Yoder Runs for Three TDs, Johnson Adds Two Scores in Lehigh's 35-10 Win
Source: ABC News Sports. Casualplayhub News adds summary, context, and editorial framing while linking back to the original report.
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WORCESTER, Mass. — Lehigh's ground game was unstoppable from the opening whistle, as Luke Yoder punched in three touchdowns and quarterback Hayden Johnson accounted for two more scores, propelling the 11th-ranked Mountain Hawks to a decisive 35-10 win over Holy Cross on Saturday. The victory served as the season and Patriot League opener for both squads, and Lehigh wasted no time establishing control.
Yoder, coming off a season where he rushed for 1,409 yards and 15 touchdowns, carried the ball 21 times for 130 yards. His first touchdown came on a four-yard run in the first quarter, followed by a 33-yard scamper later in the same period. Johnson opened the scoring with a 65-yard touchdown run on just the fourth play from scrimmage, setting the tone for a dominant first half. The Mountain Hawks scored on their first three possessions to build a 21-3 lead by halftime.
Johnson's dual-threat ability was on full display. He completed 9 of 18 passes for 117 yards, including a 14-yard touchdown strike to Nick Palumbo early in the third quarter that pushed the lead to 28-3. Johnson also added 81 rushing yards on the ground, showcasing his mobility. Yoder capped his day with a six-yard touchdown run midway through the fourth quarter, giving Lehigh a 35-3 advantage.
Holy Cross struggled to find offensive rhythm but showed flashes through the air. Quarterback David Lynch completed 25 of 40 passes for 313 yards, though he was intercepted twice. His lone touchdown came on a 15-yard pass to Drae Tyme early in the fourth quarter, cutting the deficit to 35-10. Wide receiver Myles Abernathy was a bright spot for the Crusaders, hauling in nine catches for 129 yards.
Lehigh's defensive unit held Holy Cross to just three points through three quarters, forcing turnovers and limiting big plays. The Mountain Hawks' victory extended their regular-season winning streak to 18 games, matching the program's third-longest streak set during the 2011-2012 seasons. The team has now won three straight against Holy Cross, continuing their recent dominance in the rivalry.
Looking ahead, Lehigh travels to face Georgetown next Saturday, while Holy Cross heads to Colgate for another Patriot League matchup. The Mountain Hawks will aim to extend their streak, while the Crusaders look to regroup after a rough opener.
Article commentary
Lehigh's performance on Saturday was a statement of intent for the 2026 season. The Mountain Hawks, ranked 11th in the FCS preseason polls, displayed a balanced offensive attack that overwhelmed Holy Cross from the start. Luke Yoder's return to form after a stellar 2025 campaign is a promising sign for Lehigh's title aspirations. His ability to churn out tough yards between the tackles while also breaking off explosive runs—like the 33-yard touchdown—makes him a nightmare for opposing defenses. Combined with Hayden Johnson's versatility as a passer and runner, Lehigh's offense becomes multi-dimensional and difficult to game plan against. Johnson's 65-yard touchdown run on the fourth play set the tone, but his 81 rushing yards on just four carries highlight a dangerous element that could define Lehigh's season. If Johnson continues to be a threat on the ground, it opens up play-action passes and keeps defenses honest. However, his passing efficiency—9-of-18 for 117 yards—suggests room for improvement. While the numbers were adequate, consistency through the air will be crucial against tougher Patriot League opponents. Holy Cross, on the other hand, faces significant questions after the loss. Quarterback David Lynch threw for 313 yards, but the two interceptions and the team's inability to finish drives in the red zone were costly. The Crusaders' defense, which allowed 35 points and 357 total yards, struggled to contain Lehigh's rushing attack. Myles Abernathy's nine catches for 129 yards provide a bright spot, but the offense needs to find a more balanced approach. Lehigh's 18-game regular-season winning streak is a remarkable achievement. Matching the program's third-longest streak from 2011-2012 shows the sustained excellence under the current coaching staff. The key will be maintaining focus and avoiding complacency, especially with a road game against Georgetown next week. The Mountain Hawks have the talent and experience to contend for a national title, but they must continue to execute at a high level. From a broader perspective, this game reinforces the depth of the Patriot League. Lehigh's dominance over Holy Cross—three straight wins—suggests a shift in the conference's power balance. Holy Cross, traditionally a strong program, will need to adjust quickly to avoid falling further behind. The season is long, but early results often set the tone for the entire campaign. Lehigh's explosive start bodes well for their championship hopes, while Holy Cross must regroup and find answers before league play intensifies.