PEMBROKE – UNC Pembroke earned their first victory of the season with a 31-24 win over Fayetteville State at Grace P. Johnson Stadium in Pembroke, North Carolina on Saturday night. The Braves improved to 1-1 while the Broncos dropped to 0-2 in a game that featured 55 combined points and 682 total yards of offense.

The game began with promise for Fayetteville State, as they recovered a fumble deep in UNC Pembroke territory and converted it into the opening score. After forcing a three-and-out, the Broncos capitalized on excellent field position when Marcus Thompson recovered a Tre Robinson fumble at the Pembroke 17-yard line. Three plays later, Caden Davis punched it in from one yard out to give FSU a 7-0 lead with 9:52 remaining in the first quarter.

UNC Pembroke answered immediately with a methodical 44-yard touchdown drive. Robinson found his rhythm, connecting with Que Kennedy for a 4-yard touchdown pass to tie the game at 7-7. The Braves' passing attack, which would prove to be the difference, was just getting started. Robinson completed 13 of 20 passes for 234 yards and three touchdowns on the night.

The first quarter belonged to Kennedy and Robinson's connection. After FSU went three-and-out following back-to-back false start penalties, Pembroke took over at their own 50-yard line. Robinson methodically moved the Braves downfield, finding Kennedy again for a 7-yard touchdown pass with 1:32 left in the opening quarter. The 14-7 lead would hold through the end of the first quarter, with UNC Pembroke controlling 9:50 of the 15-minute period.

Fayetteville State managed to cut into the deficit in the second quarter when John Hernandez-Vargas connected on a 36-yard field goal, capping a 12-play, 65-yard drive that consumed nearly six minutes of clock time. The drive showcased the Broncos' balanced attack, with quarterback Demari Daniels contributing both through the air and on the ground, including a 35-yard scramble that set up the scoring opportunity.

Any momentum FSU built was quickly erased when Robinson found Malik Brown for a 47-yard touchdown strike just five plays later. The scoring pass highlighted UNC Pembroke's explosive passing capabilities, as Brown finished the night with three catches for 111 yards and the touchdown. The score extended Pembroke's lead to 21-10 with 4:39 remaining in the first half.

The second half opened with UNC Pembroke extending their advantage. After a 51-yard kickoff return by Jordan Marcucci set up excellent field position, the Braves added a 25-yard field goal by Taylor Harris. The three points came after Robinson completed a 36-yard pass to Jaquan Albright that moved the ball to the FSU 5-yard line, but the Braves had to settle for three points when the drive stalled.

Trailing 24-10, Fayetteville State found their offensive rhythm with a seven-play, 50-yard touchdown drive. Daniels completed passes of 15 and 15 yards to Unique Kelly, then scrambled 14 yards to set up Davis for his second one-yard touchdown run of the game. The score cut the deficit to 24-17 and gave the Broncos life entering the fourth quarter.

However, UNC Pembroke had an immediate answer. Marcus Martin, who entered the game as Pembroke's second quarterback, engineered a spectacular 93-yard touchdown drive that showcased the Braves' offensive depth. The drive featured a 20-yard completion from Martin to Albright, followed by a remarkable 58-yard run by Albright that brought the ball to the FSU 6-yard line. Martin capped the drive with a 5-yard touchdown pass to Albright, restoring the two-touchdown cushion at 31-17.

Fayetteville State refused to surrender, mounting one final scoring drive with 3:38 remaining in the third quarter. Daniels found Kelly for a 34-yard completion, then watched as Bryce Council broke free for a 22-yard run to the UNC Pembroke 1-yard line. Davis scored his third touchdown of the game on the following play, bringing the Broncos within seven points at 31-24.

The fourth quarter became a defensive struggle as both teams tightened up considerably. UNC Pembroke managed just 28 yards of total offense in the final period, while Fayetteville State generated 61 yards but could not find the end zone. The Braves controlled the clock effectively, holding possession for 8:27 of the 15-minute quarter and limiting FSU's opportunities.

