The Siena Heights football team took the field on the opening weekend of college football Sept. 5 and put on a show for those who watched via live stream.

Senior quarterback Travis Zajkowski was set to start full-time for the second straight year, but it was Nick Gilliam who took the field at quarterback for the Saints after Zajkowski suffered an injury to his throwing hand just before game time. And what a show Gilliam would display.

Gilliam, along with the rest of the offense, would go on to score 45 points throughout the first three quarters in a 45-20 rout of Lindenwood-Belleville.

Gilliam completed 20 of his 34 passes for 362 yards and five touchdowns. The five touchdowns are a new school record, and Gilliam would also earn Mid-States Football Association (MSFA) Offensive Player of the Week. The touchdown record was previously held by both Matt King and Zajkowski.

Gilliam credits his preparation this year to his success in the opening game.

“I’ve been watching a lot more film this season and that’s helping me prepare,” said Gilliam.

He also credits the several different weapons on offense the Saints have, including senior wide receivers Reggie Blackmon and Aaron Doriot, who both had a strong showing in the opener. Blackmon is a preeason 2^nd Team NAIA All-American.

Defensively, the Saints displayed the continued success of last season despite graduating many seniors from a year ago. Throughout the first three quarters, the Saints defense only allowed 7 points before giving up a few scores towards the end of the game. The defense was led by linebacker Nate Yeloushan, who accounted for 11 ½ total tackles, including 1 ½ for a loss, and two pass break ups, earning him MSFA Defensive Player of the Week.

Gilliam also went on to say that the Saints fans can expect a strong showing from the offense in their upcoming game Sept. 12 against the Spartans from Missouri Baptist University.