The Utica College Pioneers have been hit hard for the second week straight. After last weeks breakdown in the kicking game against RPI, the Pioneers came out firing against the Ithaca College Bombers this weekend. Utica was in control the entire game, largely through the air with freshman quarterback Andrew Benkwitt (32-51, 329 yds, 2 TD, 4 Int). The running game was near non-existent for the Pioneers, with running back Zachary Jones having 1 carry for 2 yards, totaling 11 yards on the ground as a team.
Utica had everything going their way until the second half. The Pioneers 24-14 lead diminished after halftime possession after possession. Utica had eight possessions in the second half, all resulting in turnovers one way or another with punts and interceptions. The final play of the game resulted in a fumble after a completed pass to Keith Barone at the UC 23 yard line as time expired. The Pioneers take a painful 2-2 record back to Charles A. Gaetano Stadium against Springfield College (2-1) next week at 1pm.
The Utica College Pioneers have proved that they are a talented, tough football team and have only one more accomplishment to make, play while ahead and stay ahead. Once the Pioneers can close out games, they will have a place in the Division-III playoffs on a consistent basis. If you haven't prepared for this, it's time to take notice, the Utica College Pioneers are here to make a statement. Just take it from head coach, Blaise Faggiano:
We are for real and if there was any doubt of that I think we proved today that we can play with anyone. Our guys are going to take a lot of confidence out of what we did here today.
If that doesn't scream confidence going into next weeks game, I don't know what would. Keeping their heads up, UC is on a mission this year.
Thanks to prowdad for the photo of Utica College quarterback, Andrew Benkwitt.