Fayetteville State's final opportunity came with 2:48 remaining when they took over at their own 37-yard line trailing by seven. However, the drive stalled at the same spot, and the Broncos turned the ball over on downs with 2:05 left on the clock. UNC Pembroke ran out the remaining time to secure the victory.

Statistically, UNC Pembroke dominated through the air while Fayetteville State controlled the ground game. The Braves outgained FSU 424-258 in total offense, with 280 passing yards compared to just 119 for the Broncos. Robinson's 234 passing yards were complemented by Martin's 46 yards, giving Pembroke a clear advantage in the passing game. Albright emerged as the standout receiver with seven catches for 105 yards and a touchdown, while also contributing 68 rushing yards on just four carries.

For Fayetteville State, the rushing attack provided consistency throughout the game. Daniels led the way with 80 yards on 13 carries, while Council added 48 yards on 13 attempts. Davis, despite his three touchdowns, managed just six yards on four carries but proved invaluable in short-yardage situations. Kelly paced the receiving corps with five catches for 85 yards.

The defensive statistics revealed a relatively even battle, with UNC Pembroke recording 62 total tackles compared to FSU's 71. Jaidin Baptist led Pembroke with 10 tackles, while Matthew Leach topped Fayetteville State with 11 stops. Both teams struggled with penalties, as FSU was flagged 11 times for 92 yards while UNC Pembroke committed eight penalties for 53 yards.

Key Performers

UNC Pembroke:

- Tre Robinson: 13/20, 234 yards, 3 passing TDs; 8 carries, 20 rushing yards

- Jaquan Albright: 7 catches, 105 yards, 1 TD; 4 carries, 68 yards

- Malik Brown: 3 catches, 111 yards, 1 TD

- Marcus Martin: 6/9, 46 yards, 1 passing TD

Fayetteville State:

- Demari Daniels: 11/27, 119 yards; 13 carries, 80 yards

- Caden Davis: 3 TDs rushing (3 carries, 6 yards)

- Unique Kelly: 5 catches, 85 yards

- Bryce Council: 13 carries, 48 yards

CHARLOTTE – Bill Belichick earned his first victory as a college head coach Saturday night, watching North Carolina's defense smother Charlotte in a 20-3 win before a program-record crowd of 19,233 at Jerry Richardson Stadium. The Tar Heels held the 49ers to just 21 rushing yards while controlling the game from the opening drive.

Early Strike Sets the Tone

The game, delayed 30 minutes due to thunderstorms in the Charlotte area, began with North Carolina making an immediate statement. On the third play from scrimmage, quarterback Gio Lopez found Chris Culliver streaking down the field for a 51-yard touchdown pass, capping a 75-yard drive that consumed just 59 seconds. The explosive play gave the Tar Heels a lead they would never relinquish.

Chris Culliver hauls in a pass for the early Tar Heel touchdown (Photo Credit: Ed Conway)

North Carolina extended its lead to 10-0 late in the first quarter when Reece Verhoff connected on a 49-yard field goal, the culmination of a methodical seven-play, 34-yard drive that showcased the Tar Heels' balanced attack.

Charlotte's Missed Opportunities

The 49ers showed resilience in the second quarter, putting together their first sustained drive of the evening. An 11-play, 60-yard march featured quarterback Conner Harrell completing 13-yard passes to both Javen Nicholas and tight end Gus McGee, who doubled his career reception total in the game alone. The drive stalled in the red zone, but Liam Boyd's 39-yard field goal cut the deficit to 10-3 and extended Charlotte's program-record made-kick streak.

However, Charlotte's best chance to change the game's trajectory slipped away just before halftime. The 49ers assembled another impressive drive, with Nicholas hauling in a 19-yard reception and Henry Rutledge, making his season debut, breaking off a 14-yard run that provided a spark to the ground game. McGee's 15-yard reception pushed Charlotte into the red zone, but two negative plays stalled the momentum. Boyd's 26-yard field goal attempt struck the left upright, ending the program's 18-game made-kick streak and leaving points on the board.

