The Empire 8 title still goes through Cortland until proven otherwise. Their defense allowed just 17.1 points per game last season, which is a tangible edge no crowd noise can overcome. Home-field advantage matters, but it doesn't automatically create a 14-point swing. You need the roster talent to capitalize, and Utica's turnover margin was negative last year. Loud crowds are great, but they don't force the three-and-outs needed to dominate a game.