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After a week off, Lock Haven's football team is back in action and has a very tough test this week as the Bald Eagles host No. 3-ranked Kutztown for a 6 p.m. kickoff at Hubert Jack Stadium today.
In the last matchup between the two, Kutztown defeated Lock Haven in 2025 34-7 thanks to 27 first-half points. The Bald Eagles haven't defeated the Golden Bears since a 21-14 win in 2002, suffering a 16-game losing streak since.
To upset Kutztown, Lock Haven will have to play solid from start to finish in all aspects.
Ezequiel Johnson is Lock Haven's top running back so far this year, rushing for 124 yards in two games, averaging 5.6 per carry, with a touchdown on his 22 attempts. Cureem Hathcock has also seen success as he has 71 rushing yards in two games played, averaging 4.4 per carry.
Passing wise, the Bald Eaegles have seen success from Bald Eagle Area graduate Carson Nagle, who is 32 for 59 for 359 yards in two games this year. However Nagel has thrown four interceptions so far as the young quarterback will look to keep improving week after week for Lock Haven.
Kutztown will no doubt be looking to put pressure on Nagle and try to force errant throws or turnovers. The Golden Bears have 11 players with one or more tackles for loss this year as Jaime Rivera, LJ Smith, Jason Fermaintt and Kahlil Williams all have two. Fermaint also has two sacks while Williams and Mikey Jones have a sack as well.
In addition, Kutztown's Fermaint has two quarterback hits this year and Freddie Retter, Gray and Tee Peete both have a quarterback hit.
Wrap all that together and Kutztown's defense isn't afraid to apply pressure on offenses and try to disrupt rhythm.
Kutztown will look to balance its running and passing games. Jaedyn Stewart has 133 rushing yards so far for Kutztown with two touchdowns while Craig Miller (78) and Steven Burkhardt (76) both have more than 75 rushing yards. Those three can do damage with their legs if given an opportunity.
Judd Novak has thrown for 524 yards in two games, averaging 262 per game and has a 64.52% completion percentage as he's 40 for 62. He's also thrown six touchdowns to no interceptions.
That means Lock Haven knows defensively it has to apply pressure to Novak and also cover Kutztown's receivers well to not allow the Golden Bears to air it out.
Lenniek Preston has a team-high 110 receiving yards for Kutztown, Jaimen Bryant has 101, Ty'renne Hynson has 69 and Rich Paczewski has 50 as Novak spreads the ball around.