By: Sports Information Director, Kennedy Burks
Box Score DeLand, Fla. – The Warner University Royals kicked off their 2025 football campaign on the road against NCAA Division I FCS opponent Stetson University, falling 59–13 in their season opener.
The Royals' offense was highlighted by a balanced effort under center. Freshman quarterback, Michael Ryan made his collegiate debut, completing 6-of-13 passes for 91 yards, while adding 39 rushing yards on 8 carries and recording Warner's lone touchdown on the ground. Graduate student Jeremiah Johnson also contributed at quarterback, throwing for 94 yards on 12 completions.
On the receiving side, Hazaia Phillips led the Royals with 50 yards, including a 30-yard reception, while Carlos Witherup hauled in 44 yards, highlighted by a 22-yard grab.
Freshman kicker, Ethan Silva delivered a strong debut, accounting for 7 of Warner's 13 points. Silva connected on both of his field goal attempts, including a 42-yard strike, and added a perfect PAT.
Defensively, several Royals turned in strong performances. Linebacker Damian Riewold tallied 4 total tackles with 1 tackle for loss. Segjier Lane also recorded 4 stops, including a TFL, while Reginald Jones, Roderick Roman, Jaylen Barnes, and Aidan Matos each registered 4 tackles apiece. Defensive back, Justisse Robertson added a pass breakup to round out the defensive effort.
Warner moves to 0–1 on the season and will now turn its attention to Georgetown College, as they prepare to face off in Kentucky, September 13th at 1:30pm.
#TogetherAsOne | #GodBlessGoRoyals
