Published: July 03, 2009 11:56 pm      

Former MU lineman Evans headed to Fairmont

Assistant Sports Editor

Academics played as much, if not more, of a role as football in Josh Evans’ decision on his next destination.

Evans committed Friday to Fairmont State, about two weeks after he decided to transfer from Marshall. Evans said he likely will give his binding signature next week.

The 6-foot-4, 305-pound Fayetteville native played two seasons at Marshall. He started all 12 games for the Thundering Herd in 2007 and was named to Conference USA’s all-freshman team.

“I met with coach (Mike) Lopez today. It was good to sit down and get to know him,” Evans said. “I think we’re going to have a good shot at making a run at the (West Virginia Conference) championship. If everybody stays healthy, that is our goal.”

Evans had also been considering Football Championship Subdivision powers James Madison and Appalachian State, but academics came to the fore. Had he decided on an out-of-state school, Evans stood to lose 21 to 25 credit hours toward his degree in sports management and marketing.

As it stands, Evans is on course to wrap up his bachelor’s work in May. By staying in West Virginia, all of his hours will transfer.

Evans will report to Fairmont the first week of August and have two years of eligibility. He plans to begin work toward his master’s degree in the fall of 2010.

In addition to Evans, other local natives on the Falcons’ roster are Nick Gwinn of Woodrow Wilson, Shawn Murphy (Richwood) and Jonathan McNemar (Valley).

Fairmont finished last season with a 5-6 record.

Division I experience is no doubt attractive to Lopez, but Evans isn’t resting on the past.

“I’m just another piece of the puzzle,” he said. “Hopefully I can help bring back a conference championship.”

— E-mail: gfauber@

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