1. It's Good To Be Home
Sacramento State will play its 2025 home opener on Saturday when it faces Mercyhurst for the first time in program history. The Hornets have had a high level of success in their recent home openers, winning 12 of the previous 14. When starting the season against a fellow Football Championship Subdivision (FCS), Sacramento State is 7-1 in those games.
2. A Lot To See
Along with the debut of the
Brennan Marion-led team at home, fans will have a lot to take in at Hornet Stadium on Salute to Service Night. Prior to the game the Sacramento State US Air Force ROTC will present the colors, there will be a flyover by pilots from Beale Air Force Base and members of the Veterans Success Center will be on the field at the tunnel to welcome the Hornets on the field. Following the game, fans will be treated to postgame fireworks as well as a concert from J Alvarez.
3. Not As Far As You Think
Mercyhurst is in its second season of FCS football. The Lakers hail from Erie, Pa., and will make the 2,170 mile trek to Sacramento this weekend, becomimg the first team from the commonwealth of Pennsylvania to do so. While the trip is long, it is a homecoming of sorts for several members of the team. Mercyhurst's roster features 12 players who played junior college football in the state of California. That includes its starting quarterback Adam Urena (Citrus JC) who has thrown for 658 yards and two touchdowns and completed over 70 percent of his passes in two games. The Lakers head coach, Ryan Riemedio is also a California JC product, having grown up in Seaside, Calif., and played at Monterey Peninsula JC.
4. Make It Clear
Hornet Stadium will have a
clear bag policy in place this season. Bags should not exceed 12" long by 12" high by 6" wide. Small strapless bags not exceeding 4.5" by 6.5" will be allowed.
5. How To Follow The Action
Hornet football returns to KMAX 31 and ESPN+ this season with Jason Ross and Darren Arbet calling the action. The game can also be heard on ESPN 1320 AM and the Audacy app with Dave Lewis (play-by-play), Steve McElroy (analyst) and Danny Sullivan (sideline).
