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."

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.

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.

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.

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.

SALISBURY – Livingstone football maintained their impressive
form with a decisive 34-14 victory over St. Augustine’s Saturday afternoon. The
Blue Bears have now won four of their last five games, demonstrating a
remarkable resurgence, while St. Augustine’s continued to struggle, falling to
a 0-9 record.

The Blue Bears set the tone for the game early in the first
quarter when quarterback Brenton Hilton connected with Angel Carrillo for a
seven-yard touchdown pass. This swift strike put Livingstone on the scoreboard
with a 7-0 lead. On the ensuing drive, Livingstone’s defense came into the
spotlight as Osmanis Aguilera made a pivotal play, stripping the ball from St.
Augustine’s quarterback during a pass play. Kobe Pringle recovered the fumble
and returned it for a touchdown, extending Livingstone’s lead to 14-0. Late in
the first half, as halftime approached, Livingstone was eager to add to their
lead. Quarterback Marcus Drish displayed his skills, dropping back to pass and
then scrambling to his left before finding the endzone. This extended
Livingstone’s lead to 21-0 as they headed into halftime.

While St. Augustine’s managed to find the endzone in the
third quarter, reducing the deficit to 21-7, Livingstone quickly responded in
the fourth quarter. Marcus Drish delivered a perfectly placed pass into the
back corner of the endzone, connecting with Davontay Deloatch to re-establish a
three-score lead. Drish finished with 149 passing yards and a touchdown.
Additionally, he added 25 yards on the ground along with another touchdown. Deloatch
was the primary target for Drish, hauling in six receptions for 94 yards along
with the score that put the distance between Livingston and the defense.

The game saw notable performances from St. Augustine’s
players, including Anthony Archie, who led the Falcons’ rushers with 68 yards
and averaged an impressive 6.8 yards per carry. Archie also added 47 receiving
yards to his contribution. Meanwhile, Deandre Proctor was instrumental with
five catches for 50 yards, including a touchdown.

Jamieson Alston stood out on the defensive front for St.
Augustine’s, collecting six tackles and intercepting a pass. Alongside Alston,
Omarion Huntley contributed significantly to the team’s efforts. Defensively,
St. Augustine’s managed to hold Livingstone’s rushing attack in check, limiting
the Blue Bears to just 147 yards on the ground.

Livingstone’s next challenge will see them conclude their
season on Saturday, November 4, as they head to Charlotte to face Johnson C.
Smith while St. Augustine’s wraps up their season against Raleigh rival Shaw.

RICHMOND – In a highly competitive Coastal Athletic Association (CAA) showdown, the Richmond Spiders displayed their dominance in the second half, forcing three turnovers and outscoring the visiting Campbell Camels 34-6 after the halftime break. This remarkable performance led Richmond to a convincing 44-13 victory at Robins Stadium.

Richmond (6-3, 5-1 CAA) extended its winning streak to four games, while Campbell (4-4, 3-3 CAA) struggled to find offensive momentum, recording its lowest scoring output of the season.

The game was evenly poised with Richmond leading 16-13 and just 2 minutes and 45 seconds left in the third quarter. However, the tide turned dramatically with a series of three consecutive turnovers by Campbell, including a game-changing 42-yard interception return for a touchdown by Wayne Galloway. This marked the beginning of a dominant 28-0 fourth quarter for Richmond.

Quarterbacks Camden Coleman and Kyle Wickersham, in tandem, completed 18-of-26 passes for 265 yards. Wickersham connected on two touchdown passes, while Savon Smith rushed for a pair of scores, accumulating 51 yards on eight carries. Jerry Garcia, Jr. played a pivotal role with two catches for 46 yards and a touchdown.

Campbell Defensive Lineman Ethan Quarshie Photo Credit: Campbell Athletics

On the defensive side, Tristan Wheeler led the Richmond defense with 12 tackles, which included a sack and 1.5 stops for loss. He also contributed by forcing and recovering a fumble. Marlem Louis added significant pressure with two forced fumbles, 2.0 sacks, and five total tackles.

For the Camels, Hajj-Malik Williams completed 20-of-32 passes for 173 yards and a touchdown but had a season-high two interceptions. Williams also contributed on the ground with 47 rushing yards. VJ Wilkins made five receptions for 55 yards, and Lamagea McDowell rushed for 35 yards on 12 carries.

