BUIES CREEK – Western Carolina had to wait an extra day to take the field against Campbell. Once the game finally began, an early deficit proved too much for the Catamounts to overcome.

Campbell scored touchdowns on each of its first two possessions and built an 18-point halftime advantage before holding off Western Carolina’s second-half comeback for a 28-19 victory Sunday at Barker-Lane Stadium.

The game was originally scheduled for Saturday at 3:30 p.m., but severe weather and a power failure forced the contest to be postponed until Sunday morning. The rescheduled game kicked off at 11:03 a.m. under sunny skies, with a temperature of 80 degrees. 

Campbell (2-0) wasted little time taking control.

The Camels marched 91 yards in 10 plays on their opening possession, with quarterback Kamden Sixkiller finding Brady Ambrose for a 6-yard touchdown. After Western Carolina went three-and-out, Campbell drove another 53 yards, and Sixkiller's 8-yard touchdown run gave the Camels a 14-0 advantage with four minutes remaining in the first quarter. 

Western Carolina (1-1) finally answered early in the second quarter when Bryan McCollum connected on a 23-yard field goal, but Campbell needed just five plays to respond. Ethan Lawrence capped a 64-yard drive with a 1-yard touchdown run to make it 21-3.

The Catamounts found their first touchdown late in the half. Quarterback Lex Thomas connected with Jai Boyd for a 48-yard score with 2:57 remaining, cutting the deficit to 21-10.

Any momentum from that play didn't last through halftime.

Taking over at its own 18 with 48 seconds left, Campbell went 82 yards in only 30 seconds. Sixkiller hit Spencer Jones for a 32-yard touchdown with 18 seconds remaining, sending the Camels to the locker room ahead 28-10. 

Those would be Campbell's final points.

Western Carolina's defense forced three second-half turnovers and gave the Catamounts opportunities to work their way back into the game. Jayden Cornelius intercepted Sixkiller early in the third quarter and returned it 47 yards to the Campbell 8. The Catamounts went backward from there, however, settling for McCollum's 40-yard field goal to trim the margin to 28-13.

Western Carolina made it a one-score game early in the fourth quarter. Thomas directed an 11-play, 65-yard drive and found Boyd for a 1-yard touchdown with 9:24 remaining. The extra point failed, leaving Campbell ahead 28-19. 

The Catamount defense produced another opportunity minutes later. With Campbell threatening at the Western Carolina 4, Fernando Jeanty intercepted Sixkiller, giving the offense the ball at its own 2 with 5:51 remaining.

Thomas responded by moving the Catamounts 73 yards in nine plays, including completions of 20 and 23 yards to AJ Colombo and a 21-yard connection with Marcus Striggles. The drive stalled at the Campbell 25, and McCollum's 43-yard field-goal attempt missed with 3:47 to play. 

Western Carolina never got the ball back. A roughing-the-kicker penalty on fourth down extended Campbell's final possession, and the Camels ran out the clock. 

Thomas finished 25-of-44 for 326 yards and two touchdowns without an interception. Colombo led Western Carolina with six catches for 91 yards, while Boyd caught two passes for 49 yards, both touchdowns. 

Sixkiller completed 29 of 44 passes for 330 yards and two touchdowns but was intercepted three times. Jones caught seven passes for 126 yards and a touchdown.

Campbell's biggest statistical advantage came on the ground. The Camels rushed for 198 yards while holding Western Carolina to just one net rushing yard on 18 attempts. Campbell finished with 528 total yards to Western Carolina's 327 and possessed the ball for more than 36 minutes. 

The loss dropped Western Carolina to 1-1, while Campbell improved to 2-0. Both teams are on the road at FBS opponents next week, with the Camels traveling to Florida and the Catamounts heading to Cincinnati.

Campbell football beats East Tennessee State 49-37 behind Kamden Sixkiller’s four touchdowns

JOHNSON CITY, TN – Campbell opened its season with the kind of offensive performance that can travel. Behind a huge night from quarterback Kamden Sixkiller, the Camels outlasted East Tennessee State 49-37 on Saturday in a game that featured 1,042 combined yards, 12 scoring drives and a late fourth-quarter answer that finally put the Buccaneers away.

Sixkiller carried Campbell throughout, completing 29 of 42 passes for 343 yards and two touchdowns without an interception. He also led the Camels on the ground, rushing 10 times for 95 yards and two more scores. His final touchdown, a 14-yard keeper with 1:53 remaining, capped an 82-yard drive and gave Campbell breathing room after ETSU had trimmed the deficit to five.

Campbell never trailed by more than seven and answered nearly every ETSU push with one of its own. Sixkiller started the scoring with a 30-yard touchdown pass to Evan Austin, finishing an eight-play, 75-yard opening drive. ETSU tied it on Max Mims’ 18-yard touchdown pass to T.J. Weary, but Campbell responded late in the first quarter when Elijah Lawrence scored from three yards out.

The second quarter turned the game into a back-and-forth shootout. ETSU took a 21-14 lead on rushing touchdowns by Jermaine Albritton and Travon Peyton, but Campbell answered with a seven-play, 75-yard drive that Sixkiller finished with a five-yard touchdown run. After an ETSU missed field goal, Campbell moved 64 yards in 1:23 and went back in front on Sixkiller’s 26-yard touchdown pass to Stevie Keener with 25 seconds left in the half.

ETSU still managed to add a 44-yard Ewan Johnson field goal as time expired, cutting Campbell’s halftime lead to 28-24. The score reflected the pace of the first half, when the two teams combined for 527 yards and seven scoring possessions.

Campbell created separation late in the third quarter. Devin Thomas finished a six-play, 65-yard drive with a two-yard touchdown run, then added a one-yard score early in the fourth after the Camels turned an ETSU fumble into a short field. That touchdown gave Campbell a 42-24 lead, its largest of the game.

ETSU did not go quietly. Mims, who completed 33 of 41 passes for 373 yards and two touchdowns, led the Buccaneers back with a fourth-quarter push. Da’Quan Rucker scored on a four-yard run with 10:34 remaining, and Mims later found Brandon Winton for a six-yard touchdown that pulled ETSU within 42-37 with 5:34 left.

That set up the game’s decisive drive. Facing third-and-2 at the Campbell 40, Sixkiller broke free for a 42-yard run to the ETSU 18, flipping the field and draining the clock. Three plays later, he kept the ball again and scored from 14 yards out to restore the 12-point cushion.

Campbell finished with 514 total yards, including 343 passing and 171 rushing. Austin led the receiving group with four catches for 93 yards and a touchdown, while Aaryn Tate added 55 yards, Spencer Jones had 49 and Jon Gullette caught seven passes for 43 yards. Keener’s lone touchdown catch gave Campbell a halftime lead it never lost.

