DELAND, Fla. — Sonny Mannino showcased an impressive performance by passing for 275 yards and rushing for four touchdowns, tying a program record as Marist University secured a 40-31 victory over Stetson, marking coach Mike Willis’ inaugural win with the Red Foxes.

The game began with Marist trailing 21-13 at halftime. The turning point arrived early in the third quarter when Mohamed Diawara electrified the crowd with a 31-yard punt return for a touchdown. Following Stetson’s consecutive three-and-out possessions, Mannino quickly extended the lead by scoring on a 30-yard run, bringing the score to 27-21.

In the fourth quarter, two crucial interceptions by Nate Robinson Jr. and Austin Trimble propelled Marist into scoring position where Mannino completed his fourth touchdown of the game, pushing the score to 40-31 with just under four minutes remaining.

Stetson attempted to respond, starting their next drive at their 36-yard line. However, a pass from quarterback Brady Meitz intended for the end zone was intercepted by Trimble. The ball slipped through the hands of wide receiver Dalton Bailey and fell into Trimble’s grasp as they tumbled into the end zone with under three minutes left.

Marist managed to maintain possession, achieving a first down on their final drive while running the clock down to 19 seconds before punting the ball back to Stetson.

James Kratochvil, who also registered two interceptions in the game, has now recorded interceptions in back-to-back games for Marist (1-9, 1-6 Pioneer Football League). With this performance, Mannino not only shone as a quarterback but tied the school record for rushing touchdowns, a feat that has been accomplished four times before.

On the other side, Brady Meitz faced struggles, throwing four interceptions for Stetson (2-7, 0-5), which has now lost five consecutive matchups in this rivalry. Despite the defeat, Dalton Bailey had a standout game, catching 13 passes for a total of 190 yards and one touchdown.