The Saint Francis Red Flash are set to open their 2023 football season on Thursday night at Western Michigan. After a six-year wait, the team clinched the Northeast Conference (NEC) championship last season, and now they aim to add a third banner under head coach Chris Villarrial. Despite a younger squad, with 59 new players and 52 true freshmen, the Red Flash still boast a strong offensive backfield. Star quarterback Cole Doyle, who was one of the best quarterbacks in all of FCS Football last season, returns along with four of the top five rushers from the previous year. The team's offense averaged 36 points per game in 2022, while their defense was stingy against the pass, finishing ninth in the FCS in pass yards allowed. With key players returning and a strong coaching staff, the Red Flash are favored to finish atop the NEC once again. On the other side, the Western Michigan Broncos are coming off a disappointing 5-7 season and have lost several key players. The stage is set for an exciting matchup to kick off the season.

Sources:

- Alex Crocco, Trib Dem Sports

- Andrew Jett, Sports Chat Place