BREAKING NEWS: University of Maine linebacker Christian Thomas has just been named to the All-Coastal Athletic Association (CAA) first team, marking a significant achievement in his football career. The announcement was made earlier today, recognizing Thomas’s impressive record of 120 tackles this season, which ranks as the 11th most in program history.
This accolade reflects not only Thomas’s individual skill but also the overall strength of the Black Bears football team. In addition to Thomas, five other players from UMaine earned honors, further showcasing the talent of the 6-6 Black Bears. Notably, Scott Woods, a transfer from Harvard University, received dual placements as both a second team punt returner and a third team wide receiver.
Thomas has been a standout player, leading the team with 12 tackles for loss and ranking second in sacks with five. His performance has been crucial in several games, with five games featuring ten or more tackles. Notably, he recorded 19 tackles in a loss to CAA regular season champion Rhode Island and 15 tackles against Liberty University.
UMaine head coach Jordan Stevens praised Thomas, stating,
“He has been relentless to the ball. He finds a way to get to the ball. He has a tenacity and a passion you can feel when he plays.”
This recognition reflects the hard work and determination displayed by Thomas throughout the season.
The broader impact of these honors is significant for UMaine, as they showcase the strength of their program against formidable competition. Anthony Iliano and Devin Vaught were also named to the second team, highlighting the effectiveness of the offensive line that averaged 163.8 rushing yards per game, which placed fourth in the league.
Woods’s performance has been remarkable, averaging 24.9 yards per punt return, including an electrifying 85-yard touchdown against Elon. His contributions as a wide receiver include a team-high 55 catches for 653 yards and five touchdowns.
Vaught, the team’s second-leading tackler, recorded 60 tackles and three interceptions, which ranks him among the top in the CAA. Meanwhile, Sincere Baines has emerged as a powerful running back, rushing for 709 yards on 122 carries, averaging 5.8 yards per carry, placing him second in the CAA.
As the accolades continue to roll in, the focus now shifts to how these players will perform in upcoming games. The recognition from the CAA not only boosts the players’ profiles but also enhances the visibility of the UMaine football program on a national scale. Fans and supporters are eager to see how these athletes will leverage their individual successes into team victories in future matchups.
Stay tuned for more updates on UMaine football and the latest developments in the CAA as the season progresses.
