First Half Recap: LIU at RMU
At halftime, Robert Morris leads LIU 23-10 in a game highlighted by explosive offensive plays and key defensive moments that have shaped the storyline so far. There’s been few punts, but lots of action. RMU has led most of the game, likely due to their explosive plays that have occurred at key times.
Robert Morris got off to a strong start, moving the ball efficiently on their opening 7-play, 51-yard drive. Jayson Jenkins capped the possession with a 43-yard field goal, putting RMU ahead 3-0 early.
LIU responded with a lengthy, time-consuming 11-play, 75-yard drive that chewed up nearly six minutes of the clock. Quarterback Ethan Greenwood found Michael Love on a 3-yard touchdown pass to put LIU ahead 7-3. While Greenwood managed the offense well, much of their progress came from his ability to extend plays with his legs when the designed plays faltered.
Robert Morris wasted no time reclaiming the lead. On the very next play from scrimmage, quarterback Anthony Chiccitt connected with Noah Robinson on a 75-yard touchdown pass. Robinson did most of the work himself, breaking free from defenders and taking it all the way to the end zone in a highlight-reel moment. RMU regained the lead 10-7 in just 14 seconds, setting the stage for their big-play approach.
Early in the second quarter, RMU continued to apply pressure. They executed a 7-play, 62-yard drive that ended with a 30-yard touchdown pass from Chiccitt to Shawn Charles on a gutsy 4th and 2 call. This aggressive decision extended their lead to 16-7, once again showcasing their vertical passing game and ability to turn short throws into long gains.
LIU’s next possession took a disastrous turn when Greenwood was sacked for a 9-yard loss by William Barber, forcing a fumble. Keon Freeman scooped up the ball and returned it for a touchdown, pushing Robert Morris to a 23-7 advantage. This defensive touchdown was a pivotal moment, swinging the momentum further in RMU’s favor.
Later in the second quarter, LIU managed to put together another solid drive, moving the ball 62 yards over 8 plays. Though they couldn’t reach the end zone, kicker Michael Coney drilled a 42-yard field goal to trim the deficit to 23-10.
As the half drew to a close, both teams struggled on special teams. Robert Morris had an opportunity to further extend their lead but missed a field goal attempt. LIU, on their next possession, had their own field goal attempt blocked, preventing them from cutting into RMU's lead any further.
Robert Morris's explosive offense, especially on the 75-yard touchdown pass to Robinson and the 30-yard strike to Charles provided quick, game-changing scores that put RMU in the driver’s seat. While LIU controlled possession and moved the chains, their offense relied heavily on Greenwood's improvisation rather than designed big plays, making it difficult to keep pace with RMU’s high-powered attack.
The fumble return for a touchdown by Freeman was a critical turning point, giving RMU a comfortable lead and capitalizing on LIU’s mistakes. Speaking of mistakes, both teams left points on the field with a missed field goal by RMU and a blocked field goal for LIU, missed opportunities that could impact the game later on.
Tyvon Edmonds, Jr. is not playing today for the Colonials.
As we kick off to start the 2nd, RMU has yet to find an answer for Greenwood’s ability to improvise and create big plays with his legs. If the Colonials can find an antidote, they’ll hold on to win. Meanwhile, if the Sharks are able to keep RMU’s offense in front of them, they’ll be in good position to come back.
