DELAND, FL - The Stetson Hatters football team is gearing up for preseason camp and they are determined to make a statement in the upcoming Pioneer Football League (PFL) season. While the PFL's coaches' poll projected them to finish ninth out of eleven teams, following a competitive 4-6 finish to the 2022 season, the Hatters seek to embrace their underdog status and use it as motivation to excel on the field.

The poll, which was released Tuesday, projected the University of St. Thomas, the defending champion, as the top contender with eight first-place votes and a score of 98. While being ranked ninth, the Hatters' potential and determination on the field go far beyond the numbers on the list. Amidst the rankings, the Hatters have much to celebrate in terms of individual accolades.

Last season, quarterback Brady Meitz showcased his exceptional skills, earning him the recognition as the Freshman Offensive Player of the Year. However, despite his impressive performance, Meitz was not included in the accolades of the PFL's preseason team. Nevertheless, he has been recognized for his talent by Phil Steele, who named him as a second team selection in their Preseason Pioneer League Team.

Meitz had an outstanding season as the Hatters' quarterback, leading the league in passing yards with an impressive total of 2,548 yards on 203 completions out of 345 attempts. He displayed excellent decision-making, throwing 17 touchdowns while limiting interceptions to 10. Meitz's remarkable performances included four 300-yard passing games and one extraordinary 400-yard game, making him a standout player in the league.

Alongside Meitz's recognition by Phil Steele, defensive back Rassie Littlejohn has been honored by both the 2023 Preseason All-Pioneer Football League team and the Phil Steele Preseason Pioneer League Team, where he secured first team honors. Littlejohn, who was a First-Team All-PFL selection in the previous season, showcased his prowess as one of the league's top defensive players.

Littlejohn was a defensive force for Stetson, leading the conference in interceptions with seven. He displayed his playmaking abilities by returning them for a total of 83 yards. Additionally, Littlejohn made 57 total tackles, with 34 of them being solo tackles.

The Phil Steele Preseason Pioneer League Team further recognized the talent within the Hatters' roster. Joining Meitz and Littlejohn on the preseason team is receiver Nazeviah Burris, who secured a spot on the third team. Additionally, Marshall Golick was chosen for his outstanding punting skills, earning him a place on the third team.

Burris was a key offensive weapon for the Stetson Hatters last season, tying for the second-most receptions in the PFL with an impressive 46 catches. He showcased his versatility, accumulating 618 receiving yards and securing three touchdowns. Burris displayed his explosive playmaking ability with two 100-yard games, and his longest reception covered an impressive 53 yards, making him a formidable threat on the field.

On the special teams front, Golick proved to be an asset for the Hatters as their punter. He booted the ball 46 times for a total of 1,789 yards, showing consistency and distance in his punting. His precision was evident, with 14 punts landing inside the 20-yard line. Additionally, seven of his punts went over 50 yards, contributing significantly to the team's field position battles throughout the season.

As the team takes the field for their preseason camp, the Hatters are eager to showcase their potential, unity and competitiveness in the upcoming season.

2023 Preseason Coaches' Poll:
St. Thomas (8) - 98
Davidson (2) - 92
Dayton - 75
San Diego (1) - 73
Butler - 68
Valparaiso - 52
Marist - 45
Drake - 38
Stetson - 31
Morehead State - 22
Presbyterian – 11

Preseason Accolades:
Rassie Littlejohn: Preseason All-Pioneer Football League Team, Phil Steele Preseason Pioneer League Team (First Team)
Brady Meitz: Phil Steele Preseason Pioneer League Team (Second Team)
Nazeviah Burris: Phil Steele Preseason Pioneer League Team (Third Team)
Marshall Golick: Phil Steele Preseason Pioneer League Team (Third Team)

About Stetson University Athletics: Stetson University's Athletics Program is driven by a shared purpose. It is what inspires, motivates and binds us together. More than a task, a reason for being. THE HATTER PURPOSE is to create and provide an experience of a lifetime through teamwork and relationships to achieve excellence. This purpose is achieved through five Core Values: Communication, Integrity, Excellence, Value People and Commitment. To learn more about the HATS program and our Core Values, visit GoHatters.com/HATS.

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