Cortland, N.Y. – The nationally ranked Cortland Red Dragons celebrated Senior Day with a commanding 68-10 win over Hartwick, extending their winning streak to 20 games and setting up an exciting, high-stakes matchup against Brockport next week. With an impressive 8-0 overall record and 6-0 in Empire 8 play, the Red Dragons will face Brockport (7-1, 5-0 E8) for the conference title and a spot in the NCAA playoffs.
Cortland’s offense was unstoppable, led by senior quarterbacks Zac Boyes and Vin Mazzone, who combined for a school-record six touchdown passes. Boyes played only in the first half but delivered an outstanding performance, completing 18 of 22 passes for 291 yards and four touchdowns. Mazzone took over in the second half, adding two more touchdown passes on 9 of 12 passes for 150 yards. Together, the Red Dragons’ four quarterbacks threw for a total of 464 yards – the third-highest single-game passing total in team history.
The Red Dragons established control early, building a huge 42-0 lead by halftime. Most of the starters only played the first half, yet they contributed greatly to the scoring. Leading receivers included Jaden AlfanoStJohn, who made seven catches for 88 yards and a touchdown, Jayson Zeva with four catches for 61 yards, and Joey Muscarella, who scored his first two career touchdowns on three catches. Running back Ethan Gallo also played a key role, adding 46 yards on seven carries and scoring two touchdowns, while Tyson Taylor ran for 68 yards on 11 carries.
Other standout offensive players included JT Thuesen, who scored his first career touchdown with 67 yards on three catches, and Andrew Tarpey, who finished with 73 yards on three receptions. The Red Dragons also showcased their depth in the rushing game, with Max Barone and CJ Messina adding strong yardage on the ground, and kickers Mike Baloga and Bryce Carroll converting all eight extra-point attempts.
Cortland’s defense was equally dominant, stifling Hartwick’s offense and holding them to only 14 rushing yards. Hartwick converted just 1 of 13 third-down attempts, struggling to make progress against Cortland’s disciplined defensive line. Senior linebacker Dan Becker led the way with nine tackles, and Ryan Costello contributed five tackles and two pass breakups. Aidan Lochner and Nazair Jean-Lubin each intercepted a pass, further limiting Hartwick’s chances.
For Hartwick (2-6, 1-4 E8), quarterback Braden Moreau completed 16 of 35 passes for 260 yards and a touchdown, though he also threw two interceptions. Receiver Connor Cosgrove was a bright spot for Hartwick, making six catches for 121 yards, including a 66-yard touchdown reception late in the third quarter.
Cortland finished with an impressive 658 total yards compared to Hartwick’s 274, marking their second 600-yard game this season. With their eyes set firmly on the Empire 8 title, the Red Dragons are poised for their final game against Brockport, where a win will secure their fourth straight conference championship and NCAA berth. Cortland’s talented roster and high-energy play make them a serious contender in Division III football, and their dominant offense and resilient defense are likely to make them a team to watch in the playoffs.