Monchovia Gaffney led Campbell with eight tackles, while Tre Moore and George Wilson recorded sacks.

With three of their final four regular season games on the road in 2023, Campbell will head to North Carolina on November 4 for their last non-conference matchup. They will then return home for a November 11 game against top-10 ranked Delaware before concluding the regular season at North Carolina A&T.

CHAPEL HILL – In a college football showdown that had fans that no one expected to be close but left fans on the edge of their seats, the Virginia Cavaliers narrowly defeated the #10 North Carolina Tar Heels, 31-27, on Saturday night at Kenan Stadium. The game was a rollercoaster of emotions with both teams showing immense determination and skill, but in the end, it was the Cavaliers who emerged victorious.

First Quarter: Cavaliers Take Early Lead

The game started with a bang as the Virginia Cavaliers drew first blood with a brilliant 11-yard rushing touchdown by #7 Mike Hollins. The 7-play, 51-yard drive set the tone for an intense matchup. Kicker #41 Will Bettridge was successful with the extra point, and Virginia took an early 7-0 lead. However, the Tar Heels wasted no time in responding. Quarterback Drake Maye connected with Tez Walker for a 25-yard touchdown pass, which was expertly executed. Noah Burnette’s successful extra point tied the game at 7-7. Virginia wasn’t done in the first quarter, as Mike Hollins found the end zone again with a 3-yard rushing touchdown. The Cavaliers reclaimed the lead, finishing the quarter 14-7.

Second Quarter: Tar Heels Strike Back

The Tar Heels showed their resilience in the second quarter. Quarterback Drake Maye showcased his arm strength by throwing a 62-yard bomb to Bryson Nesbit, who raced to hit paydirt. Noah Burnette’s successful extra point once again tied the game at 14-14. Armani Chatman’s interception in the end zone late in the quarter secured North Carolina’s tenth scoreless quarter of the year. With just seconds left in the first half, Burnette added a 43-yard field goal for North Carolina, making him the the first Tar Heel kicker to make his first ten field goals in a season since Connor Barth in 2006. The Tar Heels took a 17-14 lead into halftime. 

Third Quarter: Tar Heels Maintain Control

North Carolina continued to build on their lead in the third quarter as Drake Maye rushed for a 3-yard touchdown. The Tar Heels were up 24-14 following Burnette’s extra point. Virginia responded as Mike Hollins plowed through the Tar Heels’ defense for a 1-yard touchdown. The score was 24-21 after Will Bettridge’s extra point. Late in the third quarter, Virginia managed to level the game at 24-24 with a 45-yard field goal by Bettridge.

Fourth Quarter: Cavaliers Seal the Win

In the final quarter, North Carolina briefly took the lead with a 27-yard field goal from Noah Burnette, making it 27-24 in favor of the Tar Heels, marking his fourth straight game with multiple field goals. Virginia, however, staged a remarkable comeback. Quarterback Tony Muskett threw a 14-yard pass to Malik Washington, who found the end zone. Will Bettridge’s extra point gave the Cavaliers a 31-27 lead. Despite North Carolina’s best efforts, they couldn’t overcome Virginia’s stout defense in the final moments. 

Player Performances

Virginia’s offensive efforts were led by Mike Hollins, who rushed for three touchdowns. Tony Muskett passed for 208 yards and threw a 14-yard touchdown pass to Malik Washington. Mike Hollins scored three touchdowns for the Cavaliers.

North Carolina’s Drake Maye had an impressive performance, running for a score and throwing for 347 yards and two touchdowns, including a stunning 62-yard pass to Bryson Nesbit. Tez Walker caught 11 passes for 146 yards and one touchdown.

They Said It

Mack Brown: “Obviously, tonight was a disappointing loss for us. Congratulations to Virginia, they out-coached us and played better than us tonight. You don’t normally win the game when you give up 228 yards rushing and only rush for 143. We had chance after chance, but I think you'd have to say that we as coaches didn't prepare our guys very well…This week, we talked about poisoned cheese and we ate it. Tonight, we didn't punt the ball well, we were inconsistent on offense and we didn't score in the red zone when we needed to. We were four of 13 on third downs while they were eight of eight. We had a chance to win the game two times and didn't do it… Again, on critical plays, they made the plays and we didn't. I am disappointed tonight that we didn't play about like we did last year against him. Our guys played hard but we just didn't make plays. Now, we have to go back to work and go to Georgia Tech next week.” 

