The Villanova Wildcats won their ninth consecutive season opener, defeating Colgate 24-17 on September 6, 2025. The game marked the first start for new quarterback Pat McQuade, a transfer from Nicholls State, who set a program record for most passing yards in a first start with 299 yards. McQuade completed 18 of 28 passes with no interceptions and a touchdown passing and one running. He also rushed for 14 yards on three carries.
McQuade’s performance was aided by wide receiver Luke Colella, a graduate transfer from Princeton, who posted his first 100-yard game. Colella was targeted eight times and made several key plays, including a 51-yard catch and run in the first quarter and a 19-yard gain on a third-quarter drive. The chemistry between McQuade and Colella was evident, with Colella praising the team’s culture and McQuade’s ability to distribute the ball to his playmakers.
The game was closely contested, with Colgate tying the score at 17 in the third quarter. However, Villanova responded with a scoring drive, capped off by a 56-yard touchdown pass from McQuade to wide receiver Lucas Kopecky. The Wildcats’ defense held Colgate scoreless in the fourth quarter, securing the win.
Villanova Coach Mark Ferrante was pleased with the performance of his new players, including McQuade and Colella. “I’m really proud of the way our team accepted them into the locker room,” Ferrante said. “They’re not rolling in here saying I’m expecting to play. They come in and they earn it, and obviously, they earned it on the field.”
The win marked Villanova’s 17th consecutive home victory and extended their streak of season-opening wins. The team showed resilience in responding to Colgate’s tying score, and McQuade’s poise and leadership were key factors in the win. As McQuade noted, “I have phenomenal guys around me… these yards and touchdowns, they’re a reflection of those guys way more than they are me.” With this strong start, Villanova looks to build on their success and make a deep run in the season.