RMU Holds on Against LIU, 45-31
In a thrilling NEC matchup at Joe Walton Stadium, Robert Morris football remained undefeated in conference play with a 45-31 victory over Long Island University (LIU) on Saturday afternoon. The win propelled the Colonials to 4-3 overall and 3-0 in the NEC, keeping them at the top of the standings. Meanwhile, the Sharks, despite a strong fight, fell to 1-7 overall and 1-2 in the NEC.
Colonials quarterback Anthony Chiccitt led the way for RMU, showcasing his precision by completing 19 of 25 passes for 351 yards and three touchdowns. The RMU offense was clicking, with wide receivers Shawn Charles and Noah Robinson each surpassing 100 yards—Charles grabbed six receptions for 141 yards and a score, while Robinson tallied six catches for 126 yards and a touchdown.
Running back DJ Moyer contributed to the Colonials’ balanced attack on the ground, rushing for 88 yards and finding the end zone twice. The dynamic offensive performance kept the LIU defense off balance throughout the game, but it was the RMU defense that made the most pivotal play of the day.
Leading 16-7 in the second quarter, the RMU defense struck when William Barber sacked LIU quarterback Ethan Greenwood, forcing a fumble that was scooped up by Keon Freeman. Freeman returned it 45 yards for a touchdown, extending the Colonials' lead to 23-7 and energizing the home crowd. Freeman also led the defensive unit with a game-high 14 tackles, followed by Barber’s 11 tackles and a sack. Jacquez Warren added 10 stops, helping RMU control the Sharks' offense for much of the game.
LIU, however, wouldn't go down without a fight. The Sharks clawed their way back into the game, using an impressive performance from their quarterback, Greenwood, who rushed for 147 yards and kept several drives alive with his legs. His ability to scramble and extend plays caused problems for the RMU defense, and with just under 14 minutes left in the 4th quarter, LIU shockingly took a 31-30 lead on a pair of back-to-back touchdowns.
But the Colonials were unfazed. With 8:38 remaining, Moyer capped off a methodical drive with his second rushing touchdown of the day, giving RMU a 38-31 lead. After a two-point conversion, Chiccitt put the game out of reach with a 2:10 remaining strike to Charles, sealing the victory at 45-31.
Despite the loss, Greenwood's scrambling ability was a highlight for LIU, as he consistently turned broken plays into positive gains, particularly on critical third-down situations. Michael Love was another standout for the Sharks, hauling in 97 receiving yards and scoring a touchdown. LIU’s offense moved the ball effectively, especially in the second half, but their comeback effort fell just short. The Sharks reached RMU’s 10-yard line late in the 4th quarter, but RMU's defense held strong, forcing a turnover on downs to preserve the win.
Looking ahead, RMU will stay at Joe Walton Stadium for their next NEC matchup, hosting Saint Francis University. The Red Flash (2-5, 0-3 NEC) are coming off a 14-0 loss to Wagner, and the Colonials will aim to maintain their perfect conference record. As for LIU, they will regroup and look to build on the positive moments from this game as they continue their NEC campaign.
