FB: New England Small College Athletic Conference

[Nescacguymaine]

Polar Bears D forces 2+ turnovers and the UBears get it done today in Brunswick.

[nescac1]

Really solid win for the Ephs on the road against Middlebury today.  Highlights for the Ephs:

- the D bent a little, but made huge play after huge play in big situations. Especially in the second half, which was the best the Eph defense has played all year, Midd could do very little.  Acheson, Moore and Mangini led the way from the LB position as they were all over the field and making bone-rattling hits.  The Ephs forced three huge turnovers and also stopped Midd on three fourth down plays.  The Ephs did a very nice job controlling McClellan, who has hurt them in the past, he didn't really break lose for any big plas. Finn Ryan had a huge play recognizing a ballsy fake punt play by Midd from deep in their own territory, shedding his blocker, and making a big hit which led to a fumble recovery by Kreakie, who also had a big day. 

- Drew Weiler proved that he is absolutely for real, he had an impressive day hitting 23-34 for 285, two TDs and no INTs against a solid Midd defense. Most of his passes were again right on the money into tight spaces, including a huge 40-yard pass on a dime to Falls from his own one yard line.  The only blemish was taking a few too many sacks, which seemed to be a combination of some protection breakdowns and also holding onto the ball a bit too long. The Ephs also continue to struggle a bit with the center to QB snap, although this week the one that was totally botched wasn't the center's fault. 

- This was the best game of the year by far for the Eph receivers.  I didn't see any drops and they made a lot of tough catches despite tough coverage.  In particular, it was great to see Zach Falls finally get on track with 7-128 and a TD< he looked like the Falls we saw last year, finally.  Weiler and TE Montessano continue to have a great chemistry as well especially in big situations. 

- The Ephs run game (with Fabiano still out) struggled today and they gave up too many sacks, so I imagine the offensive line will see some areas for improvement, but on the plus side, there were a lot of plays where Weiler had time to connect deep down the field. 

- For Midd, Aidan Moss had a solid game as he had to make a lot of plays on the run.  But he was much more effective in the first half than the second. WR Angstreich was awesome and gave the Ephs fits all day catching passes in space in the middle of the field.  Midd's star defender Matt Shaw had a strong day, and the Midd defensive line was rock solid, but Midd kept giving the Ephs a short field to work with which was the difference in the game. 

[jumpshot]

Trick plays have played a role in past Midd games ...today's fake punt and double pass didn't work.
Panthers also hurt by an unsportsman penalty with two and a half minutes remaining allowing EPHS to run out the clock. EPH Zakkai Moore made a big play breaking up a fourth down pass late in fourth quarter enabling Williams to take over on downs. Sweet win on the road by Williams ....

[SpringSt7]

At the risk of sounding dramatic - 9 years ago (I cannot believe it was that long ago) the Ephs went up to Middlebury and Bobby Maimaron hit Frank Stola in the back of the end zone on the last play of regulation and it well and truly kicked off a new era of Williams football. Today, albeit a much different game and under much different circumstances, felt similar in that regard.

[lumbercat]

Really solid win for the Ephs on the road against Middlebury today.  Highlights for the Ephs:

- the D bent a little, but made huge play after huge play in big situations. Especially in the second half, which was the best the Eph defense has played all year, Midd could do very little.  Acheson, Moore and Mangini led the way from the LB position as they were all over the field and making bone-rattling hits.  The Ephs forced three huge turnovers and also stopped Midd on three fourth down plays.  The Ephs did a very nice job controlling McClellan, who has hurt them in the past, he didn't really break lose for any big plas. Finn Ryan had a huge play recognizing a ballsy fake punt play by Midd from deep in their own territory, shedding his blocker, and making a big hit which led to a fumble recovery by Kreakie, who also had a big day. 

