With Thanksgiving approaching, the Kean University Football Cougars are giving thanks today for the team’s first-ever NCAA playoff victory, trouncing the Christopher Newport University Captains 34-10.
“It’s definitely an honor,’’ said Mike Orlando, a sophomore who plays offensive line on the NJAC Champion squad. “Coach (Dan Garrett) told us to celebrate and enjoy the win today and tonight and then return on Monday ready to work.’’
The Kean defense shined as bright as the sun during the game, forcing six turnovers against the Captains.
Bret Maher, a Kean defensive end, said the team didn’t throw in any new tricks in the playbook.
“We didn’t change anything, regarding preparation,’’ said Maher, a sophomore. “We expected them to be good but we also expected to win.’’
The Cougars, now with a 10-1 record, will advance to face Salisbury University in the second round. The site will be determined tomorrow.
Senior safety Jamahl Williams intercepted two passes during today’s game – his 17th and 18th this season --breaking the Kean career mark set by Paul Mertz (1979-1982). Freshman defensive back Darren Dixon led the Cougars with 15 tackles, including 10 solo stops while Brad Higgins had eight tackles.
On offense, quarterback Thomas D’Ambrisi tossed a pair of touchdown passes while running back Chris DiMicco rushed for two touchdowns. DiMicco finished with 73 yards rushing on 19 carries. D’Ambrisi wa 17-of-27 for 166 yards. Wide receiver T.J. Denehy pulled in eight catches for 54 yards.
Orlando, the offensive lineman, said it’s pretty cool to block for D’Ambrisi, whom he considers one of the best players to take the field at Kean in many years. Orlando also believes it’s best o take the win with a grain of salt.
“We won the NJAC by taking things one week at a time,’’ Orlando said. “We will win in the playoffs the same way.’’
