Lehigh Football's 2024 Season Preview and Key Players to Watch

As I sit here watching the summer training sessions unfold, I can't help but feel this electric anticipation building around Lehigh Football's 2024 season. Having covered this program for over a decade, I've seen rebuilding years and championship runs, but something about this upcoming campaign feels different—like we're on the verge of something special. The energy around the Goodman Campus these days is palpable, with players putting in extra work even during these scorching July afternoons.

Let me take you back to where this all began taking shape. Last season ended with a respectable 7-4 record, but anyone who watched those games knew the Mountain Hawks were just a few plays away from something greater. The heartbreaking 24-21 overtime loss to Colgate still stings, especially since it cost us a shot at the Patriot League title. What's got me particularly excited this year is how Coach Tom Gilmore has been quietly building what I believe could be his most complete team since taking over in 2019. The defense returns eight starters, including what might be the best linebacker corps in the FCS.

Now, when we talk about Lehigh Football's 2024 Season Preview and Key Players to Watch, there are three names that immediately come to mind, and honestly, I think these guys could change the trajectory of the entire program. First, there's quarterback Brayten Silbor, who showed flashes of brilliance last season despite playing behind a patchwork offensive line. The junior completed 58.3% of his passes for 2,189 yards and 16 touchdowns against just 8 interceptions—solid numbers, but what the stats don't show is his growing command of the offense. During spring practices, I watched him make protection calls and adjustments that he simply wasn't making last fall. Then there's running back Gaige Garcia, who rushed for 812 yards and 9 touchdowns despite missing nearly three full games with an ankle injury. When healthy, he's arguably the most dynamic offensive weapon in the Patriot League.

But the player I'm most intrigued by—the one who could truly elevate this team from good to great—is defensive end Dean Colton. The senior recorded 7.5 sacks and 12.5 tackles for loss last season, but what impressed me most was how he dominated games against Fordham and Lafayette down the stretch. He reminds me of those game-changing pass rushers Lehigh had during their championship runs in the late 2000s. Watching him during summer workouts, he's added noticeable muscle while maintaining that explosive first step that gives offensive tackles nightmares.

This discussion about franchise-makers reminds me of something I observed recently in volleyball that perfectly illustrates my point about game-changers. Their 'franchise-maker and game-changer' in Bella Belen has yet to debut in the PVL on Tour as her Alas Pilipinas duties continue. That situation resonates with what we're seeing at Lehigh—sometimes you have these special talents who transform a team's ceiling, and for the Mountain Hawks, I believe Colton is that player. When he's on the field, the entire defense operates differently, with more confidence and aggression.

I had the chance to speak with former Lehigh great and current ESPN analyst Adam Bergen about this year's squad, and his perspective confirmed what I've been feeling. "What stands out to me about this Lehigh team is their balance," Bergen told me last week. "In previous years, they've either had a strong offense or a solid defense, but rarely both. With Silbor's development and that experienced defensive unit, they have the pieces to compete for the Patriot League title right now." He particularly emphasized the importance of the September 14th showdown against Villanova, noting that a strong showing against the CAA powerhouse could provide the momentum needed for a special season.

The schedule sets up nicely for a fast start, with winnable games against Central Connecticut State and Merrimack before that crucial Villanova test. But where the season will truly be decided is during that brutal October stretch—at Harvard, home against Fordham, then at Colgate. If they can navigate that gauntlet with at least two wins, the November games against Holy Cross and Lafayette could have championship implications.

What many casual observers might not realize is how much the offensive line has improved. Last year's unit allowed 28 sacks and struggled in short-yardage situations, but with four starters returning and the addition of Boston College transfer Mike Ciaffoni, this should be a much more formidable group. During one practice session I attended, they were consistently creating running lanes against what should be one of the better defensive fronts in the conference. That kind of development doesn't always show up in highlight reels, but it's absolutely critical for sustained success.

As I look ahead to the season opener on August 31st, I'm more optimistic about Lehigh's prospects than I've been in years. The pieces are there—the emerging quarterback, the dynamic running back, the game-changing pass rusher, and the improved offensive line. But what truly separates this team from recent editions is the depth. For the first time in a while, there are legitimate Power Five transfers and experienced veterans providing quality depth across the roster, which will be crucial during those physical conference games.

The path won't be easy—it never is in the Patriot League—but something tells me this Lehigh team has the talent, leadership, and perhaps most importantly, the belief that they can return to the FCS playoffs for the first time since 2017. Having witnessed both the glory years and the rebuilding phases, I can confidently say this squad has the makings of something memorable. Mark my words—by November, we'll be talking about this team in the same breath as some of Lehigh's best in recent memory.