New Haven Scheduling Update
NEC Blitz spoke with New Haven AD Devin Crosby yesterday about everything happening in New Haven’s transition to Division I. As you’d anticipate, the topic of scheduling came up as New Haven will be rebuilding their slate from scratch.
We can confirm that they are losing the NE10 schedule and Slippery Rock, their non-conference opener.
To replace them, New Haven will be adding Grand Valley State, Albany, Merrimack, and Stonehill. Conversations continue with an in-state opponent for a Thursday night game and with an Ivy League school, alongside continuing to speak with other schools on the west coast and in the south. It does appear New Haven should have no issues compiling a schedule despite the short time frame they’ll have to do it.
Mr. Crosby additionally shared that Michigan, UConn, and Penn State are all in the works to appear on their basketball schedule, so stay tuned for more information as New Haven transitions to Division I.
Update 3:42 pm: Stonehill will not appear on New Haven’s schedule. We anticipate this was an error.
New Haven Parts Ways With Head Coach Chris Pincince
After more than a decade at the helm, New Haven has officially moved on from head coach Chris Pincince, ending a tenure marked by consistent success, five playoff appearances, and two straight NE10 titles. The timing and reasoning behind the decision remain unclear at this time, but the move represents a significant turning point for what was one of the Northeast’s most stable Division II programs, now transitioning to Division I and the Northeast Conference.
Pincince took over in New Haven in 2014 and quickly returned the Chargers to prominence, posting six or more wins in every full season since. His teams were perennial playoff contenders, culminating in dominant NE10 runs from 2021 through 2024. Under his leadership, the Chargers notched three straight conference titles and maintained a reputation for some of the best football in the Northeast.
While postseason exits have recently been in the first round, New Haven was a fixture in the national picture—going 8–3 in each of the last three seasons and routinely finishing atop the NE10 standings. In 2021, they posted a perfect 8–0 conference record, 10-2 overall, only to fall in the second round of the NCAA playoffs. That year also marked their highest national finish under Pincince at #14.
The Chargers’ consistent success made them a recruiting destination in the region, and Pincince oversaw not just wins, but a culture of development that prepared players for the next level. They sent a player to the Cleveland Browns this offseason and routinely developed overlooked players or transfers into excellent players. While it’s true that scheduling uncertainties had caused players at New Haven to enter the transfer portal, there have been only positive messages regarding Pincince and his staff in transfer announcements.
There’s no word yet on a successor or on what Pincince plans to do next—but whoever takes over in New Haven inherits a program with lots of recent success, and transitioning to the next level. They’ll have the opportunity to put their own stamp on a program entering a new era.
We wish Coach the best of luck as he continues his career.
Update 7:37 PM: Per New Haven’s official release, they will initiate a coaching search at the conclusion of this season. The interim head coach will be defensive coordinator Mark Powell.
This is a developing story that will be updated as further details emerge.
“Scheduling Uncertainties”: Explaining New Haven’s Transfer Portal Buzzword
Change is here for New Haven—and it's happening fast.
As the Chargers prepare to join the NEC, their longtime home in the NE10 for football appears to be in the rearview. The initial release from the school and the NEC described a longer timeframe for the transition to football. That all makes sense- schedules were already completed and announced for both the league and New Haven, and getting games together would pose a serious challenge for the Chargers.
Despite that release, however, sources indicate that they’re expected to be removed from NE10 competition and schedules this fall in football. That includes their long-standing rivalry game against Southern Connecticut State, a series they’ve owned with 16 straight wins. After winning back-to-back conference titles, the program has long since overcome the challenge of winning games. Accordingly, New Haven is now facing a very different challenge: actually finding games to win.
There’s been a noticeable uptick in New Haven players entering the transfer portal, with many of those players citing scheduling uncertainty. With the confirmation that the Chargers aren’t expected to compete against their NE10 foes, that reasoning tracks. Without NE10 matchups and the possibility that D2 opponent Slippery Rock might be rethinking their games against the transitioning Chargers, New Haven’s 2025 slate might be wide open. If you’re a player, you want to compete. If you see a future for yourself in football, you want to get yourself on film, and you can’t do that without games. This is the rare moment where transferring has nothing to do with the school, program, or roster- those are all looking just fine for many of the players. It’s about having games, and in today’s college football landscape, sometimes there’s just not enough spots out there for student athletes to wait. That’s the grim reality.
I should note here that I do expect New Haven to find games to play, just as Mercyhurst did last year. At the same time, I completely understand feeling as though you can’t wait to see what’ll happen with new roster size limits in effect.
In any case, there’s no point in dwelling on what you can’t control. So for the Chargers, what now?
New Haven will likely need to turn toward FCS programs in need of additional games. LIU, Saint Francis, Duquesne, and former NEC member Merrimack all currently have 11-game schedules, leaving some potential openings. There may also be room with other programs—schools looking to round out a home-heavy calendar or plug a late dropout. Mercyhurst added schools like Buffalo State to their slate last season to fill out their schedule. But opportunities are limited this late in the cycle, and it wouldn’t be surprising to see New Haven play a heavy road slate, much like Mercyhurst did last season in their similar transition phase.
It’s an uncertain stretch, but not an insurmountable one. The path forward is clear: secure games, keep developing the roster, and prepare to make an impact in the NEC.
Despite the transfer portal entries, New Haven has an established record of success and a coaching staff that knows how to build a roster. Give the athletic department time to see what they can put together. Transition years are never easy- that’s why we give them their own label.
From the Big Apple to the Big Ten: LIU Sends 2 to the P4
Long Island University may not historically be a household name in Power Four recruiting circles, but two recent spring portal transfers are making that case harder to maintain. Defensive lineman Elijah St. John and offensive tackle Moshood Giwa are now suiting up for Purdue and Rutgers, respectively—two Big Ten programs. In the Big Ten, they’re awfully familiar with the “cloud of dust” approach to football, and linemen on both sides of the ball are crucial to winning with and against the run game.
For LIU, these moves are more than just roster changes; they’re proof of concept. No one wants to lose their best players, and the Sharks will have their work cut out for them replacing some of their best players in 2025. But from a recruiting standpoint, it’s hard to ignore what Coach Cooper and his staff is doing: If you come to LIU unranked, you can work and be developed into a player ready for the P4 ranks.
From LIU to the Big Ten Trenches
The jump from the NEC to the P4 is not just about raw talent. It’s about a program developing their players. Both St. John and Giwa have gotten stronger and turned into game changing players while on Long Island. It probably doesn’t hurt that they’ve been going against each other in practice for over a year, either.
