This past week was a tough one for the Spartans as they traveled to take on the tall task of beating Utica College. The Spartans, who were flying high after their week one win, were held to just 10 points in their first away game, falling to Utica 62-10, on Sept.12.The Pioneers rolled into the game having posted 64 points the previous week against Becker College. The offense remained blazing hot against the Spartans, rushing for seven touchdowns and passing for two more scores.

“It was a tough game for us,” said Dennis Furman, a wide receiver. “Now we have a week off to get back on our feet.”

Furman’s attitude is echoed throughout the entire team as the loss seems to have inspired the Spartans to want to compete again the way they did in the opener. The bitter taste of a loss doesn’t sit well with anybody, and it looks as though the team is working harder than ever to fix the problems that crippled it against Utica.

When asked about the week off, coach Rich Alercio couldn’t have looked happier.

“We have a chance now to evaluate the team and players,” he said. “It gives us a chance to have a squad scrimmage and give some players a chance to step in from the bench and earn a starting spot on the field.”

Alercio’s philosophy on coaching seems to be getting the best out of his players this week at practice as everyone is trying to earn a spot again, just like in a mini tryout. This bye week will offer a competition to the players and bring out the best in each.

The only good news coming out of last week’s big loss for the Spartans was Brandon Bergeron, who was named Eastern Collegiate Football Conference Rookie of the Week. Bergeron racked up nine tackles and a 21-yard interception return for the Spartans only touchdown.

The Spartans are now 1-1, returning home to a raucous Spartan Stadium this Saturday, Sept. 26, to face the Gallaudet University Bison.