Brown

It was way back in 2003 that the Rams had a season that didn’t show more wins than losses. On the other sideline, Lock Haven failed to shed itself of its troubled past that follows it still today of never finding a winning season since back in 1981.

The Rams have never lost to Lock Haven, beating the Bald Eagles all seven times the two teams have played.

In its latest success against the western Pennsylvanians, the Rams had a 14-0 halftime lead that they even extended to 21-0 in the third period. Lock Haven solved the Ram defense for two quick scores, bringing the Ram lead back to 21-13 before Shepherd’s two second-half scores moved the team safely out of reach.

As has often happened this season, Shepherd’s offensive line was responsible for much of the team’s success. While quarterback Michael Hardyway was completing 23-of-31 passes for 307 yards and two scores, he was never sacked and rarely even hurried. That same interior six linemen helped provide openings for the PSAC’s leading ground gainer, Jordan Barnett, whose 18 carries produced 131 yards and two scores. Barnett now has rushed for over 1,100 rushing yards and leads the conference in scoring.

Hardyway

The Rams had 467 yards of total offense while the Bald Eagles and their second-half resurgence produced 407 total yards.

Kordell Batten and Malakai Brown were the focused recipients of Shepherd’s well-oiled and well-designed pass offense. Hardyway and the time he is provided can find receivers whose short, timed routes often leave men uncovered and with much room to maneuver after their catches. The copious freedom enables them to gain much additional yardage.

Batten had 10 receptions for 91 yards and Brown scored twice and caught six passes for 121 yards.

Lock Haven’s Jackson Ostrowsky completed 34-of-51 throws for 336 yards but suffered three interceptions.

Gio-Di Tolbert had seven stops for the Ram defense. Devin Harper and Makai Young were both credited with six tackles each.

Batten

The Rams play their 2025 finale at home on the artificial turf of Monte Cater Field on Nov. 15 at noon against invading Seton Hill, now 2-8.

Lock Haven can finally erase its lengthy streak of years with losing seasons if it can defeat Gannon tomorrow. Gannon has won twice and taken eight losses so far this season.

Shepherd had its productive offense line as the tip of its productive spear. Following that spear were Barnett and Hardyway and a competent group of receivers — and with six consecutive wins the Rams have added another year to this historical skein of winning seasons.

Barnett