Football’s Season Opener: Bantams Fall to Colby Mules

Ashley McDermott ’26

Executive Sports Editor

The Trinity College football team opened their season with a 13-6 loss against Colby College. The game took place at the Harold Alford Stadium on Colby College’s Campus. At the top of the first quarter the Mules gained possession of the ball, but were stopped by junior cornerback #5 Bryce Ferrell on the 8-yard line. The first quarter built up momentum, and the first and only score from the Bantams came with ten minutes left. Junior quarterback # 12 Jaxon Carroll and senior wide receiver captain #11 Nolan O’Brien pulled an impressive 60 yard drive into a 20-yard bubble screen to achieve the touchdown. The Mules responded and put themselves on the scoreboard towards the end of the third quarter, as a Colby player intercepted a pass and carried the ball to the end zone, achieving a leading 7-6 score over the Bantams. This motivated the Mules to succeed in five sacks over the Bantams, maintaining their position on the field. In the fourth quarter, Colby secured another touchdown, lending them another six points over the Bantams. Trinity attempted two more drives, but were halted by the Mules each time, securing the win for Colby. 

This game proved to be a historic one within NESCAC records. This is the first victory for Colby against the Bantams since 1995, and coincidentally marked the first opening season game loss since that exact Colby game from 1995. Trinity senior captain, outside linebacker #10 John Fiore III said to the Tripod in regards to the season, ”Myself and co-captain Nolan O’Brien are prepared to do anything we can on and off the field to lead our team back to a NESCAC championship. This group is very motivated after falling short last year and we’re committed to setting the standard every day so we can finish what we started.” Last season, the team succumbed to a loss at the championship game against Wesleyan University on Nov. 9, 2024. However, the year prior the team reigned as champions after a win over Bowdoin College. The senior captains are dedicated to their team and community as they continue to push their teammates to victory and a championship win. 

Based on prior statistics, the next game looks promising for the Bantams as they face Bates College. The Bantams hold a 42-7 record over the Bobcats, and have not lost to them since a shutout from the 1979 season. This Saturday’s game will begin at 1 pm at the Jessee/Miller Football Field on Trinity’s Campus.