minutes would be fantastic. Hunt had a blueprint to beat James Madison in a similar situation....

I believe this game, relative to others, does have solid upset potential. Illinois State vs UC Davis is the other. The Aggies gave Montana State a good game, but overall, the Bobcats have distanced themselves from everyone in the Big Sky. I also think Villanova will give IWU a much closer game than many think...

If Lehigh defense can have another game like last week, I would guess Idaho will not get 38. I agree with you the offense will have to play better than last week; the defense beat the Spiders, and the offense did just enough to make it happen with three clutch plays that resulted in 14 points. If offense can put 24-28 on sustained drive like you say, the defense might make that enough for an upset to happen.

Good luck and glad the two players were not injured as badly as it looked, pretty scary when it was going on.

[ngineer]

You’ve pretty much nailed the same views I have. On paper we’re two TD underdogs, but a veritable mistake free game (penalties and TOs) and sustained drives to rest the D and we can pull this off!

[Vandal03]

I believe Idaho should win the game, but Lehigh is a very good team and could win. Idaho’s offense is much better when Jack Layne is in at QB. He was injured in the opening game against Oregon and only started 4 games. Idaho is undefeated at home and it is a long trip out west for Lehigh. That said, Lehigh is a very physical team and that is a winning formula in the playoffs. Both teams have solid defenses. Lehigh has already proven they can win a playoff football game. Before the game against Richmond Idaho Coach Eck predicted that Lehigh would advance. I can’t wait to see how these two teams match up against each other.

Go Vandals!

[Lehigh Football Nation]

I find myself looking at both teams and seeing their similarities - wanting to establish the run, very good defensive fronts, multiple rushing options, physical O lines. This game could be fun for purists. And I'm impressed with Coach Eck's coaching too. I don't mind the trick plays and I think he's an excellent head coach.

[caribbeanhen]

If Lehigh defense can have another game like last week, I would guess Idaho will not get 38. I agree with you the offense will have to play better than last week; the defense beat the Spiders, and the offense did just enough to make it happen with three clutch plays that resulted in 14 points. If offense can put 24-28 on sustained drive like you say, the defense might make that enough for an upset to happen.

Good luck and glad the two players were not injured as badly as it looked, pretty scary when it was going on.

Yes, the Lehigh defense looked good last week. I think the big problem Lehigh will have is last week.

Not having the benefit of a first round bye has spelled big trouble over the past several years in the FCS playoffs.

Compounded by the long travel, strange environment and that very loud hanger that Idaho plays in spells big trouble I'm afraid. If Lehigh can somehow pull off an upset in this it would be nothing short of miraculous.

Go Lehigh!

[CHIP72]

I’m not familiar with the specifics regarding runway length requirements for various types of aircraft. I do know that Lehigh Valley International (ABE) runways are too short to allow fully loaded, fully fueled medium or larger sized commercial jet to take off safely. For this reason the longest regularly scheduled flights are to Denver (I guess not fully fueled?). I think Pullman is a bit further. I’m curious if they left from ABE or Philly….

My guess is Lehigh flew from ABE/LVI and made a refueling stop somewhere.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

[Southsider]

Anyone else not liking the 9 pm Easter KO? Hope a competitive game perks me up!

[Lehigh Football Nation]

FWIW they landed in Lewiston yesterday. We are about 1/2 hour from kick!

[Go Lehigh TU Owl]

Idaho strikes first, converted a 4th and 3 and made a ridiculous TD catch on 3rd and goal. Lehigh's defense played well but the Vandals made two plays when they had to make them...missed XP

Idaho 6 Lehigh 0 6:05 1Q

Lehigh's offense needs to execute...

[Southsider]

D very scrappy. Holding their own so far

[Go Lehigh TU Owl]

Idaho 6 Lehigh 0 End 1Q

Lehigh has to get off the field on these critical 3rd and 4th downs and the offense has to execute....

