2008 Woodie Awards
RSSTeam looks to build off last week's shutout
By Greg Page
Issue date: 11/2/07 Section: Sports
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Colgate is coming off a win against the Lafayette College Leopards Saturday, boosting its record to 5-3, 2-1 in the Patriot League.
The Raiders look to add to their total wins and move closer to a Patriot League title. They are currently in third place, behind Holy Cross College (3-0) and Fordham University (4-0).
Junior wide receiver Sekou Yansane said Lehigh understands the value of a win this week.
"It is very important that we win this game and get back to our winning tradition," Yansane said.
The Mountain Hawks ended their three-game losing streak Saturday when they defeated the Georgetown University Hoyas, improving their record to 4-4, 1-2 in the Patriot League.
Sophomore quarterback Chris Bokosky, who was five for 12 passing and had one touchdown last week, said the Hawks are going to have to curb the Raiders' intensity.
"Colgate is an extremely aggressive team," Bokosky said. "They blitz often and they have a lot of confidence in their secondary. We have to take what we can get, and make the best out of our opportunities."
The Hawks' defense will have the task of stopping Colgate junior running back Jordan Scott.
Scott leads the Raiders in rushing with 1375 rushing yards, averaging 172 yards per game. He has 15 touchdowns on the season.
Scott's accolades have not gone unnoticed- he was named offensive player of the week three times this season.
Hawks' senior captain defensive back Brannan Thomas said the team will need to play physical defense to match the Raiders' style.
"We definitely need to be disciplined, match Colgate's physical play, and swarm to the ball," Thomas said "We have to slow Scott down early in the game, the earlier we slow him down the less of a threat he will be later in the game."
Offensively, the Hawks' ground attack was on full tilt last Saturday as they rushed for 307 yards against the Hoyas. As a team, the Hawks have 10 rushing touchdowns on the year.
Three of those touchdowns have come from freshman tailback Kwesi Kankam, who leads the Hawks in rushing, averaging just under 50-yards per game.
Bokosky showed poise and confidence in what was his first start of the season last week, as he assisted the strong running game the few times help was needed.
Senior quarterback Sedale Threatt only played one drive last Saturday, but he continues to keep his head up and lead the Hawks any way he can.
"Sedale is a great leader," Bokosky said. "Even though I started last game his attitude has not changed. Anytime I have a question, he is always willing to help me out and give me pointers."
The quarterback position is up for debate.
Head Coach Andy Coen has been splitting the reps amongst the two quarterbacks in practice, and most likely they both will see action Saturday.
Even though the Hawks are out of the race for the Patriot League championship, Yansane said they still understand the importance of maintaining a winning record.
"We don't want to have a losing season," Yansane said. "All the accolades would be nice and all, but we are playing for pride."
The Raiders are still in the hunt, but a loss to the Hawks could make their quest for a championship out of reach.
Kickoff is set for 12:30 p.m. at Andy Kerr Stadium in Hamilton, N.Y.
