Three Marietta College football players named All-American
MARIETTA — After a historic season, the Marietta College football team earned yet more postseason accolades as three Pioneers were named to the D3football.com All-America team Thursday afternoon.
Defensive end Chance Knight was given first team honors, linebacker Harley Hopkins was placed on the second team, and offensive lineman David Busch earned a spot on the third team.
This is the second time Knight has received this honor as he was named to the second team in 2023. Also happening for a second consecutive year, Knight received Ohio Athletic Conference Paul Hoernemann Defensive Lineman of the Year accolades after finishing with 58 tackles and leading the OAC with 12.5 sacks. His 20 tackles for a loss also led the conference.
“Chance is truly one of the most exceptional players to have ever represented Marietta College,” said former Marietta College head football coach Andy Waddle. “His leadership both on and off the field sets him apart, and his character and work ethic are unmatched. On the field, Chance was relentless in his pursuit of the ball, whether he was chasing down the ball carrier or closing in on the quarterback. His performance as an interior defensive tackle is remarkable and truly unique. He absolutely deserves recognition as one of the best in Division III football.”
Hopkins put together a massive season for the Pioneers on the way to earning the Gene Slaughter Linebacker of the Year award in the OAC. He was a presence in the middle, placing second in the OAC with 8.9 tackles per game.
“Harley has put together an outstanding career at Marietta College so far,” said Waddle. “He burst onto the scene as a sophomore, earning first-team All-OAC honors. As a junior, he elevated his game even further, playing a crucial role in making us one of the top-rated defenses, not just in the conference, but in the country. Harley is truly a special player and person and he’s earned the right to be named to the All-American team.”
Busch was a powerful, consistent force on the Pioneer offensive line over his career and was named All-OAC four times, including two first team selections.
He started all eleven games this fall playing primarily at the right guard position.
“David was one of the most enjoyable players I’ve ever coached, always showing up to practice with a smile on his face,” recalled Waddle. “However, between the whistles, he was a force to be reckoned with, dedicated to protecting our quarterback and creating holes for our running backs. No one loved the team or valued being a part of the Marietta College football program more than David.”
The Pioneers finished 8-3 overall and 7-2 in the OAC.