UPDATE: In a significant achievement for the University of Maine football program, graduate student linebacker Christian Thomas has been named to the All-Coastal Athletic Association first team, following a season where he recorded 120 tackles, ranking as the 11th most in the program’s history. The announcement came just hours ago, confirming Thomas’ status as one of the league’s top defensive players.
Thomas’ remarkable season included leading the team with 12 tackles for loss and contributing five sacks, making him the second-leading tackler in the CAA. His defensive prowess was on full display with five games featuring 10 or more tackles and nine games with at least eight tackles. In a standout performance, he logged 19 tackles against CAA champion Rhode Island and 15 tackles against Liberty University.
“He has been relentless to the ball,” said UMaine head coach Jordan Stevens. “He finds a way to get to the ball. He has a tenacity and a passion you can feel when he plays.”
In addition to Thomas, five other Black Bears received accolades, with graduate student Scott Woods earning two spots: second team punt returner and third team wide receiver. Woods averaged 24.9 yards per punt return, including an electrifying 85-yard touchdown against Elon. As a wide receiver, he recorded a career-high 55 catches for 653 yards and five touchdowns.
Also recognized were sophomore offensive tackle Anthony Iliano and sophomore free safety Devin Vaught, both named to the second team. Iliano played a crucial role in an offensive line that helped generate an average of 163.8 rushing yards per game, the fourth-best in the league. Vaught was instrumental on defense, being the team’s second-leading tackler with 60 tackles and ranking second in the CAA with three interceptions.
Additional honors included junior running back Sincere Baines and sophomore defensive tackle Elias Sherman, who were named to the third team. Baines, a transfer from the University of North Carolina Pembroke, rushed for 709 yards on 122 carries, marking an impressive average of 5.8 yards per carry, while Sherman led the team with 5.5 sacks.
Honorable mentions went to graduate quarterback Carter Peevy, cornerback Vincent Nwachi, senior kickoff returner Trevin Ewing, and junior cornerback Jamaree Gibson. This recognition highlights the depth and talent within the UMaine football program.
The Black Bears finished the season with a 6-6 record, showcasing a competitive spirit throughout the season. As the team reflects on this year, attention will now shift to the recruitment and preparation for the next season, with fans eager to see how these standout players will continue to impact the program moving forward.
