Erie Football Opens 2025 Season with 20–19 Victory Over Utica

The Erie Community College football team began its 2025 season in dramatic fashion on Sunday, edging Utica University 20–19 in a tightly contested matchup at Williamsville South High School.

After Utica took an early lead, the Kats  rallied behind a balanced offensive effort. Running back Camren Warburton led the ground attack with 84 rushing yards and a touchdown, while wide receiver Tristan Park provided a spark through the air with three receptions for 53 yards and a touchdown.

After a back-and-forth contest filled with penalties on both sides, Erie trailed by two late in the fourth quarter. Quarterback Noah Willoughby calmly directed a 43-yard drive to put the Kats in position for the win. Sophomore kicker Gavin Carney, who finished 2-for-3 on field goal attempts, delivered the decisive moment by converting a 42-yard field goal in the final minutes to secure the one-point victory.

Defensively, Erie registered three sacks and was led by Deishon Taylor and Jerry Hickman, who each recorded five tackles to anchor the unit.

Head Coach Mike Kemp praised his team's grit in the opener. "It wasn't always clean, but our players fought through adversity and made the plays we needed in the biggest moments. This is the kind of win that builds character early in the season," he said.

With the victory, Erie is 1–0 on the season and will return to action on Sunday, September 7th when they face Stevens Tech with kick-off scheduled for 2:00 pm. 

Photo Credit: N. Kemp