Redshirt senior defensive back Marcelis Branch of the football team takes home the Giant Eagle RMU Male Student-Athlete of the Week for Oct. 19, 2016. In a 31-24 setback @ Duquesne (10/15), Branch recorded six tackles, including four solo stops, and also blocked a 47-yard field goal attempt by Austin Crimmins in the second quarter. Branch, a native of Homestead, Fla., picked up the loose ball after the block and raced 63 yards to pay dirt to give the Colonials a 17-10 advantage. Thanks to his performance, Branch was tabbed the Northeast Conference Special Teams Player of the Week (10/17). In seven games in 2016, Branch has compiled 40 tackles, including 19 solo stops. He also owns an interception and three pass breakups. Â
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