Jake Fleming’s Stellar Performance Highlights Marist Victory

Junior quarterback Jake Fleming is thriving in his role for Marist, a place he’s long felt he belonged. His confidence as a quarterback took root in childhood. “I’ve known since I was a kid that being the quarterback is my goal,” Fleming shared. “I’m working every day to be the starter, and my past experiences have certainly helped.”

Fleming’s skills were evident Saturday in Chicago, as he achieved 259 passing yards and three touchdowns, driving Marist’s RedHawks to a 44-28 win over Simeon. Tommy Hosty, a senior star, contributed two rushing touchdowns and facilitated another with an interception. Senior running back Conor Hunt delivered 136 yards on 28 carries and caught a 33-yard touchdown pass.

A prominent connection on the field was between Jake and his brother, sophomore receiver Conor Fleming. Conor caught five passes totaling 74 yards and scored two touchdowns. Jake’s throw in the second quarter allowed Conor to transform it into a 30-yard touchdown reception, marking the first career score for both players. Later, Jake’s final pass secured a 22-yard touchdown to Conor in the fourth quarter.

“It was amazing,” Conor said. “Since childhood, we’ve practiced together, and today it made a difference. From fourth and fifth grade, we’ve been strengthening that bond.”

The Flemings have a deep connection to Marist; their father, Pat, is the athletic director and former football assistant coach. Marist coach Mike Fitzgerald, who first encountered Jake during previous tenures at Marist, expressed admiration for Jake’s growth. “He’s a very cerebral kid, grasping information quickly and making real-time adjustments,” Fitzgerald noted. “He possesses all the key intangible traits of a quarterback, truly in his element.”

In the nonconference game against Simeon on August 22, 2026, Jake Fleming completed 12 of 17 passes for 259 yards, along with an interception, and added 41 rushing yards on four carries. Prior to this, he’d never thrown a varsity pass. “This program is part of who I am,” Jake said. “Winning and contributing here is my ambition. The offensive line excelled in supporting my play.”

Jake emphasized that his family ties offered no advantage. “I wasn’t guaranteed any position,” Jake stated. “My father’s role hasn’t pressured me; I’ve earned my place. Leadership is my strong suit, and my offensive knowledge helps in making decisive throws.”

Both Fleming brothers are supportive on and off the field. Conor was quick to reassure Jake following his interception in the second quarter. “We critique each other, especially when things don’t go right,” Jake explained. “We share a competitive spirit, and I’m glad he’s part of our team. I trusted he’d make the play.”