The Camels also won the turnover battle, recovering two ETSU fumbles and turning one into points. Caleb Battaglia led Campbell defensively with 12 tackles, including eight solo stops and a forced fumble. Vincent Sheppert added seven tackles and also forced a fumble.

ETSU outgained Campbell 528-514 and had 28 first downs to Campbell’s 24, but the Camels were more efficient in the red zone, finishing 5-for-5 with five touchdowns. Campbell also converted three of four fourth-down attempts and held the ball for 32:53.

For Campbell, the difference was the ability to finish drives and answer late. On a night when neither offense had much trouble moving the ball, Sixkiller’s dual-threat performance gave the Camels the final response they needed.

RICHMOND – The CAA released its 2026 preseason poll Wednesday morning, and while Rhode Island dominated the headlines as the near unanimous pick to win the league, the story in North Carolina centers on how Elon, Campbell, and North Carolina A&T stack up entering a pivotal season for all three programs.

Elon earned 115 points and a third-place finish, landing just behind Monmouth and well ahead of the middle of the pack. It’s the Phoenix’s strongest preseason position since joining the CAA, and it reflects the program’s consistency – five straight seasons finishing .500 or better in conference play. The league’s coaches clearly respect what returns in 2026:

• RB Jimmyll Williams (Durham): a preseason All-CAA selection after rushing for 673 yards last season.  
• FB/HB Dylan Magazu: one of the few fullbacks in the league capable of impacting games as both a blocker and short-yardage option.  
• WR Landyn Backey: an honorable mention pick who gives Elon a reliable downfield threat.  
• LB Brodie Carroll: a preseason All-CAA linebacker coming off a 104‑tackle season.  
• S Tony Hart III: another preseason selection and one of the league’s most active safeties.

Elon’s defensive core, Carroll, Hart, and DL Dillon Pardue (honorable mention), gives the Phoenix one of the most stable units in the conference. If the offense takes even a modest step forward, Elon has a legitimate shot to finish in the top three again.

Campbell landed 56 points, good for eighth place. It’s a slight dip from last year’s expectations, but the Camels have pieces that could outperform their ranking. The biggest headline is LB DaVonyae Pettis, who earned honorable mention after a strong 2025 season. Campbell’s defense has been young for two straight years; now it’s finally experienced. Offensively, the Camels return enough production to be competitive, but the poll reflects the uncertainty around how quickly the unit will settle under new leadership and a tougher schedule. Campbell has hovered around the middle of the CAA since joining. This year’s roster suggests they could climb; but they’ll need early-season consistency to do it.

North Carolina A&T was picked 12th with 28 points, ahead of only Hampton. It’s a low projection, but not surprising given the Aggies’ transition struggles since joining the CAA. Still, there are bright spots:

• OL Andrew Dorsey: honorable mention and one of the league’s most experienced interior linemen.  
• PR Elijah Kennedy (High Point): preseason All-CAA punt returner and one of the most explosive special teams players in the conference.

The Aggies’ challenge is depth. They’ve recruited well, but the roster is still young in key spots. If the offense stabilizes and the defense can avoid the big-play issues that plagued 2025, A&T has enough talent to outperform a 12th-place prediction.

Rhode Island received 12 of 13 possible first-place votes, returning 15 starters from a team that went 11‑3 and won the league outright last season. Senior QB Devin Farrell, the preseason Offensive Player of the Year, headlines an offense loaded with All‑CAA talent. Monmouth, under new head coach Jeff Gallo, sits second and brings back the core of last year’s No. 1 offense in FCS. Elon is the highest-ranked NC team, followed by Campbell and A&T.

North Carolina was well represented across the league’s preseason honors:

• Jimmyll Williams (Elon) RB, Durham
• Dylan Magazu (Elon) FB/HB
• Tim Hogan (Elon) OL, Raleigh
• Tony Hart III (Elon) S
• Elijah Kennedy (North Carolina A&T) PR, High Point
• Mitch Summers (Sacred Heart) RB, Greensboro
• Omari Allen (Hampton) OL, Henderson
• Luke Barnes (Elon) PK, Greensboro

GREENSBORO – Elijah Kennedy returned a punt 96 yards for a touchdown and followed with an 85-yard kickoff return for another score in the final six minutes, lifting NC A&T to a 28-24 victory over Campbell on Saturday at Truist Stadium.

The Aggies trailed 24-21 with 1:49 remaining when Kennedy took the ensuing kickoff following Campbell's go-ahead field goal and raced untouched for the game-winning score. The dramatic finish capped a second-half comeback that saw NC A&T erase a 21-7 fourth-quarter deficit.

Campbell appeared in control after Alex Crabb's 38-yard field goal gave the Camels a 24-21 lead with 1:49 left, finishing off a 12-play, 53-yard drive that consumed more than four minutes. But Kennedy's return on the next play immediately flipped the outcome.

The Camels got the ball back at their own 25 with 1:29 remaining. Kamden Sixkiller completed an 18-yard pass to Stevie Keener to move into NC A&T territory, and a facemask penalty on the Aggies advanced Campbell to the NC A&T 40. But Sixkiller was sacked for a two-yard loss, threw two incompletions, and his final pass intended for Daniel Lopes fell incomplete at the NC A&T 23 with 43 seconds left.

Kennedy's heroics began earlier in the fourth quarter when he returned a punt 96 yards for a touchdown with 6:12 remaining, tying the game at 21-21 after Campbell had taken a two-touchdown lead.

Campbell opened the scoring when Sixkiller connected with Trayjen Llanas-Wilcox on a 34-yard touchdown pass in the first quarter. NC A&T answered on its next possession, capping a six-play, 44-yard drive when Kevin White hit Michael Carlock-Williams with a seven-yard touchdown pass to tie the game at 7-7.

The Camels retook the lead early in the second quarter on Naieem Kearney's one-yard touchdown run, the culmination of a 15-play, 97-yard drive that took nearly six minutes off the clock. Campbell extended its advantage to 21-7 early in the fourth quarter when Sixkiller found Trevor Wilson for a nine-yard touchdown pass, finishing a four-play, 35-yard drive.

NC A&T responded with a seven-play, 86-yard scoring drive, pulling within 21-14 when White scored on a three-yard run with 9:37 left in the game. The Aggies' offense produced 49 yards on a completion to Jayvonne Dillard before White's rushing touchdown.

Sixkiller completed 30 of 48 passes for 312 yards, two touchdowns and one interception for Campbell. He found nine different receivers, with Randall King catching seven passes. Mike Chandler II added 62 yards on 12 receptions, frequently serving as a safety valve in the passing game.

