As the clock struck noon on Selection Sunday, football fans across the nation eagerly tuned in to witness the unveiling of the 2023 FCS playoff bracket. The anticipation reached its peak as the NCAA Division I Football Championship Committee revealed the field of 24 teams competing for the prestigious title.

Two teams from North Carolina, Gardner-Webb and North Carolina Central, found themselves among the chosen few. For the Gardner-Webb Runnin' Bulldogs, it was a testament to their resilience throughout a challenging season. Despite facing one of the toughest nonconference schedules in FCS football, the Runnin' Bulldogs secured significant victories against Elon and #13 UT Martin. They stumbled along the way, facing tough losses to FBS Appalachian State and fellow playoff team Austin Peay. However, as conference play unfolded, Gardner-Webb turned the tide, finishing strong with a 5-1 record and clinching the conference championship for the second consecutive year.

On the opposite end of the spectrum, the North Carolina Central University Eagles soared into the playoffs on the wings of an impressive season. Fresh off winning the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference and the HBCU national championship, the Eagles showcased their strength in a schedule that included marquee matchups against UCLA and a trip to the Circle City Classic in Indianapolis. Victories against South Carolina State and Norfolk State highlighted their success, while a challenging loss to Howard kept them out of the Celebration Bowl for a second year in a row but opened the door to the FCS playoffs.

As the bracket unfolded, fans marveled at the matchups that would define the road to the national championship in Frisco, Texas. Gardner-Webb was slated to face Mercer in the first round, a game that promised intensity and excitement. Meanwhile, NC Central prepared for a showdown with Richmond, setting the stage for a clash between two formidable opponents. Both North Carolina teams will play away from home for the first round of the playoffs with a win putting each team on the road at one of the top eight national seeds.

Top 8 seeds

1. South Dakota State
2. Montana
3. South Dakota
4. Idaho
5. Albany
6. Montana State
7. Furman
8. Villanova

The playoff journey begins on Thanksgiving weekend on ESPN+, with the first-round matchups set to captivate audiences across the nation. 

ELON – In a commanding performance, the Elon football team showcased their offensive prowess and defensive prowess, securing a decisive victory over Hampton in a game marked by explosive plays and defensive turnovers.

The first quarter set the tone for Elon's dominance as quarterback Matthew Downing orchestrated two impressive touchdown passes. The first, a 33-yard connection to Jamarien Dalton, occurred just 19 seconds into the game, with Jack Berkowitz converting the extra point. Elon quickly followed up with another Downing pass, this time a 60-yard bomb to Chandler Brayboy, extending their lead to 14-0.

Hampton responded with a scoring drive of their own, as Chris Zellous connected with Paul Woods for a 43-yard touchdown pass, narrowing the gap to 14-7 by the end of the opening quarter.

The second quarter witnessed Elon's continued offensive onslaught. Downing, displaying precision in his passes, linked up with Christian Da-Silva for a 33-yard touchdown, further extending the lead to 21-7. The Elon defense then made a significant impact, with Bo Sanders intercepting a pass and returning it 34 yards for a touchdown. Marco Patierno added to the defensive heroics with a 23-yard fumble recovery for a touchdown, pushing Elon's lead to a commanding 34-7.

As the second quarter unfolded, Elon continued to capitalize on Hampton's defensive lapses, with Jack Berkowitz adding three more points to the board through a 39-yard field goal. The offensive onslaught continued just before halftime, as Downing connected with Johncarlos Miller II for a 53-yard touchdown, concluding the first half with Elon leading 44-7.

Despite Hampton's efforts to mount a comeback in the third quarter, Chris Zellous's 2-yard rushing touchdown brought the score to 44-14. However, Elon remained in control, ensuring a substantial lead heading into the final quarter.

In the fourth quarter, Elon sealed their dominant performance with Wayne Dixie III's 27-yard touchdown run, capping a 51-14 victory. The play was part of a seven-play, 89-yard drive that showcased Elon's offensive versatility.

Elon finishes the season with a 6-5 overall record and 6-2 in the CAA.

HICKORY – In a historic performance, quarterback Sean White led the Lenoir-Rhyne Bears to a resounding victory over the Shepherd Rams in the opening round of the NCAA Playoffs. White’s stellar performance saw him amass 398 passing yards, breaking a 104-year program record and surpassing the previous mark set by Brian Bryson in 1987. White’s impressive stat line included 25 completions on 31 attempts, five passing touchdowns, and two rushing touchdowns.

The Bears dominated the game, securing a decisive 63-17 victory over Shepherd at Moretz Stadium in Hickory. With this win, Lenoir-Rhyne advanced to an 11-1 overall record, while Shepherd concluded their season at 9-3.

Key moments from the matchup included White’s flawless opening drive, where he went 10-for-10 for 65 yards, setting the tone for the game. The Bears displayed offensive prowess, recording six passing touchdowns – a feat achieved for the second consecutive game and a historic first in the program’s history.

The game statistics tell the tale of Lenoir-Rhyne’s dominance. White’s 405 total yards of offense broke an NCAA era program record, and the team registered a remarkable 617 total yards, with 461 yards coming through the air. The Bears showcased balance on offense, limiting the Rams to just 94 rushing yards on 32 attempts.

Individual performances highlighted Dwayne McGee’s 96 rushing yards on 16 carries, while Songa Yates continued his impressive form with six receptions for 141 yards, contributing to his back-to-back 100-yard games and five touchdowns over the past two weeks. Defensively, Jon Ross Maye recorded seven tackles and an interception, while Andre Jefferson contributed four tackles and two sacks.

Beyond the box score, the Bears set several records, including 461 passing yards, an 80 percent completion rate, and 8.9 yards per play – the second-highest in the NCAA Era. Jake Brown tied a record with nine made extra points, and Lenoir-Rhyne’s 617 total yards ranked as the sixth most in a single game in the NCAA Era.

Lenoir-Rhyne’s head coach, Mike Jacobs, secured his first win against Shepherd in three attempts and notched his fifth career playoff victory. Looking ahead, the Bears will face Super Region 2’s top seed, Benedict, next Saturday in Columbia, S.C., with kickoff scheduled for 1 p.m. As they continue their playoff journey, Lenoir-Rhyne aims to build on the momentum of their record-breaking performance and extend their success in the postseason.

ANNAPOLIS, MD – East Carolina’s football woes continued as they dropped to a 2-9 overall record and 2-4 in Annapolis, suffering a 10-0 defeat at the hands of Navy. The loss concluded the ECU’s road schedule for the season, with the Pirates finishing 1-5 away from home.

