Homecoming Highlight: Bengals vs. William Paterson, Saturday, October 1

This year's homecoming celebration will kick into high gear on Saturday, October 1, when the Bengals take on the William Paterson Pioneers at noon in Coyer Field.

Still celebrating their record-setting 82-point game against Western Connecticut State, Buffalo State enters this week's homecoming game 1-3 overall and 1-2 in NJAC play. The Pioneers are 2-1 overall and 1-1 in league play. Buffalo State had its first win against William Paterson, 34-20, last season.

Pre-game festivities include the annual Wegmans Shopping Cart Float Competition and mile-long homecoming parade. Parade staging will be held at the Burchfield Penney Art Center parking lot and the route follows Elmwood Avenue to Bidwell Parkway before returning to campus. Parade marchers, students, families, and alumni will then enjoy tailgate parties with live entertainment, food, and more in the Sports Arena before watching the Bengals crush William Paterson.

The announcement of the shopping cart float competition winners and induction of the Athletics Hall of Fame Class of 2011 will also take place during the game. Tickets are just $5; call (716) 878-6514 or visit the Coyer Field ticket office the day of the game.

After the game, homecoming festivities will wrap up in grand fashion with USG’s Homecoming Carnival. Rides, food, and music will all be available for Buffalo State students with valid ID.

—Wegmans Shopping Cart Competition, 8:30 a.m.; Burchfield Penney Art Cente

—Homecoming/Family Weekend Parade and Victory March, 9:45 a.m.; Begins at Burchfield Penney Art Center parking lot

—Homecoming/Family Weekend Tailgate Presented by Wegmans, 10:45 a.m.; Sports Arena

—Homecoming/Family Weekend Football Game, 12:05 p.m.; Coyer Field

—Homecoming Carnival, 7:00 p.m.; Rockwell Road, Lot G (students must show Buffalo State ID)