White finished 12 of 20 passing for 133 yards and one touchdown without an interception for NC A&T. Dillard caught three passes for 63 yards, while Kennedy caught three for 28 yards before his special teams fireworks.

Campbell generated 375 total yards compared to 222 for NC A&T, but the Aggies produced 264 return yards that proved decisive. The Camels held a significant time of possession advantage at 35:18 to 23:59.

Wesley Graves led NC A&T's ground game with 89 rushing yards on 18 carries. The Camels managed just 63 net rushing yards on 32 attempts, averaging two yards per carry.

Campbell's defense recorded three sacks and five tackles for loss. Logan Livermon led the Camels with nine total tackles, while DaVonyae Pettis added five tackles and two tackles for loss.

On the NC A&T side, Joshua Iseah recorded 11 tackles to pace the defense. Marquis Hood contributed five tackles and two sacks totaling 17 yards in losses. Aaron Harris broke up four passes in coverage.

The Camels converted five of 14 third downs and went one of three on fourth down attempts. NC A&T was three of 11 on third downs and did not attempt a fourth down conversion.

Campbell committed nine penalties for 65 yards, while NC A&T was flagged 11 times for 122 yards. The Aggies' pass interference penalties proved costly, setting up multiple Campbell scoring opportunities.

Campbell falls to 2-6 overall and 2-2 in conference play. NC A&T improves to 1-6 overall and 1-2 in the league, snapping a five-game losing streak.

Top Performers

NC A&T:

• Elijah Kennedy: 3 receptions for 28 yards, 1 TD; 96-yard punt return TD; 85-yard kickoff return TD
• Kevin White: 12-of-20 passing, 133 yards, 1 TD; 3-yard rushing TD
• Wesley Graves: 18 rushes, 89 yards
• Joshua Iseah: 11 tackles

Campbell:

• Kamden Sixkiller: 30-of-48 passing, 312 yards, 2 TDs, 1 INT
• Randall King: 7 receptions, 62 yards
• Naieem Kearney: 1-yard rushing TD
• Logan Livermon: 9 tackles

RALEIGH – NC State put together a comprehensive performance Saturday afternoon at Carter-Finley Stadium, defeating in-state FCS foe Campbell 56-10. The Wolfpack improved to 4-2 overall while the Fighting Camels fell to 1-5.

Quarterback CJ Bailey orchestrated the offensive showcase, completing 20 of 23 passes for 337 yards and four touchdowns. His efficient afternoon included scoring strikes to four different receivers and helped NC State pile up 607 total yards of offense.

The game began competitively enough. After NC State's opening touchdown drive, Campbell responded immediately when Kamden Sixkiller found Mike Chandler II for a 13-yard touchdown pass at the 8:54 mark of the first quarter, knotting the score at 7-7. The two-play, 14-yard drive took just 46 seconds after Campbell recovered a muffed punt at the NC State 14-yard line.

That would be Campbell's final trip to the end zone. NC State answered on the very next play from scrimmage when Hollywood Smothers broke through the middle and raced 59 yards for a touchdown just 41 seconds later, putting the Wolfpack ahead for good at 14-7.

The Wolfpack scored on seven consecutive possessions spanning from late in the first quarter through the middle of the third. Bailey connected with Cody Hardy from 37 yards out to close the first quarter scoring at 21-7. The second quarter turned into a sustained offensive clinic, with NC State adding four more touchdowns.

Smothers caught a 16-yard touchdown pass from Bailey at 13:45 of the second quarter. Terrell Anderson hauled in a 34-yard scoring strike at 8:33. Running back Jayden "Duke" Scott punched in a 14-yard touchdown run at 2:28, and Justin Joly capped the first-half barrage with a 10-yard reception in the final minute before halftime. The Wolfpack took a 49-7 lead into the break.

The ground game complemented the passing attack effectively. Smothers finished with 123 yards on just four carries, averaging 30.8 yards per attempt. Scott added 89 yards and two touchdowns on 10 attempts. As a team, NC State rushed for 236 yards on 26 carries, averaging 9.1 yards per attempt.

Campbell's offense struggled to generate sustained momentum after the opening quarter. The Fighting Camels managed just 188 total yards, 67 rushing and 121 passing. They converted only four of 16 third-down attempts and failed on both fourth-down tries. Campbell's time of possession advantage (33:00 to 27:00) reflected the Wolfpack's efficiency rather than any sustained offensive success from the visitors.

JJ Cowan led Campbell's rushing attack with 48 yards on 12 carries. Sixkiller completed 12 of 22 passes for 87 yards and the lone touchdown before giving way to backup quarterbacks Jalen Ferguson and Mike Chandler II. Trevor Wilson caught four passes for 18 yards to lead the receiving corps.

Scott added his second and third touchdowns in the third quarter, the latter a two-yard run at 6:06 that extended the lead to 56-7. With the outcome decided, both teams emptied their benches. NC State quarterbacks Lex Thomas and Will Wilson saw action in relief of Bailey, combining to complete five of 11 passes for 34 yards.

Campbell's only points of the second half came on a 46-yard field goal by Alex Crabb with 4:09 remaining in the fourth quarter, capping a four-play, 12-yard drive that began after Ravel Cato's interception gave the Fighting Camels possession at the NC State 41.

Defensively, NC State recorded two sacks for 18 yards and seven tackles for loss totaling 28 yards. Sabastian Harsh led the pass rush with 1.5 sacks for 12 yards. Kenny Soares Jr. paced the defense with nine total tackles (two solo, seven assists). The Wolfpack held Campbell to an average of 2.9 yards per play.

Campbell's defense forced two fumbles but recovered only one. The Fighting Camels recorded two tackles for loss and intercepted one pass, Cato's fourth-quarter pick that he returned 33 yards to set up the field goal. Tyrek Brown and Jojo Pace each finished with six tackles to lead the unit.

NC State's offensive balance proved overwhelming. The Wolfpack averaged 10.9 yards per pass attempt and 14.8 yards per completion. Bailey's touchdown passes covered 37, 16, 34, and 10 yards, spreading the scoring opportunities across the receiving corps. Anderson (50 yards), Noah Rogers (62 yards), and Keenan Jackson (43 yards) provided downfield threats that kept Campbell's defense stretched thin.

Campbell showed some resilience with a 10-play drive to open the second half, reaching the NC State 43, but turned the ball over on downs. Another eight-play, 34-yard possession in the third quarter also ended with a punt. But the Fighting Camels never seriously threatened after falling behind 14-7 early in the first quarter.

The victory gave NC State its fourth win of the season and snapped a two-game conference losing streak. For Campbell, the loss continued a difficult stretch that has seen the Fighting Camels drop four of their last five games since opening the season with a conference win.

