In this episode of Saturday Sports Talk aired on October 26, 2024, host Greg Fennell discusses key happenings in high school and college sports across the Upper Valley, particularly focusing on the Ivy League showdown between Dartmouth and Columbia. The episode is packed with insights into football, cross country championships, and the local sports scene, providing a comprehensive look at the current state of athletics in the region.
Key Matchup: Dartmouth vs. Columbia
Ivy League Showdown
- Teams: Dartmouth Big Green (5-0, 3-0 Ivy) vs. Columbia Lions (4-0, 2-0 Ivy)
- Location: Robert Kraft Field, Manhattan
- Significance: The winner will take an essential step toward the Ivy League Championship. Historically, these matchups have produced memorable moments, including a significant win for Dartmouth in 1996.
Team Insights
- Dartmouth:
- Recent Performance: Undefeated but narrowly won their last four games by a total of only 10 points.
- Injuries: Running back Q. Jones injured, affecting team depth; backup DJ Crother has not played due to injury.
- Player Spotlight: Grayson Sonier, the current quarterback, has excelled with five rushing touchdowns this season.
- Columbia:
- Coaching Changes: New head coach, John Poppy, previously associated with successful programs.
- Key Players: Quarterback Chase Goodwin thrown for over 300 yards in recent games, making Columbia a dangerous opponent.
State Championship Weekend for Cross Country
Highlights
- Vermont and New Hampshire State Championships are set to take place, with the expectation of strong performances from local teams.
- Key Teams: Hanover is a frontrunner in both boys' and girls' divisions, with strong individual runners leading the charge.
- Venue: Derryfield Park, Manchester, NH, and Thatford Academy, VT.
Local Sports Updates
High School Highlights
- Hartford High School made strides in playoffs, showcasing strength in football and soccer.
- Volleyball and Field Hockey also saw success in recent matches, with Hartford volleyball advancing in the state semifinals.
Dartmouth College Updates
- Volleyball: Struggles continue as Dartmouth falls to Harvard.
- Men’s Soccer is trending positively, competing with top teams in the league.
NFL and MLB Updates
NFL Focus
- New England Patriots: Struggling season with six consecutive losses; facing the New York Jets.
- Miami Dolphins: Tu’a Tagovailoa clears concussion protocols and prepares for return.
MLB World Series
- Game Highlights: The Dodgers defeated the Yankees 6-3 in a thrilling Game 1, highlighted by Freddie Freeman's grand slam.
Conclusion
This episode of Saturday Sports Talk is a rich blend of local sports updates, insights into major college events, and key discussions around professional leagues. As teams gear up for significant matchups in football and other sports, listeners are encouraged to tune in next week for further updates.
For sports enthusiasts in the Upper Valley, this podcast serves as a crucial resource for staying informed about local events and student-athlete performances.