This Saturday, Central Connecticut State University will cap off its regular season at Arute Field in a high-stakes showdown against Mercyhurst. It’s not just Senior Day; it’s a chance for the Blue Devils to claim the Northeast Conference championship. For the senior class, this game could define their CCSU legacy.  

The Blue Devils enter the game with momentum and confidence after a hard-fought season. On Nov. 15 Central fell to Duquesne 38-33 in a thrilling game that showed their offensive firepower. Senior quarterback Brady Olson threw for 423 yards and four touchdowns, proving he could lead the offense under pressure. Senior running back Elijah Howard rushed for 108 yards and a touchdown. Senior tight end Peter Cleary scored a 25-yard touchdown in the second quarter.  

Saturday’s game will honor the senior class, many of whom have been crucial to CCSU’s success this season and throughout their time here: 

Brady Olson (QB)—The team’s leader for the past two seasons, orchestrating the offense and making plays when it counts.  

Elijah Howard (RB)—2024 NEC Offensive Player of the Year and Walter Payton Award finalist. His rushing ability gives CCSU a balanced attack. 

Peter Cleary (TE)—A reliable target, coming off a monster game against Duquesne with 111 yards and a touchdown.  

Jack Stoll (LB)—The defensive anchor with 75 total tackles this season. 

Malachi Wright (LB)—Adding 63 tackles and five sacks, a key disruptor on defense.  

Gavin Taylor (LB)—A pass rush force with 6.5 sacks this season.  

The experience will be valuable against Mercyhurst in what is easily the biggest game of the season.  

A victory on Saturday means more than a conference title; it guarantees a spot in the Football Championship Subdivision Playoffs, where the Blue Devils will have a chance to compete on a national stage once again. Winning the NEC title would be a fitting finish for this senior class, giving them back-to-back conference championships and playoff appearances. For the younger players, it gives them either their first or another playoff appearance under their belts.   

Mercyhurst won’t make it easy, as they have nothing to lose heading into this one at 5-6. The offense is led by senior running back Brian Trobel, who rushed for 815 yards and 10 touchdowns, and the defense is led by junior linebacker Jeff Leavell with 71 total tackles. 

This isn’t just a football game; it’s a celebration of CCSU’s senior class and the culmination of a season full of hard work. Fans can expect a high-energy matchup with playoff implications and conference championship stakes. 

Kickoff is Nov. 22 at noon, and the Blue Devils’ seniors will be looking to leave everything on the field for themselves, their teammates, their coaches and the Central community.