Key Performers

NC State:

• CJ Bailey: 20-of-23 passing, 337 yards, 4 TDs
• Hollywood Smothers: 4 rushes, 123 yards, 1 TD; 2 receptions, 30 yards, 1 TD
• Jayden "Duke" Scott: 10 rushes, 89 yards, 2 TDs
• Noah Rogers: 3 receptions, 62 yards
• Terrell Anderson: 2 receptions, 50 yards, 1 TD

Campbell:

• JJ Cowan: 12 rushes, 48 yards
• Mike Chandler II: 2 receptions, 24 yards, 1 TD
• Kamden Sixkiller: 12-of-22 passing, 87 yards, 1 TD
• Kenny Soares Jr. (NC State): 9 tackles

BUIES CREEK – Western Carolina quarterback Taron Dickens threw for 427 yards and four touchdowns, but it was wide receiver James Tyre's surprising 61-yard touchdown pass that sealed a wild 42-35 victory over Campbell on Saturday afternoon at Barker-Lane Stadium.

The Catamounts (2-3) built a commanding 35-10 lead early in the third quarter before watching Campbell (1-4) mount a furious comeback that brought the Camels within seven points twice in the fourth quarter. Just when it appeared Campbell might complete the rally, Tyre, a former high school quarterback, delivered the decisive blow with 4:19 remaining.

After Campbell had cut the lead to 35-28 on Stevie Keener's 26-yard touchdown reception, Western Carolina needed just two plays and 39 seconds to restore its two-score advantage. Dickens found Tyre for 14 yards on first down, then Tyre took an end-around reverse and launched a perfect strike downfield to Painter Richards-Baker, who outran the Campbell secondary for the 61-yard score.

"That play put us back in control when we needed it most," could have been said about Tyre's heroics, as the Suwanee, Georgia native finished with six catches for 101 yards receiving while adding 47 return yards on two punts for a game-high 148 all-purpose yards.

The victory marked Western Carolina's second straight win and first-ever triumph in the series against Campbell. More importantly, it showcased the Catamounts' offensive balance under Dickens, who completed passes to 11 different receivers while adding 35 rushing yards.

Western Carolina dominated the first half, racing to a 28-3 lead behind Dickens' precision passing. The redshirt sophomore found tight end Brayden Blackmon for 17 yards in the second quarter, then connected with Marcus Striggles for 32 yards and David Hulbert for 9 yards to build the commanding advantage.

The early momentum began with defense turning into offense. After Campbell turned the ball over on downs at Western Carolina's 35-yard line on the game's opening drive, the Camels appeared poised to capitalize when they forced a three-and-out. Instead, Hasaan Sykes intercepted Kamden Sixkiller at the Campbell 12-yard line, setting up Camury Reid's 1-yard touchdown plunge at 10:37 of the first quarter.

Campbell managed just three points in the first 31 minutes, settling for Alex Crabb's 32-yard field goal after missing a 41-yarder earlier in the second quarter. But the Camels showed their resilience with a 12-play, 83-yard drive capped by Sixkiller's 12-yard rushing touchdown just before halftime, cutting the deficit to 28-10.

The third quarter began ominously for Campbell when James Tyre returned a punt 47 yards to the Camels' 34-yard line, leading to Patrick Boyd Jr.'s 10-yard touchdown reception that extended Western Carolina's lead to 35-10 with 11:11 remaining in the period.

What followed was a dramatic Campbell revival. Mike Chandler II, who threw for 79 yards on just two completions while adding 19 rushing yards, scored on a 10-yard run and connected with Trevor Wilson for the two-point conversion, trimming the lead to 35-18.

The fourth quarter belonged to Campbell's comeback attempt and Western Carolina's clutch response. Crabb's 21-yard field goal made it 35-21 with 13:12 remaining, then Sixkiller found freshman Keener for his first career touchdown reception, a 26-yard strike that brought the Camels within 35-28 with 4:58 on the clock.

Sixkiller, who finished 18-of-45 for 205 yards with one touchdown pass and one interception, added 55 rushing yards and two rushing touchdowns. His mobility kept drives alive throughout Campbell's second-half surge, though he also lost a fumble that Western Carolina recovered.

After Tyre's touchdown pass restored the two-score lead, Campbell refused to quit. Sixkiller orchestrated an eight-play, 65-yard drive culminating in his second rushing touchdown with 2:11 remaining, setting up a dramatic finish.

The Camels' onside kick was recovered by Richards-Baker, giving Western Carolina possession at its own 47-yard line. Facing fourth-and-1 at the Campbell 38 with under two minutes remaining, the Catamounts turned to Tyre again. The versatile receiver hauled in his sixth catch of the day for the crucial first down, allowing Western Carolina to run out the clock.

Defensively, Western Carolina was paced by linebacker Jordan Thompson, who recorded 11 tackles including 2.5 for loss and a sack. The performance matched his career high and marked his second double-digit tackle game. Caleb Fisher contributed four tackles with two for loss and a sack-fumble, while the Catamounts totaled nine tackles for loss as a team.

Campbell's defense, led by Kalen Villanueva's 11 tackles, created pressure with Justin Garza recording a strip sack among the Camels' two forced fumbles in the second half. However, Western Carolina's balanced offensive attack proved too much, as the Catamounts accumulated 564 total yards with 488 coming through the air.

Beyond Tyre and Richards-Baker, Western Carolina received significant contributions from several receivers. Freshman Michael Rossin caught three passes for 88 yards, while Malik Knight added four receptions for 76 yards. Reid, coming off a four-touchdown performance the previous week, managed 43 rushing yards on 11 carries to complement his early scoring run.

For Campbell, Trayjen Llanas-Wilcox emerged as the leading receiver with five catches for 124 yards, establishing a career high in a Campbell uniform. The Camels' ground game generated 153 yards on 37 attempts, with Naieem Kearney contributing 46 yards and Ethan Lawrence adding 30 yards on just five carries.

The statistical battle revealed Western Carolina's efficiency advantage. While Campbell controlled possession for 36:40 compared to Western Carolina's 23:20, the Catamounts averaged 8.1 yards per play versus Campbell's 5.1. Western Carolina also converted more effectively on third downs (2-of-11) than the raw numbers suggest, as several big plays eliminated third-down situations entirely.

Special teams played a significant role throughout the contest. Beyond Tyre's crucial punt return, Western Carolina's Stephen Brantley averaged 49.4 yards on five punts, while Campbell's Aiden Bonde averaged 46.1 yards on seven attempts. Crabb's field goal accuracy (2-of-3) kept Campbell within striking distance during the comeback bid.

The victory positions Western Carolina for Southern Conference play, having completed its nonconference schedule with momentum. The Catamounts will travel to face Wofford next Saturday in their first game outside North Carolina this season, while Campbell prepares for a challenging road test against NC State in Raleigh.

