Erie Express know defending their GDFL title will be a challenge

Erie,PA-The Erie Express began their title defense on Saturday night at Seneca High School's Bob Diffenbacher Field.

As 2021 champs of the Gridiron Developmental Football League, the Express know they are in for a challenge each time out in 2022.

Express owner and director of operations Paul Pennington said there are many new faces on the offense while the defense is looking to replace a number of leaders who hung up their cleats after last year's championship.

A pair of familiar faces had touchdown receptions during the Express' 21-20 over the Upstate (N.Y.) Predators as Erie County high school graduates Antonio Batista (Strong Vincent) and Corey McWilliams (Fort LeBoeuf) reached the end zone.

One new face was Marquelo Suel, a University of Akron grad, who had two touchdown passes and a TD run Saturday. He took over quarterback duties for the opener from incumbent starter Brandon Hanna. Read More