Up Next

North Carolina (6-1, 3-1) will play three of their last five games on the road, starting with a game against Georgia Tech (3-4, 2-2). Virginia (2-5, 1-2) remains on the road, traveling to Miami.

GREENVILLE – Charlotte’s stout defense had a record-setting performance as the 49ers picked up their first-ever American Athletic Conference victory, defeating East Carolina 10-7 on a chilly Saturday afternoon at Dowdy-Ficklen Stadium.

The 49ers displayed their dominance right from the outset, with quarterback Jalon Jones engineering an impressive 73-yard drive on the opening possession, consuming a season-long 7 minutes and 28 seconds of play. Kicker Jake Larson then converted a 35-yard field goal, giving Charlotte an early 3-0 lead. The 49ers’ defense complemented the strong start, holding ECU to a mere 49 yards of total offense in the first half, maintaining their lead heading into the break.

The second half began with Charlotte extending their lead as Jones executed a 30-yard pass play to Duane Thomas Jr., setting up his own one-yard touchdown run. This score marked Jones’ team-leading fourth rushing touchdown of the season.

Charlotte QB Jalon Jones Photo Credit: Sam Roberts/FreezeFrame

The 49ers’ defense continued to stifle ECU, limiting them to 10 yards or less on eight of their first nine possessions, preserving the 10-0 lead well into the fourth quarter.

However, a muffed punt changed the course of the game, as it set up ECU at the Charlotte 10-yard line with 13:22 to play. ECU capitalized on the opportunity, narrowing the lead to 10-7 with a 10-yard pass from Alex Flinn to Shane Calhoun.

In a nail-biting final quarter, Charlotte had a chance to seal the victory but failed to convert on a 45-yard field goal attempt. The 49ers’ defense stepped up once again, forcing ECU into a three-and-out, with Stone Handy contributing an 11-yard sack to protect their slim lead.

ECU had one last opportunity, taking over with 2:29 on the clock. After three first downs moved the ball to the Charlotte 29, Eyabi Okie-Anoma delivered an eight-yard sack, pushing the Pirates back to the 37. One play later, ECU managed to gain six yards on third-and-18, moving to the 31. However, the 48-yard field goal attempt went wide, securing Charlotte’s first-ever victory as a member of the AAC.

Key statistics of the game included Jalon Jones rushing for a career-high 127 yards, marking the first 100-yard rushing performance by a 49er this season. Charlotte’s defense recorded 6.0 tackles for loss, the fifth time this year that they achieved this feat. Eyabi Okie-Anoma registered his fifth sack of the season, tying for the fifth-most in a single season by a 49er. He also recorded one quarterback hurry, bringing his season total to nine, just one shy of Larry Ogunjobi’s school record.

For ECU, Julius Wood led the defense with 10 tackles and logged his third career interception. Kingston McInstry collected his first career fumble recovery, and Alex Flinn, who entered the contest in the second half, completed 11 of 18 pass attempts for 69 yards and a touchdown. Shane Calhoun caught his second touchdown reception of the season and sixth of his career.

The game was East Carolina’s first meeting with Charlotte on the gridiron, and the Pirates are now 55-13 in Homecoming contests. Despite the loss, ECU has an impressive streak of not being shut out in 319 games, setting a school record.

Charlotte head coach Biff Poggi expressed his satisfaction with the team’s performance, emphasizing their inaugural AAC victory as a historic achievement. ECU head coach Mike Houston acknowledged the close game and the missed opportunities, vowing to improve for future contests.

Charlotte’s win marks a significant milestone in their young program’s history, while ECU will be looking to bounce back in their upcoming games.

Up Next: East Carolina takes on American Athletic Conference newcomer UTSA next Saturday at the Alamodome in San Antonio. Kickoff is scheduled for 3:30 p.m., with the game streaming live via ESPN+. Charlotte plays host to fellow American Athletic Conference newcomer Florida Atlantic this Friday evening at 7:30 p.m. ET on ESPN2.

CULLOWHEE – A quiet mountain town hosted a raucous college football game on Saturday afternoon. Two teams, conference rivals for longer than many fans have been alive, faced off for the first time as opponents ranked in the top ten nationally. The momentum shifted on a whim at times as the sun made its way over EJ Whitmire Stadium, but it was the Furman Paladins and quarterback Tyler Huff who delivered the final blow and defeated the host Western Carolina Catamounts, 29-17 to put themselves in the driver’s seat for the Southern Conference title.

