The Middlesex Football team captured its fifth NEPSAC bowl win in program history on Saturday with a 24-7 victory over Berkshire in the Joe Lang Bowl (named in honor of 26 year Middlesex head coach Joe Lang). The win brought the Zebras record to 7-2 on the year, their most victories since 2005.

The game started poorly for Middlesex, as Berkshire took the opening kickoff and marched down the field to take a 7-0 lead with 5 minutes left in the first quarter. A couple of special teams plays would turn the tide, however. 

The turnaround began on the ensuing kickoff, as senior captain Xavier Hazard went 90 yards in spectacular fashion, breaking several tackles along the way, for an immediate response from the Zebras. Sam Elfner's extra point knotted the score at 7.

Middlesex stayed aggressive and senior Owen Crann's perfectly executed onside kick was recovered by Caleb Mitchell, giving the Zebras another possession. Crann capped the drive by nailing a 45 yard field goal that gave Middlesex a 10-7 lead. 

On their next possession, Middlesex quarterback Luke Felago found junior receiver Orion Saunders open along the sideline for a 68 yard catch and run that upped the Zebra lead to 17-7 with 5:42 remaining in the first half.

Neither team could mount much offense in the second half. The Middlesex defense remained stout following the first drive, yielding only a handful of first downs and recording multiple sacks. Junior linebacker Emmitt Goodrich set up the final Middlesex score with an interception and 25 yard return in the fourth quarter. Felago hit Hazard for an 11 yard touchdown with 2:42 remaining to ice the victory.

The bowl win caps an incredible turnaround for Middlesex football and first year head coach Scott Woodward, as the Zebras improved from 2-6 in 2023 to NEPSAC Champions in 2024. Congratulations to all the players and coaches on a magical season.