- Drew Weiler proved that he is absolutely for real, he had an impressive day hitting 23-34 for 285, two TDs and no INTs against a solid Midd defense. Most of his passes were again right on the money into tight spaces, including a huge 40-yard pass on a dime to Falls from his own one yard line.  The only blemish was taking a few too many sacks, which seemed to be a combination of some protection breakdowns and also holding onto the ball a bit too long. The Ephs also continue to struggle a bit with the center to QB snap, although this week the one that was totally botched wasn't the center's fault. 

- This was the best game of the year by far for the Eph receivers.  I didn't see any drops and they made a lot of tough catches despite tough coverage.  In particular, it was great to see Zach Falls finally get on track with 7-128 and a TD< he looked like the Falls we saw last year, finally.  Weiler and TE Montessano continue to have a great chemistry as well especially in big situations. 

- The Ephs run game (with Fabiano still out) struggled today and they gave up too many sacks, so I imagine the offensive line will see some areas for improvement, but on the plus side, there were a lot of plays where Weiler had time to connect deep down the field. 

- For Midd, Aidan Moss had a solid game as he had to make a lot of plays on the run.  But he was much more effective in the first half than the second. WR Angstreich was awesome and gave the Ephs fits all day catching passes in space in the middle of the field.  Midd's star defender Matt Shaw had a strong day, and the Midd defensive line was rock solid, but Midd kept giving the Ephs a short field to work with which was the difference in the game. 

Wieler is the real deal. Has all the tools. It took about 5 minutes to see that last week in Wtown. Not sure where Johansen might be in his rehab but it will be interesting see what the high intensity HCOF will do from there.

[BrownBagBowdoin]

The bad news Ubears strike back. Pitiful game. Uninspired play calling and execution. Another great defensive unit wasted.

2027 will be our year...

[lumbercat]

Considering all the turmoil in the program behind the scenes I think the Bowdoin team is competing with a lot of intensity and pride.

[ItsATuftSituation]

I need to know what people think about the Tufts football program right now? I can't get a read on them at all. Broadcast this weekend was good, but I just don't even know what to think.

[bearsalum]

Long-time lurker, first-time commenter here, so go easy on me. Also a Bowdoin alum and longtime supporter.

I'm here to say how incredibly disappointed I am in Athletic Director Tim Ryan and Bowdoin as a whole. These student-athletes have been let down for years, and what is happening behind the scenes right now only adds to that disappointment.

Every single player on that roster earned his spot at Bowdoin. Many had opportunities to play at other outstanding academic institutions, and they chose Bowdoin. They show up every day, work hard, support one another, and represent the college with pride. What have they gotten in return? Years of inconsistent coaching, a program that has struggled to find its footing, and now a complete lack of meaningful communication from the administration during what is arguably one of the most difficult periods this program has faced.

And let's be clear, the situation surrounding Coach Hammer's leave of absence didn't develop in a vacuum. Serious concerns about the program extend well beyond wins and losses. I'm not going to speculate about confidential personnel matters or ongoing investigations, but it's fair to say there are bigger questions about leadership, accountability, and how student-athletes have been treated.

Which brings me to Tim Ryan. Where has the athletic leadership been throughout all of this? These problems didn't appear overnight. At what point does the athletic director take responsibility for recognizing that a program is in trouble and doing something about it?

To my knowledge, as of today, players and families have received little more than the announcement that Coach Hammer is on leave. No meaningful explanation of the program's direction, no publicly communicated long-term plan, and seemingly no acknowledgment of the uncertainty these young men are dealing with.

I fully understand that there are personnel matters the college cannot discuss. But that doesn't excuse the lack of communication about the future of the football program. Those are two very different things.
I feel especially badly for the juniors and seniors who have given so much to this program and may never get to experience the turnaround they deserve. And I have to wonder how many underclassmen are questioning their decision to attend Bowdoin. If I were an incoming recruit or parent, I would be asking some very difficult questions right now.
And frankly, I think the Bowdoin community deserves to know what the administration intends to do to restore confidence in this program.

