After a sorely-needed win against Bucknell last weekend, a victory against Brown (3-2, 0-2 Ivy) could be the catalyst needed to turn around what was looking to be a forgettable season for the Red (1-4, 0-2 Ivy), who is currently tied for last place in the Ivy League.
In last week's matchup, two new running backs, sophomore Jordan Triplett and freshman John McAuliffe, had their breakout performances for the Red. Triplett and McAuliffe undoubtedly played a huge part in paving the way for a confident home victory. The upcoming contest against Brown will test whether that was a strong one-off debut, or if the Red has two budding underclassman stars.
It is likely that junior quarterback Garret Bass-Sulpizio will once again get the start against Brown. After another strong showing against Bucknell last week, Bass-Sulpizio has demonstrated that he can be a consistently reliable quarterback for the Red.
Head coach Dan Swanstrom will have to decide whether he wants to go back to more experienced upperclassmen or if he wants to put his faith in largely inexperienced, but seemingly quality, players such as Triplett and McAuliffe.
This matchup will end the conference losing streak for the victor, as both Cornell and Brown are still in search of an Ivy League victory this season. However, while Brown has not secured an Ivy League victory, the Bears have proven to be a fierce opponent, as they sit undefeated against non-conference opponents.
This pairing is one with a rich history. Cornell and Brown have been trading blows since Nov. 16, 1895, when the Red took a home victory by a score of 6-4. After 71 games spanning over 100 years, Brown does hold the historical advantage over the Red with 39 wins. However, in the last 10 games the two teams are equal at five wins each.
There is also a question as to where the Red’s physical condition will be heading into this game. The dog days of the season may get the best of a team like the Red, which plays gritty and tough games week after week. Cornell has played five games over the last five weekends, spanning back to its season opener against UAlbany over a month ago. This type of scheduling is essentially unique to the Ivy League, as many other college conferences and the NFL allow bye weeks for their teams.
While the turnaround between games is quite small, it could serve as an advantage for a Red team that is filled with momentum and ready to prove itself as a real competitor in the Ivy League.
Cornell looks to secure its first Ivy League victory at 1 p.m. this Saturday at Schoellkopf Field. The action will be available live on ESPN+.
Matthew Leonard is a member of the Class of 2028 in the School of Industrial and Labor Relations. He is the assistant sports editor of the 143rd Editorial Board. He can be reached at mleonard@cornellsun.com.
