NEC Championship Picture Coming Into Focus
The Northeastern Conference (NEC) football season is approaching its thrilling conclusion, and this weekend's games carry major implications for the championship and a potential berth in the NCAA playoffs. Three teams—Duquesne, Central Connecticut State University (CCSU), and Robert Morris University (RMU)—remain in the hunt, and the outcomes of Saturday’s matchups will determine who holds the keys to the title race.
Duquesne’s Path to Glory
Duquesne, ranked #21 nationally, enters the weekend as the NEC's front-runner. Led by standout quarterback Darius Perrantes, the Dukes have been dominant throughout the season, showcasing a balanced attack and a defense that thrives under pressure. A win this weekend against Wagner would secure Duquesne the conference title outright, provided CCSU also defeats RMU.
Perrantes has been the catalyst for Duquesne’s offensive success, combining precision passing with the ability to extend plays under pressure. Supported by a strong receiving corps and a stout offensive line, the Dukes have the tools to control their destiny. Yet, Wagner, with nothing to lose, could play spoiler, setting the stage for a more dramatic finish to the season.
CCSU and the Potential Showdown
For Central Connecticut State University, the stakes are equally high. A win over RMU would set up a championship showdown next weekend against Duquesne in Hard Hittin’ New Britain. CCSU’s season has been defined by resilience, with standout performances from running back Elijah Howard and an opportunistic defense that has excelled at creating turnovers in critical moments.
Howard’s ability to break tackles and generate big plays on the ground- along with an extremely skilled offensive line- makes him a focal point for CCSU’s offense. If the defense can stymie RMU’s passing attack and give Howard room to work, CCSU has a real shot to keep their championship hopes alive.
RMU’s Upset Hopes
RMU is the wildcard in this equation. RMU still has a path to the NEC title and a spot in the NCAA playoffs, but the road is far from easy. The Colonials must beat CCSU this weekend and then hope Wagner can upset Duquesne, keeping the standings wide open. If RMU can handle CCSU and get the help they need, they’ll have a chance in the season’s final week.
RMU’s offense will lean heavily on Noah Robinson, their dynamic wide receiver who has consistently delivered explosive plays. Robinson has been crucial to RMU’s success this season, and they’ll need a standout performance from him to overcome CCSU’s aggressive defense.
What’s at Stake
The NEC title race is often unpredictable, and this year is no exception. While Duquesne may be the clear favorite on paper, the potential for upsets looms large. CCSU’s scrappy defense and home-field advantage could derail RMU’s ambitions, while Wagner, playing with nothing but pride on the line, could push Duquesne to the limit.
This weekend is a reminder of what makes the NEC special—every team has a chance, and the stakes remain high until the final whistle. Whether it’s Duquesne solidifying their dominance, CCSU setting up a climactic finale, or RMU pulling off an unlikely run to glory, fans can expect a weekend full of intensity and excitement.
Looking Ahead
If CCSU and Duquesne both win, next weekend’s matchup in New Britain will likely be one of the most anticipated games of the season, with the conference title hanging in the balance. On the other hand, an RMU victory this week could throw the standings into chaos, ensuring that every game in the final week matters.
For now, all eyes are on Saturday’s games. The path to the NEC championship is clear for some and murky for others, but one thing is certain—this is NEC football at its finest.
