The Robert Morris Colonials (2-5) hosted their inner city rivals, the Duquesne Dukes (5-3), but would end up on the losing side of the fence as they struggled offensively. Bobby Mo was able to keep the team within reach with only one touchdown for most of the game, however, Duquesne struck early in the fourth quarter leaving with a 16-7 win.
Robert Morris struggles on offense were exemplified with only 200 yards on offense. Scoring less than 10 points in their last four games the Colonials have had questions at the quarterback position.
Going 7-26 with only 84 yards and two interceptions, quarterback Matt Barr has struggled over this four-game stretch, putting together lousy performances. Barr also struggled with his feet as he lost an astounding 40 yards on the night on 12 rushes netting -28 yards to the total Colonial offense.
Running back Cole Blake netted 117 yards on 22 attempts and backup Ram Owens was awarded the only Colonial touchdown of the night running for 28 yards on 10 attempts.
Duquesne running back Rafiq Douglas carried the offense netting 172 yards on 32 attempts and averaged 5.4 yards per rush. Quarterback Dillon Buechel put together a solid game passing for 167 yards, throwing one touchdown, and had 16 completions on 33 attempts.
After a scoreless first quarter, the Dukes got on the scoreboard first with kicker Austin Crimmins hitting a 29-yard field goal.
Down by only a field goal, Robert Morris would power down the field a few drives later on five plays capped off by a 5-yard touchdown run by Owens.
Duquesne would run its two-minute drill at the end of the first half, but would be stopped short with 52 seconds left in the second quarter. Crimmins would be sent out from 45 yards away and hit a field goal that slimmed the Colonials’ lead by one, 7-6.
The second half would offer very little offense from either side, however, Duquesne would eventually give itself a lead that would not be challenged again.
Crimmins hit another long 44-yard field goal and continued to be the Dukes only offense until Buechel threw an 8-yard pass to receiver Nehari Crawford. The score would remain untouched with Duquesne edging out Robert Morris, 16-7.
For Robert Morris, it continue to struggle putting up any opposition on offense. The Colonials are averaging a little over 200 yards per game (202) in the same four game span and have struggled mightily on keeping drives alive.
Too many inconsistencies have given the team a hole that will be difficult to dig out of. Currently placing sixth in the division, Robert Morris must address the lack of production coming from their quarterback position. While showing flashes, it is clear Barr is not getting the job done.
Next week Bobby Mo will go on the road to face Central Connecticut State at noon.
