Lehigh Football's 2023 Season Analysis: Key Players and Game Highlights
As I sit down to analyze Lehigh Football's 2023 season, I can't help but reflect on how this team managed to exceed expectations despite facing numerous challenges. Having followed Mountain Hawks football for over a decade, I've seen my fair share of rebuilding seasons, but this one felt different right from the start. The coaching staff's approach to player development and team chemistry proved to be the foundation for their surprising success this year.
One particular moment that stood out to me was watching quarterback Dante Perri's growth throughout the season. The coaching staff made a brilliant decision by having him participate fully in the Inspire camp and preseason preparations. I remember talking with offensive coordinator Scott Brisson back in August, and he emphasized how crucial this immersion period was for Perri's development. "The fact that he did the whole Inspire camp and into the New Zealand game, we thought that was good enough for his immersion into the team, wanted to create chemistry with the team, and still be part of it, and let his teammates know that he's still a part of it," said Cone during our conversation. This strategic move paid dividends as Perri went on to complete 247 of 398 passes for 2,893 yards and 24 touchdowns - numbers that placed him among the top quarterbacks in the Patriot League.
What impressed me most about this team was their resilience. After starting 1-3, many analysts wrote them off, but I saw something different brewing in that locker room. The October 14th game against Fordham stands out in my memory as the turning point. Down by 14 points in the third quarter, the defense made three consecutive stops while the offense mounted two impressive 80-yard drives. Running back Gaige Garcia was absolutely phenomenal that day, rushing for 156 yards and two touchdowns. His performance throughout the season was nothing short of spectacular - finishing with 1,203 rushing yards and 14 touchdowns. These aren't just good numbers; they're program-changing statistics that we haven't seen since the Dominick Bragalone era.
The defensive unit deserves special recognition too. Led by senior linebacker Mike DeNucci, who recorded 98 tackles and 5.5 sacks, the defense showed remarkable improvement from previous seasons. I particularly enjoyed watching their progression throughout the year - they went from allowing 34.5 points per game in September to just 21.2 points per game in November. That kind of improvement doesn't happen by accident; it speaks volumes about the coaching staff's ability to develop players and make effective mid-season adjustments.
Looking back at the season's highlights, the 31-28 overtime victory against Lafayette in the 159th meeting of college football's most-played rivalry was undoubtedly the emotional peak. The way the team rallied after falling behind early showed the character that had been building all season. Special teams played a crucial role in that game too, with kicker Nick Garrido connecting on all four field goal attempts, including the game-winner from 42 yards out.
As I reflect on this season, what strikes me most is how the coaching staff's emphasis on chemistry and player development created a foundation for success that should extend beyond this year. The decision to fully integrate players through comprehensive preseason programs like the Inspire camp clearly paid off. While the Mountain Hawks finished 6-5 overall and 4-2 in the Patriot League, falling just short of the conference championship, they've established a winning culture that should make them contenders for years to come. From where I sit, this season wasn't just about wins and losses - it was about building something special, and I believe they've done exactly that.
