Marian Catholic graduate Ryan Karnish has played a key role in helping the MIT football team achieve its first undefeated season since a 3-0 mark in 1881.

After playing two games as a freshman, Karnish, a mechanical engineering major, has played in all 10 of the Engineers' contests this season. The Engineers starting safety, Karnish has recorded 15 tackles, including two for a loss. He is tied for the team lead in both interceptions (two) and fumble recoveries (one).After winning its first postseason game in program history last week, a 27-20 overtime triumph over Husson University, MIT will now face Wesley College in this weekend's NCAA Division III second round playoff contest.The historic football season for MIT, which is known as one of the top academic institutions in the country, has made national headlines this season, including features by ABC News and the Wall Street Journal.