Elijah St. John, a 6-1, 275-pound defensive lineman from Ottawa, Ontario, has committed to Purdue after back-to-back seasons as a disruptive force up front for the Sharks. In 2024, he posted 40 tackles, two tackles for loss, a sack, and two forced fumbles in 12 games. That kind of performance, combined with his motor and experience, made him a key target for the Boilermakers as they reshaped their defensive front. For our part, he was anticipated to be an all-NEC player. We had him graded as the best second team All-NEC Blitz preseason defensive lineman prior to his departure.
Purdue, which has leaned heavily on the portal this offseason, added St. John as one of six defensive linemen in the spring window. The Canadian’s journey from Clearwater Academy International to LIU, and now to West Lafayette, underscores how LIU can turn overlooked prospects into Big Ten contributors. For St. John, he now faces a tough competition to earn playing time among a defensive front that will look to play and rotate out players for maximum disruption. He’ll have to lean on the same effort that turned him into a starter at LIU to do that for the Boilermakers.
Meanwhile, Moshood Giwa brings a different kind of toolset to Rutgers—a 6-6, 315-pound frame with 34-inch arms and experience at both tackle spots. After redshirting in 2023, the Brooklyn native logged 734 snaps across 11 games in 2024. He can play both tackle spots, which might have made him even more attractive to the power schools. That versatility is now drawing attention in Piscataway, where Rutgers is looking to replace longtime starter Hollin Pierce and solidify the edges of its offensive line.
With three years of eligibility and a solid foundation built at LIU, Giwa is already deep in the competition under offensive line coach Pat Flaherty. His ability to plug in at multiple positions makes him a valuable asset for a team that’s reconfiguring its line around returning veterans and young challengers. It’s possible that he’ll need further development, but he’s already shown the potential to grow.
A Development Blueprint
It’s an exciting time to be recruited by the Sharks. LIU’s coaching staff has built a reputation on evaluating under-recruited talent and turning it into opportunity. That approach has now paid off on both sides of the line, in two of the most physically demanding positions in college football. For a program that played physical ball in the NEC last season, sending a pair of linemen to the Big Ten is a statement about just how powerful they can be.
This isn’t a one-off. LIU continues to build its roster with the knowledge that if players perform, the Power Four will come calling. That may challenge traditional views of success in the FCS—but for LIU, success now means preparing athletes not just to compete, but to ascend. From here, the Sharks will bring in the next class of players and develop them into difference makers. They’ll lose some after they’re successful in the Big Apple, but that’ll just make them more attractive to the next class of student athletes that want to develop into stars.
As the college football landscape continues to shift with the portal and NIL, programs like LIU are redefining what it means to be a developmental program. St. John and Giwa are proof: the Sharks aren’t just keeping up. They’re developing their athletes into players that any team in the nation would love to have.
They’re sending players to the biggest stages in the sport. And that message is clear. If you can be a difference maker here, you can play anywhere.
Looking Ahead to 2025: Ethan Greenwood, QB, LIU
It took a while for LIU to turn the keys over to Ethan Greenwood—but once they did, the offense found its gas pedal.
A transfer from The Citadel, Greenwood didn’t open the 2024 season as the starter. But by midseason, he was running the show, and in a 186-yard outburst against Stonehill, he didn’t just win the job—he rewrote the playbook.
On first thought, you might note that 186 yards isn’t exactly an eye dropping number for QB passing. And you’d be right. But let’s be specific here- Greenwood got those 186 yards on the ground.
Suddenly, the Sharks were a different team with an offense that could be impossible to contain at times. LIU went 4-2 down the stretch with Greenwood under center, and in the two losses, they still held leads in the fourth quarter. The late-season surge earned Greenwood second team All-NEC honors and set the stage for a potentially massive 2025 campaign.
LIU already had an identity on offense and ran a little atypical. Greenwood got into the games, taking snaps in the shotgun or in the backfield as a threat. But despite his utilization, as it was LIU had fallen to 0-6. They were a good 0-6, to be fair, with lots of chances to win games that just didn’t bounce their way. But clearly, something had to change for the Sharks. Enter Greenwood as the starter.
What makes Greenwood such a challenge is that he doesn’t just run the offense—he is the offense. LIU tailored its scheme around his skill set, and while the passing numbers (921 yards, 6 TDs, 52.3% completion rate) might not turn heads, they’re not the full story. Greenwood rushed for 913 yards in his 12 games, averaging 5.6 yards per carry with 5 touchdowns. Had he started the entire season, his numbers would have certainly been higher. He turned broken plays into backbreakers for opposing defenses, looking more like a throwback slash player than a conventional quarterback. Think Kordell Stewart and you’re in the right ballpark.
(See? Being old and having a memory has its benefits sometimes.)
His success wasn’t a solo act. A talented offensive line gave him the freedom to freelance, and Greenwood paid it off by becoming a constant scramble threat that no defense in the NEC fully solved. That element of surprise might be gone in 2025, but Greenwood’s ability to disrupt the game remains firmly in place.
The question now is whether he can take the next step as a passer. LIU’s schedule opens brutally—with Florida and Eastern Michigan—but if Greenwood continues to evolve, the Sharks could quickly become a problem in the NEC. Opposing coaches will spend all offseason game-planning for him, and it still might not be enough. Greenwood forces defenses to defend every inch of the field—and then some. We’re excited to see if any of the defensive coordinators in the league have found an answer- clearly, the week before gameday wasn’t enough time in 2024.
Greenwood changes the way football looks in the NEC. Sometimes, the play breaks down. And sometimes, that was the plan all along.
Get to Know the 2024 New Haven Chargers
With New Haven set to join the NEC, it’s worth reviewing how the Chargers fared in 2024 to gauge how they might stack up in 2025. Although they won’t begin official NEC football play this fall, we’ll be tracking them closely. If they’re not permitted to maintain an NE10 schedule, expect them to fill open dates by facing several NEC opponents.
In 2024, New Haven captured its second straight Northeast-10 championship—a result that surprised no one. The Chargers were picked to finish first in the preseason poll, and with their loaded backfield, they lived up to the billing.
Anyone questioning whether it’s time for New Haven to move up only needs to look at their dominance over crosstown rival Southern Connecticut State. The Chargers have now won 16 straight in that series, including a shutout win in 2024. Against the rest of the NE10, they posted a 7-1 record and finished 8-3 overall, with two of those losses coming at the hands of Slippery Rock—one in the regular season, the other in the Division II playoffs.
Christopher Ais led the ground attack, racking up 1,045 rushing yards over 11 games, including a standout 238-yard performance against Bentley in a shootout. He wasn’t the only Ais making noise for New Haven. Christian Ais, his twin, was a standout safety with 5 pass breakups on the year who has signed with Cleveland for their rookie minicamp. Both Christian and Christopher are moving on, but Christopher isn’t leaving the backfield cabinet empty.
