Football Prepares for Saturday Playoff Match at Lehigh
No. 9/6 Villanova prepares for a crucial playoff face-off against No. 4/3 Lehigh on Saturday, with kickoff set for 12 p.m. The game will take place at Goodman Stadium in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, as part of the Division I Football Championship.
Game Broadcast and Tailgate Details
Fans can catch the action through ESPN+, with Robert Lee and Barrett Brooks as commentators. For those wanting to listen, the Villanova Sports Radio Network will feature Ryan Fannon and Steve Pinone on the airwaves. Additionally, the game can be streamed live via the iHeart Radio app.
Before the game, Villanova alumni and fans are invited to a pregame tailgate organized by the Villanova University Club of Lehigh Valley and the Villanova Football Club. Light snacks, water, and soft drinks will be available, and guests are encouraged to bring their own beverages.
Villanova Season Overview
Villanova enters the game with a season record of 10-2 and is the #12 seed in the FCS playoffs. The Wildcats secured a spot in the second round following a dominating 52-7 win against Harvard in the first round, marking their 10th victory of the season and extending their winning streak to nine games. This accomplishment is significant, as it represents the team’s longest winning streak since their national championship in 2009. Villanova has reached the 10-win milestone for the third consecutive year, solidifying its position among the top teams in the FCS.
Lehigh’s Undefeated Streak
Lehigh comes into the matchup undefeated at 12-0 and secured a #5 national seed in the playoffs. The Mountain Hawks earned a bye in the first round and last played against Lafayette, winning 42-32 in a historic rivalry matchup. Lehigh boasts a formidable defense, rated first in the nation for red zone defense at 65.5% and rushing defense with only 73.7 yards allowed per game, and is ranked second for scoring defense, conceding an average of just 13.9 points per game.
Historical Rivalry
The all-time series between Villanova and Lehigh favors the Wildcats, who lead 14-5. Villanova has emerged victorious in the last 11 encounters, a streak that includes their most recent meeting in the 2023 season opener, which Villanova won 38-10. This upcoming playoff game will mark the first time that both teams have faced each other while ranked among the Top 10.
Connections Between Teams
- Both head coaches made their debuts against each other: Villanova’s Mark Ferrante in 2017 and Lehigh’s Kevin Cahill in 2023.
- Villanova’s Jordan Adderley is a former Lehigh player, having faced Villanova in 2023.
- Sibling connection with Villanova’s Griffin Galletta and Lehigh’s Logan Galletta, who played at different points in their respective schools.
- Previous teammates include Villanova’s Ryan Cregan and Lehigh’s Giacomo Macce, both of whom played together in high school.
What’s at Stake?
This matchup is critical for both teams, with Villanova aiming to extend its winning streak and Lehigh looking to maintain its perfect season. Fans are eagerly anticipating what promises to be an exciting playoff clash between these two well-matched programs.