In a challenging offensive outing, ECU failed to score for the first time since October 4, 1997, when they suffered a 56-0 loss to Syracuse, ending a remarkable streak of 322 consecutive games with points on the board. The Pirates managed only 189 yards of total offense, including a season-low 34 rushing yards, highlighting the struggles on that side of the ball.

Despite the offensive difficulties, East Carolina’s defense showcased its resilience by holding Navy to 10 points. This marked the fourth time this season that the Pirates limited an opponent to 13 points or less. 

In individual player performances, quarterback Alex Flinn faced immense pressure from Navy’s defense but completed a career-high 24 of 38 pass attempts for 155 yards. However, he failed to secure any touchdowns and threw two interceptions. Flinn also led the team in rushing with 31 yards on 12 carries.

Chase Sowell emerged as a bright spot for the receiving corps, totaling 62 yards on 11 catches. On the defensive side, Teylor Jackson recorded his first career forced fumble, while Jason Shuford achieved his first career fumble recovery. BJ Davis stood out with a team-high 10 tackles, reaching double figures for the second consecutive week.

Looking ahead to their final game of the 2023 season, East Carolina is set to face Tulsa in an American Athletic Conference matchup on Saturday, November 25. Kickoff is scheduled for 2 p.m., and the game will be streamed live via ESPN+.

As the Pirates prepare to conclude their season, Coach Mike Houston remains focused on ending on a positive note against Tulsa, stating, “We have a chance to finish things off on a positive note with a win at home next week against a very talented Tulsa team."

HARRISONBURG, VA – In a stunning upset, Appalachian State secured a hard-fought 26-23 overtime victory against the previously unbeaten and 18th-ranked James Madison University. The sold-out crowd at Bridgeforth Stadium witnessed a nail-biting showdown that unfolded as a slugfest of a conference showdown.

The game’s defining moment came in overtime when App State’s quarterback, Joey Aguilar, connected with Kaedin Robinson for an 8-yard touchdown pass. Robinson’s remarkable effort, breaking tackles and reaching the end zone, secured the Mountaineers’ triumph. The celebration ensued, but a tense review confirmed Robinson’s touchdown, avoiding a potential touchback and sealing the victory for App State.

To stay in contention for a Sun Belt Championship Game berth, the Mountaineers (7-4, 5-2) must defeat Georgia Southern in their next game and rely on James Madison (10-1) to bounce back with a win against Coastal Carolina.

App State showcased resilience, withstanding a late rally from the Dukes, who erased a 12-point deficit in the fourth quarter to tie the game. James Madison’s late-game heroics included a successful two-point pass to force overtime.

The Mountaineers’ defense played a crucial role, with Nate Johnson and Michael Fletcher each recording two sacks. Thomas Davis’ forced fumble and Ethan Johnson’s interception in the second quarter contributed to App State’s halftime lead of 10-5.

The second half featured defensive prowess from both teams, with red-zone field goals and strategic plays. App State’s Kevin Abrams-Verwayne added a key sack, and the Mountaineers’ defense forced turnovers to close out the first half.

App State’s offense, led by Aguilar, showcased its prowess with a 13-play, 80-yard touchdown drive, extending their lead to 17-5. James Madison responded with a 15-play, 76-yard touchdown drive, bringing the score to 17-12. App State’s subsequent 11-play, 70-yard march, highlighted by Aguilar’s crucial pass to Eli Wilson, ended with a field goal, securing an 8-point advantage.

This victory marked a significant turnaround for App State, breaking a streak of five straight overtime losses and nine out of their last ten.

The Mountaineers’ head coach, Shawn Clark, improved to 3-2 in his last five games against ranked opponents. As the Mountaineers look ahead to their next challenge, fans eagerly await the culmination of an unpredictable and thrilling football season.

GREENSBORO – The Campbell Camels and North Carolina A&T Aggies finished their first season in the Coastal Athletic Association with a matchup in Greensboro on Saturday afternoon. The Camels jumped out to a 28-0 lead before holding on to defeat the Aggies, 28-14. With the win, the Camels finish .500 in conference play in their first season in the CAA while the Aggies finished winless in the CAA.

How it Happened

The game kicked off with the Campbell Camels taking an early lead in the first quarter. Jalen Kelsey made a 10-yard touchdown pass from Hajj-Malik Williams, followed by a successful PAT kick by Williams. Shortly after, Tai Goode scored another touchdown for the Camels, catching a 9-yard pass from Williams, with another successful PAT kick by Williams.

In the second quarter, the Camels extended their lead with Hajj-Malik Williams catching a 24-yard touchdown pass from Brandon Fitez, followed by a successful PAT kick by Caleb Dowden. Lamagea McDowell also rushed for a 1-yard touchdown, with another successful PAT kick by Dowden. However, the Aggies fought back with Eli Brickhandler rushing for a 1-yard touchdown, followed by a successful PAT kick by Owen Daffer. In the fourth quarter, Wesley Graves scored a 3-yard touchdown pass from Alston Hooker, with another successful PAT kick by Daffer, making the final score 28-14 in favor of the Campbell Camels.

On the Ground

The Campbell Camels' rushing attack was led by Lamagea McDowell who rushed for 70 yards on 14 carries, scoring one touchdown. NaQuari Rogers also contributed significantly with 64 yards on 13 carries. The team had a total of 187 rushing yards. On the other side, the Aggies' rushing game was spearheaded by Shimique Blizzard who rushed for 79 yards on 15 carries. Eli Brickhandler and Wesley Graves also made notable contributions with 27 and 26 yards respectively. The Aggies ended the game with a total of 142 rushing yards.

Through the Air

In the passing game, Hajj-Malik Williams of the Campbell Camels completed 15 out of 20 passes for a total of 188 yards, throwing two touchdowns. Brandon Fitez also completed a pass for 24 yards and a touchdown. Jalen Kelsey was the standout receiver for the Campbell Camels with 39 yards and a touchdown from 4 receptions. VJ Wilkins also had a good game with 71 yards from 3 receptions. For the Aggies, Alston Hooker completed 11 out of 15 passes for a total of 159 yards, throwing one touchdown. Eli Brickhandler also contributed with 16 yards from 5 completed passes. Amonte Jones led the receiving game with 49 yards from 4 receptions. Ger-Cari Caldwell and Damond Harmon also made significant contributions with 52 and 31 yards respectively.

