The 2024 Killinger Foundation Football Banquet will be held on Saturday, November 2, 2024 at 6:00 pm at the West Chester University Alumni & Foundation Center. The 2024 Hall of Fame inductees are:
- Lou Berman '91
- Dennis Ianovale '75
- Doug Jacob '83
- Sean McCartney '14
- Sam Scott '10
Berman was a first team All-PSAC East defensive lineman in 1989 when the Golden Rams advanced to the NCAA Division II playoffs for just the second time in program history. He led the Golden Rams in tackles for loss in 1991 for which he garnered second team All-PSAC East honors. Berman was fifth on the WCU career sack list when he finished his playing career.
Ianovale was a second team All-PSAC East defensive back for a team that went on to play Bethune-Cookman in the Central Florida Classic in 1973.
Jacob earned first team All-PSAC East honors as a defensive lineman for the 1983 squad that finished 7-3.
Quarterback McCartney was thrust into a starting role in the fifth game of his redshirt freshman season when the 1-4 Golden Rams hosted Shippensburg in a nationally televised game. It was the best game of his career as he went 27 of 49 for 444 yards and five touchdowns in leading WCU to a thrilling 44-43 win in three overtimes. After having his 2012 season thwarted by an injury, he was the full-time starter in both 2013 when the Golden Rams advanced to the NCAA Division II semi-finals and 2014 when West Chester also qualified for the playoffs. He finished his passing career with 9,595 yards and 92 touchdowns. After his senior season McCartney was named the PSAC East Offensive Player of the Year,
Daktronics Division II All-Super Region 1, Associated Press All-American, ECAC Co-Offensive Player of the Year, and finished fifth for the Harlon Hill Trophy which is presented annually to the Division II Football Player of the Year.
Edge rusher Scott was a member of the 2007 and 2008 Golden Ram teams that particiapted in the NCAA Division II playoffs. He was named first team All-PSAC East after the 2008 and 2009 seasons. Scott finished his three year collegiate career with 222 tackles, including 37 tackles for loss and 15 sacks. He even had an interception in his final game against Mercyhurst. He then played in the Cactus Bowl, the Division II All-Star game and was named Defensive Player of the Game after tying a Cactus Bowl record with 14 tackles and forced two
fumbles. After spending time in camps with the Carolina Panthers, New York Jets and Jacksonville Jaguars of the NFL, he played in 27 games over six seasons in the Canadian Football League with the Calgary Stampede (2011), Hamilton TigerCats (2013-2015) and Winnipeg Blue Bombers 2016. He also spent several years as an assistant coach for the Golden Rams.
For a detailed agenda or to purchase tickets, please go to the online ticket sale center.
Thursday, October 17, 2024
Wednesday, October 16, 2024
Game Preview - East Stroudsburg
In a battle for second place in the PSAC East, the Golden Rams (2-4, 2-1) travel to East Stroudsburg (4-2, 2-1) to take on the Warriors on their homecoming this Saturday at 6:00pm.
Series History:
West Chester leads the overall series 64-23. In 2004, the Golden Rams blocked a PAT in overtime, then scored a touchdown and won the game on Dan Wilbourne’s converted PAT to hand then #7 East Stroudsburg their first loss of the season in front of a homecoming crowd of almost 6,000. The two schools met again that season on a frigid and blustery November afternoon in the NCAA regional finals. With a crowd of over 7,200 on hand, current West Chester running backs coach Osagie Osunde ran for 144 yards and three touchdowns as the Golden Rams handed East Stroudsburg their second and final loss of the season.
The following year, West Chester tipped the #6 ranked Warriors, 18-17, in muddy Farrell Stadium. 2005 was the last season that Farrell Stadium had natural grass. In 2009, East Stroudsburg ruined West Chester’s homecoming 21-20. The Golden Rams failed to convert a PAT early in the game and a 35-yard field goal late in the game.
Former Warrior quarterback Jimmy Terwilliger (30-23) enters his fifth full season as head coach at his alma mater and guided his team to the NCAA Division II playoffs last season for the first time since 2009.
Last 10 Meetings:
Last Meeting:
10/14/2023 East Stroudsburg 28 - West Chester 14
Despite an anemic offensive effort, the Golden Rams had two possessions in the fourth quarter with a chance to tie the game. However it was the Warriors that scored in the fourth quarter to leave West Chester with a 28-14 win.
West Chester's two scores came on long drives with the first ending on a 15-yard Cooper Jordan to Rahiem Bowens touchdown pass and the second ending on a 1-yard Ethan Kohler run. But besides those two scoring drives, the Golden Rams totaled only 23 yards of offense. D'Shaun Seals had three catches for 37 yards and Bowens made two catches for 22 yards.
