Lehigh Dominates Holy Cross, Remains Unbeaten with 38-3 Victory

Lehigh Football Team Engages with the Community

As part of a new community outreach initiative, members of the Lehigh football team spent time signing autographs after their game at Goodman Stadium on Saturday. This event was part of the school's Community Heroes and Youth Football Day, offering fans an opportunity to connect with their favorite players.

While it's uncertain whether any current Mountain Hawks will make it to the NFL, as several past players have done, the children who collected these signatures might have acquired some unique souvenirs from one of Lehigh’s most impressive teams in recent years.

A Strong Start to the Season

It's still early to label the 2025 Mountain Hawks as the best team ever, but with a commanding 38-3 victory over Holy Cross, the No. 4 ranked team in FCS football, the team improved to 10-0 and remains tied for first place in the Patriot League with Lafayette.

Lafayette, which also secured a 5-0 record in the league, achieved a thrilling 59-42 win over Colgate at Fisher Stadium. Kente Edwards played a key role, rushing for 260 yards and three touchdowns. The Leopards recorded 533 yards on offense, while Lehigh managed 518 yards in their game.

With the two Division I programs set to face off on November 22 in Easton, the rivalry is expected to be intense. The scoreboard operator could be very busy during this historic matchup.

Defensive Strength Shines

The Mountain Hawks' defense proved just as formidable as their offense. Coming into the game, Lehigh had one of the top-10 rushing defenses in the nation. They maintained that reputation by allowing only 20 yards to Holy Cross. The team has allowed just 29 points in their last five games.

Holy Cross managed only nine first downs and had to punt 10 times. The Crusaders were just 3-for-17 on third-down attempts.

Coach Kevin Cahill expressed his satisfaction with the team's performance. "It was an exciting win," he said. "I was happy with the way we won the game. We had to fight for that one. We know that’s going to be the case week in and week out. When you’re trying to stay on top of the mountain every one is coming after you."

Historical Context and Future Goals

Lehigh is 10-0 to start a season for the first time since the 2001 team began 11-0. That squad hosted an FCS playoff game, and this year's team hopes to achieve similar success.

For now, the Mountain Hawks finished the home portion of the regular season with a 6-0 record and have now extended their regular-season winning streak to a nation-best 15 games.

Despite the strong start, the game wasn't without its challenges. After scoring on their first possession, the team faced setbacks, including an interception and multiple punts. However, they regrouped in the second half, showing resilience and determination.

Key Performances and Team Dynamics

Luke Yoder, who accounted for 142 of Lehigh’s season-best 344 yards rushing, broke free for a 42-yard touchdown run. The offensive line, featuring Charles Soska and Bethlehem Catholic graduate Sammy Ayache, played a crucial role in the team's success.

"We always say that if we start wearing them down, the short runs are going to pop," said Colby Reph, a 6-foot-1, 295-pound sophomore. "That’s the plan. The offensive line has really meshed as a brotherhood."

Upcoming Schedule and Outlook

Both Lehigh and Lafayette will continue their road journeys next weekend. The Mountain Hawks will travel to Colgate, while the Leopards will visit Richmond.

Scoring Summary

• Holy Cross: 0 – 3 – 0 – 0 — 3
• Lafayette: 7 – 7 – 17 – 7 — 38

First Quarter

• L: Mason Humphrey 29 pass from Hayden Johnson (Connor Poole kick), 10:58

Second Quarter

• H: Luis Palenzuela 32 field goal, 5:14
• L: Luke Yoder 42 run (Poole kick), 2:33

Third Quarter

• L: Poole 32 field goal, 11:38
• L: Geoffrey Jamiel 45 pass from Johnson (Poole kick), 10:06
• L: Yoder 1 run (Poole kick), 1:35

Fourth Quarter

• L: Jamiel 11 pass from Johnson (Poole kick), 14:07