Zaon Laney, the Chargers' “other” back, tallied 186 yards in that same Bentley game and finished the season with 757 yards and five touchdowns. Laney enters 2025 as one of the top returning running backs among NEC programs.
The lone conference loss came at Assumption, in a 19-14 game where the offense never quite found its rhythm. Still, the defense turned in a strong performance—highlighted by holding the opposing quarterback to just 81 passing yards.
New Haven’s season ended with a narrow 14-7 playoff loss at D2 power Slippery Rock, closing out another championship campaign for New Haven.
The line between top-tier Division II and FCS football is thinner than many realize. Depth and small margins separate the two levels. New Haven appears poised to compete right away. Their roster has traditionally drawn from in-state and regional talent, but with the NEC transition, they’ll have at least one season to adjust and upgrade—if needed—before entering full conference play.
New Haven to Join the NEC
There’s a logo at the bottom of this page that we’ve never used before, but we’re thrilled to be able to use it.
At NEC Blitz, we couldn’t be more excited to welcome the University of New Haven to the Northeast Conference. This is a football program that’s proven it can win at the D2 level. Now, they’ll be transitioning to the big leagues, but the Chargers have certainly shown the potential to make waves up here.
New Haven arrives fresh off an 8-3 season and a Northeast-10 championship. This isn’t anything too new for the Chargers. They’ve won six conference titles since 2009 and have been competitive in the D2 playoffs, including a near upset over powerhouse Slippery Rock last season. They’re also well-equipped from a branding perspective. We’re very familiar and excited to cover the distinctive blue field at DellaCamera Stadium. It’s where some of the best football in the Northeast has been played- and now, will continue to be played. We fully expect New Haven to continue its tradition of success and challenge for titles.
There’s also plenty of intrigue on the horizon. An in-state rivalry with Central Connecticut State is all but inevitable, and it’s one we’re already circling on the calendar. Connecticut fans have every reason to get hyped—this matchup has the potential to become a staple of the regional college football scene. With high school football on the rise in Connecticut, this is one that local fans are going to pay attention to, and bragging rights will carry lots of cache on the recruiting trail.
Frankly, this move is a win for everyone involved. The NEC gains a member that aligns with its academic and athletic priorities, and the Chargers join a conference that knows how to elevate rising programs. We think they’ll be able to be competitive quickly in their new home.
From our vantage point, New Haven is ready for this moment. We can’t wait to see what they do with it.
California Dreaming: Mercyhurst Gains Commitment From Amir Lemmons
Mercyhurst has added a key piece to its defensive backfield with the commitment of Amir Lemmons, a physical and productive defensive back out of Sierra College in Northern California. At 6’1”, 200 pounds with a rangy 78-inch wingspan, Lemmons is the kind of athlete who stands out on film. It’s not just on film where he makes an impact, though. Lemmons is always readily apparent in the box score.
Lemmons was a Unanimous All-NorCal First Team selection after a monster season in the JUCO ranks, racking up 134 tackles, 8 pass breakups, 5 tackles for loss, and 1 interception. More than just a stat machine, Lemmons brings physicality to the backend of the Mercyhurst defense. You love to see a physical player that’s adept at tackling at the safety position, and it looks like the Lakers may have landed just that.
The reason why Lemmons committed from all the way in California is simple and a reflection that at our level the relationships still matter. “It felt like home. All of the people there are great,” Lemmons said of his commitment to the Lakers.
It’s not the first time the Lakers have pulled from California, and it certainly won’t be the last.
Mercyhurst head coach Ryan Riemedio has deep ties to California from his time as a player and coach in the region, and that familiarity has quietly become a recruiting edge. Lemmons isn’t the first JUCO standout from California to find his way to Erie—Adam Urena, a quarterback from Citrus College, took the same path previouisly.
It’s an unusual pipeline for a program based in western Pennsylvania, but the returns speak for themselves. Mercyhurst has found value in looking beyond traditional borders, especially when it leads to players with Lemmons' level of production and polish. Whether it’s Western PA or northern California, the Lakers are showing they know how to identify talent—and land it.
With Lemmons in the mix, the Lakers' secondary just got more dangerous. We’ll be keeping an eye out for him this season.
Coach Rome: “We’re Going to Get it Done.”
Chicago State University is making history as it launches its first-ever Division I football program, set to compete in the Northeast Conference (NEC) in 2026. Leading the charge is Coach Bobby Rome II, a seasoned coach with a clear vision to build a program that embodies the spirit of Chicago’s South Side. Rome spoke with us recently and shared his goals, strategies, and passion for creating a team that will reflect the South Side community- and compete in the big leagues of Division I in the NEC.
A Program Rooted in Chicago’s Identity
Coach Rome envisions Chicago State football as a reflection of the South Side’s character. “When people think of Chicago State football, I want them to think of a mirror image of the South Side of Chicago,” he said. “Some tough, resilient, gritty folks who love their community, love their university, and want to go out and play hard, play good football for it.”
Beyond the abstract, Rome draws inspiration from successful programs like Michigan, admiring their physical style, use of multiple tight-end sets, and some of the recruiting areas that the Wolverines like to frequent. “We’ll be a physical program, but be very disciplined in all three phases of the game,” he noted, signaling a commitment to a hard-nosed style of football perfect for a head coach that played professionally as a fullback.
Recruiting the Midwest and Building Relationships
Recruiting is the lifeblood of college football, and recruiting for any program starts at home. There’s only so many places that you can build a fence around and form a competitive Division I roster with, and Chicago is one of them. “My goal is to try to keep some of that talent here in Chicago,” Rome said. “You could be successful right here in Chicago.”
To achieve this, Rome plans to build strong relationships with local high school coaches and communities. “Relationships are going to be more important than anything,” he emphasized. He’ll have to turn local coaches into the advocates and recruiters for Chicago State. It’s nothing groundbreaking- coaches won’t recommend their kids go to programs that aren’t willing to partner with the local community. Rome knows this and plans to embed himself in the local community. It’s a great strategy to keep kids home.
Rome’s recruiting pitch is straightforward for the athletes in Chicago. “We’re offering an opportunity for a young man to play at home,” he said. “We’re starting a Division One college football program from scratch that has not been done in the history of any Division One program in Chicago.” The opportunity to make a mark in history while playing at home is not only for the high school players he’ll bring in. The transfer portal will play a key role in building the roster for 2026. Rome plans to target “low-hanging fruit”—players from Chicago or nearby states who want to return home. “The truth is, everything you need to be successful is right here in Chicago,” he said.
