What Is 2017 Robert Morris Colonials football

Overview

The 2017 Robert Morris Colonials football team represented Robert Morris University during the 2017 NCAA Division I FCS football season. Led by first-year head coach Bernard Clark Jr., the team competed in the Northeast Conference (NEC) and faced challenges adapting to a new leadership structure and competitive schedule.

The Colonials struggled offensively and defensively, finishing with a 3–8 overall record and a 2–4 mark in conference play. Despite the losing record, the season provided developmental experience for younger players and laid groundwork for future program improvements under new coaching leadership.

• Head coach Bernard Clark Jr. took over the program in 2017 after serving as defensive coordinator at the University of Miami, marking a significant shift in team leadership and strategy.
• The Colonials opened the season with a loss to Youngstown State on September 2, 2017, setting a tough tone for the campaign against a strong FCS opponent.
• Quarterback Robby Dorn started most games, completing 137 of 257 passes for 1,479 yards, 9 touchdowns, and 7 interceptions over the season.
• The team played home games at Joe Walton Stadium, named after the program’s founding coach, with a capacity of approximately 2,500 spectators in Moon Township, Pennsylvania.
• Robert Morris finished 2–4 in NEC play, tying for fifth place in the conference standings, behind champion Duquesne who went 6–0 in league games.

Season Performance

The 2017 campaign was defined by offensive inconsistency and defensive struggles against conference opponents. Despite flashes of potential, the Colonials failed to secure a winning streak and were outscored 273 to 198 over the 11-game season.

• September 9, 2017: Robert Morris lost to in-state rival Western Michigan 34–13, highlighting the gap between FCS and FBS competition.
• The team’s first win came on September 16 against Wagner with a 24–21 victory, marking a key morale boost early in conference play.
• October 7: A 38–28 loss to Liberty exposed defensive vulnerabilities, as the Flames rushed for over 200 yards on the ground.
• The Colonials recorded wins against Wagner and Bryant, with the 27–24 victory over Bryant on October 21 being their final win of the season.
• They were shut out in their final game, a 34–0 loss to Duquesne on November 18, ending the season on a low note.
• Defensively, linebacker Devon Jackson led the team with 78 total tackles, including 45 solo stops, showcasing one of the few consistent performers.

Comparison at a Glance

Here’s how the 2017 Robert Morris Colonials compared to other NEC teams in key statistical categories:

The table illustrates that Robert Morris ranked near the bottom of the NEC in both wins and scoring. While they outperformed Central Connecticut in record and points scored, they allowed more points than all but one NEC team, reflecting defensive shortcomings throughout the season.

Why It Matters

The 2017 season was a transitional year for Robert Morris football, setting the stage for future development under new coaching leadership. Though results were disappointing, the year provided valuable experience and insight into roster strengths and weaknesses.

• The season marked the first year of Bernard Clark Jr.’s tenure, making it a foundational year for recruiting and cultural change within the program.
• Robert Morris used 10 different offensive linemen due to injuries, highlighting depth issues that needed addressing in future seasons.
• The team’s 198 total points ranked fifth in the NEC, indicating offensive struggles compared to conference leaders like Duquesne and Bryant.
• Defensive adjustments were needed after allowing 273 points, the second-most in the conference behind only Central Connecticut.
• The program’s performance influenced future scheduling decisions, with fewer FBS matchups planned in subsequent years to focus on conference competitiveness.
• Player development during this season helped identify future leaders, including sophomore linebacker Devon Jackson, who emerged as a defensive anchor.

Ultimately, the 2017 campaign served as a learning experience for Robert Morris football, emphasizing the importance of continuity, depth, and strategic planning in FCS competition.