Villanova Scores 3 Second Half Touchdowns in 28 – 3 Win at Colgate
September 7, 2024 –
The #5 Villanova Wildcats were involved in a first half tussle against the Colgate Raiders in historic Hamilton, NY. The Wildcats led by a 7 – 3 score at halftime, and gained a mere 6 yards on the ground. Nova scored on their initial possession of the second half and rolled to a 28 – 3 win, their second of the season.
“That opening drive of the second half was the tone setter we needed coming out of the locker room,” said Villanova Coach Mark Ferrante.
Second Half Scoring Drives
In the first 2:59 of the third quarter the Wildcats ran a 6-play 63-yard drive capped by a 1-yard touchdown run by Isiah Ragland for a 14 – 3 lead. Nova would score two more touchdowns in the fourth quarter to cement the victory. Wide Receiver Devin Smith caught an 8-yard scoring toss from quarterback Connor Watkins, who ended the scoring with a 13-yard touchdown run.
The running game for the Wildcats ran for 132 yards, an increase of 126 yards in the latter thirty minutes. Ragland led the way with 58 yards on 12 carries.
Watkins to Smith Connection
Watkins threw for 247 yards (18 of 28 attempts) with two scores and no interceptions. HIs favorite target was Smith who caught 6 passes for 116 yards and two times he crossed the goal line. The Watkins to Smith connection opened the scoring. Smith hauled in a 71-yard touchdown reception, the longest scoring reception of his career.
“It was good to get [Connor and Devin] going,” Ferrante said. “They’re still trying to work their timing together. It was only [Devin’s] second game in our offensive system but from week one to week two there was some good progress there and hopefully we’ll keep that rolling into week three.”
For Watkins it was the seventh time he threw a touchdown pass of 70-yards or longer.
Defense
Villanova surrendered 264 total yards and had a takeaway as Ty Trinh intercepted a pass. Brendan Bell led the team with 10 tackles. The offense has yet to commit a turnover.
Up Next
Villanova opens the Coastal Athletic Association schedule next week hosting Towson on Saturday.
Written By: Glenn Papazian
Contact: Glenn@PhillyCollegeSports.com
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