UPDATE: Christopher Newport University (CNU) has just completed a historic unbeaten regular season in football, defeating The College of New Jersey 27-7 in Ewing on November 10, 2023. This marks the first time in program history that CNU has finished a regular season with a perfect 10-0 record.
In a thrilling game, CNU’s Colin Hart made history by becoming the all-time receptions leader for the football program, catching seven passes for 101 yards. Quarterback Connor Barry, a frontrunner for All-American honors, showcased his talent by completing 18 of 26 passes for 201 yards and throwing two touchdowns. He also contributed on the ground, rushing for 33 yards and a touchdown.
The Captains, coached by Paul Crowley, have now won an impressive 15 consecutive games dating back to last season. They are currently ranked 7th by d3football.com and will soon discover their playoff fate, as the NCAA will release the 40-team playoff bracket on Sunday at 5 p.m. EST on NCAA.com. CNU is expected to receive a first-round bye and could secure a home game in the round of 32.
The game unfolded with tension as CNU’s Zavier Kennedy broke a scoreless tie, scoring on a 2-yard touchdown run with 7:20 left in the second quarter. Following this, CNU’s defense forced a quick three-and-out, allowing Barry to connect with Josh Powell for an 11-yard touchdown pass just before halftime, extending the lead to 14-0.
Barry continued to dominate into the second half, scoring on a 2-yard run early in the third quarter, pushing the Captains’ lead to 21-0. However, The College of New Jersey responded with a late-game touchdown as Joe Visaggio, who led the Lions with 104 yards on 18 carries, broke through for a 17-yard touchdown run with 10:44 left in the fourth quarter, ending CNU’s bid for a shutout.
CNU’s scoring was capped when Barry threw a 3-yard touchdown pass to Gunner White with just 1:54 remaining in the contest, finalizing the score at 27-7.
This remarkable achievement not only highlights the Captains’ prowess on the field but also sets the stage for an exciting postseason. Fans and followers are eagerly awaiting the playoff announcements, which could propel CNU deeper into the national championship race.
Stay tuned for live updates as the playoff details unfold this Sunday!
