Most Pivotal Match-ups of 2011: East

Editor's Note: The "Most Pivotal Match-ups of 2011" series rolls on with a look at the teams in the East, which includes the states of New Jersey, and New York, as well as eastern Pennsylvania, and parts of Delaware and Maryland.


Centennial Conference (NCAA Division III):  Three teams tied for the title last season, with Muhlenberg advancing to the playoffs as an automatic qualifier in 2010.  That means the 2011 race could be just as tight, with no clear favorite.

Colonial Athletic Association (CAA)--(FCS):  Delaware at Villanova (November 19): With both teams entering the 2011 season nationally ranked, this late season contest could have some playoff implications. 

Empire 8 Conference (NCAA Division III):  St. John Fisher at Springfield (October 22):  With both teams coming off identical nine-win seasons, as well as wins in ECAC bowls last season, this season's contest could very well play a role into whether either reaches postseason play.

Liberty League (NCAA Division III):  St. Lawrence at RPI (October 22): The Engineers will look to avenge last year's 14-3 loss to the Saints, who went on to represent the LL in the D-III playoffs.  

Middle Atlantic Conference (NCAA Division III):  Lebanon Valley at Delaware Valley  (September 17): The Aggies begin their quest to win what they hope will be their fourth straight MAC championship against the Dutchmen at home. 


New Jersey Athletic Conference (NJAC)--(NCAA Division III):  Any game involving the three tri-champions of 2010; Cortland State, Montclair State, and Rowan, could be the one that decides the 2011 championship.  

Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference (Eastern Division)--(NCAA Division II):  Bloomsburg at Kutztown (November 5):  Early November showdown could decide the PSAC East title.