Mercer’s Lamb Named Finalist for Robinson Award as Top FCS Coach

PHILADELPHIA – In recognition of leading the Mercer University football team to the brink of NCAA history, head coach Bobby Lamb has been named one of 21 finalists for the Eddie Robinson Award as the nation’s top FCS coach.

In the process of building a program from the ground up, Lamb has turned Mercer football into a household name overnight. The Bears will have the chance to set the NCAA’s all-time record for wins by a first-year program this Saturday, playing host to Stetson with a 10-win season on the line.

“It is a great honor to be considered for the Eddie Robinson Award,” said Lamb. “This is a true team award and being mentioned as a finalist speaks to the tremendous dedication of our players, staff and the program as a whole.”

Starting 19 freshmen and three sophomores, Mercer raced out to a 9-1 start and was one of eight teams at the FCS level with one loss or less heading into the final two weeks of the season.

The Bears were picked 11th out of 12 teams in the Pioneer Football League and can wrap up a third place finish Saturday, trailing only co-champions Marist and Butler.

Lamb’s 9-1 start with 97 freshmen and six sophomores marked the best start in his 10-year coaching career that features four FCS playoff appearances, including spots in the National quarterfinals and semifinals.

Mercer ranks No. 5 in the country in rushing yards per game, No. 5 in red zone offense, No. 6 in 4th down conversion percentage and No. 13 in points per game at 38.0.

The Bears are one of three Division I programs with a perfect 7-0 record at home, joining Auburn and Sam Houston State for the most FCS or FBS wins at home in 2013.

Voting will be conducted by a nationwide panel of sports information and media directors, broadcasters, writers and other dignitaries with the winner being announced at The Sports Network FCS Awards Banquet and Presentation to be held Dec. 16 in Philadelphia.