Marist Football Shines with Big Award Wins After Wagner Victory
The Marist University football team is celebrating after their impressive win against Wagner, with two players earning top honors from the Pioneer Football League.
Nate Robinson Jr. grabbed the title of Defensive Player of the Week, while Tristan Shannon was named Special Teams Player of the Week.
Robinson had a standout performance. He recorded 10 tackles, including four solo efforts, and snagged two interceptions. His first interception came early in the game, right after Marist scored first. He was particularly active in the first quarter, making six tackles—three of which were on Wagner’s opening drive that ended with a turnover. His second interception thwarted Wagner’s last offensive play of the first half. In the third quarter, he made crucial tackles, including one that stopped Wagner’s attempt to gain yards on a critical fourth-and-one situation.
On the other hand, Shannon electrified the crowd with a fantastic 99-yard kickoff return for a touchdown in the second quarter, marking his first collegiate return touchdown and also the first for Marist since 2022. He kept the momentum going, finishing with 111 all-purpose yards, exceeding 100 yards in five of his last six games.
This week marks a special achievement for Marist—it’s the first time since 2019 that the team has won two league awards in a single week. Both players are showing their growth; it’s Shannon’s second career PFL award and Robinson’s first.
The team, now 2-1 for the season, is also making history. This is the first time they’ve beaten two full scholarship programs in a single season. After a break, they’re set to dive into PFL play on September 27 against Butler.
This success reflects a trend in college football where smaller programs are making significant strides against larger ones, showcasing talent and determination. Player achievements like Robinson’s and Shannon’s not only boost the team’s morale but also inspire young athletes in similar programs across the nation.
For those interested in the evolving landscape of college football, you can explore more insights from sources like the NCAA’s official statistics or analysis reports to understand how teams are developing their talent against tougher competition.
