INDIANAPOLIS - Coming off of their season opening win on Saturday at Judson, the Knights are back in Indianapolis for their 2023 home opener, welcoming in MSFA Midwest rival St. Xavier to the West Side. The thirteenth-ranked Cougars enter the game with a similar 1-0 record, as both teams enter ranked in the top-15 for the third consecutive matchup in the series history.
THE GAME AND THE SERIES
The series between the Knights and Cougars has largely favored St. Xavier, as Marian has just five wins in the 15-game series. After being dominated by the Cougars early in the series, Marian has turned back and won four of the last six matchups against the Cougars. Head coach Ted Karras Jr. will be going up against his former colleague Mike Feminis in the matchup, as Karras previously coached at St. Xavier before beginning his head coaching career.
In last year's win in the NAIA FCS First Round, Marian quarterback Zach Bundalo connected with Ben Stevens four times for touchdowns, while Logan Blake and Peyton Trexler each had a pick-six in the win for the Knights. Marian held St. Xavier under 50 yards rushing in the win last season, while Stevens four-touchdown game tied the program record for most receiving touchdowns in a single game.
WATCH AND FOLLOW ALONG
Those fans unable to attend Saturday night's game can watch live on the ISC Sports Network. This season, all Marian home games on the ISC Sports Network will be pay per view, and single game and season passes can be purchased now. The pay per view cost for Saturday's game on the ISC Sports Network is $9.99. Fans can also find live statistics at marianstats.com. Live updates of the game will be posted on the official Marian Athletics Twitter and Instagram pages @MUKnights.
EARLY POSTSEASON IMPLICATIONS
Although early in the season, the winner of Marian and St. Xavier on Saturday night will be in a great spot in the NAIA National Rankings, and have an upper hand for the stretch run of the season when it comes to the NAIA postseason. With 12 teams earning a bye in week one of the 2023 NAIA Playoffs with the expansion of the field to 20 teams, the winner between Marian and St. Xavier could benefit handsomely from an early season win against a top-15 opponent.
TICKETS
Tickets for Saturday's home-opening game are on sale now, with general admission ticket pricing starting at $10. Parking for Saturday's game starts at $10 and is cash only. Parking for Saturday's game against St. Xavier will not be available online and can only be purchased day-of on campus.
TAILGATING
Tailgate spots are filling fast for this weekend. For more information on tailgating, rules, and policies, click here. Tailgate lots will open at 10 a.m.
T-SHIRT GIVEAWAY
The Marian maniacs will be giving away t-shirts to Marian students and fans throughout the game, with the student section receiving shirts at the end of the first quarter.
RING CEREMONY
At the end of the first quarter, the Marian women's soccer team will receive their NAIA National Runner-Up rings for their accomplishments in 2022. The Knights were the NAIA National Runner-Up, winning both the Crossroads League Regular Season and Tournament Championships. The ceremony will take place on the 10-yard lin in the north end zone following the end of the quarter.
PREGAME ATHLETIC EVENTS ON-CAMPUS
The Marian women's soccer team plays a matinee contest at St. Vincent Field to warm up the crowd, as the Knights take on Missouri Baptist at 12 p.m. The match begins at 12 p.m., and will be aired on the ISC Sports Network with Greg Rakestraw and Mark Newman on the call.
POSTGAME FIREWORKS
Following the game, Marian will host the city's best fireworks display. Stick around after the game to enjoy an annual fireworks display.
Marian and St. Xavier kick off the Knights 2023 home slate on Saturday night at 6:05 p.m.
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