Defensively, Connor Noble had a game-high 11 tackles. Nate Desmond had a sack on the opening drive while Charley Mininger and Daniel Hicks split another sack. Sean Henry made both his PAT attempts, averaged 58 yards on three kickoffs, and boomed two of his six punts for over 50 yards.
Scouting the Opponent:
The Warriors lead the PSAC in rushing, primarily behind running backs Tyriq Lewis (71 carries, 465 yards, 5 TD's) and Tahir Mills (79 carries, 420 yards, 2 TD's) who are both among the top ten in the conference. Quarterback Sean McTaggart (37 carries, 165 yards, 3 TD's; 81 of 131, 1,136 yards, 12 TD's, 2 int) also adds to the running threat, while ranking second in the PSAC in passing efficiency, and has only been sacked five times through the first six games. They get protection up front from All-PSAC East center Raymond Christas and 6'8 410lb right tackle Guy Gilyard. Any player that dons the red and black is likely to make a catch for East Stroudsburg as 16 different players have at least one reception and six different players have at least 100 yards receiving so far this season. Top targets are wide receiver Justin Cook (14 catches, 190 yards, 2 TD's), All-PSAC East and 6'3 wide receiver John Siggins (12 catches, 186 yards, 2 TD's), Wagner transfer Randy Fizer (9 catches, 165 yards, 2 TD's) and receiver Evan Roche (8 catches, 159 yards, 2 TD's).
East Stroudsburg has the second best pass defense in the PSAC. Strong safety and reigning PSAC East Defensive Athlete of the Week Everette Dingle (30 tackles, 3 int, 1 PBU) and cornerback Adewale Obayanju (11 tackles, 2 int, 3 PBU) are among the conference leaders in interceptions. Up front, redshirt freshman Terrell Reynolds (12 tackles, 3.5 sacks) and defensive tackle Lucas Skelley (20 tackles, 1.5 sacks) cause havoc. Linebackers Raymond Simmons IV (43 tackles, 3.0 TFL) and Matthew Davis (35 tackles) lead the team in tackles.
Place kicker Ty Quintois (8 of 10 FG, long 41, 24 of 25 PAT) also handles kickoffs (37 kickoffs, 10 TB, 1 OOB). Punter Adam Noll (37 yard avg) has punted a league low 14 times this season. In the return game, Cook was All-PSAC East last season and was named PSAC East Special Teams Athlete of the Week after scoring on a 99-yard kickoff return against Millersville.
Analysis:
The East Stroudsburg offense leads the PSAC in scoring (33.0 points/game) and is second in yardage (400.7 yards/game), while their defense is second in scoring (11.5 points/game) and third in yardage (254.7 yards/game). So the Warriors are very good and very balanced on both sides of the ball. Add the intangibles of the game being played in East Stroudsburg, in the evening, and on homecoming and it's going to be a very tall task for the Golden Rams to come home with a W.
Massey Ratings is expecting East Stroudsburg to win 31-20 and Versus Sports simulates a much more convincing 35-13 Warrior victory.
Game Coverage:
Series History:
West Chester leads the overall series 64-23. In 2004, the Golden Rams blocked a PAT in overtime, then scored a touchdown and won the game on Dan Wilbourne’s converted PAT to hand then #7 East Stroudsburg their first loss of the season in front of a homecoming crowd of almost 6,000. The two schools met again that season on a frigid and blustery November afternoon in the NCAA regional finals. With a crowd of over 7,200 on hand, current West Chester running backs coach Osagie Osunde ran for 144 yards and three touchdowns as the Golden Rams handed East Stroudsburg their second and final loss of the season.
The following year, West Chester tipped the #6 ranked Warriors, 18-17, in muddy Farrell Stadium. 2005 was the last season that Farrell Stadium had natural grass. In 2009, East Stroudsburg ruined West Chester’s homecoming 21-20. The Golden Rams failed to convert a PAT early in the game and a 35-yard field goal late in the game.
Former Warrior quarterback Jimmy Terwilliger (30-23) enters his fifth full season as head coach at his alma mater and guided his team to the NCAA Division II playoffs last season for the first time since 2009.
Last 10 Meetings:
Year |
H/A |
W/L |
Score |
Year |
H/A |
W/L |
Score |
2013 |
Home |
Win |
34-20 |
2018 |
Away |
Win |
52-24 |
2014 |
Away |
Win |
35-24 |
2019 |
Home |
Win |
28-21 |
2015 |
Home |
Win |
41-27 |
2021 |
Home |
Win |
42-28 |
2016 |
Away |
Win |
41-14 |
2022 |
Away |
Win |
24-21 |
2017 |
Home |
Win |
31-26 |
2023 |
Home |
Loss |
28-14 |
Last Meeting:
10/14/2023 East Stroudsburg 28 - West Chester 14
Despite an anemic offensive effort, the Golden Rams had two possessions in the fourth quarter with a chance to tie the game. However it was the Warriors that scored in the fourth quarter to leave West Chester with a 28-14 win.
