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Coach Blaise Faggiano reflects on Utica's tough 21-17 loss to Hobart and how they're using it as motivation heading into their Empire 8 conference opener against Alfred State. The Pioneers are focused on bouncing back for homecoming weekend after a strong non-conference performance that has prepared them well for the challenges ahead.

• Despite outgaining Hobart 387-242 in total yards, "hidden yards" on kick returns and poor field position proved costly
• Coach Faggiano praised his team's resilience in fighting back from a 13-0 deficit
• Standout performances from QB Tyler Szaalkowski (28/42, 287 yards, 2 TDs) and WR Bryce Palmer (12 catches)
• Mason Nolan earned Empire 8 Defensive Player of the Week honors with multiple sacks
• Alfred State enters as a new Empire 8 member after winning back-to-back ECFC championships
• Homecoming festivities include tailgating beginning at 9am, an artisan market, and alumni games
• Coach sees the Empire 8 as "wide open" this year with no clearly dominant team
• Keys to victory: improved kick coverage, open-field tackling, and offensive balance

Join us this Saturday at 1pm for the "Pioneers vs Pioneers" homecoming matchup at Gaetano Stadium. Special thanks to First Source Federal Credit Union for sponsoring our Teacher Appreciation Game where educators get free admission with school ID.

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