Beyond Chicago, Rome will target the Midwest, including Indiana and Ohio, to build a competitive roster. He sees Chicago State’s unique position as the only Division I football program in the city as a significant advantage. “We’re going to embrace being that number one, that only Division One football program in Chicago,” he said proudly.
A Pitch to Student-Athletes: Opportunity and Development
More than just football, Rome is committed to holistic development. “We’re talking about developing the full man from the top of his head down to the sole of his feet,” he said. At Chicago State, student-athletes will receive a quality education and mentorship from coaches dedicated to their success. “At the very least, you come to Chicago State, you’re going to get a great education,” Rome assured.
Development is everything for the Cougars on the football field as well. Rome’s experience at Florida Memorial University (FMU), where he helped develop players who competed in the HBCU Legacy Bowl, informs his approach. “We’re going to home in on development,” he said, emphasizing that Chicago State will prepare players to compete at the highest levels, whether in the NEC or beyond. He’s been able to do it in the past, too- FMU brought more players to the Legacy Bowl than any other program in the past two years.
A Historic Opportunity for Chicago
For Rome, the reality of building Chicago State’s program is here already. “Every day I wake up because I know we’re going to get it done,” he said. The excitement from the community reinforces this feeling, with residents stopping him in stores to express their anticipation. “They’re waiting for this to happen,” he noted. It makes sense. Chicago should be desperate for a Division I team of their own, and Northwestern has never really captured the soul of the city like Chicago State could.
We’ve been open with our enthusiasm about the hire. While there were plenty of splash candidates in the 230 applicants, hiring Rome shows that Chicago State understands the pieces that have to be in place to build a program. It’s not easy starting from scratch, and Rome’s done the next best thing at Florida Memorial. Beyond that, he’s won in places where it’s hard to win. Theoretically, the South Side may not be a difficult place to win in the long term, but while the program is finding its footing it’ll have some challenges. We think they’ve got a coach who can win with long odds and build a program that eventually shortens those odds. That’s a big win.
As Chicago State prepares to take the field in 2026, Coach Bobby Rome II is laying the foundation for a program that will make history just by its very location. With a focus on community, development, and competitive football, Chicago State is poised to become a source of pride for the South Side and a formidable presence in the NEC. As Rome puts it, “Opportunities don’t go away, they just go to other people.” Chicago State is seizing this opportunity, and they’ve got a big stage in a big city ready to rally behind it.
Looking Ahead to 2025: Charles Battaglia, LB, Stonehill
As we start to look ahead to the 2025 season in earnest, we’ll be profiling some of the key players to keep an eye on in NEC football this fall. To start with, we’re looking at one of the top defensive players in the NEC, Stonehill sophomore linebacker Charles Battaglia. Battaglia was one of the top freshmen in the league last season. Stonehill is likely to be strong on defense this season and will use that as their springboard towards a more successful 2025.
Battaglia came up big again and again for the Skyhawks, earning NEC Rookie of the Week three times. It’s safe to say that had Christopher Jean not been in the league last season, Battaglia would have easily been the NEC’s best freshman in 2024. As it is, he’s one of the most promising young players in the Northeast this coming season.
Looking back at 2024, his best performance came on the biggest stage, as Stonehill took on eventual champions Central Connecticut State at home in Easton, MA. While CCSU would eventually pull in front with a 4th quarter touchdown to win 21-17, Battaglia was a big part of why the Skyhawks took the Blue Devils down to the wire. He was credited with 13 tackles (5 solo, 8 assisted), 1.5 tackles for loss, and 1 forced fumble. That forced fumble came at the goal line, with CCSU threatening to make it a 21-3 game entering the second half. Instead, Battaglia popped the ball loose, and Stonehill nearly came up with the upset- a rare reversal of CCSU’s well-documented turnover fortunes in 2024, when the Blue Devils were almost always the team taking away the ball. It was all the more impressive that Battaglia punched the ball from NEC MVP Elijah Howard. That game gave him NEC Rookie of the Week honors in his head to head showdown with Christopher Jean.
His first win came after posting 7 tackles against Sacred Heart during Stonehill’s lone victory of the 2024 campaign, with another honor after tallying six tackles and an interception in a loss against Duquesne. He eventually finished tied for 9th in tackles in the league with 70- proof that these were not three blip games. In fact, he tacked on 9 more tackles against LIU and didn’t win the award that week. Battaglia was a consistent force, even as a freshman who had to play his way into the starting lineup during the season itself.
At 6’1” and 225 pounds, Battaglia already has the frame to compete in the NEC, but don’t be surprised if he hits the field in 2025 looking like a new man. The freshman-to-sophomore offseason is often transformative, and Stonehill’s strength and conditioning program could add additional pounds of muscle to his build. That extra bulk would help him shed blocks from bigger offensive linemen. There were plays last season where he’d make the tackle, even in the backfield, but that it would take him some time to get off of his blocker. He’ll be able to improve here this season.
Beyond physical growth, Battaglia’s game is likely to mature. His 2024 tape shows a linebacker with very strong instincts and great vision for a freshman, but another year of film study and practice should sharpen his anticipation even further. Expect him to read plays faster in his sophomore campaign. His anticipation hints at a greater pass-rushing potential, and with coaching from Stonehill’s staff, he could develop into a more effective blitzer.
Statistically, Battaglia is well-positioned to climb the NEC tackle leaderboard. His 70 tackles ranked him tied for 9th in 2024, and with a full season as a starter, 80-90 tackles is a realistic possibility, potentially placing him in the top 5, especially if teams opt to avoid trying to throw downfield against returning DB Moses Seide.
Stonehill’s 2025 schedule doesn’t offer much breathing room, even outside of NEC play. But if they’re going to take a step forward this fall, it’ll start with their defense. And that defense just might start with Charles Battaglia this season.
“I’d Love to Go Here”: Daryl Agyei Takes Us Inside Wagner Junior Day
Class of 2026 defensive lineman Daryl Agyei (6’0, 235) is still waiting on an offer, but he’s not waiting to put in the work.
The Linden (NJ) product recently visited Wagner for Junior Day and came away impressed with what the Seahawks are building. He gave us a look inside the experience for some of the rising seniors who made the trip to Staten Island. “We had a tour around campus, the locker rooms, and the stadium itself,” Agyei said. “We were also able to watch spring practice and see how the program works and prepares for games.”
Head coach Tom Masella addressed the group, speaking about Wagner’s football culture, academic offerings, and the program’s long climb—from Division III roots to its current place in Division I. Masella knows that journey firsthand: he was on staff during Wagner’s 2012 NEC title run and FCS playoff win, and part of the program in the 1980s just before its DIII national championship in 1987.