Defensive Standouts

The Campbell Camels' defense was led by CJ Tillman, who had 10 total tackles, including 5 solo and 5 assisted. He also had 0.5 sacks for a loss of 4 yards. Monchovia Gaffney and Trevon Booker also made significant contributions with 6 total tackles each. The team had a total of 3 sacks for a loss of 20 yards and 1 forced fumble. On the other side, the North Carolina A&T Aggies' defense mirrored the Camels' stats. CJ Tillman led the Aggies' defense with 10 total tackles, including 5 solo and 5 assisted, and 0.5 sacks for a loss of 4 yards. Monchovia Gaffney and Trevon Booker each contributed 6 total tackles. The Aggies' defense also had 3 sacks for a loss of 20 yards and 1 forced fumble. Both teams showcased their defensive strengths in the game, contributing to the intense competition on the field.

In a highly anticipated college football matchup, the Appalachian State Mountaineers, riding a triumphant three-game winning streak, are set to face the undefeated James Madison Dukes. This clash is not just another game; it's a chance for App State to make a statement on the grand stage of ESPN's College GameDay, featuring the Mountaineers for the second consecutive season. After last year’s broadcast, Boone erupted as the Mountaineers defeated Troy on a last-minute Hail Mary, but the euphoria was short-lived as JMU handed App State a 32-28 defeat the following week. Memories of that loss linger as the Mountaineers aim to rewrite history on the turf of Bridgeforth Stadium. The Mountaineers have historically been a thorn in the side of AP Top 25 teams with seven of the Mountaineers’ last eight games against ranked teams ending in one-score games. App State is 2-2 in their last four games against the AP Top 25

Quarterback Joey Aguilar, thrust into the spotlight after replacing the injured Ryan Burger, has been a revelation. With 26 touchdown passes in 10 games, Aguilar ranks among the best in the Sun Belt and the Group of Five. His ability to lead the offense will be crucial against a formidable JMU defense. Running back Nate Noel, despite battling an injury, achieved a milestone by surpassing 3,000 career rushing yards. His explosive plays, exemplified by a 61-yard touchdown run against Georgia State, make him a key offensive weapon for the Mountaineers. Defensively, App State has shown resilience, limiting opponents in recent victories over Marshall and Georgia State. The Mountaineers aim to build on this momentum, ensuring that their 2023 losses, all decided in the closing seconds, become a thing of the past.

Campbell vs. North Carolina A&T: As the 2023 college football season reaches its conclusion, the Campbell Fighting Camels (4-6, 3-4 CAA) gear up for their final showdown against North Carolina A&T (1-9, 0-7 CAA) at Truist Stadium in Greensboro, N.C., with kickoff slated for 1:00 p.m. As Campbell concludes its inaugural CAA season, the team finds itself on the brink of making history. With a chance to secure a fourth victory in conference play, the Fighting Camels aim to join the ranks of Old Dominion, the only other program to achieve this feat in their first CAA season back in 2011. The team's current 3-4 record in the conference is a testament to their competitive spirit. Quarterback Hajj-Malik Williams, a standout performer, enters the final game of his Fighting Camel career as the program's all-time leader in passing yards, passing touchdowns, and completions. Williams, completing 71% of his passes, has orchestrated the offense with 243.4 passing yards per game and 17 touchdowns. His connection with a diverse group of 17 receivers has been a key feature of the Campbell offensive arsenal. North Carolina A&T, also in its inaugural CAA season, enters the finale on a six-game losing streak. Despite a challenging season, the Aggies showcase talent in running back Kenji Christian, who leads the team with 709 rushing yards and six touchdowns, and linebacker BJ Turner, who boasts 85 tackles, including 12 for loss.

NC State vs Virginia Tech: The upcoming clash between the NC State Wolfpack and the Virginia Tech Hokies, marking the 52nd meeting in a historic rivalry dating back 123 years, is steeped in tradition and significance. With only seven matchups since Virginia Tech joined the ACC in 2004, the Wolfpack aims to build on their recent victory. Notable connections, including current Wolfpack assistant coaches Brian Mitchell and Charley Wiles with extensive tenures at Virginia Tech, add intrigue. Quarterback Brennan Armstrong, familiar with the Hokies from his time at Virginia, brings a dynamic element to the contest. Defensive strength, highlighted by Virginia Tech's Sacksburg reputation and NC State's resilience, sets the stage for an intense battle. As both teams vie for supremacy in the ACC, this matchup promises gridiron excitement and the continuation of a college football saga.

CHAPEL HILL – Drake Maye’s quarterback keeper for a touchdown and successful two-point conversion pass made the difference as the #24 North Carolina Tar Heels defeated the visiting Duke Blue Devils in 2OT on Saturday night at Kenan Stadium. The Blue Devils had a chance to tie the game after Grayson Loftis hit Jordan Moore for a touchdown in the overtime period, but the two-point conversion pass was overthrown, and the Tar Heels faithful rushed the field in celebration of a big win over their rivals from Durham.

How it Happened:

The game kicked off with the North Carolina Tar Heels taking an early lead in the first quarter, with Drake Maye rushing for a touchdown and Noah Burnette adding a field goal. The Tar Heels continued their momentum into the second quarter with another field goal from Burnette. However, the Duke Blue Devils responded with a touchdown pass from Grayson Loftis to Jordan Moore and a rushing touchdown from Loftis himself, taking a brief lead. The Tar Heels managed to regain the lead just before halftime with another field goal from Burnette.

In the second half, the Tar Heels extended their lead with another field goal from Burnette in the third quarter. The fourth quarter saw a back-and-forth battle, with the Blue Devils’ Jordan Waters rushing for two touchdowns and the Tar Heels’ Omarion Hampton and Bryson Nesbit each scoring a touchdown. The Tar Heels managed to tie the game at the end of regulation with a field goal from Burnette. In overtime, both teams scored a field goal in the first round. In the second round, the Tar Heels scored a touchdown thanks to a rush from Maye, but the Blue Devils could only manage a touchdown, giving the Tar Heels a 47-45 victory.

Offensive Showdown:

The offensive prowess of both teams was on full display, with the Tar Heels amassing 537 total yards compared to Duke’s 379. North Carolina’s quarterback, Drake Maye, played a pivotal role, completing 28 of 43 passes for 342 yards and one touchdown. Maye also demonstrated his versatility with two rushing touchdowns, contributing significantly to the Tar Heels’ offensive strategy.

Maye’s favorite targets included Devontez Walker, who racked up an impressive 162 receiving yards, and Bryson Nesbit, who secured a touchdown with a 15-yard reception. On the rushing front, Omarion Hampton led the Tar Heels with 169 yards and a crucial touchdown, showcasing the team’s multifaceted offensive approach.

Duke’s Grayson Loftis answered with a solid performance, completing 16 of 28 passes for 189 yards and three touchdowns. Jordan Moore was Loftis’s go-to receiver, notching three touchdown receptions and accumulating 88 receiving yards. Jordan Waters contributed significantly on the ground for Duke with two rushing touchdowns.