[Go Lehigh TU Owl]

Lehigh can't catch any luck with injuries right now. Hopefully the OL is ok...

[Southsider]

Oh well…..

[POD Knows]

That QB for Idaho has weird throwing mechanics.

[Go Lehigh TU Owl]

Idaho executing on 3rd down while Lehigh is not. #6 has been the best player on the field.

Idaho 12 Lehigh 0 11:50 2Q

Lehigh's offense has to get it going....

[Southsider]

Idaho executing on 3rd down while Lehigh is not. #6 has been the best player on the field.

Idaho 12 Lehigh 0 11:50 2Q

Lehigh's offense has to get it going....

D is fighting hard. That 3rd down play should have been stopped though. This will get out of hand if O doesn’t get going

[Go Lehigh TU Owl]

Lehigh gets on the board. Defense needs a stop, had plenty of time to catch their breath...

Idaho 12 Lehigh 3 6:26 2Q

[Go Lehigh TU Owl]

Defense just can't make a play on 3rd down...

[Southsider]

Honestly, I am impressed with LU. No quit in them!,

[SeattleCat]

sooooo boring.

[Go Lehigh TU Owl]

Lehigh gets the stop! Offense needs to be smart!

[crusader11]

Lehigh’s defense is damn impressive.

Offense needs to make some plays. Cahill needs to set up a gadget play at some point.

[Southsider]

sooooo boring.

I take this boring for another 2 quarters…..

[Go Lehigh TU Owl]

Lehigh's in trouble. It could be 26-3 before they see the ball. Offense just can't get anything going. OL attrition is taking its toll....

- - - Updated - - -

Yup, that should be about it. The levee was bound to break...

[crusader11]

Lehigh’s defense is damn impressive.

Offense needs to make some plays. Cahill needs to set up a gadget play at some point.

And then there’s a bad breakdown.

Offense just doesn’t have enough juice to extend drives.

[Southsider]

Obviously not surprised. Need to learn, expand the playbook, get bigger and faster for next year. Very proud of these guys.

[Go Lehigh TU Owl]

What's weird is the OL was starting to assert their will a little bit on the drive that led to a FG. Since then they've really struggled....

[Go Lehigh TU Owl]

That was incredible special teams execution by Lehigh.

- - - Updated - - -

Idaho 19 Lehigh 6 Half

[Southsider]

Lineman look gassed. Anyway, nice drive ends with points.

[Go Lehigh TU Owl]

Lehigh has been burned by the big play which they've been good at avoiding all year. Inability to generate chunk plays on offense is their biggest issue imo. Passing attack needs to get more dynamic as Johnson gets more experience....

[Southsider]

Lehigh has been burned by the big play which they've been good at avoiding all year. Inability to generate chunk plays on offense is their biggest issue imo. Passing attack needs to get more dynamic as Johnson gets more experience....

and to be fair, LU a bit overmatched. All things considered they are doing OK

[Go Lehigh TU Owl]

and to be fair, LU a bit overmatched. All things considered they are doing OK

Idaho has like 6 guys that seem to be next level, #6, #15 on offense and #52 #1, #11 and #7 on defense.

[Southsider]

Idaho has like 6 guys that seem to be next level, #6, #15 on offense and #52 #1, #11 and #7 on defense.

xnodx

[POD Knows]

Idaho has like 6 guys that seem to be next level, #6, #15 on offense and #52 #1, #11 and #7 on defense.
If Idaho wins, let me know what level you think these guys are when MSU rolls them by 40.

[Southsider]

Idaho QB throws floaters. Gets away with it as LU defenders play too soft

[Go Lehigh TU Owl]

If Idaho wins, let me know what level you think these guys are when MSU rolls them by 40.

They already beat them by 31. Montana State is the best team in the country imo. This is their year...

I can see why Idaho hung with Oregon and beat Wyoming though given some of their individual talent.

[POD Knows]

They already beat them by 31. Montana State is the best team in the country imo. This is their year...

