The Bucknell football team got into the win column this past weekend with a thrilling 19-17 victory over arch rival Lehigh. The Bison traveled to Bethlehem for the showdown.

Starting quarterback Nick Semptimphelter ’24 had a solid outing, completing 13-28 passes for 146 yards. Rushawn Baker ’25 had his best game of the season at running back, posting eighteen carries for 48 yards and two touchdown runs from three yards and one yard out. 

The defense was what stood out for Bucknell, holding Lehigh’s offense to just 10 points, as one of the touchdowns for the Mountain Hawks was scored via a blocked punt in the third quarter.

Safety Brent Jackson ’23 played outstanding, giving the Bison lots of help with five tackles, a sack, a forced fumble, fumble recovery and an interception. Jackson would surely be the MVP for the Bison if not for Matt Schearer ’26. Schearer booted a 19-yard field goal through the uprights with 18 seconds left to win it for Bucknell.

Lehigh blocked a Bucknell extra point attempt with two minutes remaining, leaving the score at 17-16, and Bucknell was forced to onside kick. Miraculously, the Orange & Blue recovered and were able to drive down the field and set Schearer up for the game winner.

“It was just a relief,” Schearer said. “We had come close already but to finally get a win against our rivals was awesome. When I made the kick, I was just relieved that all our hard work finally paid off. It was great for our morale as a team. It gave us the necessary confidence boost that we need as we prepare for Colgate.”

The Bison face Colgate next Saturday Oct. 29 at home. With the Bison finally entering the win column, they hope to ride this wave of momentum further.