Marcus Atkinson, a 6-1, 220-pounder from Boise, Idaho, was a four-year starter for the Hilltoppers at linebacker, from 2000-03.
After posting 59 tackles and an interception as a sophomore in 2001, the next year he amassed 131 tackles, while achieving three quarterback sacks and intercepting one pass, and was selected first team all-conference.
In the 2002 postseason playoffs, Atkinson earned the defensive MVP award of the 35-31 quarterfinal win over Southern Oregon, leading the Saints with 12 tackles against the Raiders.
In the semis, he tied for the team lead with seven tackles, in a 20-17 win over Sioux Falls.
When Carroll captured the first national championship in school history, a 28-7 win over Georgetown, Atkinson was part of a defense that limited the Tigers to 198 total yards.
His senior season, Atkinson was selected the Frontier Defensive MVP, and a second team NAIA All-American. Voted a team captain, he led the Saints with 142 tackles, produced eight tackles for loss and five sacks and pirated one interception.
Carroll rolled into the 2003 national championship game with a defense that had allowed just 56 points in its last seven games — the last four of the regular season and three in the playoffs – an average of 8 points per game.
In the 38-14 semifinal triumph over St. Francis, Atkinson speared 12 tackles and was tabbed the game’s defensive MVP.
The Saints then whipped Northwestern Oklahoma 41-28 to retain their national crown and finish a perfect 15-0.
Coach Van Diest told the IR in 2003 that Atkinson was one of the smartest football players he’s been around.
“Marcus listens and he takes notes. He is what a linebacker has to be — the quarterback of the defense,” Van Diest said. “The defense looks to him. When Marcus is out there, they know who the leader is on defense.”