Western rolled the dice to start the game, going for it on fourth down near the Furman forty-yard-line but a dropped pass gave the ball to Furman. The Paladins, on the offensive for the first time for the afternoon, moved the ball pretty well with a mix of runs and passes. A roll-out pass from the nine-yard-line from Tyler Huff to Mason Pline got the Paladins on the board and an offside penalty negated a missed PAT attempt. The Paladins decided to go for two with the second chance, but Andreas Keaton broke up a pass near the goal line to keep it 6-0 early in the first half. The Catamounts’ second drive played out much like the first drive with the home team facing a fourth and short and coming up short. Furman went sixty-six yards on five plays and extended their lead to thirteen with Huff’s second touchdown of the half, this one a sixteen-yard toss to Colton Hinton.

Western Carolina mounted yet another yard-consuming drive as the first quarter clock ran out. When the second quarter began, the Catamounts were situated in the red zone, hoping to claw back some of the two-score deficit the visiting Paladins forced upon them. Cole Gonzales’s nine-yard touchdown pass to AJ Colombo did just that and the Catamounts faithful celebrated the home team’s first points of the day. Furman ensured that celebration would be short-lived as Wayne Anderson rushed fifty-four yards down the home sideline to set up another Furman score two plays later, a nine-yard scamper by Dominic Roberto.

Western Carolina was willing to tempt the fates on the ensuing drive, taking another risk on a fourth down play. Like the two prior fourth down attempts, the pass was incomplete and the Paladins took over. Unlike previous possessions, however, the Catamounts defense held firm and forced the first punt of the afternoon. The Western Carolina offense regrouped, cheering on their defense for keeping them in the game, and responded in kind, marching sixty-three yards in eight plays with Cole Gonzales finding David White by the pylon to make it 20-14 late in the half. Furman attempted a long field goal as time ran out in the half, but it was wide right.

Furman wanted to force the Catamounts to play their style of football coming out of the half. Taking seven-and-a-half minutes off of the clock, the Paladins marched sixty-nine yards and were on the doorstep of making it a two-score game. The Western Carolina defense stood strong and forced a field goal attempt, but the snap was bobbled, and the Catamounts took over, seeking a potential tying or go-ahead score. That hope grew as the home team marched down the field, but a pass intended for a Catamounts receiver in the end zone was picked off by Furman’s Cally Chizik whose momentum carried him out of the end zone and out of bounds at the one-yard-line. The Western Carolina defense rallied to the aid of their offense, forcing a Furman punt that was shanked and went out of bounds at the thirty-five-yard line. Western Carolina’s offense faced the same fate as their counterparts, finding themselves unable to move the ball and forced to punt. 

Both teams traded field goals midway through the final quarter to keep the margin close, but Tyler Huff drove the final stake in the hearts of the Catamounts faithful with a fifty-three-yard touchdown run down the visiting sideline with under a minute left on the clock. A Western comeback attempt was thwarted and the Paladins were able to kneel to run out the final seconds of the clock and continue their perfect streak in conference play.

Notable North Carolinians

Dominic Roberto (Pine Forest) – the graduate running back led the Paladins with 154 rushing yards.

Branson Adams (Dudley) – the sophomore running back led the Catamounts with sixty-one rushing yards.

AJ Colombo (Cuthbertson) – the sophomore wide receiver opened the scoring for the Catamounts with a touchdown reception in the second quarter.

Up Next

Both teams are at home in Southern Conference action as Western Carolina (5-2, 3-1) hosts Mercer for homecoming while Furman (6-1, 4-0) hosts East Tennessee State.

The picturesque town of Cullowhee, North Carolina, will play host to a highly-anticipated Southern Conference football clash this Saturday when #8 Western Carolina welcomes its fierce rival, #3 Furman, to the hallowed grounds of E.J. Whitmire Stadium. The ESPN+ game will kick off at 2:30 p.m. and fans can expect an epic encounter as both teams come into the game with impressive national rankings. In what marks only the fourth game in their storied rivalry where both teams enter the arena with national rankings, this clash brings memories of the golden era of Catamount football. The last time Western Carolina and Furman shared the spotlight with numerical rankings by their names was in 1983 when the ninth-ranked Catamounts exacted sweet revenge by defeating their second-ranked rivals in the NCAA I-AA playoffs, a 14-7 triumph in Greenville. Western Carolina holds a 2-1 record in ranked matchups, boasting a perfect 1-0 record on their home turf.

