BISMARCK, ND – An All-Northern Sun selection last fall, University of Mary defensive back
Abram Jopp staked his claim for consideration again in 2026. With the Marauders hosting 3
rd ranked Minnesota State University in UMary's home opener and the first NSIC game of the season, Jopp intercepted two Mavericks passes and returned one to the end zone for his first career touchdown.
Despite the big plays from the 5
th year player from Mayer, MN, the Mavericks downed the Marauders 48-7.
Jopp immediately made his presence felt on the first play of the game, making an interception at the MSU 37 yard line and returning the ball to the 35.
On UMary's first offensive play,
Hudsen Sheldon dashed 11 yards for a first down. The Marauders drive stalled at the 20 and a missed field goal turned the ball over to the Mavericks.
One play after UMary just missed scoring first, it was Minnesota State jumping on the scoreboard with an 80 yard run. The Mavericks then scored on their next four possessions to take a 34-0 lead at half.
Jopp made his presence felt on the opening drive of the second half. With Minnesota State facing a 3
rd-and-5 from its 38 yard line, Jopp wrested the ball away from a Mavericks receiver and raced 42 yards untouched down the far sidelines for the lone UMary score of the game.
The Marauders defense forced the Mavericks to punt on their next possession. Looking to close the gap, UMary drove to the MSU 8 yard line but an interception prevented the Marauders from scoring. It was one of four trips into the red zone without a score for UMary. Three times red zone possessions ended with turnovers.
In addition to his two interceptions, Jopp also led the Marauders in tackles with seven.
Christopher Federico added six tackles and
Vegas George had a sack.
Sheldon led the Marauders in rushing with 34 yards. Eight Marauders had catches with
Karsyn Jablonski leading the way with three grabs for 55 yards.
Minnesota State (2-0 overall, 1-0 NSIC) was led by Sam Backer, who ran for 165 yards and two touchdowns, including the opening score of the day. Mitchell Thompson passed for 131 yards and a score and ran for 47 yards and a touchdown.
Next up for the Marauders (1-1 overall, 0-1 NSIC) is a road game at Concordia-St. Paul on Saturday, September 12. Kickoff is 12 noon.
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