The Robert Morris Colonials (1-2) had a lot of momentum riding into tonight’s game as they visited No. 6 South Dakota State (2-0). Unfortunately, the Jackrabbits defended their home turf and continue the season undefeated as they rolled over Robert Morris, 34-10.
Matt Barr had a very limited role in tonight’s game attempting only 14 passes and completing four. Passing for only 43 yards and a touchdown, Barr’s receivers also had a very small role with Nic Lamica catching three passes for 37 yards and catching the single touchdown of the Colonials’ evening.
The running game had another outstanding night, with six rushers combing for 38 attempting and gaining 228 yards. Dante Satcher stood out the most running for 85 yards in only six attempts. Barr also ran well enough to accumulate 70 yards on just five attempts.
On the other side of the ball the Colonials struggled in bringing down the quarterback as well as defending the running game. South Dakota ran only 25 times but managed to pick up 395 yards rushing and three touchdowns. Jake Wieneke stood out as the Jackrabbits’ rushing only seven times piling up 163 yards and two touchdowns.
South Dakota started out strong driving down the field 70 yards in only eight plays. The drive was capped off by Wieneke catching a 10 yard pass for the early first quarter touchdown.
Following a second quarter 46-yard field gold by Robert Morris’ Connor Shennan, South Dakota charged down the in 10 plays with running back Isaac Wallace finishing the drive on a three yard rush.
Robert Morris was able to score a touchdown before in the second half with Barr connecting with Lamica on a 6-yard touchdown pass. But, before the half the Jackrabbits were able to tack on two more field goals by Jay Carlson going into the half with a 20-10 lead.
In the second half Robert Morris’ defense began to wear down as they allowed a 13-yard touchdown from quarterback Zach Lujan to Brandon Andrews in the third quarter. Wieneke caught another touchdown pass early in the fourth quarter giving South Dakota the final lead of 34-10.
This was the first game the Colonials have played this year where they were dominated in all aspects of the game. Falling to 1-3 on the season, Robert Morris already has a lot of work to do if they expect to place in the top half of the conference.
Robert Morris will play again on the road next week as they face the 0-3 Wagner Seahawks. The Colonials will need to capitalize on the lackluster defense Wagner has displayed allowing over 31 points or more in their first three games.
The game will begin in Staten Island next Saturday at 12:00 p.m.
Photo Credit: RMU Athletics
