Drew VanVleet displayed an outstanding performance by throwing for 323 yards and five touchdowns, leading Dayton to a resounding 47-14 victory over Marist in the Pioneer League opener for both teams. The game saw Jake Coleman making five catches for a career-high 114 yards, including two touchdowns, while Mason Hackett ran for a career-best 110 yards on 28 carries. The Flyers, with a 3-1 record, swiftly gained momentum even after being forced to a three-and-out on their first possession by the Red Foxes. Following a Marist muffed punt recovered by Dayton on the 24-yard line, VanVleet found Hackett on a swing pass for a 10-yard touchdown on the ensuing two plays.
Despite an initial tie at 14 with 5:42 remaining in the first half, Marist could not keep up with the offensive prowess displayed by VanVleet and Luke Brenner, who connected on a 69-yard touchdown. Additionally, Danny Baker’s pair of short field goals, the last one coming as time expired, extended Dayton’s lead to 27-14. Daytons’ offense accumulated a total of 443 yards while effectively containing Marist to 230 yards. VanVleet completed 23 of 55 passes for the Flyers, including the crucial 69-yard touchdown pass to Brenner that gave them a 14-7 advantage.
On the Marist side, Sonny Mannino threw for one touchdown and ran for another, showing a resilient effort despite the tough loss. The Red Foxes now have a 0-4 record in the season. The game showcased Dayton’s dominance in both offensive and defensive aspects, ultimately securing a convincing victory. The Flyers’ cohesive teamwork and stellar individual performances paved the way for a successful start to their Pioneer League campaign.
Overall, Dayton’s remarkable display on both ends of the field highlights their potential for a successful season ahead. Marist put up a fight, but ultimately fell short against the offensive firepower of Dayton. The resilience and determination exhibited by both teams set the stage for an exciting season moving forward. Fans can expect more thrilling matchups as the season progresses.
