HUSKIES DEFEAT CAL (PA) IN HOME OPENER

The Bloomsburg University football team won its 15th straight home opener in thrilling fashion on Saturday, defeating California (Pa) 24-21 in overtime thanks to a game-winning 32-yard field goal by Braden Drexler (R-Jr.). The field goal was set up by defensive lineman Shawn Mitchell’s interception on the first play of overtime. This marked the Huskies’ third straight victory over the Vulcans.

Running back Eddie Mateo (Sr.) rushed 24 times for 106 yards and two touchdowns, while running back/return man Lawrence Elliott Jr. (So.) piled up 97 all-purpose yards.

The Bloomsburg defense, which had forced five turnovers in their 24-7 week one win over Stonehill, was strong again Saturday. They forced three fumbles and picked off the pass that would set them up for the game-winning field goal in overtime. Damin Finley (R-Jr.) forced his second fumble in as many games, and Alex Dundore recovered a botched punt attempt, taking it four yards for a touchdown just before the end of the first half. Linebacker and reigning PSAC East Co-Defensive Player of the Week, Justin Shirk, recorded a team-high 13 tackles, two and a half tackles for a loss and a sack.

The Huskies will play at Mercyhurst next week, with kickoff being at 12 p.m.

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