When Dartmouth plays Monmouth University next fall, the New Jersey college will have a new head coach in Jeff Gallo. An Asbury Park Press story about how Monmouth's longtime assistant and his athletic director have embraced a “Moneyball” approach to roster building includes the mention of a Big Green commit. From the story:
(I)n the most recent recruiting cycle, several of New Jersey’s top players bypassed FBS programs in favor of Ivy League schools. Holmdel quarterback Jack Cannon, who chose Dartmouth over multiple FBS offers, is a prime example, as are Bergen Catholic running back Najee Calhoun and St. Joseph’s (Montvale) standout Nate Bailey, both of whom committed to Harvard.
One of the reasons behind the trend is Ivy programs are the only ones that can guarantee a certain level of continuity. The schools can't add players in the transfer portal, meaning the depth chart and roster is set when a player arrives and remains roughly the same for several years. Standouts often have the ability to join an FBS program as a graduate transfer.
Find the full Asbury Park Press story HERE.
Per the recruiting services, in addition to Dartmouth, the Ivies and other FCS programs, Cannon’s offer sheet included FBS schools Temple, Old Dominion, Buffalo, Massachusetts, Army, Navy and Air Force.
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And speaking of the Dartmouth-bound quarterback, Cannon was presented the Jersey Sports Zone pNew Jersey player of the year in award late last week:
I am blessed and honored to receive this amazing award @JSZ_Sports. Really appreciate the time devoted by @JSZ_Sports to promote high school sports throughout NJ. I would also like to thank my teammates, coaches, and the Holmdel Community for their support throughout this season.… https://t.co/Yry7030zRH
— Jack Cannon (@jackcannon_11) December 12, 2025
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EXTRA POINT
Just about every morning here at our Vermont hillside home there’s something out the window that is picture-worthy. Today it’s this almost vertical rainbow Mrs. BGA’s phone captured:
