The first half of Saturday’s home opener against Marist was the most complete half of football we have played in the past two years. Our players came out of the locker room focused and ready to play. We led 31-7 at the half and all three areas of the team contributed to the solid performance.
Defensively, the effort was led by sophomore defensive back David Akere. David recorded 12 total tackles and had a key interception which set up our first touchdown. Jelani Williamson continued his solid play at corner, recording his second career interception and returning it 34 yards for a touchdown. Dan Yankovich had a great game playing linebacker for the first time in his career. He finished with 10 total tackles, one sack and a tackle for a loss. Overall, it was a solid defensive effort by the entire unit. We recorded six tackles for loss, three sacks, two interceptions and a forced fumble (recovered by Phil Novacki).
Marist is a 33-stack pressure defense. They bring constant pressure and they present a challenge to the offensive line every time we play. Saturday, our offensive line did a great job. As a result of their play, we were able to throw and run the ball effectively. Kyle Nolan had a solid game throwing the football, completing two touchdown passes (both to Justin Hill). Kyle found eight different receivers and did a great job of taking what the defense gave us. Jake DeCicco had a great day catching six passes, while Hill and Harry Glor made key catches throughout the night. No. 35 Jo’el Kimpela played a key role running the ball and in our pass protections. He had 64 yards on the ground, including a tough 15-yard touchdown run early in the game. Isaac Ellsworth showed his speed and averaged close to seven yards per carry.
Our special teams units also had a solid performance Saturday night. Henry Darmstadter hit field goals of 33 and 31 yards to go along with four extra points. Harry McCollum averaged 40 yards per punt and was able to down two punts inside of the 20-yard line. Ben Priddy had a solid day kicking off. Finally, DeCicco returned four punts, with a long of 18 yards. The official stats of the game can be found here.
The 14th Anniversary of 9/11 was last week and WUSA Channel 9 did a great story on the 2015 recipient of the No. 35 jersey, Jo’el Kimpela. Please also take a look at this short video which commemorates all of the players honored to represent the No. 35 at Georgetown. This weekend, we started a new tradition. We will continue to remember Joey at all of our home games by having a 35-yard line. Joey: We miss you and hope that we can honor your memory with excellence on and off the field.
As a show of support for Ty Williams and his family, every player wore the No. 2 on the side of their helmet. Ty is the definition of SISU. He has shown an incredible amount of courage in the face of adversity and I know he will be successful with his upcoming rehab. Ty: We all love you and are behind you 100 percent.
The new uniforms and helmet decals are the direct result of Josh LaRosa and our equipment staff. I appreciate everything they do for our players on a daily basis.
I truly believe that “people make the place.” This past week was a very emotional and difficult week for our players, staff and the entire Georgetown Football family. I cannot do justice and thank all of the people who have reached out to support our organization, Ty and his family this past week.
I do know that our program and players have support at the highest level of the university and for that, I am eternally grateful to President DeGioia and his staff.
Please take a minute to view the highlight film of the game. You can also watch a replay of the entire game on the Patriot League Network by visiting here.
