The 2023 sprint football season for the Quakers has been a rollercoaster, with moments of brilliance and periods of struggle. Just past the midpoint, let's take a moment to reflect on the journey so far.
Game One — Penn 10, Chestnut Hill 27
The Quakers' season opener against Chestnut Hill on the road proved challenging. Despite a strong start and a potential momentum swing when Chestnut Hill missed a field goal in the third quarter, Penn failed to capitalize. Chestnut Hill's two late interceptions, including a 30-yard pick-six, eventually sealed the defeat for Penn.
Despite the loss, though, junior wide receiver Adrian Montemayor was recognized as the College Sprint Football League Special Teams Player of the Week — an accolade he's quite familiar with, having won the award twice last year. Beyond his team’s prowess, Montemayor was a defensive thorn for the Griffins, forcing a fumble and blocking a punt.
“It may be déjà vu, but at the end of the day, the feeling of contribution is still great,” Montemayor said.
Game Two — Penn 21, Cornell 9
In their second outing, the Quakers showcased their fighting spirit by clinching a win against the Big Red at Franklin Field. This marked Penn's 10th consecutive win over Cornell since 2013. Freshman sensation and running back JT Goodman rushed for two touchdowns, while junior quarterback Ty Scherer — despite some interception woes — contributed significant yardage both through the air and on the ground. The defense remained solid, keeping Cornell's scoring in the single digits.
Goodman's electrifying performance earned him the title of CSFL Rookie of the Week. Additionally, sophomore linebacker Gavin Griswold was recognized for his nine-tackle performance, earning an honorable mention.
“[The recognition] is a great thing, but what really matters to me is what my team thinks of me as a whole,” Goodman said.
Game Three — Penn 7, Army 31
Facing Army at Shea Stadium was a tough proposition for the Quakers. Despite spirited efforts, the team was restricted to just 112 yards of total offense. Yet, individual performances shone through, with freshman defensive back Andy Falletta leading in receptions and junior linebacker Jake Inserra spearheading the defense with 10 total tackles and an interception. The game marked Penn's seventh consecutive defeat to Army.
Game Four — Penn 19, St. Thomas Aquinas 15
In what can only be described as a theatrical display of grit, the Quakers mounted a thrilling fourth-quarter comeback against St. Thomas Aquinas on Oct. 13. Trailing 15-5 as the team entered the final quarter, Penn scored 14 unanswered points to secure a 19-15 victory. Goodman and Scherer were once again at the forefront of the attack, with Scherer scoring the game-winning touchdown.
"This was a great game; a great team win for us," coach Jerry McConnell said. "I'm so happy for our kids. It puts us in a position for when we play Navy, we'll compete for the CSFL South Division Championship. Our team never quits. We talked all week about this game being a street fight and our guys stepped up and did an unbelievable job. Just so proud of this group."
Four games into the season, the Quakers stand with a balanced 2-2 record. The team has showcased resilience, particularly in its recent comeback win. Fresh talents like Goodman have risen to the occasion, and consistent performers like Montemayor have maintained their high standards.
However, challenges remain. The Quakers must address vulnerabilities that led to their defeats, especially capitalizing on momentum shifts and reducing costly errors. The defense, while formidable, will need to further tighten up as the Red and Blue head into their final two games of the year — all with a CSFL South Division Championship on the line. The coming games will undoubtedly test their mettle, but if the season so far is any indication, they have the spirit to face any adversity head-on.
“While it’s clear what our exact flaws and potential solutions are," McConnell said, "the implementation of those solutions is anything but easy."
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