Defensive Struggles and Triumphs:

While the game was marked by offensive fireworks, both teams faced challenges on the defensive end. North Carolina’s Cedric Gray and Don Chapman made significant impacts, with Chapman registering a sack and Gray contributing 11 total tackles. The Tar Heels’ defense managed three sacks and six tackles for loss, disrupting Duke’s offensive rhythm at crucial moments.

Duke’s Tre Freeman led the defensive efforts with 14 total tackles, a sack, and 1.5 tackles for loss. Despite the defensive challenges, the Blue Devils’ Chandler Rivers made a critical interception, giving the ball back to the Blue Devils in the red zone and leading to Duke’s second touchdown.

The Takeaway:

North Carolina’s hopes of making the ACC title game are still alive with this win. The Tar Heels (8-2, 4-2) are a game behind Louisville with two weeks left to go in the regular season, but the road to Charlotte will be difficult with road matchups against Clemson and NC State left on the docket. Duke (6-4, 3-3) stays on the road next week at Virginia before returning home to face Pitt in the regular season finale.

GREENEVILLE, TN – No. 13/15 Lenoir-Rhyne showcased an impressive performance in the SAC Championship, claiming a dominating victory over Tusculum with a score of 48-7. The Bears, led by quarterback Sean White, left an indelible mark on the game with an exceptional offensive display.

White, named the game's Most Valuable Player, orchestrated the Bears' offensive prowess by completing 19-of-30 passes for 305 yards and an outstanding five touchdowns, all without committing a turnover. This remarkable feat solidified his place in Lenoir-Rhyne's history as the first passer since 1990 to achieve such a touchdown milestone in a single game.

The LR offense, collectively, set a historic record by throwing six touchdown passes, marking the most in the 104-year history of LR Football. The Bears' dominance continued on the defensive end, with Chris Brown forcing a crucial fumble on Tusculum's second play, setting the tone for LR's defensive prowess throughout the game.

Throughout the matchup, Lenoir-Rhyne's defense consistently thwarted Tusculum's attempts, allowing just one first down in the first half and limiting the Pioneers to a mere 50 total yards of offense on 26 plays. The Bears went into halftime with a commanding 20-point lead, showcasing their well-rounded performance on both ends of the field.

The second half saw the Bears extending their lead, with key plays such as Tate O'Bryan's first career touchdown grab and John Godwin's 7-yard strike contributing to LR's 48-0 lead. Songa Yates and O'Bryan continued their impressive performance, each securing two touchdowns.

Tusculum managed to salvage a touchdown late in the game, but it was not enough to overcome Lenoir-Rhyne's dominance. The final score stood at 48-7 in favor of the Bears, securing their 26th all-time conference championship in program history.

Beyond the box score, Lenoir-Rhyne outgained Tusculum 497-156, maintaining possession of the ball for an astonishing 41 minutes and 35 seconds. Yates, with his three receiving touchdowns, tied a program record, while White's 305 passing yards marked a significant milestone for the team.

With this victory, Lenoir-Rhyne clinched a spot in the NCAA Playoff field, eagerly awaiting the postseason draw on Sunday at 6 p.m. on NCAA.com. The Bears' impressive performance in the SAC Championship solidifies their status as a formidable contender as they look ahead to the challenges of the upcoming postseason.

ATLANTA, GA – In a commanding performance, the App State Mountaineers secured bowl eligibility with a resounding victory over the Georgia State Panthers with a final score of 42-14. The Mountaineers' offensive prowess was on full display, highlighted by a series of well-executed scoring plays.

The first quarter set the tone as running back Nate Noel exploded for a 61-yard rushing touchdown, propelling the Mountaineers to an early 7-0 lead. Quarterback Joey Aguilar continued the onslaught in the second quarter, connecting with wide receiver Makai Jackson for a 44-yard touchdown pass, followed by a 3-yard pass to Kaedin Robinson, bringing the score to 21-0. The third quarter saw Aguilar's precision as he unleashed a 77-yard bomb to Dalton Stroman, extending the lead to 28-0.

In the final quarter, the Mountaineers continued to dominate. Running back Anderson Castle added a 9-yard rushing touchdown, and Kanye Roberts contributed a 20-yard rushing touchdown. The Panthers managed to score two touchdowns in the fourth quarter, with Tailique Williams catching a 3-yard pass from quarterback Darren Grainger, and Robert Lewis securing a 1-yard pass.

The Mountaineers' ground game was a force to be reckoned with, led by the dynamic duo of Nate Noel and Kanye Roberts, who collectively rushed for 163 yards and two touchdowns. Quarterback Joey Aguilar showcased his passing skills, completing 14 of 21 attempts for 255 yards and three touchdowns.

Defensively, the Mountaineers were led by standout performances from linebacker Andrew Parker Jr., safety EJ Jackson, and cornerback Trenton Alan Yowe, who collectively contributed 23 tackles and one interception. The Panthers, despite a resilient effort, struggled to contain the Mountaineers' offensive onslaught.

With this victory, App State moves to 6-4 on the season with a 4-2 record in the Sun Belt Conference. The Mountaineers will take their three-game winning streak on the road next week at James Madison. ESPN’s College Gameday will broadcast from Harrisonburg next Saturday morning.

WINSTON-SALEM – In a showdown between ACC rivals, the North Carolina State Wolfpack asserted their dominance over the Wake Forest Demon Deacons in a resounding victory, triumphing 26-6 in a game that showcased their offensive prowess and defensive resilience.

How it Happened

In the first quarter, quarterback Brennan Armstrong connected with J. Gray for a 20-yard touchdown pass, setting the tone for their offensive prowess. The Wolfpack continued their scoring spree in the second quarter, with Armstrong rushing for a 1-yard touchdown and Delbert Mimms III adding another 1-yard rushing touchdown. The fourth quarter saw the Wolfpack extending their lead with a 45-yard field goal by Narveson. The Demon Deacons managed to score a touchdown late in the fourth quarter with Michael Kern throwing a 19-yard pass to Deuce Alexander. Interestingly, the Wolfpack's Jaylon Scott intercepted the Demon Deacons' two-point attempt and raced 100 yards for the defensive PAT, setting the final score at 26-6 in favor of the Wolfpack.

