Carroll College Athletics

A Helena Central High/Helena High product, Ed “Bags” Robinson was a 2-time Class AA All-State football player for the Bengals, and a key member of HHS’ 1971 State basketball championship. He was part of three more titles with Carroll as well – Frontier grid crowns from 1972-74 – while earning All-Conference selections (second team as a sophomore, first team the next two years) at offensive tackle each year. 

A model of hard work and durability, Robinson broke into the starting lineup his very first game on the Hilltop, and for the remainder of his career he did not miss a start. In 1973, Carroll achieved the third undefeated season (7-0) in program history, and the first in 32 years. They were ranked No. 7 in the nation, but at that time the NAIA only took the top 4 into the playoffs. 

Consistently among the team’s top blockers, Bags’ senior year, after the 27-7 win over Eastern and a 316-yard rushing game by the Saints, coach Bob Petrino said that Robinson, graded the highest of any Carroll lineman during his four years as skipper. The Saints offense finished the season averaging 250 rushing per game, with a high of 378 vs. Rocky Mountain College. Robinson, a 6’3”, 225-pounder, also served as the Hilltop gridders’ long snapper on every single punt for all four years.