Key Performers:

• James Tyre (WCU): 6 catches, 101 yards, 47 punt return yards, 1 TD pass
• Taron Dickens (WCU): 26-40, 427 yards, 4 TD passes
• Painter Richards-Baker (WCU): 5 catches, 99 yards, 1 TD
• Jordan Thompson (WCU): 11 tackles, 2.5 TFL, 1 sack
• Kamden Sixkiller (Campbell): 18-45, 205 yards, 1 TD pass, 55 rush yards, 2 rush TDs
• Trayjen Llanas-Wilcox (Campbell): 5 catches, 124 yards

Campbell QB Kamden Sixkiller Photo Credit: Bennett Scarborough

Key Statistics:

KINGSTON, RI – Rhode Island turned a 17-14 halftime deficit into a commanding victory, outscoring Campbell 17-3 in the second half to win 31-20 on Friday night at Meade Stadium in the CAA opener for both teams.

The ninth-ranked Rams (1-0, 1-0 CAA) controlled the game's flow after intermission, scoring on three consecutive possessions to pull away from the visiting Camels (0-1, 0-1 CAA).

Rhode Island struck first when quarterback Devin Farrell connected with tight end Kevin Schaeffer for a 31-yard touchdown pass just 1:53 into the contest, capping a four-play, 75-yard opening drive.

Campbell answered with 17 consecutive points, capitalizing on Rhode Island miscues to seize control. The Camels tied the game 7-7 when Kamden Sixkiller found JJ Cowan for a one-yard scoring pass following a Rhode Island fumble that gave Campbell possession at the URI 3-yard line.

The Camels expanded their advantage early in the second quarter on a methodical 16-play, 90-yard drive that consumed 8:39 and ended with Mike Chandler II's six-yard rushing touchdown. Campbell added to their lead moments later when Alex Crabb converted a 29-yard field goal after recovering another Rhode Island fumble.

Rhode Island cut into the deficit before halftime when running back Antwain Littleton Jr. punched in a two-yard touchdown run, completing an eight-play, 75-yard drive that made it 17-14 at the break.

The third quarter belonged to the kickers, with Crabb extending Campbell's lead to 20-14 on a 40-yard field goal before Rhode Island's Garth White answered with a 36-yarder to narrow the gap to 20-17.

The momentum shifted decisively in the fourth quarter. Littleton Jr. gave Rhode Island its first lead since early in the game with a one-yard plunge that finished a 13-play, 66-yard drive, putting the Rams ahead 24-20 with 12:02 remaining.

Rhode Island delivered the knockout blow just 35 seconds later when Farrell found wide receiver Marquis Buchanan for a 46-yard touchdown strike on the first play of the Rams' next possession, extending the lead to 31-20.

Farrell completed 15 of 28 passes for 275 yards and two touchdowns, spreading the ball effectively throughout Rhode Island's receiving corps. Buchanan led all receivers with 167 yards on six catches, while Greg Gaines added 45 yards on six receptions.

Littleton Jr. anchored the ground attack with 85 yards and two touchdowns on 25 carries, helping Rhode Island control the line of scrimmage in the second half.

Campbell's offense showed flashes but couldn't sustain drives consistently after halftime. Sixkiller completed 17 of 33 passes for 144 yards and one touchdown while adding 21 rushing yards. The Camels' receiving attack was balanced, with Randall King catching five passes for 52 yards and Spencer Jones hauling in four receptions for 55 yards.

Campbell WR Randall King (Photo Credit: Brian Foley)

Chandler II contributed both as a runner and passer, rushing for 29 yards and a touchdown while completing 1 of 3 passing attempts.

Defensively, Rhode Island generated consistent pressure in the second half, recording two sacks and eight tackles for loss. Leisaan Hibbert topped the tackle chart with eight stops, while Rohan Davy and Case Mankins each recorded six tackles and a sack.

Campbell's defense was paced by linebacker Logan Livermon, who recorded nine tackles. Safety Jojo Pace added six tackles, including one for loss, and forced a fumble that helped fuel the Camels' first-quarter scoring surge.

The Rams controlled field position and time of possession, holding the ball for 28:55 compared to Campbell's 31:05, but made their possessions count when it mattered most.

Campbell will look to rebound next Friday when they travel to face East Carolina, while Rhode Island prepares for its next CAA matchup.

RICHMOND, VA – As the 2025 CAA Football season approaches, the spotlight shines on three North Carolina programs, Elon, Campbell, and North Carolina A&T, all aiming to rise in a competitive league led by preseason favorite Rhode Island.

Elon was picked eighth in the preseason poll with 98 points, just behind perennial playoff contenders like William & Mary and Towson. Senior punter Jeff Yurk, a Southern Pines native, earned a spot on the preseason all-conference team after a standout 2024 campaign. Fullback/H-back Dylan Magazu and defensive lineman Kahmari Brown also received honorable mention recognition, signaling strong individual pieces for a program looking to break through in the standings.

Campbell, entering its second full season in CAA Football, was voted 10th with 53 points. While the Camels are still building depth across the roster, standout cornerback Brandon Guzman was named an honorable mention selection by league coaches. Campbell will look to improve on both sides of the ball as it navigates a challenging schedule in one of the nation’s most competitive FCS conferences.

North Carolina A&T, which continues its transition into the CAA, placed 14th in the preseason poll with 23 points. The Aggies return standout offensive lineman Korion Sharpe, a senior from Charlotte who earned a spot on the all-conference first team. Additionally, return specialist Aaron Harris was named honorable mention for his special teams impact. Both veterans offer stability and leadership as A&T eyes a step forward in 2025.

While the three North Carolina-based CAA programs look to assert themselves, Rhode Island sits atop the preseason rankings after an 11-3 season and a share of the conference title in 2024. The Rams garnered eight first-place votes and 163 points in the poll. Monmouth (142 points, four first-place votes) and Villanova (139 points, two first-place votes) round out the top three.

Rhode Island’s defense is led by A.J. Pena, the preseason CAA Defensive Player of the Year, while Monmouth’s prolific quarterback Derek Robertson was chosen as Offensive Player of the Year. The league’s top teams return star power on both sides of the ball, with Rhode Island’s 11 returning starters and Monmouth’s FCS-leading offense setting the pace.

2025 CAA Football Preseason All-Conference Team – Offense

2025 CAA Football Preseason All-Conference Team – Defense

2025 CAA Football Preseason All-Conference Team – Special Teams

2025 CAA Football Preseason Predicted Order of Finish

BUIES CREEK – Brandon Peskin's 36-yard field goal with one second remaining lifted No. 13 Richmond over Campbell 27-24 Saturday afternoon at Barker-Lane Stadium, spoiling the Camels' latest upset bid.

