Full Breakdown
Ithaca College Bombers Triumph in 66th Cortaca Jug Showdown
11/16/2025, 12:21:19 AM
Dramatic Victory in the Cortaca Jug Game
On November 15, 2025, the Ithaca College Bombers defeated the No. 14/20 SUNY Cortland Red Dragons 26-21 in a thrilling 66th Cortaca Jug game held at Butterfield Stadium. The match attracted over 8,000 fans, concluding Ithaca's regular season with an 8-2 record. The game was marked by a series of lead changes and pivotal plays that showcased the intensity of this storied rivalry.
The Bombers opened the scoring with a 2-yard touchdown run, but Cortland quickly responded, taking a 7-6 lead with a touchdown pass from quarterback Mike Rescigno to Joe Idaevaio. Ithaca regained the lead with a 44-yard touchdown pass, but Cortland answered with a lengthy drive culminating in a touchdown, ending the first half at 14-12 in favor of Cortland.
Key Moments and Player Performances
In the second half, Ithaca mounted a 15-play drive, resulting in a touchdown pass from quarterback Reed to Nicholas Lang, extending their lead to 19-14. A crucial fumble by Cortland on the ensuing kickoff allowed Ithaca to capitalize, with Reed scoring again to push the lead to 26-14. However, Cortland fought back, with Rescigno connecting with Jacque LaPraire for a 63-yard touchdown early in the fourth quarter, narrowing the score to 26-21.
Despite a strong defensive effort from Ithaca, which included an interception in the end zone, Cortland managed to advance to the Ithaca 27-yard line in the final moments. However, a holding penalty and a failed pass attempt sealed the Bombers' victory.
Reed finished the game with 177 passing yards and two touchdowns, alongside 98 rushing yards. Lang was a standout receiver, catching six passes for 88 yards and two touchdowns. Defensively, Paquette led with 10 tackles.
Implications for the Teams
The victory has left Ithaca's playoff hopes uncertain, pending the outcome of other games, particularly the Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI) versus Union matchup. Cortland, having already secured a spot in the NCAA Division III playoffs, aims to continue its success after winning the Empire 8 title.
Looking Ahead: Cortaca Jug Returns to Yankee Stadium
The rivalry will continue to thrive, with the next Cortaca Jug game scheduled for November 14, 2026, at Yankee Stadium. This will mark the second time the game is held at the iconic venue, following a successful event in 2022 that drew over 40,000 fans. Tickets for the 2026 game will go on sale on November 20, 2025, with prices ranging from $27.50 to $89.
Official Statements & Responses
Ithaca College President La Jerne Terry Cornish emphasized the significance of the Cortaca Jug, stating, “Cortaca is bigger than one afternoon—it’s a tradition our community celebrates together.” Cortland's head coach Tom Blumenauer, a former Ithaca player, expressed his excitement for the rivalry, noting, “Playing in a historic venue like Yankee Stadium only makes the rivalry that much more special.”
Verbatim Quotes
- “There’s nothing like stepping onto that field with your teammates and your college community behind you,” — Michael Toerper, Head Coach, Ithaca College
- “We couldn’t be more excited to host the Cortaca Jug matchup for a second time at Yankee Stadium,” — Mark Holtzman, Yankees Vice President of Non-Baseball Sports Events
- “ Aaron Bouyea, Ithaca College's director of Intercollegiate Athletics, added, "This rivalry represents the best of Division III athletics: tradition, sportsmanship, and pride.” — Aaron Bouyea, Athletic Director, Ithaca College
The 66th Cortaca Jug game not only highlighted the competitive spirit of both teams but also reinforced the deep-rooted traditions that make this rivalry one of the most celebrated in college football.
