Matthew Sluka throws four touchdown passes, Holy Cross beats Colgate 47-7

College Sports

The Crusaders recorded over 500 yards on offense.

By Associated Press

September 23, 2023 | 6:54 PM

WORCESTER, Mass. (AP) — Matthew Sluka threw four touchdown passes and Holy Cross overwhelmed Colgate 47-7 in the Patriot League opener on Saturday.

The Crusaders (3-1), ranked sixth in the FCS coaches poll, celebrated homecoming by piling up 507 yards and limiting the Raiders (0-4) to 280.

Sluka was 16-of-28 for 184 yards. Justin Shorter had seven receptions for 112 yards and Jalen Coker six for 55 and both had a pair of touchdowns. Jordan Fuller added 118 yards and a touchdown on 14 carries. Eli Thompson picked off two passes.

Tyler Purdy scored on a 41-yard burst up the middle as Holy Cross got the ball first but the Raiders came back with an 18-play drive to tie it. Michael Brescia covered the last eight yards.

That was the offensive highlight for Colgate but after a punt Holy Cross scored on five-straight possessions. Fuller scored on a one-yard plunge before Sluka took over. It was 26-7 at the half and 40-7 after three quarters.

Brescia was 17 of 27 for 125 yards with an interception and three sacks.