Offensive Showdown

The Wolfpack’s quarterback, Brennan Armstrong, had a solid performance, completing 12 of 17 passes for 111 yards and one touchdown. Armstrong also showcased his versatility on the ground, rushing for 96 yards and one touchdown on 15 attempts. Armstrong’s rushing efforts were complemented by a well-distributed ground attack featuring KC Concepcion (86 yards), Kendrick Raphael (54 yards), and Delbert Mimms III (35 yards, one touchdown). The team’s rushing unit totaled an impressive 268 yards on 50 attempts, averaging 5.4 yards per carry. In the receiving department, Julian Gray hauled in a 20-yard touchdown pass, contributing to a receiving corps that accumulated 111 yards overall. Armstrong distributed the ball effectively, with Keyon Lesane leading the receiving chart with four receptions for 27 yards.

Demon Deacons Struggle to Find Momentum

On the other side of the field, the Wake Forest Demon Deacons faced a tough challenge against the stout Wolfpack defense. Quarterback Michael Kern threw for 156 yards, completing 14 of 26 attempts, and connected with Deuce Alexander for a 19-yard touchdown pass. However, the Demon Deacons were unable to establish a consistent ground game, managing only seven rushing yards on 18 attempts.

Defensive Standouts

The defensive battle was equally intense, with both teams making notable plays. For the Wolfpack, linebacker Jaylon Scott and linebacker Payton Wilson stood out, combining for 15 tackles, two sacks, and two tackles for loss. Safety Sean Brown made a crucial interception, adding to a formidable defensive effort that held the Demon Deacons to just one touchdown. Wake Forest’s defense, led by linebacker Dylan Hazen and defensive back Chelen Garnes, showed resilience despite the challenging circumstances. Hazen recorded 14 tackles, while Garnes contributed with a sack and a tackle for loss.

Key Stats and Analysis

The game statistics reflected the Wolfpack’s dominance, as they outgained the Demon Deacons in total yards (379-163), passing yards (111-156), and rushing yards (268-7). The Wolfpack converted 5 of 14 third downs, while the Demon Deacons struggled, managing only 1 of 12.

The Takeaway

With this convincing win, the NC State Wolfpack (7-3, 4-2) improved their record and solidified their position in the competitive ACC. The team showcased a balanced offensive attack and a stingy defense, signaling their readiness for future challenges in the conference. The Demon Deacons (4-6, 1-6), on the other hand, will need to regroup and address their offensive struggles as they look to bounce back in the remaining games of the season, needing to win both games to become bowl eligible.

BUIES CREEK – Ryan O’Connor threw for four touchdowns and Khalil Dawsey picked off two passes, leading No. 8 Delaware over Campbell 45-7 on Saturday at Barker-Lane Stadium.

The Blue Hens (8-2, 6-1 CAA) stayed atop the CAA standings, dealing Campbell (4-6, 3-4 CAA) its third straight loss.

Delaware built a 21-0 first quarter lead on two O’Connor TD passes along with a 100-yard pick-6 from Dawsey. Campbell drove into Delaware territory on each of its first four possessions, but a pair of turnovers turned into 14 UD points.

O’Connor added two more touchdown tosses in the third to give the Blue Hens a 38-0 lead before Hajj-Malik Williams’ keeper put Campbell on the board.

O’Connor completed 19-of-31 passes for 246 yards, tossing one interception, with two TD throws going to Joshua Youngblood, who hauled in four catches for 53 yards, leading a Delaware offense that outgained CU 406-288. Jordan Townsend collected five catches for 92 yards and a touchdown, while Quincy Watson rushed for 40 yards on 11 carries.

Jackson Taylor and Keeno Arrington tallied eight tackles apiece on the defensive side, while Ty Davis added six tackles, including one of the Blue Hens’ six for loss on the day.

Williams paced Campbell with 161 yards on 16-of-32 passing with two interceptions, while Ezeriah Anderson posted 84 yards on six catches. Lamagea McDowell and Chris McKay, Jr. also combined for 125 rushing yards for the Camels.

Monchovia Gaffney totaled seven tackles, including a sack, while Tyus Fields picked up an interception in the loss.

Campbell will round out the regular season at North Carolina A&T on November 18.

Story courtesy of Campbell Sports Information

SALEM, VA – In a thrilling showdown for the CIAA Championship, Virginia Union took down Fayetteville State, 21-10, at Salem Stadium on Saturday afternoon. 

The first quarter set the tone for the game, with Virginia Union taking an early lead. Jada Byers led the charge with a 1-yard rushing touchdown, putting Virginia Union ahead 7-0. The extra point by Brady Myers was successful. Virginia Union continued to dominate in the second quarter, with Christian Reid adding another touchdown, extending the lead to 14-0 after Myers' successful extra point. However, Fayetteville State quickly responded with a spectacular 91-yard kickoff return by Barry Elliott, bringing the score to 14-7 after Jacob Meneses's extra point.

Fayetteville State clawed its way back into the game in the third quarter. Jacob Meneses kicked a field goal, closing the gap to 14-10. However, Virginia Union's Jada Byers showcased his skills again with a 16-yard rushing touchdown, and Myers' extra point extended their lead to 21-10, the final margin for the day.

Key Statistics:

For the Panthers, Jada Byers rushed for an impressive 135 yards and scored two touchdowns. Christian Reid threw for 64 yards and rushed for a touchdown. Reginald Vick led in receiving with 42 yards. The Virginia Union defense, led by Armonii Burden and Jabrill Norman, made crucial plays, including sacks and tackles for loss. Barry Elliott's 91-yard kickoff return gave Fayetteville State a jolt before the half. Julian Milligan contributed 28 rushing yards with Kameron King leading the Broncos in receiving with 74 yards. The Fayetteville State defense, spearheaded by Shi Gaskin and Kobe Oldfield, held Virginia Union to 6-15 on third down.

Final Thoughts:

With this victory, 2023 CIAA Coach of the Year Dr. Alvin Parker earned his first championship title, the school’s first since 2001. The Panthers and Fayetteville State await Sunday’s Division II selection show to see their playoff fate.

In what promises to be an electrifying clash, Duke and North Carolina are set to renew their age-old rivalry in the 110th meeting, with the iconic Victory Bell hanging in the balance. The game, scheduled for Saturday at 8 p.m., will be broadcast live on ACC Network, amplifying the excitement for fans eagerly anticipating this gridiron showdown. The Tar Heels hold the historical edge in the series at 64-41-4, but recent encounters between the two teams have been nothing short of nail-biting. In the last meeting on October 15, 2022, fans witnessed a thrilling spectacle as Duke and North Carolina combined for a staggering 1,078 yards and seven lead changes. The Tar Heels ultimately secured a dramatic 38-35 victory with a go-ahead touchdown just 16 seconds before the final whistle, leaving Blue Devils fans stunned. Duke’s last triumph over North Carolina dates back to November 10, 2018, a memorable day when quarterback Daniel Jones set school records en route to a 42-35 victory. The Battle for the Victory Bell traces its roots back to 1948 when North Carolina claimed possession following a 20-0 win. The concept was born from the minds of the head cheerleaders from Duke and North Carolina, Loring Jones and Norman Sper, respectively. With Jones designing the model and Sper acquiring a bell from an old railroad train, Red Lewis, Duke’s business manager, found the funds to bring the idea to life.

