When it comes to college football, there are a few powerhouse teams that come to mind: the Alabama Crimson Tide, the Ohio State Buckeyes, and the Clemson Tigers, just to name a few. These teams are known for their impressive records, their highly-touted recruits, and their numerous appearances in national championship games.
But while these schools may dominate the college football landscape, there are plenty of other teams around the country that are worth paying attention to. One such team is the Marietta College Pioneers.
Located in Marietta, Ohio, Marietta College is a small liberal arts school that might not be on everyone's radar when it comes to football. But the Pioneers have a rich history on the gridiron, dating back to the early 1900s.
In fact, Marietta can boast of being one of the oldest football teams in the country, with their first recorded game taking place in 1892. Since then, they've gone on to play hundreds of games, facing off against opponents ranging from local high schools to NCAA Division I powerhouses.
Of course, over the years Marietta hasn't been as consistently successful as some of the bigger programs out there. They've had their share of down years, including a stretch in the mid-2000s where they went three seasons without winning a single game.
But despite these struggles, Marietta has remained dedicated to the sport of football, and their commitment has paid off in recent years. Under head coach Andy Waddle, the Pioneers have made steady progress, winning more games each season than the last.
In 2019, they put together their best campaign in over a decade, finishing with a record of 8-2 and earning a spot in the NCAA Division III playoffs. Though they lost in the first round to undefeated Wheaton College, it was still a huge accomplishment for a program that had struggled for so long.
So what does the future hold for Marietta football? With Waddle still at the helm and a strong core of players returning, there's reason to be optimistic. They'll face their fair share of challenges, of course – it's tough to compete with the resources and prestige of larger schools. But as they've shown in recent years, anything is possible if you're willing to put in the work.
For fans of college football, the Marietta Pioneers may not be a household name. But for those who follow the sport closely, they're a prime example of why football is so intriguing – it's not just about the handful of elite programs; it's about the hundreds of others that are fighting to make their mark. And for the Marietta College Pioneers, that fight continues on.