On Saturday September 5, the Utica College Pioneers earned their seventh straight season opener win by defeating Misericordia University 42-28. The team looked great for their first game of the season as five Pioneers added points to the scoreboard. The weather was great and the Pioneers were getting loose early in warm ups, hosting on their home field.

UC started off with a big 50 yard touchdown run from Junior Nicodemus Gambell. Gambell fits in great with the Pioneers offense, he’s a nice speed back that will make big plays when they need it.  Jerred Beniquez, a junior, returned a 90 yard kickoff for the touchdown, setting the school record for the pioneers.

UC quarterback Teddy VanGalen, completed 18 out of 25 passes and ended the game with 263 passing yards with one passing touchdown to wide out Gregory Palmer. Palmer has been catching passes for the Pioneers for three years and is still looking to make his last year a highlight reel. Palmer finished the game with 160 receiving yards and a 62 yard touchdown which gave the Pioneers some in the first half cushion.

The Utica College Pioneers finished the game with a total 263 passing yards and 221 rushing yards, marking 483 total offense yards of the game. Defensive End Nick Woodman, Utica native, added 1.5 sacks and tied the school record for sacks at 18.0. Juwan Wilson added a team high 11 tackles for the day. The Pioneers have started off the season in a positive manner, they are now 1-0 and looking to keep the ball rolling. They are traveling all the way to Ohio to face Northern Ohio University September 12.