Vogeler’s OT FG lifts Colgate over Merrimack 23-20

**Colgate Wins Thrilling Overtime Opener Against Merrimack, Vogeler Kicks Decisive Field Goal**

**HAMILTON, N.Y. – September 3, 2023** – In a dramatic season opener that saw leads change hands five times, the Colgate Raiders triumphed over the Merrimack Warriors with a 23-20 overtime victory at Andy Kerr Stadium on Saturday, September 2. Kicker Luke Vogeler cemented his hero status by drilling a 34-yard field goal in the extra period, sealing the hard-fought win for the Raiders.

The game, played under clear skies in front of an enthusiastic home crowd, was a true back-and-forth battle, setting an intense tone for both teams’ 2023 FCS campaigns.

Merrimack drew first blood early in the first quarter when running back Max Drinon punched in a 1-yard rushing touchdown, capping an efficient opening drive. However, Colgate quickly responded on their subsequent possession, as sophomore quarterback Jake Stearney, making his second career start, connected with wide receiver Winston Cliatt for a 5-yard touchdown pass, knotting the score at 7-7. Drinon then put the Warriors back in front with his second 1-yard run of the day, making it 14-7.

Colgate refused to yield. Later in the half, running back Jaeden Jenkins muscled his way into the end zone from 1 yard out, once again tying the game, this time at 14-all. Merrimack regained a narrow lead before halftime, thanks to a 38-yard field goal from kicker Lopresti, sending the Warriors into the locker room with a 17-14 advantage.

The second half saw defenses tighten, but the Raiders found an equalizer late in regulation. With just over three minutes remaining, Vogeler calmly converted a 21-yard field goal attempt, forcing the game into overtime with the score deadlocked at 17-17.

In the crucial extra period, Merrimack won the coin toss and elected to receive. Their drive stalled, however, and Lopresti’s subsequent 40-yard field goal attempt sailed wide left, giving Colgate a prime opportunity. The Raiders capitalized, advancing the ball just enough to set up Vogeler for his game-winning 34-yard kick, sending the home bench and fans into a frenzy.

“This is exactly the kind of gritty performance we talked about needing to start the season,” said Colgate Head Coach Dan Hunt after the game. “Merrimack is a tough, well-coached team, and they challenged us every step of the way. I couldn’t be prouder of our guys for their resilience and for finding a way to win. Luke was huge for us today, but it was a total team effort.”

Stearney finished the day with an impressive 246 passing yards, completing 20 of 32 attempts with one touchdown. His primary target, Cliatt, had a standout performance, hauling in 5 catches for 107 yards and the crucial touchdown. Jenkins led the ground attack with 63 yards on 20 carries and a score.

For Merrimack, quarterback Jack Brandon threw for 178 yards on 19-for-34 passing. Malachi Goodman was his leading receiver, snagging 6 catches for 86 yards. Drinon contributed 45 yards on 15 carries to go along with his two touchdowns.

Defensively, Colgate was led by junior linebacker Tyler Decker, who tallied 10 tackles and a pass breakup. Merrimack’s defensive effort included two sacks and an interception. Despite the strong defensive showings, both teams struggled with penalties, combining for over 100 yards in infractions.

The victory marks a significant start for Colgate, who compete in the Patriot League, as they look to improve on last season’s 3-8 record. Merrimack, a member of the Northeast Conference (NEC), falls to 0-1 but showed considerable promise in the hard-fought contest.

Colgate will look to build on this momentum when they hit the road next Saturday, September 9, to face the University of Albany. Merrimack will also be on the road, traveling to take on the Air Force Academy on September 9.

More statistics and game details can be found on the respective team and conference websites.