Central Connecticut Secures Top Spot with Blocked Field Goals Against LIU

Central Connecticut State University held onto its first-place position in the Northeast Conference (NEC) following a narrow 10-7 victory against Long Island University (LIU) on March 2, 2024. The decisive moments came in the fourth quarter when the Blue Devils successfully blocked two field goals, preventing the Sharks from taking the lead.

Crucial Defensive Plays Seal the Game

With the game in its final minutes, LIU attempted an 18-yard field goal that would have tied the score. Jack Stoll made a critical play, leaping to block the kick and secure the win for Central Connecticut. Earlier in the quarter, Stylz Mitchell had also blocked a 40-yard attempt by LIU kicker Will Johnson, which was pivotal in maintaining Central’s slim lead.

The Sharks had a strong offensive push, executing 31 plays during their last two possessions but could not capitalize on their opportunities. The first blocked kick came after LIU had driven down from their own 1-yard line to the Central Connecticut 23, where they were stalled on third down.

With just seven seconds remaining, LIU faced a fourth down at the Central Connecticut 1-yard line. Opting for a field goal attempt to tie the game, the Sharks were thwarted again by Stoll’s impressive defensive effort.

Key Player Contributions

On the offensive side, Central Connecticut quarterback Brady Olson completed 16 of 29 passes for 200 yards, including one touchdown pass. His performance was vital for the Blue Devils, who took a 3-0 lead into halftime. The Sharks responded in the second half with a lengthy 16-play drive, culminating in a 3-yard touchdown pass from Luca Stanzani to O’Shawn Ross Jr., giving LIU a brief lead at 7-3.

Central Connecticut quickly retaliated, regaining the lead just two plays later when Donovan Wadley caught a 51-yard touchdown pass from Olson, bringing the score to 10-7.

This victory improves Central Connecticut’s record to 6-3 overall and 4-0 in the NEC, solidifying their position as a top contender in the conference. LIU, facing challenges of their own, falls to a record of 3-6 overall and 1-3 in conference play.

The Blue Devils will look to build on this momentum as they continue their season, while LIU will seek to regroup and capitalize on future opportunities.