West Chester's two scores came on long drives with the first ending on a 15-yard Cooper Jordan to Rahiem Bowens touchdown pass and the second ending on a 1-yard Ethan Kohler run. But besides those two scoring drives, the Golden Rams totaled only 23 yards of offense. D'Shaun Seals had three catches for 37 yards and Bowens made two catches for 22 yards.
Defensively, Connor Noble had a game-high 11 tackles. Nate Desmond had a sack on the opening drive while Charley Mininger and Daniel Hicks split another sack. Sean Henry made both his PAT attempts, averaged 58 yards on three kickoffs, and boomed two of his six punts for over 50 yards.
Scouting the Opponent:
East Stroudsburg has the second best pass defense in the PSAC. Strong safety and reigning PSAC East Defensive Athlete of the Week Everette Dingle (30 tackles, 3 int, 1 PBU) and cornerback Adewale Obayanju (11 tackles, 2 int, 3 PBU) are among the conference leaders in interceptions. Up front, redshirt freshman Terrell Reynolds (12 tackles, 3.5 sacks) and defensive tackle Lucas Skelley (20 tackles, 1.5 sacks) cause havoc. Linebackers Raymond Simmons IV (43 tackles, 3.0 TFL) and Matthew Davis (35 tackles) lead the team in tackles.
Place kicker Ty Quintois (8 of 10 FG, long 41, 24 of 25 PAT) also handles kickoffs (37 kickoffs, 10 TB, 1 OOB). Punter Adam Noll (37 yard avg) has punted a league low 14 times this season. In the return game, Cook was All-PSAC East last season and was named PSAC East Special Teams Athlete of the Week after scoring on a 99-yard kickoff return against Millersville.
Analysis:
Massey Ratings is expecting East Stroudsburg to win 31-20 and Versus Sports simulates a much more convincing 35-13 Warrior victory.
Game Coverage:
West Chester Athletic Site - Golden Rams Gridiron Crew Hits the Road Saturday at ESU
PSAC Site - 2024 PSAC Football Week 7 Notes
Tuesday, October 15, 2024
Player News - Cooper Jordan Named PSAC East Offensive POW
For his efforts in West Chester's 35-14 win over Shepherd, junior quarterback Cooper Jordan has been named PSAC East Offensive Athlete of the Week.
While Jordan only threw 14 passes, he completed eight of them for 164 yards including touchdowns of 62 and 34 yards. Four of his other completions resulted in first downs. Jordan also had a game-high 174 yards rushing including a 72-yard scramble and a one-yard touchdown run.
While Jordan only threw 14 passes, he completed eight of them for 164 yards including touchdowns of 62 and 34 yards. Four of his other completions resulted in first downs. Jordan also had a game-high 174 yards rushing including a 72-yard scramble and a one-yard touchdown run.
Cooper Jordan prepares to turn up field (Photo Joan Gillen)PSAC Site - PSAC Football Athletes of the Week - Week 6
West Chester Athletic Site - Cooper Jordan Named PSAC East Co-Offensive Athlete of the Week
Sunday, October 13, 2024
Game Report - West Chester 35 - Shepherd 14
This season the Golden Rams (2-4, 2-1) have painfully experienced how impactful turnovers are in determining the outcome of a game. The impact was no less today, but it was with no pain as the Shepherd Rams (4-2, 2-1) threw four interceptions while West Chester did not turn over the ball at all leading to a 35-14 WCU win. It was the biggest upset by West Chester since knocking off Kutztown in November 2022 and the Golden Ram's first win over Shepherd since the NCAA Division II Super Region 1 championship game in December 2013.
The Shepherd defense entered the day ranked 16th in the nation with three sacks per game. And when they threw Cooper Jordan down for a six-yard loss on the first play of the game, they looked to be on their way to eclipsing their average. However, it was their only sack of the afternoon. That was the first of many abnormalities of the contest.
Shepherd had only thrown two interceptions through their first five games and the West Chester defense had only made three picks on the season. Yet today the Golden Rams picked off four passes, two of which led to West Chester touchdowns. The first went through the Shepherd receiver's arms, then off both of his feet, then off Shane Mosley's helmet before landing in Connor Noble's arms. Defensive end Daniel Hicks played a role in the next two, applying pressure to the QB whose forced throw was nabbed by Kaleb Brown and then Hicks was the recipient of a Charley Mininger deflection. Matt Marshall made the fourth interception with just three seconds left to play.