Richmond (8-2, 6-0 CAA) trailed for much of the contest before mounting a decisive late-game drive, covering 45 yards in 11 plays to set up Peskin's game-winner. The victory came despite Campbell's impressive 273-yard rushing performance, a season-best for the Camels (3-7, 1-5 CAA).

The drama peaked in the final two minutes. After Campbell's Brandon Guzman intercepted Richmond quarterback Camden Coleman with 3:46 remaining, the Camels advanced to the Spider 35-yard line but failed to convert on fourth down. Coleman, who finished with 252 passing yards and two touchdowns, then engineered the winning drive by completing four of five passes and rushing for 27 yards to position Peskin for the decisive kick.

Campbell controlled the early stages, taking a 7-0 lead when Mike Chandler II capped a 91-yard drive with a 6-yard touchdown run in the first quarter. Richmond responded early in the second quarter as Coleman connected with Nick DeGennaro on a 40-yard touchdown pass to level the score.

The momentum shifted immediately back to Campbell when Randall King returned the ensuing kickoff 90 yards for a touchdown, marking the Camels' first kickoff return score since 2018. Connor Lytton's 40-yard field goal as time expired in the first half gave Campbell a 17-7 advantage.

Richmond rallied in the third quarter. Zach Palmer-Smith's 1-yard touchdown run cut the deficit to 17-14, and Peskin's first field goal of the day, from 36 yards, tied the game at 17 heading into the fourth quarter.

The Camels reclaimed the lead when Chandler II, who rushed for a season-high 121 yards, found Sincere Brown for a 14-yard touchdown pass. Brown's catch was his 11th touchdown reception of the season, establishing a new Campbell single-season record.

Richmond answered with a methodical 12-play, 76-yard drive, culminating in Coleman's 9-yard touchdown pass to Ja'Vion Griffin that tied the game at 24 with 4:45 remaining.

Landon Ellis led Richmond's receiving corps with seven catches for 101 yards, while Campbell's ground attack featured strong contributions from JJ Cowan, who added 82 yards on 12 carries.

Photo Credit: Bennett Scarborough

Defensively, Richmond's Matthew Traynor led all players with 12 tackles, including two for loss, and intercepted a pass. Campbell's Cornelius Davis recorded nine tackles, and Jalen Brooks registered eight stops with the game's only sack.

The victory keeps Richmond unbeaten in CAA play. Campbell will finish its 2024 season with a road game at Delaware next Saturday before hosting Towson on November 23.

ELON – Elon's explosive offense and balanced attack led them to a commanding 50-27 victory over Campbell at Rhodes Stadium on Saturday afternoon. The Phoenix (4-6, 3-3) controlled the game from the opening drive, building a 26-13 halftime lead and never looking back.

Elon quarterback Matthew Downing threw for 251 yards and three touchdowns, with Chandler Brayboy being his primary target. Brayboy finished with eight receptions for 183 yards and two touchdowns, including a 66-yard scoring strike on Elon's first offensive play of the game.

Running back Rushawn Baker powered the Phoenix ground game, rushing for 154 yards on 23 carries and finding the end zone three times. His performance helped Elon control the clock, as they held possession for over 32 minutes.

Despite the loss, Campbell (3-7, 1-5) showed offensive firepower of their own. Quarterback Mike Chandler II passed for 355 yards and four touchdowns, connecting with Randall King and Sincere Brown seven times each. King finished with 145 yards and two touchdowns, while Brown added 135 yards and two scores of his own, including a 70-yard touchdown reception in the second quarter.

Elon's defense, led by Caleb Curtain's game-high 12 tackles, forced Campbell to be one-dimensional. The Fighting Camels managed just 124 yards rushing, while Elon racked up 203 yards on the ground.

The Phoenix struck quickly, taking just nine seconds to score on their opening drive with Brayboy's 66-yard touchdown reception. They extended their lead to 14-0 on Baker's first touchdown run. Campbell responded with a touchdown pass from Chandler to King, but Elon's Ishmel Atkins returned the failed conversion attempt to push the lead to 16-6.

Elon's offensive efficiency showed in the red zone, where they scored on all six trips, including four touchdowns. The Phoenix put the game away in the third quarter, outscoring Campbell 17-7 to build a 43-20 lead.

The victory marks Elon's second consecutive win in conference play, while Campbell has now dropped three straight CAA contests.

BUIES CREEK – Campbell wide receiver Sincere Brown caught two deep touchdown passes to lead the Fighting Camels to a 21-7 victory over North Carolina A&T on Saturday afternoon at Barker-Lane Stadium.

Brown's first touchdown came early, hauling in a 64-yard strike from quarterback Chad Mascoe just 75 seconds into the game. He later sealed the victory with a 53-yard touchdown reception from Mike Chandler II in the fourth quarter, finishing with 150 receiving yards on five catches.

Campbell's Sincere Brown on his way to the end zone (Photo Credit: Bennett Scarborough)

The Fighting Camels (4-5, 2-3) controlled the first quarter, building a 14-0 lead after Chandler II scored on a 7-yard run with eight seconds remaining. Campbell's ground attack was effective throughout, accumulating 167 rushing yards led by JJ Cowan's 74 yards on 11 carries.

NC A&T (1-8, 0-5) struggled to find offensive rhythm early but showed life in the fourth quarter. The Aggies mounted their best drive of the day, marching 95 yards on 12 plays, culminating in Ger-Cari Caldwell's 9-yard touchdown reception from Justin Fomby to cut the deficit to 14-7.

However, Campbell responded immediately with Brown's second touchdown, effectively ending the Aggies' comeback hopes.

Despite the loss, NC A&T's defense played well in stretches, led by Henry Daniel's nine tackles, including two sacks. The Aggies actually held possession for nearly nine minutes longer than Campbell and ran 21 more offensive plays, but struggled to convert opportunities into points, missing two field goals in the second quarter.

Fomby completed 20 of 40 passes for 185 yards with one touchdown and two interceptions for NC A&T. Cameren Dalrymple led the Aggies' rushing attack with 75 yards on 16 carries.

Campbell's defense proved disruptive throughout the afternoon, with Jojo Pace and Jalen Brooks each recording nine tackles. The Fighting Camels' secondary broke up seven passes and intercepted two, with Da'Quan Johnson and Lakeem Rudolph each picking off passes in the fourth quarter to preserve the lead.

Up Next

Campbell travels to take on in-state CAA rival Elon next Saturday while NC A&T hosts a ranked William and Mary squad in Greensboro.