I can see why Idaho hung with Oregon and beat Wyoming though given some of their individual talent.
No doubt. They were down a QB when they played MSU early in the year but MSU is hitting on all cylinders now, they are going to make Idaho look pretty average I am afraid.

[CopperCat]

Lehigh doesn’t have a pass rush to speak of in this game.

Secondary is two steps behind Idaho's two best receivers. They’re just overmatched.

[Go Lehigh TU Owl]

Lehigh doesn’t have a pass rush to speak of in this game.

Secondary is two steps behind Idaho's two best receivers. They’re just overmatched.

Spatney led the team with 11.5 sacks was one of the two players stretchered off last week. They lost their best LB in the season finale. Attrition on defense caught up as did a limited offense given all the freshman.

[Southsider]

Getting ugly

[POD Knows]

Good wheels on 11 for Idaho.

[KnightoftheRedFlash]

Proving why Lehigh isn't top 25 material despite beating a tough LIU team.

[Southsider]

Proving why Lehigh isn't top 25 material despite beating a tough LIU team.

Go away

[KnightoftheRedFlash]

Go away

Things Idaho is saying to Lehigh right now for $500, Alex

[Southsider]

The child from St Francis has returned

[POD Knows]

One team left east of the Mississippi.

[KnightoftheRedFlash]

The child from St Francis has returned

Don't be petty and whiny over brutal football facts.

[POD Knows]

#6 for Idaho can ball

[KnightoftheRedFlash]

One team left east of the Mississippi.

Which isn't shocking to anyone who uses facts and not emotional reasoning when evaluating FCS football. The East has degraded.

[Lehigh Football Nation]

The Padezanin injury was massive. It was already tough sledding but that made it way harder. More credit to Eck and Idaho though. Their DL and LBs are the best Lehigh have seen all season, and they played Army.

Biggest surprise is the big pass plays. That comes from the weakened pass rush from Lehigh thanks to the injuries. But that's football.

[POD Knows]

The Kibbie dome is “state of the art”, you can get Hunta virus or lead poisoning just looking at it

[Southsider]

Ha! Good one.

[Lehigh Football Nation]

The Kibbie dome is “state of the art”, you can get Hunta virus or lead poisoning just looking at it

Pretty sure asbestos was still legal back then

[POD Knows]

Pretty sure asbestos was still legal back then
It is an EPA Super Fund clean up site.

[crusader11]

Physically, Lehigh hung in there pretty well. They actually had more first downs and rushing yards.

Just didn’t have the horses to match up with Idaho’s skilled guys. They needed to convert those field goals into touchdowns in the first half to have a chance.

They’ll be back. Bringing a ton of guys back on offense. Will definitely be the favorite in the PL next season.

[Lehigh Football Nation]

I don't think it would have changed the ultimate outcome but Padezanin going down was really big. It was going to be a big challenge matching up with them physically up front and when he went down it was just that much tougher. Flat-out was impressed by Idaho. A very likeable team and Eck is a super head coach. He's destined for a high G5 or P5 coaching job. His players were up for this game.

[Southsider]

Physically, Lehigh hung in there pretty well. They actually had more first downs and rushing yards.

Just didn’t have the horses to match up with Idaho’s skilled guys. They needed to convert those field goals into touchdowns in the first half to have a chance.

They’ll be back. Bringing a ton of guys back on offense. Will definitely be the favorite in the PL next season.

Agree on all points. Looking forward to Eastern Football in 2025!

[NY Crusader 2010]

Physically, Lehigh hung in there pretty well. They actually had more first downs and rushing yards.

Just didn’t have the horses to match up with Idaho’s skilled guys. They needed to convert those field goals into touchdowns in the first half to have a chance.

They’ll be back. Bringing a ton of guys back on offense. Will definitely be the favorite in the PL next season.