Duke heads into this clash as the underdog, facing its fifth nationally-ranked opponent this season. The Blue Devils are 1-3 against Top-25 foes, with all three losses coming in hard-fought battles. However, they boast a potent offense, ranking sixth in the ACC with an average of 5.84 yards per play. The team’s resilience is evident, being one of only three schools nationally with all three losses against Top-25 opponents. Leading Duke’s defensive charge is redshirt sophomore linebacker Tre Freeman, who sits sixth in the ACC with 71 tackles this season. Freeman has been a force in recent games, compiling impressive statistics over the last five outings. Senior defensive end Ryan Smith, fresh off ACC Player of the Week honors, adds depth to the Blue Devils’ defensive prowess. On the flip side, North Carolina enters the contest with momentum, having secured a victory against Campbell after two midseason losses. The Tar Heels, under the leadership of Mack Brown, have dominated recent matchups, winning the last four encounters with Duke. They’ve been formidable as a ranked team, boasting a 57-24 record under Brown. Running back Hampton has been a standout for the Tar Heels, rushing for 100 yards in four consecutive games. Last week, he reached the 1,000-yard mark in just nine games, a feat not achieved since Giovani Bernard in 2012. The Tar Heels have been prolific in the red zone, scoring 37 times in 42 drives this season.

NC State vs. Wake Forest: In a clash that transcends time, NC State and Wake Forest are set to renew their historic rivalry in the 117th meeting between the two squads, making it the longest-continuous rivalry in the ACC and the second-longest in the FBS. With NC State holding a 68-42-6 advantage in their 132 years of football history, this matchup is steeped in tradition and carries significant weight for both teams. Wolfpack head coach Dave Doeren, now the winningest coach in school history, leads a formidable squad into this contest. Linebacker Payton Wilson, a force on the field, leads the ACC in tackles and has been named the Butkus National LB of the Month. True freshman receiver KC Concepcion, a standout rookie, has made history by becoming the first true freshman in school history to achieve two 100+ yard games in a season and record six touchdown receptions. With a strong defense ranking in the top 20 nationally in multiple categories, the Wolfpack aims to extend its impressive record in Carter-Finley Stadium, having won 20 of the last 23 games at home. This matchup promises not only a battle for supremacy on the field but also a continuation of a rivalry that has withstood the test of time, dating back to the teams’ first encounter in 1895 when NC State was known as The North Carolina College of Agriculture and Mechanic Arts. The Wolfpack and the Demon Deacons are set to create yet another chapter in the storied history of the ACC’s longest-continuous rivalry.

Delaware vs. Campbell: In a thrilling culmination of their 2023 home campaign, Campbell University’s Fighting Camels (4-5, 3-3 CAA) are gearing up to face the formidable No. 8 Delaware Blue Hens (7-2, 5-1 CAA) on Saturday, November 11, at Barker-Lane Stadium. As the season nears its end, the Fighting Camels will honor Military Appreciation Day and Senior Day, recognizing 25 seniors before their last home game. Despite a challenging matchup against FBS North Carolina last week, Campbell boasts the 25th-ranked scoring offense in FCS, averaging 31.2 points per game. Quarterback Hajj-Malik Williams, with a remarkable 73.4 percent completion rate, leads a dynamic offense that includes standout receivers Jalen Kelsey and VJ Wilkins. On the defensive front, CJ Tillman and Monchovia Gaffney spearhead the efforts with 82 and 58 tackles, respectively. Facing the Blue Hens for the first time, Campbell anticipates a fierce battle against a Delaware team coming off their lone CAA loss. Delaware’s quarterback Ryan O’Connor and rusher Marcus Yarns pose significant threats, setting the stage for an intense clash that will undoubtedly shape the trajectory of both teams’ seasons. Kickoff is set for 1:00 p.m., promising an exciting spectacle for fans at Barker-Lane Stadium.

RALEIGH – In an intense college football matchup, the North Carolina State Wolfpack claimed a hard-earned victory against the Miami Hurricanes in front of a raucous crowd at Carter-Finley Stadium. In a game that showcased impressive defensive performances from both sides, NC State ultimately emerged as the victors with a final score of 20-6.

First Quarter: A Kicking Start

The game kicked off with both teams demonstrating their defensive prowess. Miami started with a promising 12-play drive but was only able to secure a field goal, courtesy of a 48-yard kick by Andres Borregales. However, NC State quickly responded with a touchdown as Jordan Poole caught a 12-yard pass from MJ Morris, followed by Brayden Narveson's successful extra point. The first quarter ended with NC State leading 7-3.

Second Quarter: Field Goals and Defensive Duels

In the second quarter, both teams relied on their kickers to add points to the scoreboard. Borregales, Miami's kicker, added another 27-yard field goal. On the other side, Brayden Narveson of NC State nailed a 39-yard field goal, bringing the score to 10-6 in favor of the Wolfpack.

NC State's Dominant Defense

The second half of the game saw NC State's defense take control. Kendrick Raphael's 31-yard run for a touchdown in the fourth quarter extended the lead to 17-6. With Miami unable to mount a successful comeback, Narveson added a 19-yard field goal to secure NC State's victory with a final score of 20-6.

Defensive Standouts

NC State's defense was instrumental in securing the win. Players like Payton Wilson, Jaylon Scott, and Devan Boykin led the charge with multiple tackles and key plays. Wilson and Boykin each recorded interceptions, further thwarting Miami's offensive efforts.

Key Statistics
-Miami managed 19 first downs compared to NC State's 12.
-The rushing game was evenly matched, with Miami gaining 119 yards and NC State gaining 108.
-Passing yards favored Miami with 173 to NC State's 123, but NC State's touchdown pass made the difference.
-The total offensive yards were 292 for Miami and 231 for NC State.
-Miami struggled on third-down conversions, going 4 of 15, while NC State was 3 of 11.
-Both teams were successful in the red zone, with Miami scoring once out of three chances and NC State capitalizing on all three of theirs.
-The game featured some remarkable defensive plays, with NC State's defense recording three interceptions and three sacks.

Next Week

NC State travels to Winston-Salem to take on Wake Forest in a 2 p.m. game set for the CW Network.

