Holy Cross football head coach Bob Chesney has been named a finalist for the Eddie Robinson Award, presented to the national coach of the year in college football's Division I subdivision, while junior linebacker Jacob Dobbs has been named a finalist for the Buck Buchanan Award, presented to the national defensive player of the year in FCS.

Chesney led the Crusaders to their third consecutive Patriot League Championship and FCS playoff berth during the 2021 season, including earning the opportunity for Holy Cross to host their first home playoff game in 38 years. Holy Cross finished the regular season with a 9-2 record and an undefeated 6-0 record in conference play — completing a full conference slate undefeated for the first time since the 1991 season; the six conference wins are the most in program history. The Crusaders have won 11 straight games in conference play. In non-league play, Holy Cross posted a win over an FBS foe in the University of Connecticut, along with victories at Yale and Monmouth.

Dobbs paced one of the top defenses in all of FCS this season, ranking in the top 10 in FCS with 10.2 total tackles per game. This year, he has recorded 112 total tackles, 15.0 tackles for loss and eight sacks, along with six quarterback hurries and three pass breakups. He ranks fourth among all active FCS players in career solo tackles per game (5.11) and eighth in career total tackles per game (8.79). 

Chesney is one of 17 finalists for the Robinson Award. Named for the legendary coach of Grambling State and first presented in 1987, the Robinson Award is celebrating its 35th anniversary season. A 50-member, national media panel will select the winner, who will be announced on Dec. 14.

Dobbs is one of 25 finalists for the Buchanan Award. Now in its 27th season, the Buchanan Award is named for the legendary Hall of Fame defensive lineman. Past recipients include two-time winner Dexter Coakley, Rashean Mathis and Jared Allen. A 50-member, national media panel will select the winner, who will be announced on Jan. 7 in Frisco, Texas – the eve of the FCS championship game.

Holy Cross will host Sacred Heart in the first round of the FCS playoffs on Saturday, Nov. 27. Kickoff is set for noon at Fitton Field.