The Shepherd Rams entered the contest ninth in the country in rushing defense, allowing just 72 yards per game and a total of three rushing touchdowns through five games. But for the second consecutive week, West Chester rushed for over 200 yards and three touchdowns. Granted, Jordan scrambled for 124 yards including a 72-yard run where he relaxed and was caught before crossing the goal line, but Dayshawn Jacobs (14 carries, 30 yards, 1 TD) was also a big part of yardage. And with Juke Peaker not dressed and Jayden Williams not playing, it was true freshman Anthony Leonardi (9 carries, 53 yards, 1 TD, 62-yard TD catch) who provided yet another option in the backfield. That's 41 carries in the game for the Golden Rams behind a line of Trey Wells, Bill Martelon, Dylan Nichols, Cole Evans (for Caelan Krasley), and Cam McQueen (for Patrick Methlie). And when McQueen left with an injury, Jake Phipps took over at the left tackle spot.
Besides the three rushing touchdowns, Jordan completed touchdown passes of 62 yards to Leonardi (who turned around nicely to catch the ball) and 34 yards to D'Shaun Seals (4 catches, 61 yards). That's 35 points against a team that was 11th in the nation in scoring allowing just 13.4 points per game entering the day.
The West Chester defense had registered only eight sacks through the first five games and Shepherd had only surrendered five during that span. On Saturday, Debrick Johnson, Charley Mininger, Seamus McCain, and Jack Fry all made solo sacks. Adding Mosley's tackle for loss, the Golden Rams doubled Shepherd's number of tackles for loss allowed of 2.4 which was second best in the country.
Other observations:
The Shepherd defense entered the day ranked 16th in the nation with three sacks per game. And when they threw Cooper Jordan down for a six-yard loss on the first play of the game, they looked to be on their way to eclipsing their average. However, it was their only sack of the afternoon. That was the first of many abnormalities of the contest.
Shepherd had only thrown two interceptions through their first five games and the West Chester defense had only made three picks on the season. Yet today the Golden Rams picked off four passes, two of which led to West Chester touchdowns. The first went through the Shepherd receiver's arms, then off both of his feet, then off Shane Mosley's helmet before landing in Connor Noble's arms. Defensive end Daniel Hicks played a role in the next two, applying pressure to the QB whose forced throw was nabbed by Kaleb Brown and then Hicks was the recipient of a Charley Mininger deflection. Matt Marshall made the fourth interception with just three seconds left to play.
The offensive line allowed only one sack on the day (Photo Joan Gillen)The Shepherd Rams entered the contest ninth in the country in rushing defense, allowing just 72 yards per game and a total of three rushing touchdowns through five games. But for the second consecutive week, West Chester rushed for over 200 yards and three touchdowns. Granted, Jordan scrambled for 124 yards including a 72-yard run where he relaxed and was caught before crossing the goal line, but Dayshawn Jacobs (14 carries, 30 yards, 1 TD) was also a big part of yardage. And with Juke Peaker not dressed and Jayden Williams not playing, it was true freshman Anthony Leonardi (9 carries, 53 yards, 1 TD, 62-yard TD catch) who provided yet another option in the backfield. That's 41 carries in the game for the Golden Rams behind a line of Trey Wells, Bill Martelon, Dylan Nichols, Cole Evans (for Caelan Krasley), and Cam McQueen (for Patrick Methlie). And when McQueen left with an injury, Jake Phipps took over at the left tackle spot.
Matt Marshall makes a leaping interception (Photo Joan Gillen)Besides the three rushing touchdowns, Jordan completed touchdown passes of 62 yards to Leonardi (who turned around nicely to catch the ball) and 34 yards to D'Shaun Seals (4 catches, 61 yards). That's 35 points against a team that was 11th in the nation in scoring allowing just 13.4 points per game entering the day.
Anthony Leonardi had rushing and receiving touchdowns in his collegiate debut (Photo Joan Gillen)The West Chester defense had registered only eight sacks through the first five games and Shepherd had only surrendered five during that span. On Saturday, Debrick Johnson, Charley Mininger, Seamus McCain, and Jack Fry all made solo sacks. Adding Mosley's tackle for loss, the Golden Rams doubled Shepherd's number of tackles for loss allowed of 2.4 which was second best in the country.
D'Shaun Seals makes a diving touchdown catch (Photo Joan Gillen)Other observations:
Goldan Rams stuffing the run (Photo Joan Gillen)- Luke Trunell was cited for targeting on just the third West Chester defensive play of the game and was replaced by Johnny Pergine who had a team-high ten tackles in the game. Mosley also was credited with ten stops.
