This very well could be the biggest football game in the history of Johns Hopkins’ Homewood Field.
The undefeated Blue Jays’ quest for their first national championship continues this Saturday when they host 12-time and defending National Champion Mount Union in the second-round of the Division III NCAA Tournament.
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“It’s the kind of game you dream of playing in as soon as you get here,” said Hopkins quarterback Jonathan Germano. “I know as soon as I committed here I always dreamed of playing them. Really looking forward to it more than anything.”
Even though Hopkins is a heavy underdog entering the contest, they like their chances a little more knowing they are staying in Baltimore.
“It’s obviously great to play at home and not take the, however long, eight-hour trip it is up there (Alliance, Ohio),” said Germano.
“We’re excited that they have to come here and beat us on our home field,” said Hopkins safety Jack Toner. “We know they’re a great team and we’re excited for the challenge.”
The Jays offense brings some serious momentum into Saturday's contest. Germano threw for a program playoff record 418 yards and four touchdowns in the 42-21 first-round victory over Randolph-Macon.
“Wanted to get that first win of the playoffs. Everybody just played outstanding,” said Germano.
That win was also a milestone in this program’s history. Head coach Jim Margraff secured career win number 200.
As for Saturday, coach realizes the 10-1 Raiders present the Blue Jays’ toughest matchup yet.
“They’re just strong at every position. It’s a whole different type of football program. I think they bring over 200 guys to camp,” said Margraff. “They run several practices a day. It’s a big time program in a lot of ways. But our guys are up for that."
Kickoff Saturday is set for 12pm.
