Villanova Shocks Third-Ranked Lehigh 14-7, Secures FCS Quarterfinal Playoff Spot
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In a stunning upset, Villanova's Wildcats defeated the third-ranked Lehigh Mountain Hawks 14-7 on Saturday, propelling them to the quarterfinal round of the FCS playoffs. The underdog Wildcats, seeded 12th, will now face the winner of the North Dakota-Tarleton State matchup. This marks Villanova's third quarterfinal appearance in the last five seasons and their first playoff road win since 2010. The turning point came when Pat McQuaide connected with Braden Reed on a 28-yard touchdown pass with 3:02 left in the game. Lehigh's final drive was foiled when Obinna Nwobodo stripped the ball from Hayden Johnson, and Shane Hartzell recovered for Villanova. The Mountain Hawks had taken a 7-0 lead in the second half after a 75-yard drive, capped off by Aaron Crossley's 5-yard run. Villanova responded with a 59-yard drive that ended with Ja'briel Mace's 1-yard touchdown run, tying the score at 7-7. The win sets the stage for an exciting new rivalry between Villanova and Lehigh, as the two programs will join forces in the Patriot League starting next season.
