There are also several capable full backs around. This is indicated by the fact that Jack Spalik, a junior who was listed as a reserve fullback, leads the club in rushing yardage. Spalik has a rushing average of almost 5 yards, having gained 157 yards in 32 attempts. Last year Walt Liggett, now a senior, led Colgate in total yardage gained by rushing.
Five returning lettermen give Lahar few worries concerning the set-up at half-back. Al Simmons, Ted Totten, Brownie Palka, Chuck Cooley, and Bob Schirmer have all returned. At this time, Simmons leads the halfbacks and is second high man on the squad in rushing. His 33 attempts have gained 138 yards for an average of slightly over four yards per try. Simmons, a senior, is also high man on the Colgate team for points scored: he has three of the Raiders' six touchdowns.
In its three contests, the Colgate attack has by no means been a driving one. It relies chiefly on Lalla's aerial effectiveness. If he fails to click, then the split-T might fail to split the defense open.
Lahar is not an exponent of the two-platoon system. Captain Main often goes both ways. Simmons, leading offensive halfback, is described in a Colgate press dispatch as one of "the top defensive backs in the East." Although some of his lighter linemen would give way to replacements, Lahar would very likely use a tackle like Tomanek, 220-pound sophomore, for the better part of a game.
But so far, with all its veteran power and reserve strugth, it must be admitted that Colgate's victories were not won easily. A combination of some breaks, plus a pretty strong defense has netted Colgate three victories. However, the Red Raiders, far from rampaging, have not yet actually been tested. Perhaps their defense will be able to stop Clasby and Culver, who rank two-three in Ivy League rushing yardage. And perhaps, the Raiders will have little trouble against the single-wing, an offense which they have not faced for 15 games. And further, Lahar may still retain his unblemished first-year record after he leaves the Stadium.
It's a possibility, at any rate.