Erie, PA- Hosting their first contest as a Division I program last Saturday, the Lakers fell to Frostburg State, 25-24. The Mercyhurst Football team will now look to rebound as they face off against DIII opponent, Buffalo State. The game is scheduled to take place on Saturday, October 5th at 1:00 PM.
 
A Look Back
After surrendering two onside kicks to begin the game last week, the Lakers quickly fell behind 14-0. The Lakers finally took their first lead of the game in the third quarter when Brian Trobel scored on a 1-yard touchdown, making the score 18-17.
 
The Laker lead didn't last however as Frostburg quickly responded with a 13-yard touchdown of their own, followed by a successful two-point conversion, extending their lead to 25-18.
 
With 10 minutes remaining in the fourth quarter, Urena connected with Trobel for a 35-yard touchdown pass, narrowing the score to 25-24. Despite strong defensive efforts and several offensive drives, Mercyhurst couldn't complete the comeback, falling short on their final possession.
 
Scouting the Bengals
Buffalo State is coming off a win against Alfred State College,12-0 at Coyer Field in Buffalo, NY. After a slow start, the Bengals gained momentum, highlighted by Sciandra's record-breaking field goal of 52 yards in the first quarter. They led 3-0 at halftime after the Pioneers missed a field goal.
 
Despite late threats from Alfred State, including a failed fourth-down conversion inside the Bengals' 10-yard line, Buffalo State maintained their edge and escaped with a 9-2 victory.
 
The Bengals, now 2-1, will try and take their momentum to Erie, in what is anticipated to be a sold-out crowd. The Bengals have averaged only 18 points per contest through three weeks but have held their opponents to just 11 points on average. In a run heavy offense, the Bengals have rushed for over 200 yards in their last two games.
 
Up Next
After Homecoming weekend, the Lakers will hit the road for another away matchup before their bye week. Mercyhurst is slated to play at Central Connecticut State on October 12^th at 12:00 PM.