MOON TOWNSHIP, Pa. – The Robert Morris football team opened its home schedule with a 28-14 victory over West Liberty at Joe Walton Stadium on Saturday evening, powered by a relentless rushing attack and a stifling defense. The Colonials improve to 1-2 on the season with the win.

From the opening drive, Robert Morris established its dominance on the ground, racking up an impressive 242 rushing yards compared to just 63 for the Hilltoppers.

The scoring began in the first quarter when quarterback Zach Tanner connected with Thomas Lee for a 10-yard touchdown pass, capping a 10-play, 92-yard drive. The Colonials extended their lead on the first play of the second quarter, with Donta Whack punching it in from two yards out to make it 14-0.

Later, Tanner found Jaqai Carter for a four-yard touchdown pass in the third quarter, and Ethan Shine sealed the victory with a one-yard touchdown run at the start of the fourth, pushing the lead to 28-7.

On offense, Shine tallied 133 yards and a touchdown on 20 carries. Tanner completed 8-of-9 passes for 83 yards and two touchdowns, with Lee being his top target, hauling in five catches for 44 yards and a score.

The defense was equally dominant, anchored by Patrick McDonnell and Ameer Johnson, who each recorded six total tackles. McDonnell was a disruptive force with three tackles for loss and a sack, while Johnson added 1.5 sacks of his own. The secondary made crucial takeaways, as Tyler Henry and Israel Petite each came down with an interception.

RMU returns to Joe Walton Stadium to host Dayton on Saturday, September 20, at 2:00 p.m.

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