Dante Vigil Earned RMAC Player of the Week Honors
The Colorado Mesa linebacker has secured 36 total tackles through three games this season.
Updated on Sept. 19, 2026 in Football
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Colorado Mesa linebacker Dante Vigil has been named the RMAC Defensive Player of the Week following a standout performance. His leadership on the field has been instrumental in the Mavericks' recent success.
Why it matters
Vigil has taken on a larger defensive role for the Mavericks following an offseason knee injury to teammate George Soppe. He currently prioritizes team defensive positioning and communication to help lead the squad.
Vigil recorded 36 total tackles across three games this season, including a 17-tackle performance against South Dakota Mines. He has also contributed three tackles for a loss and one sack.
The players
Dante Vigil
He is the starting linebacker for Colorado Mesa University who currently leads the team in tackles.
George Soppe
He is a Colorado Mesa player who was sidelined by a knee injury during the offseason.
The details
Vigil identifies opposing offensive plays and adjusts defensive alignments to anchor the team. His performance against Eastern New Mexico on September 5, 2026, included 12 tackles and one sack in the 42-23 victory.
Timeline
August 27, 2026: Colorado Mesa played Minnesota State.
September 5, 2026: Colorado Mesa defeated Eastern New Mexico.
September 14, 2026: Vigil received RMAC Defensive Player of the Week honors.
September 19, 2026: Colorado Mesa plays Western Colorado at 6 p.m.
Season Trajectory
Vigil's emergence as a defensive anchor significantly impacts the Mavericks' ability to compete within the RMAC this season. His presence stabilizes the roster following significant injuries and dictates the team's defensive ceiling heading into their game against Western Colorado.
Vigil's recent 17-tackle game serves as a primary indicator for fantasy football projections and defensive stat tracking within the conference. His ability to anchor the unit directly influences the team's point-spread viability in upcoming matchups.
The takeaway
Vigil's successful transition into a lead role demonstrates the importance of adaptability and preparation in college athletics. His focus on team communication suggests a structured approach that emphasizes collective defensive success over individual highlights.
What happens next
Colorado Mesa is scheduled to host Western Colorado at Stocker Stadium on September 19, 2026, at 6 p.m.
Further reading
For more updates on local collegiate teams, visit the Football section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by The Grand Junction Daily Sentinel.
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