UPDATE: Christopher Newport University (CNU) has made history by finishing the regular season with a perfect 10-0 record after defeating The College of New Jersey 27-7 Friday night in Ewing. This marks the first unbeaten regular season in the football program’s history, which began in 2001.
In a standout performance, senior wide receiver Colin Hart made waves by becoming the all-time receptions leader for CNU, catching seven passes for 101 yards. Quarterback Connor Barry, a candidate for All-American honors, completed 18 of 26 passes for 201 yards and two touchdowns, while also rushing for 33 yards and another touchdown on seven carries. Running back Gunner White contributed significantly, catching a touchdown pass and rushing for 83 yards on 19 carries.
The Captains, under the leadership of Coach Paul Crowley, have now won 15 consecutive games dating back to last season. They are currently ranked 7th by d3football.com and will find out their playoff position when the 40-team bracket is revealed on NCAA.com at 5 p.m. on Sunday. CNU is projected to receive a first-round bye and could potentially host a game in the round of 32.
The game saw its first score when Zavier Kennedy rushed for a 2-yard touchdown with 7:20 left in the second quarter, breaking a scoreless tie after a lengthy drive. CNU’s defense then forced a quick three-and-out, allowing Barry to connect with Josh Powell for an 11-yard touchdown pass, extending their lead to 14-0 by halftime. Barry’s 2-yard touchdown run on the first drive of the third quarter made it 21-0.
The College of New Jersey’s Joe Visaggio ended CNU’s shutout bid with a 17-yard touchdown run with just over ten minutes remaining in the fourth quarter, capping an impressive 10-play, 80-yard drive. However, Barry sealed the game with a 3-yard touchdown pass to White with 1:54 left, confirming the Captains’ historic season.
As excitement builds for the playoffs, fans and players alike are eager to see how far CNU can go in this unprecedented season. Stay tuned for updates on their playoff journey as it unfolds!