North Carolina capitalized immediately, marching 80 yards in 11 plays over the final 2:51 of the half. The drive featured contributions from multiple players, with Davion Gause eventually punching it in from 12 yards out with just 13 seconds remaining. The touchdown gave the Tar Heels a comfortable 17-3 halftime lead and represented a crucial momentum swing.

Defensive Dominance Takes Over

While North Carolina's offense controlled the first half, the story of the second half belonged to both defenses, particularly the Tar Heels' unit. Charlotte managed just 64 yards in the final 30 minutes, with only 34 coming in the third quarter. The 49ers' rushing attack, already struggling, completely stalled as North Carolina's defensive front took control.

The statistical disparity told the story clearly. Charlotte finished with 21 total rushing yards on 29 attempts, averaging a mere 0.7 yards per carry. This represented a dramatic improvement for North Carolina's defense, which had allowed 258 rushing yards and 7.4 yards per carry in the previous week's loss to TCU.

Charlotte managed to move the ball through the air, primarily thanks to Nicholas's career night. The receiver caught 11 passes for 122 yards, both career highs, with his reception total tying for the third-highest single-game mark in program history. His yardage output marked the highest by a Charlotte receiver since O'Mega Blake's 205 yards at FAU in 2024.

Despite Nicholas's individual success, Charlotte's passing game couldn't overcome the absence of a running threat. Harrell completed 17 of 29 passes for 140 yards before giving way to Grayson Loftis, who connected on 8 of 12 attempts for 110 yards but threw two costly interceptions.

Fourth Quarter Drama

The third quarter remained scoreless, with both teams struggling to sustain drives. Charlotte's most promising possession ended dramatically when the 49ers faced fourth-and-six at the North Carolina 20-yard line. Harrell extended the play, rolling to his right and firing across his body toward E. Jai Mason in the corner of the end zone. The pass fell incomplete, turning the ball over on downs and ending Charlotte's best scoring opportunity of the half.

North Carolina finally broke through in the fourth quarter when Verhoff connected on a 33-yard field goal with 10:46 remaining, the first points by either team in nearly 20 minutes of game time. The score pushed the Tar Heels' lead to 20-3 and effectively sealed the outcome.

Charlotte made one final push late in the game, driving to the North Carolina nine-yard line before Greg Smith intercepted a pass to end the threat. The turnover capped a frustrating night for the 49ers, who moved the ball effectively between the 20-yard lines but couldn't convert in crucial situations.

Statistical Context

The numbers reflected North Carolina's control throughout the night. The Tar Heels outgained Charlotte 303-271 in total yards while holding a significant advantage in rushing yards (148-21). North Carolina averaged 5.2 yards per play compared to Charlotte's 3.8, and the Tar Heels converted 5 of 15 third-down attempts while holding Charlotte to 6 of 15.

On the ground, four different North Carolina players carried the ball at least five times in a balanced attack. Dominic June led the way with 52 yards on nine carries, followed by Lopez's 44 yards. Gause added 30 yards on five attempts while contributing the game's only rushing touchdown.

Defensively, several players stood out for North Carolina. Marcus Gbayor, Gevarris Gibson, and Desmond Robinson each recorded six tackles, with both Gibson and Robinson adding tackles for loss. Alijah Simpson contributed four tackles, including a sack and two tackles for loss, while the defense combined for five tackles for loss and five pass breakups.

For Charlotte, the defensive effort kept the game competitive despite the offensive struggles. Yamil Talib and Jamarrion Solomon led the team with six tackles each, with Solomon adding a tackle for loss. The 49ers recorded five tackles for loss as a team and two pass breakups while holding North Carolina to 20 points.

Looking Forward

The victory improved North Carolina to 1-1 under Belichick while showcasing the type of defensive performance that defined his NFL coaching career. The Tar Heels allowed their fewest points since shutting out Idaho in 2012 and didn't permit a touchdown for the first time since 2020.

Charlotte fell to 0-2 despite showing improvement from the previous week's loss to Appalachian State. The 49ers demonstrated the ability to move the ball and control the clock, putting together six drives of seven plays or more, including three that lasted over 10 plays. However, the inability to convert in the red zone and the lack of a rushing attack proved costly.