The 2023 season has seen Western Carolina emerge as the Cinderella story, rising to a Top-10 ranking after a remarkable string of five consecutive wins. Leading the charge is running back Desmond Reid, whose 847 rushing yards and 12 touchdowns have made him a strong contender for All-American recognition. Quarterback Cole Gonzales, now in his sophomore season, has elevated his game with 1,532 passing yards and 14 touchdowns, establishing a potent connection with a dynamic receiving corps led by Censere Lee, boasting 421 receiving yards and 6 touchdowns.  On the other side, Furman entered the season as the preseason favorites in the Southern Conference and has lived up to the billing through the first six games. Running back Dominic Roberto, with 394 rushing yards and 6 touchdowns, and quarterback Tyler Huff, boasting 1,057 passing yards and 10 total touchdowns, anchor the Paladins' offense. The defense has excelled against the run, allowing a meager 3.1 yards per carry. However, the key to success this weekend for Furman lies in their secondary's ability to generate turnovers, currently tallying an impressive 7 interceptions.

East Carolina Gears Up to Face Charlotte in First-Ever Conference Matchup

East Carolina’s football team is set to face American Athletic Conference newcomer Charlotte on October 21. The game will kick off at 2 p.m. and can be seen on ESPN+. This will be Charlotte's first-ever encounter with an in-state conference opponent, setting the stage for a memorable showdown. East Carolina, led by fifth-year head coach Mike Houston, enters the game with a 1-5 overall record and a 0-2 mark in the AAC. In the Pirates’ last outing, they fell 31-10 to SMU, despite running 16 more offensive plays than their opponent. Mason Garcia led a pair of scoring drives, completing 12 of 26 passes for a career-high 155 yards and rushing for a team-best 38 yards on 12 carries. Wide receiver Chase Sowell emerged as a standout, delivering his second consecutive seven-catch game and a career-high 120 yards. Charlotte, with a 1-5 record and a 0-2 conference record, is coming off a 14-0 loss to Navy. The upcoming clash promises an exciting faceoff between the two teams as they each aim to secure a crucial first win in the American Athletic Conference this season.

Barton Football Set to Rebound Against Wingate in Homecoming Showdown

Barton is set to host Wingate in a crucial Homecoming matchup. The Bulldogs, who have a 47-3 record against undefeated and nationally-ranked Lenoir-Rhyne, are looking to maintain their stronghold in the Piedmont Division standings. Jordan Terrell, the school's all-time leading rusher, is just 12 yards away from reaching the 1,000-yard milestone for the third consecutive season. Terrell has been a standout for the Bulldogs, averaging 141.1 yards per game on the ground. Junior quarterback Jaquan Lynch has shown his prowess with 1,076 yards passing and a total of 16 touchdowns. The defensive charge for the Bulldogs is led by junior linebacker Shane Perry, who boasts a team-high 64 tackles. On the other hand, Wingate's football program has a remarkable track record, culminating in an 11-3 record last year and a spot in the 2022 NCAA Division II National Quarterfinals. Wingate holds the edge in the all-time series with Barton, leading 2-1. Barton College, as an Associate Member of the South Atlantic Conference until the end of the 2024 season, is under the guidance of fourth-year head coach Chip Hester, while Joe Reich serves as the Wingate Head Football Coach. The Homecoming showdown promises to be a thrilling match between Barton and Wingate, with both teams aiming to secure a pivotal victory in front of their passionate fans. 

HICKORY – In a South Atlantic Conference showdown on a perfect Homecoming afternoon, the No. 12/13 Lenoir-Rhyne Football Team delivered a dominating performance, thrashing Barton by a resounding 44-point margin at Moretz Stadium. The Bears, who remain unbeaten with a 7-0 record, showcased their offensive prowess and unyielding defense to secure the emphatic victory. 

The Barton Bulldogs initially struck first, putting three points on the board with a field goal just 7:36 into the first quarter. However, Lenoir-Rhyne quickly found their rhythm, outscoring the visitors 40-0 for the remainder of the game. The Bears' defense proved relentless, limiting Barton to a mere eight first downs and 148 total yards of offense throughout the contest. In contrast, Lenoir-Rhyne's offense amassed a remarkable 515 yards, overwhelming their opponents.