Lastly, thank you to Lumbercat for recognizing the effort these players continue to put forth. This team has not quit. These men continue to show up, work hard, and compete despite everything going on around them. Some are understandably frustrated and disappointed, yet they continue to represent the school with their heads held high.

This roster has talent, including on offense! But talent alone doesn't win games. Coaching, player development, leadership, and play calling matter. Why hasn't Bowdoin invested in the experienced coaching and program support these athletes need?

These players have upheld their end of the bargain. Has Bowdoin?

I think Tim Ryan and the college owe these young men and their families a lot more than silence. I hope people stop seeing this as just another disappointing football season. Much bigger issues are at stake here.
The players deserve better. And Bowdoin needs to do better.

[Trin9-0]

A tough week for SP+ as wins by Hamilton and Williams dropped it's perfect record down to 23-2 on the year.

Below is how the NESCAC ranks nationally per SP+, Hansen, and NPI (I've bolded each team's highest ranking). It seems like generally Hansen likes the league better than SP+. Trinity tops Wes in NPI but that'll be short-lived as the Cardinals face undefeated Amherst while Trin hosts winless Bowdoin. I think most of us are predicting Wesleyan to top Amherst in the clear NESCAC Game of the Week. That would boost the Cards way up in all three ratings. Hansen is projecting a tight game (just under 7 points) while SP+ has Wesleyan winning by almost two touchdowns. I think think it'll be more than that and the Cardinals give Amherst a dose of reality.

Given the talent/coaching discrepancy and off the field issues, I'll be shocked if Bowdoin even cracks the scoreboard against Trinity on Saturday. We also have our first split computer prediction of the year as SP+ likes the Mules in Clinton. I'll side with Hansen and the Continentals. Williams and Midd should both win comfortably.
               

	SP+	Hansen	NPI
Trinity	24	26	26
Wesleyan	44	47	33
Williams	99	78	83
Middlebury	104	88	162
Amherst	110	85	57
Tufts	136	106	113
Colby	163	115	223
Hamilton	176	105	184
Bowdoin	189	138	232
Bates	201	141	220

Here's how the computers project Week 6 in the NESCAC:

Bowdoin 0.0 @ Trinity 47.6 - SP+
Bowdoin 0.1 @ Trinity 32.2 - Hansen

Colby 19.9 @ Hamilton 18.8 - SP+
Colby 18.3 @ Hamilton 22.5 - Hansen

Middlebury 30.0 @ Bates 9.1 - SP+
Middlebury 24.1 @ Bates 10.6 - Hansen

Tufts 14.9 @ William 26.9 - SP+
Tufts 16.1 @ William 28.8 - Hansen

Wesleyan 26.7 @ Amherst 12.8 - SP+
Wesleyan 28.1 @ Amherst 21.8 - Hansen


Finally... any thoughts on this "hot take"?

[Nescacman]

Finally... any thoughts on this "hot take"?

Why stop at the 3rd round Hs7-2...make those reservations for Salem, VA on January 3, 2027! #hartfordstatestaggbowl

[Nescacman]

As previously reported:

https://www.wabi.tv/2026/10/16/jack-cosgrove-temporarily-steps-away-colby-head-football-coach/

The official word is that Coach Cosgrove is temporarily stepping down. We'd be surprised to see him back. Obviously, we wish him the best of luck and hope that everything works out with his family member facing health issues.

[Patrick Coleman]

As previously reported:

https://www.wabi.tv/2026/10/16/jack-cosgrove-temporarily-steps-away-colby-head-football-coach/

The official word is that Coach Cosgrove is temporarily stepping down. We'd be surprised to see him back. Obviously, we wish him the best of luck and hope that everything works out with his family member facing health issues.

I was afraid it was going to be his health specifically, because I know he has also had his battles.

[lumbercat]

Long-time lurker, first-time commenter here, so go easy on me. Also a Bowdoin alum and longtime supporter.