We’ve been vocal fans of what Masella’s building on Staten Island and the slow but steady growth that the program has shown through his time there. It’s evident in some of the recruits Wagner’s pulled in as of late, as well as some of the talent that the program has developed. Win on Staten Island and you just might get a chance to win at the next level. There’s three active NFL players who have played for the Seahawks.
Agyei didn’t get one on one time with the coaches during the visit, but he connected with players and walked away with a strong impression. “It was great to see how serious the team takes their preparation,” he said. “I’d love to go here if given the chance.”
Watch Agyei’s film and it’s clear why he’s worth tracking. He shows the ability to get into the backfield from a three-point stance or as a stand-up edge, and he’s not just an edge rusher—he can slide inside and still disrupt. Linden uses him across the line, and he delivers for the New Jersey program.
Wagner may have been one of the first to get a closer look, but he’s got plenty of Junior Day visits on the calendar. The rest of the cycle should be worth watching.
Arison Walker Ready for Freshman Season with Red Flash
In college football recruiting, decisions about where to play can be as strategic as the game itself. For Arison Walker, a standout defensive back from Aliquippa, Pennsylvania, the choice was clear: Saint Francis University.
And then the announcement came. Saint Francis would be transitioning to Division III, and Walker was suddenly left with a difficult decision: move on to somewhere else that wasn’t his dream school, or stick it out and play for the Red Flash with an uncertain future. Walker was a player we loved from the moment he signed on with Saint Francis, someone we discussed in considerable detail whenever we took a look through the announced signing class of over 50 student-athletes. And even in that crowded field, Walker stood out.
Walker's journey to Saint Francis began from the moment he connected with the program. "From the beginning, Coach Jacob Craig, my defensive coordinator, just made me feel love and at home," he recalled. It wasn’t just the football program that drew him in; it was the academic environment too. The small class sizes offered a chance to stand out in a way that mattered to him. "Going up to the school, seeing the campus, knowing that I would be someone that could be seen in the classroom, that I would be noticed." The coaches’ support sealed the deal. "The coaches showed a lot of love. So that also helped on my decision too," he added. Saint Francis, like the rest of the NEC, does allow athletes the opportunity to stand out and be noticed, even on the Division I stage.
But the path forward shifted unexpectedly when Saint Francis announced its move to Division III. Walker first caught wind of the change through the grapevine on social media. "I found out through somebody on social media. He was from Washington & Jefferson, and he sent me the email [that we would be playing against each other]," he said. In disbelief at first, he sought confirmation from a trusted source. "I ended up sending it to my coach and then he gave me a call and then that’s when I found out it was true," he explained, referring to Coach Craig. The news could have derailed his plans, but Walker approached it with the same measured thoughtfulness that resulted in his initial commitment.
Faced with this pivotal moment, Walker turned to the pillars of his life: faith and family. "Just a discussion with my parents and then also just praying on it. I’m a high believer of God and I believe certain things happen for a reason," he shared. "I trust Him. So I prayed on it and then I talked with my family and then we came to a decision that I was to stay at Saint Francis for one or two years."
The decision to commit with the idea of playing one or two years at Saint Francis isn’t one that Walker will be making alone in his class. He committed to play Division I ball; he has two years of scholarship opportunity to stand out at Saint Francis, and then, understandably, he hopes to continue to pursue his dreams of playing football at the highest level. "I do want to play ball… I just don’t want to give up on my dreams just like that. I don’t want it to end like that." With the transition from high school to college, he also plans to prioritize his education both on and off the field this coming season.
Readers familiar with Aliquippa won’t be surprised if Walker has a breakthrough season in year one. Aliquippa is a small town and an even smaller school district with a reputation for producing football talent at the Division I level- and beyond. He credited being from Aliquippa as a reason for his development through high school. Reflecting on his experience of being a Quip, he stated that the expectations placed on the program are a motivating factor for their success. "We were obviously held to a higher standard than everybody else. And I feel like it really prepares us for college."
Now, as he prepares for his freshman year, Walker’s goals are both ambitious and precise. "I’m coming not only to come in and start, but get better, be a better student of the game, get my education.” I came away from the conversation knowing that he’s eager to hit the ground running, and excited to see exactly what that looks like. "I’m trying to get on that field from the door and to do whatever I can, and to work hard.”
Bobby Rome II Named First Ever Head Football Coach at Chicago State
If you were handpicking the perfect resume for Chicago State University’s first-ever head football coach, you’d be hard-pressed to find a better fit than someone who’s breathed life into a brand-new HBCU program; after all, that’s what they’d be doing again in the South Side. Bobby Rome II didn’t exactly start Florida Memorial University’s football team from scratch—he took the reins in their second season—but what he did there might be the next best thing. On Tuesday, CSU introduced Rome as the man tasked with building its Division 1 FCS program from the ground up, and his knack for turning struggling teams into winners is exactly why he’s here.
Florida Memorial is his most recent successful stop. His contract was unexpectedly not renewed for the NAIA school after he grew the program from winners of 3 (non-conference only) games in his first season to playing in the Sun Conference Championship in his 2nd and 3rd year at the helm. It was following the 3rd year that FMU unexpectedly did not retain the successful coach. Florida Memorial, like Chicago State, is an HBCU. It’s the biggest reason to feel optimistic about the hire and the fit, but it’s not the only one.
It’s not what stood out to me, anyway.
There’s a few types of football fans in America. We can all point toward the biggest schools and historic winners, especially at the D1 level, but how many fans know about Virginia University of Lynchburg? If you do, you’re likely aware that the small HBCU is usually brought in as a home opponent for programs looking to add to their schedule. They’ve played NEC schools in the past, including last season. The rarest thing at VUL is actually winning those games.
But Coach Rome won 3 games in a single season there. The knowledgeable football fans reading this article just spit out their drinks. It’s so impressive of a feat that he was named the 2018 Small College Sports Report National Coach of the Year for his work that season for the VUL Dragons.
Chicago State won’t be his first stab at starting a program from nothing. He did it before at Far Eastern Federal University in Russia. Just like back then, he’s walking into a place with no built-in recruiting ties. But on Chicago’s South Side, he’ll find plenty of athletes who know the game and can be molded. If you add in the new and distinctly American transfer portal, there’s a real shot Chicago State won’t be a pushover for long.
If his past is any clue, Coach Rome doesn’t just build programs—he turns them into winners. It’s all he’s ever done.
SFU Water Polo’s Grace Raquel: “These are real people.”