It's almost criminal that Richmond-Lehigh is a Week 1 game next year. A game with that level of title implications deserves to be later in the season. I've never liked when seasons start with conference games. Exceptions being games that have been traditionally played on an early weekend for years => FSU-Miami is an example. They always played on Labor Day Weekend IIRC. Not Week 1 but Vanderbilt-Ole Miss is another. They always met either the 2nd or 3rd week of season. Definitely a September game. I'm sure the SWAC has a couple like this.

[KnightoftheRedFlash]

It's almost criminal that Richmond-Lehigh is a Week 1 game next year. A game with that level of title implications deserves to be later in the season. I've never liked when seasons start with conference games. Exceptions being games that have been traditionally played on an early weekend for years => FSU-Miami is an example. They always played on Labor Day Weekend IIRC. Not Week 1 but Vanderbilt-Ole Miss is another. They always met either the 2nd or 3rd week of season. Definitely a September game. I'm sure the SWAC has a couple like this.

A quick Google search says otherwise:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Florida_State%E2%80%93Miami_football_rivalry

[POD Knows]

Pretty sure asbestos was still legal back then
Hey, quick question, late in the game Lehigh brought in this 5th year guy. He was bigger and seemed to have a better arm than the starting QB for Lehigh. I know it was garbage time but he looked far more polished and poised than the kid they started at QB.

[Pards Rule]

Hey, quick question, late in the game Lehigh brought in this 5th year guy. He was bigger and seemed to have a better arm than the starting QB for Lehigh. I know it was garbage time but he looked far more polished and poised than the kid they started at QB.

I think that was normal starter Dante Pewrri was injured in season and was on bench healing. Southsider? Ngineer? I didnt watch but know hes a 5th year Covid dude

[RichH2]

I think that was normal starter Dante Pewrri was injured in season and was on bench healing. Southsider? Ngineer? I didnt watch but know hes a 5th year Covid dude


It was Perri. Nice cap to his career at Lehigh

[Pards Rule]

It was Perri. Nice cap to his career at Lehigh


Indeed good to get him in the final game of his career

[Southsider]

I think that was normal starter Dante Pewrri was injured in season and was on bench healing. Southsider? Ngineer? I didnt watch but know hes a 5th year Covid dude

Well, Johnson definitely more talented, but Perri paid his dues then got dinged at Holy Cross. Very happy to see him close out his career on the field. Best of Luck to him!

[caribbeanhen]

Hometown Selbyville, Del.

TJ Burke

had a nice sack last night

High School Indian River

[Southsider]

Hometown Selbyville, Del.

TJ Burke

had a nice sack last night
High School Indian River



He is a real beast. I think he’s got another year?

[caribbeanhen]

He is a real beast. I think he’s got another year?

not sure, I remember a friend telling stories about meeting him in the gym years ago and learned he was mentally committed to Lehigh, tried to steer him to Delaware but he was locked in

[Southsider]

not sure, I remember a friend telling stories about meeting him in the gym years ago and learned he was mentally committed to Lehigh, tried to steer him to Delaware but he was locked in

Smart kid😃

[ngineer]

He is a real beast. I think he’s got another year?

Yes, Burke has another year. In addition, He's the strongest person at Lehigh. A beast in the weight room. Supposedly bench 600+

[ngineer]

I think that was normal starter Dante Pewrri was injured in season and was on bench healing. Southsider? Ngineer? I didnt watch but know hes a 5th year Covid dude

Yes, Perri finished up the game. Nice of Cahill to have him do it. Dante is a smart guy, but not at athletic as Johnson. If Perri has the time and can set, he can throw a good a pass; however, he is not at mobile as Johnson and cannot throw well "on the run". Dante has been a tremendous leader on this team and I give him a ton of credit for the success they had this year. Johnson, for a 'true freshman" showed a lot of poise and did a decent job reading defense. The QB room, next year, will be quite strong with Machalik and the new recruit coming in from Kansas.