I'm here to say how incredibly disappointed I am in Athletic Director Tim Ryan and Bowdoin as a whole. These student-athletes have been let down for years, and what is happening behind the scenes right now only adds to that disappointment.

Every single player on that roster earned his spot at Bowdoin. Many had opportunities to play at other outstanding academic institutions, and they chose Bowdoin. They show up every day, work hard, support one another, and represent the college with pride. What have they gotten in return? Years of inconsistent coaching, a program that has struggled to find its footing, and now a complete lack of meaningful communication from the administration during what is arguably one of the most difficult periods this program has faced.

And let's be clear, the situation surrounding Coach Hammer's leave of absence didn't develop in a vacuum. Serious concerns about the program extend well beyond wins and losses. I'm not going to speculate about confidential personnel matters or ongoing investigations, but it's fair to say there are bigger questions about leadership, accountability, and how student-athletes have been treated.

Which brings me to Tim Ryan. Where has the athletic leadership been throughout all of this? These problems didn't appear overnight. At what point does the athletic director take responsibility for recognizing that a program is in trouble and doing something about it?

To my knowledge, as of today, players and families have received little more than the announcement that Coach Hammer is on leave. No meaningful explanation of the program's direction, no publicly communicated long-term plan, and seemingly no acknowledgment of the uncertainty these young men are dealing with.

I fully understand that there are personnel matters the college cannot discuss. But that doesn't excuse the lack of communication about the future of the football program. Those are two very different things.
I feel especially badly for the juniors and seniors who have given so much to this program and may never get to experience the turnaround they deserve. And I have to wonder how many underclassmen are questioning their decision to attend Bowdoin. If I were an incoming recruit or parent, I would be asking some very difficult questions right now.
And frankly, I think the Bowdoin community deserves to know what the administration intends to do to restore confidence in this program.

Lastly, thank you to Lumbercat for recognizing the effort these players continue to put forth. This team has not quit. These men continue to show up, work hard, and compete despite everything going on around them. Some are understandably frustrated and disappointed, yet they continue to represent the school with their heads held high.

This roster has talent, including on offense! But talent alone doesn't win games. Coaching, player development, leadership, and play calling matter. Why hasn't Bowdoin invested in the experienced coaching and program support these athletes need?

These players have upheld their end of the bargain. Has Bowdoin?

I think Tim Ryan and the college owe these young men and their families a lot more than silence. I hope people stop seeing this as just another disappointing football season. Much bigger issues are at stake here.
The players deserve better. And Bowdoin needs to do better.

Finally someone comes forward and speaks for Bowdoin with a very well stated account of the situation. This has been an awful display by the Bowdoin Administration and Athletics Dept but it's nice to see a concerned supporter of the College speak up.

Last week on Twitter I saw an announcement from a recruit in California so proudly announcing his commitment to Bowdoin. A great achievement and milestone for any incoming student athlete. His first acknowledgement and thank you was to the Bowdoin HCOF (who was dismissed over a month ago). It was obvious that the young recruit from so far away was not aware of the situation in the Football Program. I'm sure things will work out well for that young man but he won't be playing for the HCOF showing on the Bowdoin website. What a terrible display of arrogance and dishonesty by the College. There are countless others like this recruit who deserve some communication and disclosure on the situation.

I know a local prospect personally who was on the verge of committing to Bowdoin. I suggested to the recruit and his parents that they contact the AD and listen to his explanation and his account of the situation before finalizing a commitment.

Is this the way the 4th ranked Liberal Arts College in the country which prides itself on openness and communication handles a situation that has potential influence on so many? The Bowdoin Athletics community deserves much better.

[Patrick Coleman]

Finally... any thoughts on this "hot take"?

Five of our seven preseason 20 Questions panelists picked the NESCAC to make the round of 16 this year.

https://d3football.prestosports.com/notables/2026/08/20-questions