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The 2009 season heats up early for the Profs.  Rowan begin its second week on the road seeking to snaps Cortland’s two game win streak against the Profs.  A win would be the program’s 300th victory. The last time Rowan lost two in a row to the Red Dragons was during the 1964-65 season. The Profs are 10-5-1 against Cortland on two streaks of five consecutive wins (1996-2000, 2002-06). Last year,  Cortland scored a touchdown with 45 seconds left winning 27-20.

Cortland beat Morrisville last week 26-17. Colgate transfer Dan Pitcher, a junior now, leads the Red Dragons at quarterback. He compiled over 300 yards of offense. He threw for 233 yards and two touchdowns, and led the team with 98 yards rushing and one touchdown. Wide out Eric Hajnos grabbed six passes for 88 yards and a touchdown. Defensive end Evan Wyler paced the defense with 12 tackles, 2.5 tackles for a loss, 1.5 sacks, and a forced fumble.  Linebacker James Lenhart followed with 10 tackles and two sacks.

The Profs must get pressure on Pitcher who seems to be similar to the Profs’ Frank Wilczynski.  Give Pitcher running lanes and he may take off.  The Rowan defense must stay in their gaps as they apply pressure.  With the graduation of running back Andrew Giuliano, the Red Dragon backfield may take a step back this year.  Giuliano ran well against Profs, including 136 yards and two touchdowns last year.

The keys to this game will be how often Cortland is forced into third and long, which team performs better on special teams, and if the Profs improve in the passing game over week one. Rowan was really good at forcing third and longs last week.  And except for one breakdown, Profs specials teams helped win the position battle against Lycoming. I think special teams may decide this one.