RMU Student-Athlete of the Week (10/3/12)
In helping lead the football team to its first victory of the 2012 campaign, freshman Marcelis Branch earns the latest RMU Male Student-Athlete of the Week accolade. A native of Homestead, Fla., Branch helped lead the Colonials to a 31-28 victory over Lafayette at Joe Walton Stadium as part of the University's Homecoming festivities. He finished with 15 tackles, including 12 solo stops, and also caused a pair of turnovers. Less than eight minutes into the game, Branch forced a turnover of Lafayette wide receiver Mark Ross. Sophomore linebacker Mike Neilson scooped up the loose ball and sprinted into the end zone for the touchdown and an early 7-0 RMU lead. In the second quarter, Branch picked up his first career interception, which led to another Robert Morris score as the Colonials jumped out to a 28-7 halftime advantage. Thanks to his performance, Branch was tabbed both the Northeast Conference Defensive Player of the Week and the NEC Rookie of the Week. Undecided on a major, Branch has compiled 24 tackles, an interception, pass breakup and forced fumble through his first four collegiate games.
