The University of Mary Marauders

The NDPF Male Athlete of the Week is Mason Phillips, outside linebacker from the UMary Football team. Phillips lit up a packed crowd at the MDU Resources Community Bowl in Saturday's home opener against Sioux Falls. Donning the blue 25, Phillips had his number called many times as the Marauders leading tackler with 7.0 total tackles, 2 quarterback sacks for 14 yards, and a forced fumble. 

The defining moment of the game came at three minutes into the second quarter. As the Cougars were driving down the field, Phillips rushed the quarterback on the blind side and delivered a punishing blow which forced the ball to go flying in the backfield. The UMary sideline and student section erupted in unison as the Marauders recovered the football for a big stop. 

Phillips is only a sophomore from Gilbert, AZ.