The attendance of 19,233 marked the largest crowd in both program and Jerry Richardson Stadium history, surpassing the previous record of 19,151 set against Appalachian State in 2018. The atmosphere provided an electric backdrop for what became a defensive struggle between two teams seeking their identity early in the season.

For North Carolina, the defensive turnaround from the previous week's performance against TCU provided hope for the remainder of the season. The Tar Heels demonstrated the ability to make adjustments and execute a game plan designed to neutralize Charlotte's offensive strengths.

Charlotte, meanwhile, showed glimpses of potential while highlighting areas that need immediate attention. The passing game's ability to move the ball consistently, led by Nicholas's breakout performance, provided a foundation to build upon. However, the rushing attack's inability to generate any consistent production left the offense one-dimensional and predictable.

The rain that delayed the game's start seemed to set the tone for Charlotte's night, as several drives stalled just short of scoring opportunities. The missed field goal before halftime loomed large, representing the type of small margins that often decide games at the college level.

Key Performances

North Carolina:

• Gio Lopez: 17-25 passing, 155 yards, 1 TD; 9 rushes, 44 yards
• Chris Culliver: 3 receptions, 74 yards, 1 TD
• Dominic June: 9 rushes, 52 yards
• Marcus Gbayor: 6 tackles, 1 TFL

• Charlotte:
• Javen Nicholas: 11 receptions, 122 yards
• Conner Harrell: 17-29 passing, 140 yards
• Yamil Talib: 6 tackles, 0.5 TFL
• Jamarrion Solomon: 6 tackles, 1 TFL

RALEIGH – Hollywood Smothers rushed for 140 yards and two touchdowns on 17 carries, and Cian Slone's late interception sealed NC State's 35-31 victory over Virginia on Saturday afternoon at Carter-Finley Stadium.

The game featured 457 rushing yards between the two teams and seven rushing touchdowns in a back-and-forth affair that saw four lead changes. Smothers became the first NC State player since Reggie Gallaspy II in 2018 to rush for 130-plus yards and score twice on the ground in the same game, averaging 8.2 yards per carry.

Both offenses came out firing in the first quarter, producing four consecutive touchdown drives to open the contest. Virginia struck first when J'Mari Taylor broke free for a 39-yard touchdown run on fourth-and-one, capping a 10-play, 75-yard drive that consumed 4:23. The Wolfpack answered immediately as CJ Bailey scampered 30 yards for a touchdown just 2:11 later, evening the score at 7-7.

Virginia regained the lead when Taylor punched in a 9-yard touchdown run, but NC State responded with Bailey connecting with Noah Rogers for a 27-yard touchdown pass. Rogers, playing his first full game after missing time last week with an injury, hauled in two passes for 38 yards and the score.

The Cavaliers seized control in the second quarter through precision and field position. Virginia converted 10 of 13 third-down attempts in the first half while NC State struggled mightily, going 0-for-6 on third downs before the break. Will Bettridge added a 29-yard field goal, then Virginia extended their lead to 24-14 on a 3-yard touchdown pass from Chandler Morris to Sage Ennis with 17 seconds remaining in the half.

That late score came after Cam Ross returned a punt 48 yards to set up excellent field position for the Cavaliers, who entered halftime controlling possession time 20:04 to 9:56.

NC State's offense awakened in the third quarter, scoring on all three of its possessions to flip the game. Smothers opened the half with a 14-yard touchdown run, then Bailey added a 12-yard rushing touchdown to give the Wolfpack their first lead at 28-24.

Virginia answered with Taylor's most explosive play of the day — a 66-yard touchdown run that required just three plays and 1:28 to restore their advantage at 31-28. Taylor finished with 150 rushing yards on 17 carries, adding 13 receiving yards.

But NC State had the final answer in the third quarter when Smothers capped a 9-play, 75-yard drive with a 9-yard touchdown run, putting the Wolfpack ahead 35-31 entering the final period.