Saint Francis University in Pennsylvania recently announced its decision to reclassify from NCAA Division I to Division III, a move that has sent shockwaves through its athletic programs. Grace Raquel, a senior goalie for the women’s water polo team and a double major in psychology and business management currently pursuing her MBA, spoke with NEC Blitz about the human toll of this transition.
Raquel has recently authored a TikTok video breaking down the situation. You’ve likely seen it if you’ve been following us as we document the transition. While Saint Francis has an enrollment over under 2,000 students, the video has resonated widely, amassing 378,900 views by press time. The video- long by Tik Tok standards- sees Grace articulate the personal impact of the change and what she’s seen as a student at the University.
Raquel, like many of her teammates, earned a scholarship to play at the Division I level, which also supported her academic pursuits. However, with the university’s shift to Division III, athletic scholarships will no longer be offered. Current and incoming athletes face an impossible choice: they can retain their scholarships but must forgo playing their sport, or they can continue playing at the Division III level without financial support. “Once we turn D3, you can either choose to have that athletic scholarship or you can be ineligible to play”, Raquel explained.
The announcement came abruptly for most student-athletes. On Tuesday morning, the water polo team completed their regular lifting session and settled into homework when, at 11:19 AM, an email informed them of the reclassification. Just eleven minutes later, a campus-wide email followed, confirming the news. The team’s group chat erupted with reactions. Coaches, who had been briefed at a 10:00 AM meeting, had little time to prepare their teams before the emails went out. They were caught as unaware by the news as the students were.
The water polo team gathered at the pool to discuss the news with their coach, with many questions coming from the underclassmen whose scholarships and futures were now uncertain. An athletic department contact met with the team at 5:00 PM during practice, spending an hour addressing questions, though they did not have many of the answers at that time. It has since emerged that while the athletic department had been part of discussions for just two months, the administration had been contemplating this shift for several years.
For Raquel and her peers, the decision strikes at the core of why they chose Saint Francis. “Everywhere you go there’s someone [dressed in their team-issued gear]”, she said, highlighting the prevalence of student-athletes on campus and noting that Division I athletics had been a key differentiator for the university.
The fallout has been immediate. The transfer portal has seen a surge of Saint Francis athletes seeking new opportunities, though the water polo team must wait until May 5 to enter, complicating plans for international students and underclassmen. With five international players on the roster and only 34 Division I water polo programs nationwide. Many athletes, Raquel noted, came to the U.S. to play Division I, earn a degree, and pursue professional careers—goals now in jeopardy.
The team’s academic rigor adds another layer to the loss. Players major in demanding fields like general engineering, chemistry, nursing, civil engineering, exercise physiology, occupational therapy, physician assistant studies, environmental engineering, and business management. These are rigorous, competitive programs, and there’s certainly an argument that Saint Francis is losing academic talent that could have excelled anywhere. She described teammates who juggle 12-hour clinical rotations with practice, showcasing the unique balance of athletics and academics the university once fostered. “These are real people”, she said, pushing back against the common rebuttal that Saint Francis should have just been Division III in the first place, and so the change is no great tragedy. The argument falls apart as soon as you get a chance to see the real student-athletes that are impacted and forced into making impossible choices before they’re old enough to legally rent a car.
She noted that some of the negative comments on social media have been that the athletes were at Saint Francis because they couldn’t get into the top tier athletic programs. “No, we wanted the opportunity to have athletics and academics and that’s something Saint Francis gets to shine with,” she explained. In many schools across the country, athletes would be discouraged from pursuing nursing or physician assistant degrees while training at the Division I level. That was something that didn’t happen at Saint Francis, and a key reason why many of the athletes on the team chose that university.
The timing and communication of the decision have drawn scrutiny. At open forums separated by class year, students questioned why the announcement came so late in the academic year. Administrators cited a desire not to overshadow March Madness, but for athletes eyeing transfers, everyday counts. At a Thursday night Student Government Association meeting, Father Malachi reportedly permitted only three questions about the change, sidestepping two. A monthly town hall, typically held on Tuesday nights, was postponed from this coming Tuesday to late April, limiting opportunities for dialogue despite assurances of support and resources.
Raquel wishes administrators could look beyond the bottom line. While she understands it’s a business, the human element cannot be understated. She shared the story of a teammate who had just found her circle at Saint Francis, only to face transferring away from that group because she can no longer play Division I sports and pursue her dreams while at the university. The teams have worked tirelessly to improve, she said, and that progress has all been thrown away.
As several NEC schools grapple with similar discussions, Saint Francis’s handling of this transition- and the reaction to it from fans and students- could set a precedent. For now, athletes like Raquel are left navigating an uncertain future as the transition marches forward in Nowheresville, PA.
Camden White: Mercyhurst Standout Seeks NFL Pro Day Opportunity
Camden White, a standout defensive end from Mercyhurst University, is a man with a dream.
With an impressive college career under his belt, the 6’4”, 265-pound edge rusher is determined to prove he belongs on an NFL roster. We know about his talent- at least, if you watched the Lakers this season, you’ve seen what he can do on the football field and to opposing players. And we know that the NFL has taken notice, as teams including the Baltimore Ravens took the time to visit Erie this past season to see White and some of his teammates. The Canadian Football League, likewise, has shown lots of interest in the big DE.
The problem for White has never been getting to the quarterback, and it won’t be next season, wherever that may be. The issue he’s faced instead is getting in front of scouts at a pro day.
White’s career stats reflect the dominant player that he was in Erie. Over his time at Mercyhurst, he racked up 59 solo tackles and 118 total tackles, including 24 tackles for loss and 14.5 sacks. His ability to disrupt opposing offenses didn’t stop there, as he forced 6 fumbles and recovered 3. White earned PSAC All-Conference honors, and a Phil Steele NEC All-Conference nod (3rd team). It doesn’t matter what league he’s in- he’s always one of the top players in it. He was a player the Lakers looked to for leadership, too, earning a role as a captain twice.
White was slated to participate in Gannon University’s and RMU’s pro day, but both events fell through, leaving him without a platform to display his measurables. And, from what’s been reported, they’re very strong ones. His testing numbers would make a sleepy scout spit-take his espresso: a 6.94-second L-cone drill, 29 reps of 225 pounds on the bench press, a 4.37-second 20-yard shuttle, a 1.59-second 10-yard split, a 34-inch vertical jump, a 9’8” broad jump, and a 4.78-second 40-yard dash.
White’s message remains simple and urgent: “All I need is a shot to showcase what I can do.” Nothing comes easy outside of the P4, and White isn’t asking for it to be. He just needs an opportunity to get in front of scouts.