- The West Chester sideline and Marshall each received an unsportsmanlike penalty in the game. The season total continues to mount.
- It's the first time that West Chester has scored in the first quarter since the season opener aganist Bentley.
- Goal line play is a topic of conversation. Offensively, three tush push attempts from the one failed, although one was negated by an offsides penalty. However, all three touchdown runs came from one yard out. From a defensive perspective, for the second consecutive game, West Chester made a goal line stand, this week stopping the Rams on fourth-and-goal from the one with just seconds left in the first half.
- Defensive end Nate Desmond left the game early with a lower body injury.
West Chester makes a goal line stand prior to halftime (Photo Joan Gillen)West Chester Athletic Site - West Chester Stuns Shepherd in PSAC East Showdown, 35-14
Daily Local News - With stunner over Shepherd, WCU sends shock waves throughout PSAC
Shepherd Athletic Site - Shepherd Football Falls at West Chester
WCU Football Family - Photo Album - Shepherd
Wednesday, October 9, 2024
Game Preview - Shepherd
The Golden Rams (1-4, 1-1) host the Shepherd Rams (4-1, 2-0) for just the second time ever. Kickoff on Saturday is scheduled for noon.
Series History:
Prior to Shepherd joining the PSAC in 2019, these two teams first met in 2013 in the NCAA Division II Regional Championship when the Golden Rams came away with a 28-7 victory. All four PSAC East meetings have been won by Shepherd.
Shepherd head coach Ernie McCook has a record of 57-14 entering Saturday's game and has guided his Rams to the NCAA Division II playoffs in all four of his seasons at the helm. The Rams won the Super Region One title in both 2021 and 2022.
Last Meeting:
10/21/2023 #22 Shepherd 59 - West Chester 21
Shepherd scored on their first four possessions, sprinted to a 45-7 lead and coasted to a 59-21 win in Shepherdstown, WV. The Ram offense used a balanced attack - 273 rushing, 260 passing - to roll up 533 yards of total offense. The West Chester offense turned the ball over four times to just one by the home team.
Individually, Cooper Jordan was 12 of 23 for 123 yards and 1 interception. Dayshawn Jacobs had 26 yards and a touchdown on ten carries and five catches for 38 yards. Robby Longo made two catches, both for touchdowns. Connor Noble (6 tackles, 1 sack) returned a fumble 70 yards.
Scouting the Opponent:
After last season, Shepherd was hit hard by the transfer portal. Five All-PSAC East performers have moved on to other institutions: quarterback, Seth Morgan is now starting for the University of New Hampshire; place kicker James Bozek is now handling the kickoffs for University at Albany; offensive lineman Chandler Brown has seen action for Colorado State; defensive back Omari Terry is now playing linebacker for Benedict College and defensive lineman Nathan Muhle is seeing limited action with defending Division 2 national champion Harding University.
Despite all of those losses, the Rams haven't skipped a beat. Running back Malakai Brown (48 carries, 374 yards, 4 TD's, 11 catches, 110 yards, 2 TD's) was second team All-PSAC East last season and currently leads the conference in touchdowns and is fifth in rushing yards. He runs behind All-PSAC East center James Bell and right tackle Brandon Carr. Quarterback Lek Powell (89 of 128, 1,046 yards, 9 TD's 2 int) is fourth in the PSAC in passing yardage and passing efficiency. Besides Brown, receivers Cameron Dorner (21 catches, 396 yards, 3 TD's), Barry Hill (13 catches, 197 yards, 2 TD's) and Jeremiah Taylor (17 catches, 143 yards, 1 TD) are top targets.
Sophomore safety Miles Greer (31 tackles, 1 int, 3 PBU) leads the team in tackles and cornerback Klayton Batten (25 tackles, 2 PBU) also defends the passing game. Defensive linemen Jack Brutus (9 tackles, 2 sacks) and Brett Kwoka (11 tackles, 2.5 sacks) apply pressure up front. Linebacker Harold O'Neal (31 tackles, 4.5 TFL) was All-PSAC East last season.
Greer was All-PSAC East and Don Hansen All-American Honorable Mention as a return specialist last season and returned a punt 61 yards for a touchdown two weeks ago at Shippensburg. Freshman kicker Keith Baker appears to have an accurate leg, albeit not strong (18 of 18 PAT, 3 of 4 FG, long 37, no touchbacks on 22 kickoffs). Senior punter Ryan Barrick (21 punts, 10 I20, 6 50+) leads the PSAC with a 44.6 yard average.
