NEW YORK — Julius Loughridge showcased an impressive performance with 153 rushing yards and a touchdown, while quarterback Jack Capaldi contributed with a 41-yard scoring run as Fordham secured their first victory of the season, defeating Colgate 20-14 on Saturday.

In a critical moment of the game, Capaldi connected with Mekai Felton on a 12-yard touchdown pass with just over five minutes remaining, capping off an 11-play, 90-yard drive that consumed nearly six minutes. This scoring play propelled Fordham (1-8, 1-3 in the Patriot League) to their first lead of the match.

Colgate attempted to respond, but their final possession only managed to gain 21 yards over eight plays, resulting in a punt. Fordham had the chance to extend their drive but were forced to punt themselves after running six plays with 1:36 remaining. However, a roughing the punter penalty called against Colgate allowed Fordham to retain possession, enabling them to run down the clock effectively.

The game began with Colgate striking first when quarterback Jake Stearney completed an 8-yard pass to Reed Swanson, concluding a quick three-play, 10-yard drive. This short field was set up after Brody Hock pressured Fordham’s Trip Holley into a fumble, which was recovered by Christian Magliacano at the Rams’ 10-yard line.

Fordham answered back in the second half, scoring a touchdown to equalize at 7-7. Loughridge dashed into the end zone from 13 yards out after a nine-play, 65-yard drive. Colgate quickly regained the advantage on their next possession as Stearney rushed 27 yards for a touchdown, finishing a seven-play, 75-yard drive. However, the Rams leveled the score at 14-all when Capaldi made an impressive 41-yard dash for a touchdown with just five seconds remaining in the third quarter.

This win marked a significant moment for Fordham, who had not enjoyed success since November 4, 2023, when they defeated Bucknell 27-21. The victory ended an 11-game losing streak that had mirrored a previous stretch of futility dating back to the end of the 2004 season through the start of 2005.

Historically, Colgate has held the upper hand in the series between the two teams, leading 26-10 since their first matchup in 1989.