Running back Aaron Dawson was putting together a solid sophomore campaign in the first eight weeks of the season, rushing for 361 yards and six touchdowns while averaging just over seven touches a game.

But this past Saturday, Dawson was able to put together the best game of his young career, by far, where he nearly matched his season total and even cemented his name in the school and NCAA record books.

Dawson rushed for 361 total yards against conference rival Wagner, which set a new school and Northeast Conference rushing record, to go along with five rushing touchdowns, which ties a school record.

He did most of his damage in the second half, however, rushing for 308 yards in the half alone, setting a new NCAA record.

Dawson was also featured on ESPN’s “College Football Final,” where he received a famous “helmet sticker” from anchor Adnan Virk for the performance.

On this cold, rainy Saturday afternoon, a star was born.

But Dawson’s road to stardom was not always easy.

Coming out of Milford Academy in New York, Dawson only received one Division I scholarship offer, and it was from Central.

“CCSU was really the only school to give me a chance, the only school to offer me a full ride scholarship. I just took my opportunity and worked hard,” Dawson said regarding his decision to become a Blue Devil.

Even then, his decision was not always looked at as the best opportunity for him.

“People at home thought I was crazy because Central wasn’t even winning but I had faith in the team,” he said.

It turns out Dawson made the right decision and because Central did win, embarking on a miraculous run in his freshman season and won the NEC for the first time since 2010.

His contributions to the title run were light, though, mainly playing special teams and only getting eight rushing attempts the whole year.

“We didn’t think he’d be this good, quite honestly,” head coach Pete Rossomando said earlier in the season when asked about the young, up and coming back.

“He really surprised us with a great summer camp and he’s earned his touches,” he continued.

Dawson had been a steady force all season before his breakout game, making good on all of his touches.

“It’s been a lot of hard work, and now getting the chance and just capitalizing on it. I wasn’t always high in the rotation, but I just kept working, and I’m getting my time now and I just thank god and everyone who’s been supporting me.” Dawson said.

He has emerged as the team’s leading rusher with 725 rushing yards and 11 touchdowns with multiple games left on the schedule for him to add to his totals.

For opposing defenses, who are looking to face Dawson after his bye week, and beyond to next year, be wary, as the downhill, bruising back can only get better.

“I’m more of a downhill runner,” said the 5-foot-10-inch 220-pound running back.“But I’m working on my speed and explosion going forward.”

And that should be a very scary sight for opposing defenses, as Aaron Dawson has arrived, and he is here to stay.