The Patriot League’s 2026 season opened with fireworks as William & Mary and Colgate each secured hard‑fought victories in their inaugural conference matchups.
Opening Weekend Highlights
William & Mary erased a late deficit against Villanova, with Max Lipinski converting a 45‑yard field goal and a clutch kick in the final 53 seconds to swing the game to a 35‑32 win.
Winston Watkins completed 19 of 33 passes for 254 yards, throwing two touchdowns and an interception, while Harrison Johnson led the defense with eight tackles and a fumble recovery.
Colgate’s Danny Shaban rushed for a career‑high 214 yards and added two touchdowns, guiding the Raiders to a 24‑14 victory over Fordham.
The performances underscored the league’s emphasis on academic and athletic excellence, a principle championed by member institutions such as William & Mary, Villanova, Colgate and Fordham.
With the early excitement setting the tone, coaches and players alike look forward to the next slate of matchups that will test the depth and resilience of these programs.