[ngineer]

Overall, I was glad to see the guys fight to the end. The outcome was pretty much as anticipated...that we would fight and possibly make it interesting IF, we had a "clean" game and didn't give up the big play. From a penalty standpoint, we did a good job. I think only three 5 yard penalties. However, we gave up three big plays. Two TDs (the pick 6 and the 40+yard TD pass), A third score was set up by a huge punt return. Without the big plays it's a tighter game. Unfortunately, for us, Idaho just had more talent when it came speed/quickness; both on offense and defense. Good idea for Idaho to kick off deep and not give Green a chance to go coast to coast or get Lehigh great field position to start a drive. Lehigh's offense is not as explosive as needed at this level, and hopefully, that will improve as more recruits come in. If you would have told me in August that we'd be playing in December after winning the PL championship, I would have thought you delusional. Hopefully, the success experienced will be used as a learning experience, and not solely a joyous experience. Take a lesson from Laughyette and how they did this year after a fantastic 2023. "All glory if quickly fading" Gen Patton famously said regarding what the victorious generals were told by their aides upon the return of the conquering Roman armies.

Kudos to Idaho. I will be cheering for them this coming Saturday. I almost always cheer for the underdog. But, I like their team balance and their coach seems like a straight-shooter who has gotten the necessary buy-in from his players. I will make MSU the favorite; though, I think the game will be much closer than what occurred in the regular season.

[Lehigh Football Nation]

One last note on Dante Perri - he was a former walk-on who kept winning the job after a revolving door of other QBs, some highly recruited and at least one FBS transfer, kept coming in and getting installed as the starter in front of him. My impression is that the other players loved him and he was a great leader, and in his 5th year season, a great mentor and a good football head on his shoulders. Hayden Johnson isn't who he is without Dante. So cool to see him score a TD on his final collegiate drive.

Also cool to see that fifth year Mike DeNucci made the trip. He got injured during the Lafayette game and couldn't play, but he came to Idaho and worked with the position groups and you could see him working with the guys as if he was an assistant coach.

To Lehigh folks these fifth years were a really special group that finally saw their hard work pay off with the glorious title and the playoff run and a 9-3 record. To put this in perspective - the grand total of victories those guys had experienced was seven going into this season. Seven!

[Go...gate]

Congratulations to the Engineers on a great season!

[NY Crusader 2010]

A quick Google search says otherwise:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Florida_State%E2%80%93Miami_football_rivalry

Thanks. Those '05 and '06 games must've really stuck in my memory for some reason.

[Pards Rule]

Go show by Engineers. Much better than last trip to Moscow in 1993 with the big 77-14 loss. Idaho game reminded me of our UMass playoff game in 2006 where we battled to a 21-14 halftime deficit but ultimately lost by 21. NB folks: this was before PL schollies

[ngineer]

One last note on Dante Perri - he was a former walk-on who kept winning the job after a revolving door of other QBs, some highly recruited and at least one FBS transfer, kept coming in and getting installed as the starter in front of him. My impression is that the other players loved him and he was a great leader, and in his 5th year season, a great mentor and a good football head on his shoulders. Hayden Johnson isn't who he is without Dante. So cool to see him score a TD on his final collegiate drive.

Also cool to see that fifth year Mike DeNucci made the trip. He got injured during the Lafayette game and couldn't play, but he came to Idaho and worked with the position groups and you could see him working with the guys as if he was an assistant coach.

To Lehigh folks these fifth years were a really special group that finally saw their hard work pay off with the glorious title and the playoff run and a 9-3 record. To put this in perspective - the grand total of victories those guys had experienced was seven going into this season. Seven!

So true! I was talking to my wife about this tonight, in terms of how do you pick a team MVP? IF you have to go with one, then I think it is Perri. But, a good argument can be made that the five 5th years who came back for one last round, after what they had gone through, just tugs at your heart in exemplifying what dedication, commitment, brotherhood, and heart is all about.