Lafayette Upsets No. 12 Holy Cross, Ends 17-Game Skid

**Lafayette Stuns No. 12 Holy Cross, Snapping 17-Game Losing Streak in Worcester Upset**

**WORCESTER, Mass. –** In a stunning display of grit and opportunism, the Lafayette Leopards pulled off one of the biggest upsets in recent Patriot League history on Saturday, defeating the No. 12-ranked Holy Cross Crusaders 21-13 at Fitton Field. The monumental victory not only hands Holy Cross its first loss in three seasons in league play but also snaps Lafayette’s excruciating 17-game losing streak against their long-standing rivals.

Holy Cross, a perennial powerhouse that had won the last three Patriot League championships and entered the contest as a heavily favored team, found itself undone by a relentless Lafayette ground game and a critical turnover margin.

The Leopards’ rushing attack was spearheaded by junior running back Kente Edwards, who delivered a career-defining performance. Edwards amassed 126 yards on 26 carries, punching in two crucial one-yard touchdowns – one in the first quarter to put Lafayette on the board, and another in the third that extended their lead. Overall, Lafayette’s ground game was dominant, tallying 217 rushing yards against a highly-touted Holy Cross defense.

While Holy Cross quarterback Matthew Sluka, known for his dual-threat capabilities, also had a strong day on the ground with 120 rushing yards and two touchdowns (a 6-yarder in the first and a 23-yarder in the fourth), his efforts were overshadowed by his team’s struggles with ball security. The Crusaders coughed up the ball four times – three fumbles and an interception – gifting Lafayette critical possessions and field position. In stark contrast, the Leopards played a clean game, committing zero turnovers.

Despite Holy Cross statistically dominating in several key areas, including an overwhelming 20-3 advantage in first downs and holding the ball for over 40 minutes of possession, Lafayette’s ability to capitalize on turnovers proved to be the decisive factor. Their disciplined play and efficient scoring drives ultimately negated the Crusaders’ statistical superiority.

Lafayette’s offense, under the direction of quarterback Dean DeNobile, sealed the upset in the fourth quarter. DeNobile connected with Julian Spender for a four-yard touchdown pass, extending Lafayette’s lead and putting the game out of reach for Holy Cross, despite a late rushing touchdown from Sluka.

The victory marks Lafayette’s first win against Holy Cross in 18 attempts, a drought stretching back nearly two decades, and serves as a powerful statement to the rest of the Patriot League. Lafayette now moves to a 1-1 record for the season, matching Holy Cross’s 1-1 start. For the Crusaders, the loss signals a significant jolt to their championship aspirations and ranking, while for the Leopards, it ignites renewed hope and confidence for the remainder of their campaign. The upset reverberates throughout the Football Championship Subdivision (FCS), highlighting the unpredictability and excitement of college football.