STONY BROOK, N.Y. — Stony Brook University football stars Roland Dempster and Rushawn Lawrence have added to their impressive resumes, earning All-ECAC honors for the 2024 season, as announced earlier today by the organization.

Dempster, the first four-time All-American since Miguel Maysonet in 2012, delivered a season for the record books. The standout running back garnered All-American recognition from Associated Press, Stats Perform, Phil Steele, and FCS Central, and was named a finalist for the Walter Payton Award, often referred to as the "Heisman of the FCS."

With 1,332 rushing yards on 268 carries and 18 rushing touchdowns (19 total), Dempster achieved career highs and secured his place in Seawolves history. His 2024 performance ranks fourth in single-season rushing yards, second in rushing touchdowns, and third in total touchdowns in program history. Nationally, Dempster finished third in total touchdowns among FCS players and second in the Colonial Athletic Association (CAA). He also led the CAA in total rushing yards and rushing yards per game, placing in the top five nationally in both categories.

Dempster's contributions powered a remarkable offensive resurgence for the Seawolves, increasing the team's scoring average from 15.2 points per game in 2023 to 29.6 in 2024. The offense also saw gains in total yards per game (314.2 to 403.9) and rushing yards per game (104.1 to 170.3).

On the defensive side, Lawrence earned his first and second career All-American honors, with selections to the Stats Perform and FCS Central All-American teams. The First Team All-CAA defensive lineman recorded 8.0 sacks and 11.5 tackles for loss, leading the team in both categories and finishing fourth in the CAA in sacks. He also set personal bests in tackles (42), interceptions (1), forced fumbles (2), and pass deflections (2).

Lawrence's impact extended beyond his stats, driving a defensive transformation for the Seawolves. Under his leadership, the team slashed opponents' scoring average from 39.2 points per game in 2023 to 24.0 in 2024. The defense also reduced total yards allowed from 470.7 to 373.5 per game and cut total touchdowns allowed from 53 to 32. 

To purchase season tickets, call 631-632-WOLF (9653) or email the ticket office at seawolvestickets@stonybrook.edu.

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