The 2023 football season for Lincoln University began with modest expectations. Predicted to finish 10th in the conference, many had written off the Lions before the games even began. Yet, as week seven wrapped up, Lincoln University's standings told a different tale - one of hope, grit, and determination. Sitting at 5th in the CIAA and 3rd in the CIAA north, their 4-3 record had both fans and skeptics turning their heads.
While the team faced narrow defeats against the top two teams of the CIAA south, they remained resilient. But what was the secret ingredient to this sudden surge of success?
Enter the freshmen. A group of young talents who not only bolstered Lincoln's ranks but shifted the entire culture and dynamic of the team.
EJ Pullins (East Orange, N.J/East Orange Campus High School), the Guard and Center from East Orange, NJ, was a revelation. Starting every game, his prowess on the field made him a force to be reckoned with. Alongside him, Brooklyn native Seth Ulett (Brooklyn, N.Y./Erasmus Hall High School) took charge at Offensive Tackle, making the opposition work twice as hard. Benny Pittman's (Wilmington Da./Salem High School) versatility saw him playing crucial roles across various positions, enhancing the flexibility of the Lions' offense.
However, it wasn't just the linemen making waves. Z'yaire Tart's nimble feet and sharp instincts made him a nightmare for opponents. Whether returning the ball or deploying as a gadget player, he was an electrifying presence, rapidly gaining a reputation as one of the CIAA's most lethal.
On the defensive side, the Lions roared louder than ever. Freshmen Jefferson Desca and Tolu Awoyemi (Philadelphia, Pa./Interboro High School) brought a harmonious blend of skills - from staunch run-stopping and agile pass-rushing to impeccable coverage. Their dual contributions to the team's defense and special teams were game-changers. Not to be outdone, David Chase (Harrisburg, Pa./Central Dauphin High School), the freshman safety, emerged from early-season challenges to solidify his place in defense and special teams.
These freshmen, under the watchful eye of Coach Turner, were more than just players; they were culture-changers. Their unwavering commitment and swift adaptation to Turner's vision signaled a new era for Lincoln University football.
This season's success story isn't just about numbers or rankings; it's a testament to the power of belief, the importance of fresh talent, and the magic that happens when the two come together. As Lincoln University marches forward, the message is clear: with these freshmen leading the charge, the Lions are not just here to play but to dominate.