BUIES CREEK – North Carolina Central unleashed an explosive offensive performance, dominating Campbell 45-14 in a nonconference Old North State Showdown at Barker-Lane Stadium on Saturday afternoon.

The Eagles (4-2) established their dominance early, erupting for 28 unanswered points in the second quarter. Quarterback Walker Harris orchestrated the offensive onslaught, connecting on 14 of 23 passes for 132 yards and two touchdowns while adding a rushing score of his own.

NC Central’s ground game proved equally potent, with J’Mari Taylor accumulating 89 yards and a touchdown on 18 carries. Chris Mosley delivered a spark with a 57-yard touchdown run in the fourth quarter, finishing with 75 yards on just two attempts.

The Eagles’ defense matched their offense’s intensity, limiting Campbell (2-4) to 103 passing yards and forcing three turnovers. Quantez Mansfield led the defensive charge with six tackles, including 2.5 sacks and 3.5 tackles for loss. Malcolm Reed and Tomondrey Braxton each recorded interceptions.

Campbell showed signs of life in the second half when VJ Wilkins broke free for a 55-yard touchdown run in the third quarter. Mike Chandler II later added a 72-yard scoring dash, the Camels’ longest rushing play since 2017. However, these highlights weren’t enough to overcome the substantial deficit.

The Eagles’ special teams contributed to the victory, with Darryl Taylor returning a punt 68 yards for a touchdown in the second quarter. Kicker Juan Velarde was perfect on the day, converting all six extra points and adding a 43-yard field goal.

Campbell’s defense was anchored by Cornelius Davis, who recorded a game-high nine tackles, while Jalen Brooks added seven stops and a sack.

Up Next

NC Central hosts VU-Lynchburg next week in Durham while Campbell will have a bye week before resuming Colonial Athletic Association play at No. 12 William & Mary on October 19.

BUIES CREEK – In a thrilling back-and-forth contest, Campbell edged out Delaware State 44-41 on Saturday at Barker-Lane Stadium, securing their first home victory of the season. The game was a showcase of offensive firepower, with both teams combining for a staggering 974 yards of total offense.

The star of the day was Campbell's wide receiver Sincere Brown, who put on a spectacular performance with 133 receiving yards and three touchdowns on just five catches. His final score, a two-yard reception from quarterback Chad Mascoe Jr. with only 42 seconds left on the clock, proved to be the game-winner. This clutch play capped off a rapid 79-yard drive that saw the Camels march down the field in just five plays, including crucial catches by VJ Wilkins and RJ Jackson.

Campbell WR Sincere Brown (Photo Credit: Bennett Scarborough)

Mascoe Jr. had an outstanding day under center, completing 18 of 26 passes for 323 yards and three touchdowns. His connection with Brown and Wilkins, who added 115 yards on seven receptions, was pivotal in keeping the Camels' offense rolling throughout the game.

On the other side of the field, Delaware State's offense was equally impressive. Quarterback Marqui Adams threw for 252 yards and four touchdowns, completing 12 of 23 attempts. The Hornets' ground game was particularly potent, led by running back Jaden Sutton, who racked up an impressive 198 yards and two touchdowns on 20 carries.

The game was a seesaw battle from start to finish, featuring seven lead changes, with five occurring in the fourth quarter alone. Each time one team seemed to take control, the other would respond with a big play or crucial drive.

Campbell's defense, while giving up significant yardage, made key stops when it mattered most. Linebacker Jojo Pace led the unit with 10 tackles and a critical interception, while Jalen Brooks contributed eight tackles. Defensive lineman Elijah Hawk was a disruptive force, recording 1.5 tackles for loss, including one of Campbell's two sacks on the day.

The final moments of the game were filled with tension as Delaware State, trailing by three points, quickly drove to the Campbell 32-yard line with just seconds remaining. However, Michel Bergeron's 49-yard field goal attempt fell short, sealing the victory for the Camels.

This high-scoring affair showcased the offensive talents of both teams. Campbell's passing attack was particularly effective in the second half, accumulating 346 of their 457 total yards through the air. Delaware State, meanwhile, found success on the ground, rushing for 265 of their 517 total yards.

The game also marked a milestone for Campbell's receiving corps, as Brown and Wilkins became only the second pair of Camels to each surpass 100 receiving yards in a single game. The last time this feat was accomplished was in November 2022 against Bryant.

For Campbell, this victory improves their record to 2-3 and provides a much-needed boost of confidence as they look to build momentum for the remainder of the season. Delaware State, despite the loss, can take solace in their offensive output and the individual performances of players like Adams and Sutton.

Up Next

Campbell hosts in-state FCS rival NC Central while Delaware State hosts Saint Francis.

CULLOWHEE – In a historic upset, Campbell defeated 17th-ranked Western Carolina 24-16 on Saturday at Whitmire Stadium, marking the Fighting Camels' first victory over a ranked opponent in program history. The win also gave new head coach Braxton Harris his inaugural triumph at Campbell's helm.

Photo credit: Dylan Ribott

Quarterback Chad Mascoe Jr. led the charge for Campbell, showcasing his arm talent with 306 passing yards and two touchdowns. The Fighting Camels' offense overcame a slow start, turning the tide after two turnovers in their first three possessions. They found their rhythm, scoring touchdowns on three of their next five drives and adding a Connor Lytton 30-yard field goal to build a 24-10 lead with 7:46 remaining in the third quarter.

Campbell's defense played a pivotal role in the victory, forcing an impressive five turnovers. This marked their most takeaways in a single game since September 18, 2021, when they collected 10 in a 72-0 win over Presbyterian. The defensive unit held Western Carolina without an offensive touchdown, limiting the Catamounts to 287 total yards.

VJ Wilkins proved to be Mascoe's favorite target, catching both of his touchdown passes and finishing with five receptions for 68 yards. Sincere Brown had a standout performance, crossing the century mark for the second consecutive game with 108 yards on four catches. On the ground, Mark Biggins shouldered the load, rushing for 81 yards on 23 carries.

Defensively, Jalen Brooks led Campbell with 12 tackles and an interception. Jonathan Melvin contributed six stops, including a sack, while CJ Tillman added six tackles with a tackle for loss. The secondary was particularly active, with Logan Livermon, Jojo Pace, and Lakeem Rudolph each recording interceptions.

Western Carolina's offense struggled to find consistency against Campbell's stout defense. Quarterback Cole Gonzales completed 18 of 35 passes for 172 yards but was intercepted four times. The Catamounts' ground game found little success, with Corey Reddick Jr. leading the team with just 52 yards on seven carries.

The game's dramatic conclusion saw Western Carolina mount a last-ditch effort to tie the score. With 37 seconds remaining, the Catamounts regained possession and drove to the Campbell 27-yard line. However, Gonzales' final heave into the end zone was batted down, securing the historic victory for the Fighting Camels.

