Southwestern Connecticut Wins Yankee Bowl Championship

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MERIDEN, CT - November 13, 2010

After a scoreless first half, the Southwestern Connecticut Grizzlies score three second half touchdowns to win the First Annual Yankee Bowl 25-7 against the University of Vermont in their highly anticipated rematch.

The Grizzlies outlasted Vermont 28-21 in their week one battle. Since that game, both teams went undefeated to set up the drama of the Yankee Bowl. "We knew we would see them again after the opener" said Grizzlies head coach Bernie Armstrong, "they came out ready to play today." Vermont stifled the Grizzlies passing attack by double-teaming top receiver Dwight Franklin while their ultra-quick defensive line made the running game unreliable.  

"Heading into halftime we felt confident as a coaching staff but knew we needed a break to get us going." Early in the third quarter, safety DeVante Creadle intercepted a Cory Johnson pass deep in the Catamounts territory. On the preceding play, Kyle Laurendeau connected with receiver Kevin Slyvester for a 9 yard touchdown and the first score in the game. Laurendeau later completed a touchdown pass to Bobby Durham to give the Grizzlies a 14-0 lead. Amongst continual pressure, Credle jumped in front of another errand pass from Johnson and returned it 41 yards for a score and a Yankee Bowl victory. Credle finished the game with 2 interceptions (1 for a touchdowns), 5 tackles, and the game MVP. "It was a great game for me" said Credle, "we were well coached for this game and every player wanted this win this one."