(Photo Illustration - MetroCreativeConnection)

MARIETTA — A duo of Marietta College linebackers were named to the D3football.com Preseason All-America Team last week. Senior Harley Hopkins earned first team recognition while senior Brady McManaway was named to the third team.

“We are so excited for both Harley and Brady to be named pre-season All-American,” said Marietta Head Football coach Tom Kaufman. “This is a tremendous honor for them. They have earned every accolade through hard work and attention to detail. It’s also a great honor for their teammates, whose actions allow Harley and Brady to make tons of plays.”

Hopkins landed a spot on the 2024 D3football All-American second team after putting together a season that earned him the Gene Slaughter Linebacker of the Year award in the Ohio Athletic Conference. He finished with 98 tackles, second best in the OAC. He was also fourth in the OAC with 5.5 tackles for loss and seventh with 5.5 sacks.

“Harley is a physical, downhill, instinctive linebacker who has the respect of this entire team,” said Coach Kaufman. “When he speaks, everyone listens. He is a pleasure to coach and a joy to watch play.”

McManaway was a first time All-Region selection after last season. He averaged nearly five tackles per game and was highly ranked with 5.5 tackles for loss from his outside linebacker position.

“Brady is a versatile, highly skilled and physical linebacker who is also held in high esteem by his peers,” said Kaufman. “He brings a ton of energy and positivity every day and we love watching him do his thing.”

Marietta opens the season on the road against Westminster College on Thursday, September 4th, with kickoff is set for 7 p.m. The Pioneers’ home opener will be Sept. 13 when they welcome in Otterbein University, for a 7 p.m. kickoff.

“These two form a tremendous pair and we are so fortunate to have them as Marietta College Pioneers,” concluded Kaufman.