This upset marks a significant milestone for Campbell's football program. Prior to this game, the Fighting Camels were 0-12 all-time against top-25 ranked opponents. The victory not only breaks that streak but also sets a new standard for the team under Coach Harris' leadership.

Looking ahead, Campbell will open their Colonial Athletic Association (CAA) play at Rhode Island on September 14. The Fighting Camels will then make their home debut on September 21, hosting Stony Brook in the first of six games at Barker-Lane Stadium. With this landmark victory under their belts, Campbell looks to build momentum as they venture into conference play and the remainder of their season.

Curtain, a junior safety and former Grimsley standout, was named the preseason defensive player of the year. After an impressive sophomore season where the Greensboro native led the Phoenix with eighty tackles and four interceptions, including a pick-six against Wake Forest in the season opener, Curtain is poised to lead a defense that gave up less than two hundred yards passing a game last season. Curtain was joined by his teammate, wide receiver and electric kick returner Chandler Brayboy, on the all-conference team. Other North Carolina-based players on the preseason all-conference team include Campbell’s CJ Tillman, North Carolina A&T’s Karon Prunty, and Mountain Island’s Elijah Burris, who plays running back for Hampton.

Villanova, which earned a share of the 2023 CAA Championship and reached the quarterfinals of the FCS playoffs last season, was voted as the 2024 preseason favorite by the league’s head coaches. The Wildcats received nine of the available 16 first-place votes and totaled 217 points, while Richmond took second with one first-place tally and 189 points.

UAlbany garnered three first-place votes and finished third with 179 points, followed by William & Mary (175 points) and Delaware (163), which also picked up three first-place nods. Elon (157) was chosen sixth, followed by New Hampshire (150), Rhode Island (142), Towson (114), Monmouth (95), Campbell (83), Hampton (62), Maine (57), North Carolina A&T (49), Bryant (46) and Stony Brook (42).

2024 CAA FOOTBALL PRESEASON ALL-CONFERENCE TEAM

(Selected by a vote of Head Coaches)

OFFENSE

Connor Watkins, Villanova | Gr. | QB | Williamsport, Pa.

Elijah Burris, Hampton | Sr. | RB | Gastonia, N.C.

Griffin Woodell, UAlbany | So. | RB | Glens Falls, N.Y.

Marcus Yarns, Delaware | Gr. | RB | Salisbury, Md.

Bronson Yoder, William & Mary | Sr. | RB | Nappanee, Ind.

Trey McDonald, William & Mary | Jr. | FB/HB | Kinnelon, N.J.

Carter Runyon, Towson | Sr. | TE | Fairfax, Va.

Chandler Brayboy, Elon | Sr. | WR | Pembroke, N.C.

Nick DeGennaro, Richmond | Sr. | WR | Old Bridge, N.J.

Anthony Johnson, Stony Brook | So. | WR | Burlington, N.J.

Temi Ajirotutu, Villanova | Gr. | OL | Queens, N.Y.

Fintan Brose, Delaware | Gr. | OL | Irwin, Pa.

Charles Grant, William & Mary | Sr. | OL | Portsmouth, Va.

Ozzie Hutchinson, UAlbany | Gr. | OL | Poughkeepsie, N.Y.

Will Marotta, UAlbany | Gr. | OL | Collegeville, Pa.

Ralph Paige, Jr., Towson | Sr. | OL | Washington, D.C.

DEFENSE

Jeremiah Grant, Richmond | Sr. | DL | South Orange, N.J.

Westley Neal, Jr., Rhode Island | Sr. | DL | Miami, Fla.

Michael Otty, Bryant | Sr. | DL | Brooklyn, N.Y.

Dylan Ruiz, New Hampshire | Sr. | DL | Orlando, Fla.

Josiah Silver, New Hampshire | Sr. | DL | Hampton, Va.

Brendan Bell, Villanova | Gr. | LB | Basking Ridge, N.J.

Shane Hartzell, Villanova | Jr. | LB | Perkasie, Pa.

A.J. Pena, Rhode Island | Jr. | LB | Branchburg, N.J.

CJ Tillman, Campbell | Sr. | LB | Rockingham, N.C.

Karon Prunty, North Carolina A&T | Jr. | CB | Portsmouth, Va.

Isas Waxter, Villanova | Gr. | CB | Newark, N.J.

Caleb Curtain, Elon | Jr. | S | Greensboro, N.C.

Ty Trinh, Villanova | Gr. | S | Owings Mills, Md.

SPECIAL TEAMS

Chandler Brayboy, Elon | Sr. | KR | Pembroke, N.C.

Gabe Sloat, Rhode Island | Sr. | PR | North Kingstown, R.I.

Keegan Vaughan, Towson | Sr. | PK | Richmond, Va.

Aaron Trusler, Richmond | Gr. | P | Melbourne, Australia

Jabril Hayes, Richmond | Sr. | SPEC | Stephens City, Va.

CAA FOOTBALL PRESEASON OFFENSIVE PLAYER OF THE YEAR: Connor Watkins, QB, Villanova

CAA FOOTBALL PRESEASON DEFENSIVE PLAYER OF THE YEAR: Caleb Curtain, S, Elon

HONORABLE MENTION: Matthew Downing, QB, Elon; Derek Robertson, QB, Monmouth; Malachi Imoh, RB, William & Mary; Marquis Buchanan, WR, Rhode Island; Joe Gillette, WR, Maine; Jaylan Sanchez, WR, Villanova; Logan Tomlinson, WR, New Hampshire; Cooper Heisey, TE, Maine; Ryan McKenna, OL, William & Mary; Dion Crews-Harris, DL, Towson; Cazeem Moore, DL, Elon; Wayne Galloway, LB, Richmond; Ryan Toscano, LB, New Hampshire; Tyron Herring, CB, Delaware; Marcus Barnes, S, William & Mary; JoJo Bermudez, KR, Delaware; TJ Speight, KR, Monmouth; VJ Wilkins, KR, Campbell; John Opalko, PK, UAlbany; Josh Cupitt, P, Delaware; Bobby Cleary, SPEC, Campbell

2024 CAA FOOTBALL PREDICTED ORDER OF FINISH

(Selected by a vote of Head Coaches)

1. Villanova (9 first-place votes) 217

2. Richmond (1) 189

3. UAlbany (3) 179

4. William & Mary 175

5. Delaware (3) 163

6. Elon 157

7. New Hampshire 150

8. Rhode Island 142

9. Towson 114

10. Monmouth 95

11. Campbell 83

12. Hampton 62

13. Maine 57

14. North Carolina A&T 49

15. Bryant 46

16. Stony Brook 42