For a small-school prospect like White, the path to the NFL is rarely straightforward. Pro days are often the lifeline for players outside the Power Five conferences, offering a stage to prove they can hang with the five stars. Without those events at Gannon or RMU, White is left searching for another way in. His production certainly suggests he’s capable of competing at the next level at any of the pro leagues, and if he can duplicate his numbers at a live setting, there can be little doubt about his athleticism.
There are limited pro days and regional scouting opportunities remaining for prospective players like White. The CFL also holds independent tryouts, and he may be able to compete there. We’ll keep an eye out to see which avenue he has to take to get to the next level. Just like getting to the quarterback, though, it feels like it’s just a matter of time for him.
“Totally Blindsided”: Saint Francis Drops to D3
March 12th, 2025. 13 days ago.
Saint Francis had just knocked off the heavily favored Central Connecticut State Blue Devils on the road to win the NEC Tournament. The Red Flash were celebrated nationally, and “Nowheresville, PA” emerged as a brand. The Red Flash took that momentum to the NCAA Tournament, where they competed in the First Four. Despite leading for much of the game, they dropped a tough but hard fought decision to Alabama State. But despite the loss, the season was a clear success. Coach Krimmel had taken the Red Flash to the NCAA Tournament for the first time since 1991, and the Red Flash seemed to have a handle on the new, transfer-heavy direction in college sports.
13 days later, the school announced that it would no longer compete in Division I athletics.
Ratified by the university’s Board of Trustees in March, this shift marks a significant pivot for a program that has enjoyed notable athletic success recently. Aside from the NCAA Tournament berth, the team’s volleyball program had reached new heights and the Red Flash won the NEC in football (along with an FCS playoff berth) in 2022. They defeated FBS Kent State this past season.
However, subtle signs of unrest had already surfaced: on February 28th, former Athletic Director James Downer was quietly removed from the university’s website, replaced by long-time athletics administrator Jim Brazill. What followed was a decision that has left student-athletes, families, and alumni grappling with its fallout. All of the accounts we’ve received to this point have suggested that it was a decision made without the knowledge of coaches and most of the athletic department’s staff.
The university’s administration points to a strategic refocus on student well-being and academics as the driving force behind the decision. According to the Saint Francis Reclassification FAQ, “Rather than fighting against the headwinds and logistics that make being a small school in the NCAA Division I unsustainable, our Board of Trustees made the bold move to place our students’ academic success and well-being first.”
Alumni Were Willing to Help Keep Saint Francis D1
But despite the difficulties of remaining in Division I as a small school, there were real attempts by alumni and supporters to help the Red Flash modernize- and compete.
Scott Meredith, a former Red Flash basketball player, had been rallying alumni to launch the Flash Fam Collective, an NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) initiative aimed at bolstering the men’s basketball program. “We were hoping to give these young men more reasons to stay and be developed the right way by Coach Krim,” Meredith said. “It was built to reflect everything SFU stands for—faith, academics, and leadership.” He envisioned a partnership where “NIL and the school could work side by side, and both sides could prosper and work hand in hand.”
However, the administration rebuffed these efforts. “We had some meetings with the administration and were told the final decision ultimately lies with the president and BOD around their stance on NIL,” Meredith recounted. “Their side never accepted our plans.” His surprise at the decision was tempered by an acknowledgment of its logic: “In the sense that I knew if nothing was done to help the MBB and Coach Krim, this is where things were headed because it’s hard to justify all of these expenses at the D1 level… but yes [I was surprised] in the sense that we were making our collective in a way that aligned with what we thought were Franciscan values.”
It wasn’t the only time that we heard that the administration may not have been willing to adapt to the changes in Division I athletics. Meredith made sure to point out that the coaches and athletic department at Saint Francis had no issue with modernizing and accepting the role that NIL has in the modern game.
In other cases, alumni and fans felt that the offer to help save Division I athletics was never made to them.
Former Saint Francis men’s basketball player Tom Fox seemed to agree. His impassioned tweet captures the emotional toll of the decision and raises questions about the university’s communication with its community.
In his tweet, Fox wrote:
"Every single former SFC/SFU athlete would have certainly done what they could have financially had we known it would prevent us losing our D1 status, something all of us wear as a badge of honor. Instead the powers to be just went ahead and did what they did. Shameful."
Fox’s reference to Division I status as a “badge of honor” underscores the pride that alumni associate with the program’s history. More importantly, his assertion that former athletes “would have certainly done what they could have financially” is along the same lines as Meredith’s account.
Certainly, no public effort was made to raise funds or develop a strategic plan to keep the Red Flash in Division I. The announcement sent shockwaves around the Loretto community, but while alumni have expressed willingness to help Saint Francis compete in NIL or attempt to support them financially, it seems the option was never given to them.
The Human Toll of the Transition
For those directly affected, the announcement has been a seismic disruption. One student athlete expressed shock: “Totally blindsided! This recruiting season was rough for my class because of this settlement stuff and this just complicated it further.” A family member of a current athlete shared their grief and uncertainty about how to proceed: “We are talking about it as a family… but we are devastated to say the least.”
One recruit’s story makes clear what was lost in this transition: “I’m currently committed to SFU and we just heard about it today from email. Our coaches still haven’t said anything… I’m going to decommit and it sucks because almost all my options are closed. I had multiple other Division I choices and they’re all gone because people filled the spots.” These voices underscore the personal cost of a decision made at the institutional level, and the damaging effect on signees who learned about the decision in March, long after the early and late signing day periods.
Football reported signing over 50 student athletes this offseason. Each one signed on anticipating to play in the NEC and Division I. Now, they’ll get just one season to do so, and the other opportunities that many had presented to them are no longer available. Many had the chance to pursue a 4 year scholarship elsewhere.
We’ve received reports that the coaches and much of the athletic department were caught blindsided by the information. While we’ve been able to confirm that recruits were not told about the possibility of the athletic department transitioning to Division III during the recruiting and signing process, the impression we’ve gotten is that the coaches simply weren’t aware.
As Saint Francis University (SFU) transitions from NCAA Division I to Division III, athletic scholarships for both current and incoming student-athletes will undergo significant changes. For students enrolled in the 2024-2025 academic year who receive athletic scholarships and plan to return for 2025-2026, their scholarships are guaranteed through the 2027-2028 academic year. Incoming students in the Class of 2025 with signed scholarship agreements will have their scholarships honored for the 2025-2026 and 2026-2027 academic years. It’s a significant step down for the athletes at Saint Francis, many of whom had counted on their athletic participation to carry them through a 4 year degree. Now, that option is no longer available.