Analysis:
Shepherd's only loss this season came at the hands of currently #6/#8 Slippery Rock by a 20-10 score. Shepherd has a very balanced and effective offense and expects to move the ball fairly easily against the struggling Golden Ram defense. The Rams lead the PSAC in rushing defense allowing just 72 yards/game and a total of three touchdowns on the season, so it will be interesting to see if Cooper Jordan can break into the open. The revamped WCU offensive line will need to provide protection against a Shepherd defense that is second in the PSAC in sacks.
Massey Ratings is projecting a 31-21 Shepherd win while Versus Sports simulates a similar 30-17 Shepherd victory.
Game Coverage:
Series History:
Prior to Shepherd joining the PSAC in 2019, these two teams first met in 2013 in the NCAA Division II Regional Championship when the Golden Rams came away with a 28-7 victory. All four PSAC East meetings have been won by Shepherd.
Shepherd head coach Ernie McCook has a record of 57-14 entering Saturday's game and has guided his Rams to the NCAA Division II playoffs in all four of his seasons at the helm. The Rams won the Super Region One title in both 2021 and 2022.
Last Meeting:
10/21/2023 #22 Shepherd 59 - West Chester 21
Shepherd scored on their first four possessions, sprinted to a 45-7 lead and coasted to a 59-21 win in Shepherdstown, WV. The Ram offense used a balanced attack - 273 rushing, 260 passing - to roll up 533 yards of total offense. The West Chester offense turned the ball over four times to just one by the home team.
Individually, Cooper Jordan was 12 of 23 for 123 yards and 1 interception. Dayshawn Jacobs had 26 yards and a touchdown on ten carries and five catches for 38 yards. Robby Longo made two catches, both for touchdowns. Connor Noble (6 tackles, 1 sack) returned a fumble 70 yards.
Scouting the Opponent:
Despite all of those losses, the Rams haven't skipped a beat. Running back Malakai Brown (48 carries, 374 yards, 4 TD's, 11 catches, 110 yards, 2 TD's) was second team All-PSAC East last season and currently leads the conference in touchdowns and is fifth in rushing yards. He runs behind All-PSAC East center James Bell and right tackle Brandon Carr. Quarterback Lek Powell (89 of 128, 1,046 yards, 9 TD's 2 int) is fourth in the PSAC in passing yardage and passing efficiency. Besides Brown, receivers Cameron Dorner (21 catches, 396 yards, 3 TD's), Barry Hill (13 catches, 197 yards, 2 TD's) and Jeremiah Taylor (17 catches, 143 yards, 1 TD) are top targets.
Sophomore safety Miles Greer (31 tackles, 1 int, 3 PBU) leads the team in tackles and cornerback Klayton Batten (25 tackles, 2 PBU) also defends the passing game. Defensive linemen Jack Brutus (9 tackles, 2 sacks) and Brett Kwoka (11 tackles, 2.5 sacks) apply pressure up front. Linebacker Harold O'Neal (31 tackles, 4.5 TFL) was All-PSAC East last season.
Greer was All-PSAC East and Don Hansen All-American Honorable Mention as a return specialist last season and returned a punt 61 yards for a touchdown two weeks ago at Shippensburg. Freshman kicker Keith Baker appears to have an accurate leg, albeit not strong (18 of 18 PAT, 3 of 4 FG, long 37, no touchbacks on 22 kickoffs). Senior punter Ryan Barrick (21 punts, 10 I20, 6 50+) leads the PSAC with a 44.6 yard average.
Analysis:
Massey Ratings is projecting a 31-21 Shepherd win while Versus Sports simulates a similar 30-17 Shepherd victory.
Game Coverage:
West Chester Athletic Site - West Chester Welcomes Shepherd to Farrell Stadium Saturday
PSAC Site - 2024 PSAC Football Week 6 Notes
Shepherd Athletic Site - 2024 Ram Press Box Report - Week 6
D2football - PSAC Columnist - PSAC Week Six Preview
Tuesday, October 8, 2024
Player News - Connor Noble Named PSAC East Defensive POW
For his efforts in West Chester's 28-10 win over Shippensburg, junior linebacker Connor Noble has been named PSAC East Defensive Athlete of the Week.
Noble, who was averaging nine tackles per game, racked up 17 stops in the contest which is the second-best single-game effort in the PSAC so far this season. Among his five solo tackles, one was his first sack of the season. Noble also nabbed West Chester's third interception of the season which led to a Golden Ram touchdown.
Noble, who was averaging nine tackles per game, racked up 17 stops in the contest which is the second-best single-game effort in the PSAC so far this season. Among his five solo tackles, one was his first sack of the season. Noble also nabbed West Chester's third interception of the season which led to a Golden Ram touchdown.