Reigning SAC Offensive Player of the Week, Jaquan Lynch, who had been on fire, was stifled by the Bears' tenacious defense. Lynch was held to a mere 66 yards passing on 6-of-14 completions, accompanied by an interception, and just eight yards rushing on eight attempts.

The Bears started the game with a flourish, as Deondre Lester hauled in a 48-yard touchdown pass from quarterback Jalen Ferguson. Although Barton responded with a field goal, the Bears dominated the first half, scoring 27 unanswered points. Dwayne McGee and Lester added to the lead with touchdowns, and a trick play saw Songa Yates connect with DeAree Rogers for another score. The Bears headed into halftime with a commanding 34-3 lead.

The second half saw Lenoir-Rhyne continuing their relentless performance, scoring two more field goals and a quarterback sneak by Sean White, bringing the final score to 47-3. Jalen Ferguson finished the game with an impressive 241 yards passing and three touchdowns, while Dwayne McGee rushed for 92 yards. DeAree Rogers played a pivotal role, with 11 receptions for 150 yards and a touchdown. On the defensive end, Jon Ross Maye and Malik Taylor each recorded six tackles, and the Lenoir-Rhyne defense tallied three sacks, with Taylor also forcing a fumble.

Beyond the box score, the game marked the one-year anniversary of a significant injury for DB T.J. Blanding, who had an interception, his second of the year. The crowd was announced as a sellout, showcasing the immense support for the Bears. Lenoir-Rhyne's win extended their winning streak to nine games, dating back to the end of the 2022 season, making it the second-longest current winning streak in Division II. The Bears continue to impress, holding a 54-12 record in games where they are nationally ranked.

The Bears' exceptional passing game performance was a highlight, with a 24-for-30 completion rate, marking the second-highest in a single game during the NCAA Era. DeAree Rogers' 11 receptions ranked as the third-most in a game during the NCAA Era, and his 150 receiving yards were the seventh-highest during that period. The Bulldogs managed just 44 total plays, making it the fifth fewest allowed in the NCAA Era. Moreover, Lenoir-Rhyne's home defense remains stout, conceding just one touchdown all season, which occurred in the home opener against St. Augustine's.

Looking ahead, Lenoir-Rhyne is set to take on Newberry in Newberry, South Carolina, next Saturday at 4 p.m. as they aim to maintain their undefeated streak. On the other hand, Barton looks to bounce back from the loss when they host Wingate for Homecoming at Truist Stadium next Saturday at 2:00 p.m.

FAYETTEVILLE – In an exciting showdown on Saturday afternoon at Jeralds Stadium, the Fayetteville State Broncos triumphed over the Livingstone Blue Bears with a final score of 19-14. The Broncos, now boasting a 5-2 record for the season and an unblemished 5-0 mark in Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association (CIAA) play, faced off against a resilient Blue Bears squad that moved to 2-5 for the year and 2-4 in CIAA action.

The Broncos displayed their offensive prowess in a critical moment during the game, engineering a five-play, 71-yard drive that concluded with a thrilling 41-yard rushing touchdown with just 4:09 left in the match. Bryce Council led the Broncos' ground assault with an impressive 73 yards, averaging 5.6 yards per carry, while Demari Daniels contributed 60 yards and one touchdown, averaging 6.7 yards per carry. Caden Davis also made a significant impact, adding 57 yards with a remarkable 11.4 yards per carry. Treveran Goode shone in the receiving department, securing four catches for 74 yards and one touchdown.

The Broncos' defense, led by Dylan Morris, demonstrated their prowess by recording three tackles and an interception. Elijah Casey and Tyren Belcher made their presence felt with six solo tackles each, with Casey also notching 2 assisted tackles. Despite a spirited performance from Livingstone, Fayetteville State's defense held firm, conceding only 265 total yards throughout the game.

How It Unfolded

Facing an early 14-0 deficit against Livingstone, Fayetteville State made a remarkable comeback in the third quarter, narrowing the margin to 14-9. The Broncos continued to apply pressure, reducing Livingstone's lead to 14-12. The game reached its crescendo when Fayetteville State orchestrated a 41-yard touchdown run at the 4:09 mark in the fourth quarter, seizing a 19-14 lead that they managed to preserve throughout the remainder of the game.

Up Next

Both teams are at home in CIAA action next week as Fayetteville State hosts Johnson C. Smith for homecoming while Livingstone returns to Salisbury to host Shaw.\