The University of San Diego Toreros football team secured a thrilling 41-40 victory over the Marist Red Foxes on October 31, 2026, at Torero Stadium in a key Pioneer Football League matchup. Quarterback Dom Nankil led the charge by completing 34 of 41 passes for 364 yards and four touchdowns, matching his season high. He also ran for the decisive go-ahead touchdown with 2:48 remaining in the game.
San Diego converted 8 of 11 third downs and scored touchdowns on all five trips inside the Marist 20-yard line. Wide receivers Elijah Taylor and Cole Monach were dominant, with Taylor catching nine passes for 138 yards and a touchdown and Monach hauling in 11 receptions for 70 yards and a touchdown. Running back Adam Criter contributed 117 yards on 25 carries and scored his ninth rushing touchdown of the season.
The contest remained tight throughout, with Marist driving to San Diego’s 11-yard line late in the game but missing a potential game-winning 30-yard field goal with 43 seconds left. On the final play, San Diego’s Dillon Kellner broke up a deep pass at the goal line to preserve the narrow victory. The Toreros improved to 4-5 overall and 3-3 in the Pioneer Football League, maintaining a 17-2 all-time advantage against Marist and extending their undefeated home record against the Red Foxes to 12-0.
San Diego continued its dominance in time of possession, holding the ball for 31:15, marking the ninth consecutive game the team has won that battle this season. The Toreros now prepare for their next game at Drake Stadium against Drake on November 7, 2026.
CSB Take
This hard-fought victory for the University of San Diego Toreros football underscores the program’s resilience and effective late-game execution, particularly from quarterback Dom Nankil. Their ability to sustain drives and convert critical third downs while maintaining control of the clock has been crucial in remaining competitive within the Pioneer Football League. Moving forward, the Toreros will aim to replicate this clutch performance on the road at Drake to improve their league standing and build momentum heading toward postseason ambitions.
Source: Original report
More coverage: San Diego Toreros.
