STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. — Wagner football opened the 2026 season on Saturday afternoon on Hameline Field, falling to Robert Morris, 28-7, in an NEC matchup.
The matchup marked the 29th all-time meeting and Wagner's (0-1, 0-1 NEC) first time beginning its season with a conference game since 2011.
After a scoreless start for both offenses, Robert Morris (1-0, 1-0 NEC) broke through midway through the opening quarter when it returned a blocked punt 22 yards for a touchdown. The Colonials capitalized on a Wagner turnover on the ensuing possession and extended the lead to 14-0 on a six-yard touchdown reception.
The Seahawks' defense kept Wagner within striking distance throughout the first half. Senior Shamar Williams intercepted a Colonial pass late in the second quarter, and Robert Morris carried a 14-0 advantage into halftime.
Wagner's biggest play of the afternoon came early in the third quarter. On Robert Morris' opening drive of the second half, junior Julio Tatis stepped in front of a pass and returned the interception 40 yards for a touchdown, cutting the deficit to 14-7.
The Colonials answered later in the quarter on a 64-yard touchdown strike to restore a two-score lead. Robert Morris then put the game away with a 15-yard touchdown pass midway through the fourth quarter.
Redshirt freshman Wes Johnston led the Wagner defense with six tackles, including 1.5 tackles for loss. Junior Brendan Leal also recorded six tackles, while Tatis added four tackles and the interception return touchdown. Williams finished with an interception and a pass breakup.
Offensively, redshirt sophomore Matt Morad led Wagner on the ground with 32 rushing yards, while redshirt junior Zion Fowler-El paced the receiving corps with four catches for 30 yards.
Wagner was limited to 97 total yards of offense compared to 285 for Robert Morris. The Colonials recorded six sacks and held the Seahawks to six first downs, while posting 13 first downs of their own.
Wagner returns to action next Saturday, Sept. 5, when it hosts Southern Connecticut State on Hameline Field. Kickoff is set for 12 p.m., with coverage streaming live on NEC Front Row.