Many have remarked that a key differentiator for Saint Francis from surrounding schools was that they played Division I athletics. Others have stated that Red Flash athletes make up 40% or more students on campus (a number that we were unable to independently verify prior to publication). In any case, Division I athletics are a key part of the identity of Saint Francis. It’s reasonable to assume that the student body will look much different with the reclassification to Division III. In exactly what way is yet to be seen.
What Lies Ahead?
The transition to Division III is final, with the administration announcing that they will join the President’s Athletic Conference. It’s another sign that this has been in the works for some time, as decisions to join athletic conferences are never made quickly. In the PAC, the Red Flash will compete against the likes of Chatham, Thiel, and Grove City rather than Duquesne, Long Island, and Robert Morris. There will also no longer be opportunities to play against FBS schools like Kent State.
As smaller schools nationwide face similar pressures—rising costs, evolving NIL landscapes, and logistical burdens—this move could set a precedent. For now, the Red Flash community must navigate a period of adjustment, balancing pride in past achievements with uncertainty about the future.
All-time NEC receptions leader Mike Caputo thinks so. Reacting to the news of his alma mater dropping to Division III, Caputo said, “As a football alum, and hall of fame inductee the news is sad and unfortunate. But I do understand the economics of college athletics and it’s probably the right decision,” he said. His perspective carries weight, reflecting both his deep emotional connection to the university and a pragmatic acknowledgment of the financial pressures shaping college sports. He went further, suggesting a broader trend: “I believe many more low D1 schools will eventually have to make a move as well.”
We’ve left a message with the line Saint Francis has pointed to in its FAQ and at this early time have not yet received a response. As this was a university decision, the athletic department is unable to comment on the situation.
This is a developing story and our website will be updated accordingly.
Duquesne Football Signs Graduate Transfer QB Tyler Riddell
Duquesne University football has made a significant move to bolster its roster, signing graduate transfer quarterback Tyler Riddell as the anticipated successor to star quarterback Darius Perrantes. Perrantes, the first-team All-NEC QB in 2024, leaves behind a daunting task- a quarterback will need to fill those shoes on the Bluff, and it looks like Riddell is the front runner to do it.
Riddell brings a wealth of experience and a proven track record to Duquesne, arriving after a standout 2024 campaign with Gardner-Webb and a five-year stint at East Tennessee State (ETSU). He had also been set to join the FBS Florida International Panthers this offseason prior to decommitting. With over 7,500 career passing yards and 54 touchdowns, the graduate student is poised to make an immediate impact for the Dukes.
In his lone season at Gardner-Webb, Riddell threw for 2,573 yards while tossing 16 touchdowns. His best yardage output came against FBS Charlotte, where he racked up 240 passing yards. He’ll be opening the 2025 season against P4 competition in the Pitt Panthers.
Before Gardner-Webb, Riddell spent five seasons at ETSU. Finishing his Buccaneers career with over 5,000 passing yards and 38 touchdowns, he led ETSU to 11 wins and a SoCon Championship in 2021. That year, he earned Freshman All-American honors, throwing for 2,464 yards while completing 211 passes.
Replacing Darius Perrantes, who dominated the NEC last season, won’t be easy. Perrantes propelled the Dukes to a share of the NEC championship in 2024 and a top 25 ranking at the end of the season. CCSU, Mercyhurst, and LIU are all returning skilled quarterbacks, and Riddell will need to adapt quickly to keep the Dukes competitive in the NEC. Riddell brings not only skill but maturity to a Duquesne squad eager to build on recent success. With spring practice already underway at Duquesne, all eyes will be on Riddell as he settles into his new role. If his past is any indication, Duquesne may have just reloaded under center, potentially erasing their biggest question mark heading into the 2025 season.
Skyhawks Add QB Myles Bastani
Myles Bastani, a quarterback originally from Miramonte High School in California, has committed to Stonehill. After completing a post-graduate year at Portsmouth Abbey High School in Rhode Island, Bastani is set to enroll as a freshman. This is the third quarterback commit for the Skyhawks this class.
Bastani's HUDL film showcases his strong grasp of short drop passes and his ability to perform under pressure. He also demonstrated composure and playmaking ability in difficult situations. Last season, Stonehill was certainly a place that gave young quarterbacks an opportunity to compete for playing time.
“When I visited, I saw that Coach Gardner is building something special, especially through the weight room and the culture he’s instilling in the team,” said Bastani. “The young energy of the program really stood out to me, and I knew it was the right place to grow as a player and a leader.”
The signing comes on the heels of longtime assistant coach and offensive coordinator Tyler Moody departing to become the head coach at The College of New Jersey. Despite the possibility of a change in offensive schemes, Bastani's decision to commit amid this transition speaks to Coach Gardner’s vision of Stonehill’s future.
The Skyhawks are looking to rebound from a difficult 2024 season, where they finished 0-6 in conference play and 1-10 overall. While they’ve shown competitiveness in their short time in the NEC, beating Duquesne in each of their first two seasons, last season’s struggles could have been due to a young roster in need of experience. Now, with the continued youth movement, Bastani’s choice reflects his confidence in the program’s potential.
Markell Holman Remains With Red Flash
The transfer portal is rarely a kind place, but this winter one of Saint Francis’s leading players entered the portal—and chose to return to Loretto.
Markell Holman's decision to remain with the Red Flash is a major boost for the offense heading into the 2025 season. After entering the portal in December and receiving an offer from Morgan State, Holman ultimately chose to stay at Saint Francis. In today’s college football landscape, outcomes like this are far from guaranteed. Players often leave, and if the demand doesn’t meet their expectations, they can find themselves without a program to return to. Many schools aren’t willing to reopen the door for players who explore the transfer market. But in this case, the mutual benefit must have been clear—the Red Flash saw Holman as a critical piece of their plans and an outstanding running back, and Holman recognized that his best opportunity was in Loretto.
Holman, a junior halfback, will be expected to take on a leadership role for the offense. In 2024, he showcased his ability by rushing for 578 yards and scoring six touchdowns. With his dynamic playmaking ability, Holman is poised to be a critical component of a Red Flash squad that has emphasized development and staying competitive despite roster turnover.
The NEC is a great place to watch elite running backs. It’s a league that features CCSU’s Elijah Howard and Duquesne’s JaMario Clements. They’ll be first team everywhere, but in 2025, expect Holman to be right on their heels. His proven performance will likely earn him strong consideration for preseason All-NEC honors. Any outlet that offers a first and second team will almost certainly be including him on their list.
The Red Flash, who have embraced a "next man up" mentality amid player movement, have managed to hold on to one of their best. Now, they’ll look to Holman to help lead them to a third conference title.
