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Defense dominates in shutout win over Middle Tennessee State

Army came out firing under new defensive coordinator Nate Woody and never looked back. Cedrick Cunningham forced a fumble on the 4th play of the game that was recovered by Jon Rhattigan. 

This was the first of four turnovers forced by the Black Knights today. Interceptions by Malkelm Morrison and a Jon Rhattigan, the latter resulting in a return for a touchdown as well as a Cameron Jones forced fumble recovered by Isaiah Morris, helped propel Army to its first home shutout since 2011 vs Fordham.

When asked about the pressure the Army defense put on Middle Tennessee State, Head Coach Jeff Monken praised Woody saying “I think it’s just what Coach Woody designed for our game plan.” He added, “We needed to put a little pressure on him [Middle Tennessee State’s Asher O’Hara] and not just be sitting ducks out there in one on one coverage all day.” Six players on defense were making their first college start.

The Black Knights also took care of business on the offensive side of the ball.

Senior fullback Sandon McCoy had three rushing touchdowns in the first half, freshman Tyrell Robinson had nine carries for 94 yards and junior quarterback Christian Anderson looked great making reads and pitches all day.

Coach Monken said he “certainly thinks this is the most complete season opener we’ve played since I’ve been here. I don’t know if we could have played any better in an opening game like we did today.” 

Sandon McCoy had high praise for excellent offensive line play stating that if he could he would “take them all out for steak dinners.” 

It was a full team effort from the Black Knights. On the defensive side of the ball they were flying all over the field forcing turnovers, disrupting plays and making tackles. On the offensive side of the ball, they scored on every drive. 

PHOTO: Dustin Satloff

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