Saint Francis Football Travels to Western New York for Showdown with Buffalo on Saturday

Saint Francis University’s football team is set to face the University at Buffalo Bulls this Saturday, September 6, 2025, at 3:30 p.m. at UB Stadium in Buffalo, New York.

 

This marks the first-ever meeting between the Red Flash and the Bulls, as well as Saint Francis's sixth matchup against a Mid-American Conference (MAC) opponent. The Red Flash previously secured a historic 23-17 victory over Kent State on September 7, 2024, marking their first win against an FBS program.

 

Quarterback Nick Whitfield Jr., a Fredonia High School alumnus located approximately 50 miles from Buffalo, returns to his home region for this game. During his high school career, Whitfield amassed 3,490 passing yards, 30 passing touchdowns, 1,266 rushing yards, and 23 rushing touchdowns, earning him league Player of the Year honors.

 

Head coach Chris Villarrial also returns to familiar territory, having concluded his NFL career with the Buffalo Bills from 2004 to 2006. Villarrial played under head coaches Mike Mularkey and Dick Jauron during his tenure with the Bills.

 

Saint Francis enters the game with a 0-1 record after a 29-0 loss to Louisiana-Monroe in their season opener on August 28. Despite the setback, the defense showed resilience, holding Louisiana-Monroe to 10 first-half points. Sophomore Geno Calgaro led the defense with 12 tackles, earning him Northeast Conference Defensive Player of the Week honors.

 

Buffalo also stands at 0-1, following a 23-10 defeat at Minnesota on August 28. Graduate student Red Murdock led the Bulls' defense with 16 tackles and a sack, earning MAC Player of the Week recognition. Quarterback Ta'Quan Roberson threw for 107 yards and a touchdown, connecting with wide receiver Victor Snow for a 40-yard score.

 

The game will be broadcast on ESPN+, with Anthony Lima providing play-by-play commentary and Randy Buffington serving as the color analyst.

 

Fans traveling to Buffalo for the game can also enjoy local attractions such as the Buffalo and Erie County Naval & Military Park, home to several decommissioned U.S. Naval vessels, and the Buffalo History Museum, which offers insights into the region's rich past.

 

For those interested in evening activities, the Zoomagination: Lantern Festival at the Buffalo Zoo is taking place, featuring over 40 larger-than-life lantern displays inspired by animals, nature, and global cultures.

 

Saint Francis aims to build on their previous success against MAC opponents and secure their first win of the 2025 season in this historic matchup against Buffalo.