PSAC West teams opened up action this past week in impressive fashion. In seven games featuring PSAC West teams, the PSAC West team won five of them. IUP had a bye week to open the season.
Clarion 40, Lock Haven 3
The Golden Eagles won the first game under new head coach Chris Weibel 40-3 over Lock Haven on Thursday. QB Connor Simmons led the offensive attack with 407 yards passing, fifth most in a game in school history. Clarion built a 17-0 lead before Lock Haven got on the board. Simmons threw four touchdowns to four different receivers, Matt Lehman and Kevin Genervo each going over 100 yards.
Saint Joseph’s 30, Edinboro 10
The Fighting Scots didn’t get off to a good start on Thursday and fell 30-10 to open the season. The score was once tied at 10-all in the third quarter but Saint Joseph brought the heat late and rattled off 20 straight points to end the game. QB Jake Sissom threw for 215 yards and a score for Edinboro in the loss.
Mercyhurst 35, Bentley 20
The Lakers’ 35-20 season-opening win was the first time the program had won the season’s first game in four years. It was close throughout but a 90-yard Tevin Stewart interception return for a score sealed the deal for Mercyhurst with under two minutes left. QB Brendan Boylan threw for 305 yards and three scores in the win.
Gannon 26, Southern Connecticut 22
The Knights had their hands full all day Saturday but came out with a 26-22 win despite a 13-0 fourth-quarter burst from Southern Connecticut. Gannon’s superstars were held in check all day, RB Brock Jonss only gaining 50 yards on the ground. QB Liam Nadler managed two passing scores, though, to go with 143 yards.
#25 Slippery Rock 39, New Haven 13
The Rock had no issues handling another Week 1 opponent, beating New Haven 39-13 Saturday. RB Shamar Green ran for 116 yards and a score while QB Dante Nania threw for more than 250 yards and three scores.
Cal 35, Virginia State 16
The Vulcans flew on the wings of their QB on Saturday en route to a 35-16 victory over Virginia State. QB James Harris threw for 387 yards and four scores. His favorite target was Garry Brown, who caught four passes for 203 yards and two scores, including a 90-yard strike.
Shippensburg 64, Seton Hill 14
The Griffins couldn’t get anything going against a powerful Shippensburg team, falling 64-14. Seton Hill got behind early by a score of 27-7 by the half. QB Dan Pieteangelo did throw for more than 250 yards and a score in the loss despite two interceptions.
Photo credit: Clarion Athletics