BOONE —  Appalachian State University's Kidd Brewer Stadium, fondly known as "The Rock," witnessed a historic November night game, coinciding with a decisive victory over long-time rival Marshall. Playing their first post-October night game at home against Marshall since 1996, App State secured a 31-9 win before 34,057 fans and a national NFL Network audience. This marked App State's third-largest victory in the series.

App State's quarterback, Joey Aguilar, shone with three touchdown passes, with key receptions by Michael Hetzel and Makai Jackson. App State's defense was a force to be reckoned with, intercepting three passes and securing three sacks. The game showcased App State's dominance over Marshall, with the Mountaineers improving to 5-4 overall and 3-2 in the Sun Belt Conference, while Marshall struggled with a 4-5 record and a 1-4 conference standing.

Marshall initially took the lead with a field goal, but App State came alive with three consecutive scores. Aguilar's stellar performance included 226 yards and three touchdowns. The Mountaineers outperformed Marshall, accumulating 404 total yards compared to Marshall's 243.

Despite Marshall's early lead, App State's strong offense, coupled with an exceptional defensive performance, sealed their resounding victory. Joey Aguilar's leadership and accurate passing were pivotal in this impressive win.

App State's second touchdown of the game was set up by Donovan Spellman's diving pick at the Marshall 17 after Jordan Favors had two interceptions in the fourth quarter, one of which was in the end zone. With assistance from Kevon Haigler, Spellman also recorded a sack; Trenton Alan Yowe and Shawn Collins were in charge of the other two.

Santana Hooper, EJ Jackson, a Marshall transfer, and Andrew Parker Jr. all contributed significantly to the Mountaineers' seven tackles for loss.

Next Week

App State is on the road the next two weeks at Sun Belt East Division rivals Georgia State and #25 James Madison before returning home in three weeks.

TULSA, OK – The Charlotte 49ers pulled off a stunning comeback, overtime victory Saturday afternoon on the road against the Tulsa Golden Hurricane. Walk-on quarterback Trexler Ivey led the 49ers offense back from a 17-0 deficit to secure the 49ers’ second win as a member of the American Athletic Conference.

The first quarter began with the Charlotte 49ers receiving the kickoff at their own 18-yard line. However, after an exchange of punts and a couple of turnovers on downs, it was the Tulsa Golden Hurricane who struck first. Cardell Williams, the Golden Hurricane' star running back, found the end zone twice with impressive rushes, and Chase Meyer added the extra points with successful kicks, putting Tulsa ahead 14-0.

Jairus Mack led the 49ers with 124 receiving yards Photo Credit: Sam Roberts/FreezeFrame

The 49ers didn't give up, and in the second quarter, Kyle Cunanan finally got Charlotte on the board with a 22-yard field goal. Terron Kellman later contributed a one-yard rushing touchdown to narrow the gap, making it 10-17 at halftime.

The third quarter saw Charlotte's defense and special teams stepping up their game, earning a safety after a Reid Williford blocked punt out of the back of the end zone and forcing a missed field goal attempt by the Golden Hurricane. Kyle Cunanan continued to prove himself as Charlotte's savior, drilling a 23-yard field goal to close the deficit to 15-17.

The fourth quarter was a rollercoaster of momentum and emotions for both squads. Cunanan's 49-yard field goal put Charlotte ahead, 18-17. However, Anthony Watkins responded with a one-yard rushing touchdown for the Golden Hurricane, taking back the lead at 23-18. Trexler Ivey led the 49ers on an impressive drive, connecting with Jack Hestera for an 18-yard touchdown pass, giving Charlotte a 26-23 lead. Tulsa's Chase Meyer forced overtime with a 27-yard field goal in the closing moments of regulation.

In overtime, the 49ers received the ball and wasted no time, as Trexler Ivey sneaked into the end zone for a one-yard touchdown. Kyle Cunanan's successful kick put Charlotte ahead 33-26.

Tulsa had its chance to respond, but Charlotte's Dontae Balfour intercepted a pass, sealing the breathtaking victory for the 49ers. The crowd erupted in celebration as the home team completed the comeback.

Key Players and Stats

-Trexler Ivey, Charlotte's quarterback, completed 20 of 36 passes for 277 yards and one touchdown.
-Nikhai Hill-Green led Charlotte with 11 tackles, 2.0 TFL, a forced fumble and a pass break-up.
-Terron Kellman was Charlotte's standout running back, carrying the ball 21 times for 53 yards and one rushing touchdown.
-Jairus Mack has seven catches for 124 yards.
-Jack Hestera caught 2 passes for 53 yards, including a crucial 18-yard touchdown reception.
-Kyle Cunanan's field goals were pivotal, making three of four attempts, including the game-tying 49-yarder.

Next Week

The 49ers will face Memphis at home next Saturday in an American Athletic Conference game set for 2 p.m. on ESPN+.

HICKORY – #15 Lenoir-Rhyne clinched the Piedmont Division Championship, celebrating Senior Day at Moretz Stadium with a convincing 28-7 victory over Catawba. A spirited crowd of over 7,000 witnessed this remarkable feat on Saturday, propelling the Bears to the SAC Championship, where they will face Tusculum in a rematch of the first-ever SAC Championship game from the 2020-21 COVID season.

In a matchup that showcased the Bears' dominance, Lenoir-Rhyne took an early lead, with Sean White connecting with DeAree Rogers for a 35-yard strike in the first quarter. White added to the lead with a 48-yard touchdown pass to Deondre Lester. At the close of the first half, White executed a 1-yard QB sneak, tallying three first-half touchdowns and a 21-0 advantage.

Catawba attempted a comeback in the second half, scoring a 3-yard touchdown, but the Bears responded swiftly when White threw his third touchdown pass, connecting with Malakei Sumner. The game's latter half saw solid defensive performances from both teams, with no further scoring.

Lenoir-Rhyne's defense held Catawba to 44 rushing yards on 37 attempts and just 232 total offensive yards on 70 plays. Offensively, the Bears amassed 418 yards and 228 rushing yards, averaging 6.9 yards per play. Sean White completed 15-of-23 passes for 190 yards, while Dwayne McGee exceeded 1,000 yards on the season, rushing for 96 yards.

Defensively, Jon Ross Maye tallied 14 total tackles and two pass breakups, while D.J. Taylor contributed nine tackles and three sacks. Andre Jefferson recorded four tackles, three sacks, a forced fumble, a pass breakup, and a quarterback hurry. As a team, Lenoir-Rhyne secured seven sacks.