Connor Noble picks off a Shippensburg pass (Photo Joan Gillen)PSAC Site - PSAC Football Athletes of the Week - Week 5
Saturday, October 5, 2024
Game Report - West Chester 28 - Shippensburg 10
Quarterback Cooper Jordan ran for three touchdowns and threw for one to account for all of West Chester's (1-4, 1-1) scoring in capturing a 28-10 victory over visiting Shippensburg (1-4, 0-2).
West Chester Athletic Site - Cooper Jordan Leads Golden Rams to Victory, 28-10
Shippensburg Athletic Site - Football falls at West Chester, 28-10
Daily Local News - Jordan and West Chester finish off Shippensburg for initial win
D2football - PSAC Columnist - PSAC Week Five Recap
WCU Football Family - Photo Album - Shippensburg
Golden Rams Review - Photo Album - Shippensburg
Friday, October 4, 2024
Game Preview - Shippensburg
West Chester University (0-4, 0-1) hosts the Shippensburg Raiders (1-3, 0-1) on Saturday at noon in John A. Farrell Stadium.
Series History:
West Chester leads the overall series 31-13-1. Two-time AFCA Division II Region 1 Coach of the Year and Shippensburg alumnus Mark Maciejewski is in his 14th season as head coach and has a record of 84-55.
In one of the most memorable games in West Chester football history, Golden Ram quarterback Sean McCartney made his first collegiate start and threw for 444 yards and five touchdowns to lead West Chester to a 44-43 victory in two overtimes in a nationally televised Thursday night game in 2010. The following year, West Chester laid a 52-17 loss on the Raiders, but Shippensburg returned the favor in 2012, beating West Chester 42-24 on homecoming at Farrell Stadium and continued on to the PSAC championship game and the NCAA playoffs that year.
In 2013, Shawn Leo booted a 26-yard field goal with one second left to give West Chester the thrilling victory. And in 2017, West Chester defeated Shippensburg on the road in October, only to have to do it again in the first round of the NCAA Division II playoffs.
Last 10 Meetings:
Last Meeting:
10/07/2023 West Chester 38 - Shippensburg 28
Despite getting outgained by 160 yards and spotting the Raiders a 14-point lead, West Chester scored 31 consecutive points and went on to win 38-28 in Shippensburg. Ethan Kohler (6 of 10, 75 yards) completed a 26-yard touchdown pass to Brody McAndrew while Cooper Jordan (7 of 12, 149 yards) connected with D'Shaun Seals (3 catches, 82 yards) on a 58-yard score.
Defensively, Maurice Beverly landed 8 solo tackles, forced two fumbles and returned a fumble 99 yards for a touchdown to earn PSAC East Player of the Week honors. Shane Mosley had an interception and a pass breakup while Connor Noble had 9 tackles and 1.5 sacks.
Sean Henry converted a 34-yard field goal and all five PAT's.
Scouting the Opponent:
At quarterback, sophomore Sam Stoner (30 of 46, 309 yards, 3 TD, 3 int) has played in every game this season, although Maine transfer Joey McCracken (15 of 29, 107 yards) started the first two games. True freshman Vincent Micucci (10 of 13, 73 yards, 1 int) played most of the second half in last week's 38-0 home loss to Shepherd and redshirt freshman Riley Gunnels (3 of 3, 15 yards) played a couple of series in their 33-7 home loss to Slippery Rock. Micucci is Shippensburg's top running quarterback.
With last season's All-PSAC East receiver Redd Douglas now at Findlay, Karim Brice (12 catches, 128 yards) and Jaimen Bryant (5 catches, 65 yards) are the top targets for whomever is throwing the ball. Running backs Tanner Hess (42 carries, 103 yards) and Josiah Leonard (38 carries, 126 yards) are the main ball carriers, although no Raider has rushed for a touchdown this season.
Last year, safety Isaiah Gilmore was All-PSAC East and had playing eligibility remaining, but he is now a student assistant coach at New Hampshire. The defense is led this season by cornerback DJ Jackson (30 tackles, 1 int, 3 PBU), free safety Ely Ghameshlougy (25 tackles) and strong safety Gabe Benjamin (17 tackles, 3 PBU, 2 FF). Linebackers Javon M. Cruz (20 tackles, 2.0 sacks, 1 FF) and Terrance Peterson Jr. (21 tackles, 1.0 sacks, 1 PBU, 1 FF) lead the team in sacks.
Punter/kicker Tanner Luther has converted a 47-yard field goal and has dropped seven of his 26 punts inside the opponents' 20-yard line. Hess averages 35 yards per kick return and returned one 96 yards for a touchdown against Clarion for which he was named PSAC East Special Teams Athlete of the Week.
