Nov. 21, 2007

Stony Brook, N.Y. - Our final game against Elon University was a microcosm of the 2007 Stony Brook Football season. At times, our consistency, focus and play were outstanding. However, we still have to make strides in those areas that will allow us to finish off games against top FCS programs. As a staff, we know that we made tremendous improvement, were competitive against a tough schedule and met many of the challenges that we faced when we began training camp in August. However, the bottom line is that we cannot be satisfied with an overall record that is a little better than average.

One of our goals is to learn from the challenges presented to us by our level of competition. Looking forward, we are going to work hard and follow through on our plan to achieve at a higher level in all aspects of our program. We closed the 2007 campaign learning from the experience and achievement during those four months and now we turn our focus to the 2008 campaign.

Last Saturday, the offense did an effective job moving the ball and converted several opportunities inside the red zone. The scoring was spread around as Brandon Mason '09 (Phillipsburg, N.J.) had a rushing touchdown while Lynell Suggs '09 (Bronx, N.Y.) caught a touchdown pass from Steve Austin '10 (Tequesta, Fla.). Luke Gaddis '09 (East Patchogue, N.Y.) did a tremendous job by going 3-for-3 on field goals from 28, 30, and 37 yards. Suggs also set new school records for most receptions (75) and receiving yards (962) in a single season.

On defense, the defensive line created pressure all afternoon long. James Harris '09 (Piscataway, N.J.) and Milo Otis '08 (Los Angeles, Calif.) had two of our three sacks and Adam Soivilien '09 (Dorchester, Mass.) intercepted a tipped pass at the line of scrimmage that set up a touchdown on the following drive. As a whole, we were one of only four teams (University of South Florida, Appalachian State University and Georgia Southern University were the other three) to hold Elon under 420 yards of offense.

During this week of giving thanks, I would like to close by saying thank you to everyone who has supported our student-athletes and staff throughout the season. The Stony Brook administration, support staff, alumni, parents, players, coaches and their families have all contributed to our success and their continued effort will make Stony Brook Football a top tier Division I Football Championship Subdivision program.

I would also like to wish everyone a very happy, safe and healthy Thanksgiving. Thanks again for all of your support. Go Seawolves!

Chuck Priore
Head Football Coach