The victory marked the 102nd all-time meeting between Lenoir-Rhyne and Catawba, with each team now having 49 wins and four ties. Notably, the Bears lost their first two fumbles of the season in the fourth quarter. Additionally, Lenoir-Rhyne's seven sacks tied for the second-highest in a single game in the NCAA era.

Lenoir-Rhyne's strong home record continued, with a 60-21 record at home since the start of the 2010 season. The game broke a streak of 16 straight quarters without allowing a touchdown at home.

Lenoir-Rhyne's victory sets the stage for the SAC Championship clash with Tusculum, scheduled for 1 p.m. in Greeneville, Tenn., after the Pioneers secured a win over Mars Hill in overtime.

In a rare Saturday night matchup, the Appalachian State Mountaineers will face off against Marshall at Kidd Brewer Stadium in Boone. The game, scheduled for 6 p.m., is generating buzz as it is believed to be the first Saturday night home game played in Boone during November or December in recent memory. The last time the Mountaineers played a Saturday night game at Kidd Brewer Stadium was in 2014, their inaugural year as an FBS member. Since then, the team has enjoyed significant success at home, boasting a remarkable 51-10 record and drawing record-breaking crowds, with 2022 seeing ten of the top 12 crowds in stadium history.

The Mountaineers' strong performance at home, coupled with an average attendance of 35,774, has cemented their reputation as a powerhouse in college football. The 2023 season has also seen quarterback Joey Aguilar shine, leading the Sun Belt Conference with 20 touchdown passes and ranking 7th nationally. This upcoming game against Marshall carries added significance as it marks the first league matchup between the two teams in Boone since 1996, a nostalgic encounter for long-time fans. The game serves as a reminder of the rich history between Appalachian State and Marshall, who were both former FCS-level Southern Conference members and only recently reunited on the field in 2020 and 2021 for nonleague games. 

Lenoir-Rhyne vs. Catawba: On Saturday, November 4, 2023, #16 Lenoir-Rhyne (8-1, 6-1 SAC) faces Catawba (4-5, 2-5 SAC) at Moretz Stadium in Hickory. For Lenoir-Rhyne, a win would secure their spot in the SAC Championship next week, thanks to their head-to-head win this season, giving them a tiebreaker over Limestone, and they also control their destiny in the Piedmont Division race. LR can also clinch a championship berth if Limestone loses against Barton. This game is significant as the Bears aim to add to their 24 overall conference championships in program history, with seven won since 2010. Additionally, it marks the 102nd all-time battle between Lenoir-Rhyne and Catawba, one of the most played and closely contested rivalries in NCAA Division II. LR has recently dominated, winning four straight games and seeking to even the all-time series, which currently stands at 49-48-4 in Catawba's favor. The rivalry between the two schools has been a historic and pivotal part of the conference's football history, often deciding championships in their final regular-season game, although this tradition has changed with the introduction of the SAC Championship game after the regular season.

WINGATE – In a thrilling South Atlantic Conference football showdown, the Wingate University Bulldogs delivered a stunning upset, securing a 34-30 victory over the seventh-ranked Lenoir-Rhyne University Bears. The game, filled with high-stakes drama, ended with a jaw-dropping 75-yard touchdown pass with just 50 seconds left on the clock, catapulting Wingate to victory. 

The Bulldogs’ triumph improves their overall record to 6-3, with a 5-2 record in the South Atlantic Conference, while the highly-ranked Lenoir-Rhyne Bears now stand at 8-1 overall and 6-1 in league play. It’s worth noting that the Bears were one of just 11 remaining NCAA Division II teams without a loss leading up to this thrilling contest.

Wingate receiver Evan McCray goes 75 yards for the win Photo Credit: Anna Torras (Wingate Athletics)

How it Happened:

In the first quarter, Wingate initiated the scoring with a 52-yard, 12-play drive that culminated in a touchdown pass from Brooks Bentley to Matt Flanders. Lenoir-Rhyne responded with an 80-yard drive, ending with a touchdown pass from Jalen Ferguson to John Goodwin.

The second quarter saw Wingate regain the lead with a field goal, but Lenoir-Rhyne quickly answered with another touchdown pass from Ferguson to Malik Simmons. Wingate surged ahead again with a 47-yard touchdown pass from Bentley to Tremel Jones.

In the third quarter, Wingate took control, embarking on a 71-yard drive, resulting in a field goal. Lenoir-Rhyne swiftly replied with a 63-yard rushing touchdown by Dwayne McGee.

The final quarter was a rollercoaster of emotions, with both teams exchanging leads. Lenoir-Rhyne managed a field goal to go up by three points, but Wingate responded with a touchdown run by Bentley. Lenoir-Rhyne regained the lead with a touchdown pass from Ferguson to Songa Yates with just over a minute remaining. However, Wingate sealed the win with a sensational 75-yard touchdown pass from Bentley to McCray.

Key Stats:

• Lenoir-Rhyne amassed 262 passing yards and 221 rushing yards for a total of 483 yards.
• Wingate countered with 335 passing yards and 104 rushing yards, resulting in a total of 439 offensive yards.
• Although the Bears held a slight advantage in first downs with 24 compared to Wingate’s 21, they had the game’s only turnover, an interception on a desperation play at the end.
• Wingate controlled the clock, maintaining possession for over 32 minutes of game time.
• Wingate succeeded on seven of 13 third-down conversions, while Lenoir-Rhyne managed just one successful third-down conversion out of nine attempts.

Key contributors for the Bulldogs included Brooks Bentley, who completed 24 of 37 passes for 335 yards and three touchdowns, in addition to contributing 37 rushing yards and a touchdown on the ground. Evan McCray was instrumental with four receptions for 97 yards, including the game-winning 75-yard touchdown. Tremel Jones and Carlos Estronza also made significant receiving contributions.

On the defensive side, Tre Morrison and Jaheim Mullen led the way with 10 tackles each, while Dontorian Best added nine tackles. Dequan Mosley made a crucial interception to seal the win for Wingate, while Darius Randolph contributed with a tackle for loss, a pass breakup, and a quarterback hurry.

Special teams played a role in the victory, with Caleb Bonesteel hitting all four PATs and adding field goals of 21 and 39 yards.

The victory signifies Wingate’s second consecutive win against Lenoir-Rhyne and a memorable upset of the seventh-ranked team. The game was characterized by dramatic twists and turns, showcasing the competitive spirit of both teams.

Looking ahead, Wingate will face Newberry in their next matchup on the road, with kickoff scheduled for 1 p.m. on Saturday. Lenoir-Rhyne, on the other hand, will regroup and prepare for their next game on Senior Day, where they will host Catawba at 2 p.m.