Analysis:
The Raiders are among the bottom five teams in the PSAC in scoring offense, total offense, rushing offense, passing offense, scoring defense, total defense, rushing defense and passing defense. So the Raiders may be just the thing that the Golden Rams need to get into the win column. However, West Chester is among those same bottom five teams in scoring defense, total defense, rushing defense and passing defense, so Shippensburg is also looking forward to this game. And the Raiders already have a notch in the win column. With two poorly performing defenses, expect a high scoring affair. But with West Chester's offense performing at a higher level, this should be a rare win for the purple and gold in 2024 if they can contain Hess on kickoff returns.
Massey Ratings is expecting a 28-17 West Chester win while Versus Sports simulates a 35-13 Golden Ram victory.
Game Coverage:
Series History:
West Chester leads the overall series 31-13-1. Two-time AFCA Division II Region 1 Coach of the Year and Shippensburg alumnus Mark Maciejewski is in his 14th season as head coach and has a record of 84-55.
In one of the most memorable games in West Chester football history, Golden Ram quarterback Sean McCartney made his first collegiate start and threw for 444 yards and five touchdowns to lead West Chester to a 44-43 victory in two overtimes in a nationally televised Thursday night game in 2010. The following year, West Chester laid a 52-17 loss on the Raiders, but Shippensburg returned the favor in 2012, beating West Chester 42-24 on homecoming at Farrell Stadium and continued on to the PSAC championship game and the NCAA playoffs that year.
In 2013, Shawn Leo booted a 26-yard field goal with one second left to give West Chester the thrilling victory. And in 2017, West Chester defeated Shippensburg on the road in October, only to have to do it again in the first round of the NCAA Division II playoffs.
Last 10 Meetings:
| Year |
H/A |
W/L |
Score |
Year |
H/A |
W/L |
Score |
2014 |
Home |
Win |
55-28 |
2018 |
Home |
Win |
28-21 |
2015 |
Away |
Loss |
27-11 |
2019 |
Away |
Win |
29-21 |
2016 |
Home |
Win |
31-15 |
2021 |
Away |
Loss |
34-18 |
2017 |
Away |
Win |
37-27 |
2022 |
Home |
Loss |
20-13 |
2017 |
Away |
Win |
27-6 |
2023 |
Away |
Win |
38-28 |
Last Meeting:
10/07/2023 West Chester 38 - Shippensburg 28
Despite getting outgained by 160 yards and spotting the Raiders a 14-point lead, West Chester scored 31 consecutive points and went on to win 38-28 in Shippensburg. Ethan Kohler (6 of 10, 75 yards) completed a 26-yard touchdown pass to Brody McAndrew while Cooper Jordan (7 of 12, 149 yards) connected with D'Shaun Seals (3 catches, 82 yards) on a 58-yard score.
Defensively, Maurice Beverly landed 8 solo tackles, forced two fumbles and returned a fumble 99 yards for a touchdown to earn PSAC East Player of the Week honors. Shane Mosley had an interception and a pass breakup while Connor Noble had 9 tackles and 1.5 sacks.
Sean Henry converted a 34-yard field goal and all five PAT's.
Scouting the Opponent:
With last season's All-PSAC East receiver Redd Douglas now at Findlay, Karim Brice (12 catches, 128 yards) and Jaimen Bryant (5 catches, 65 yards) are the top targets for whomever is throwing the ball. Running backs Tanner Hess (42 carries, 103 yards) and Josiah Leonard (38 carries, 126 yards) are the main ball carriers, although no Raider has rushed for a touchdown this season.
Last year, safety Isaiah Gilmore was All-PSAC East and had playing eligibility remaining, but he is now a student assistant coach at New Hampshire. The defense is led this season by cornerback DJ Jackson (30 tackles, 1 int, 3 PBU), free safety Ely Ghameshlougy (25 tackles) and strong safety Gabe Benjamin (17 tackles, 3 PBU, 2 FF). Linebackers Javon M. Cruz (20 tackles, 2.0 sacks, 1 FF) and Terrance Peterson Jr. (21 tackles, 1.0 sacks, 1 PBU, 1 FF) lead the team in sacks.
Punter/kicker Tanner Luther has converted a 47-yard field goal and has dropped seven of his 26 punts inside the opponents' 20-yard line. Hess averages 35 yards per kick return and returned one 96 yards for a touchdown against Clarion for which he was named PSAC East Special Teams Athlete of the Week.
Analysis:
Massey Ratings is expecting a 28-17 West Chester win while Versus Sports simulates a 35-13 Golden Ram victory.
Game Coverage:
West Chester Athletic Site - Football Returns Home Saturday Looking to Turn Fortunes Around
PSAC Site - 2024 PSAC Football Week 5 Notes
D2football - PSAC Columnist - PSAC Week Five Preview
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