The fourth quarter became a defensive struggle, with both offenses failing to reach the end zone. Virginia's best opportunity came with 13:20 remaining when Bettridge attempted a 47-yard field goal that struck the left upright, keeping the deficit at four points.

Bailey finished 16-of-23 passing for 200 yards and one touchdown, distributing the ball to seven different receivers. His 44 rushing yards on six carries gave him two touchdowns on the ground. The sophomore quarterback completed 70 percent of his passes while avoiding turnovers.

Morris completed 30 of 43 passes for 257 yards and one touchdown for Virginia, also adding 56 rushing yards. Jahmal Edrine led Virginia receivers with 68 yards on six catches, while Trell Harris caught seven passes for 52 yards.

The Cavaliers' final drive began at their own 19-yard line with 2:12 remaining. Morris moved the team downfield efficiently, completing passes to multiple receivers to reach the NC State 12-yard line. However, Slone stepped in front of an intended receiver to secure the interception with 1:02 remaining, ending Virginia's comeback hopes.

Defensively, NC State made crucial adjustments after halftime. The Wolfpack allowed just seven points in the final two quarters after surrendering 24 in the first half. Caden Fordham led NC State with nine tackles, while Sean Brown added nine tackles and one tackle for loss.

Virginia's James Jackson recorded eight tackles to pace the Cavaliers' defense, while Devin Neal contributed six tackles, one tackle for loss, and one pass breakup. Neither team recorded a sack, with both offensive lines providing excellent protection throughout the contest.

The Wolfpack controlled time of possession 27:35 to 32:25 but made their drives count when necessary. NC State converted 2-of-2 fourth-down attempts, including a crucial fourth-and-one conversion that set up an early touchdown. Virginia managed 1-of-2 on fourth down but couldn't convert when trailing in the fourth quarter.

Special teams played a significant role, particularly Virginia's return game. Ross averaged 20.3 yards on four punt returns, including the 48-yard return that set up a second-quarter touchdown. Both teams handled kickoffs efficiently, with NC State's Charlie Birtwistle averaging 64.3 yards on six attempts and Virginia's Daniel Sparks averaging 65.0 yards.

The victory improved NC State to 2-0 on the season and moved the all-time series record to 38-22-1 in favor of the Wolfpack. Under Dave Doeren, NC State improved to 4-0 against Virginia.

NC State finished with 416 total yards of offense compared to Virginia's 514, but the Wolfpack's ability to score in the red zone proved decisive. NC State converted all three of its red zone opportunities into touchdowns, while Virginia managed three touchdowns and one field goal on five red zone trips.

Key Performers

• Hollywood Smothers (NC State): 140 rushing yards, 2 TDs on 17 carries
• J'Mari Taylor (Virginia): 150 rushing yards, 3 TDs on 17 carries  
• CJ Bailey (NC State): 200 passing yards, 44 rushing yards, 3 total TDs
• Chandler Morris (Virginia): 257 passing yards, 56 rushing yards
• Cian Slone (NC State): Game-sealing interception

MARS HILL – JaQuan Kelly punched in a one-yard touchdown run with 31 seconds remaining to lift Winston-Salem State to a 28-25 victory over Mars Hill at Meares Stadium on Saturday night, capping off a back-and-forth battle that saw four lead changes in the final 15 minutes.

The Rams improved to 1-1 on the season after trailing 25-21 with just over two minutes left in the game. Winston-Salem State's final drive covered 75 yards in eight plays and took 1:34 off the clock, with quarterback Daylin Lee completing three crucial passes to set up Kelly's game-winning score.

First Quarter Fireworks Set the Tone

The game opened with immediate offensive fireworks. After Mars Hill won the coin toss and deferred, Winston-Salem State took advantage of excellent field position following a Christopher McCorkle interception return to the Mars Hill 45-yard line. Four plays later, Lee found Kaleb Washington on a 31-yard touchdown strike with 9:44 remaining in the first quarter, giving the Rams an early 7-0 advantage.

Mars Hill responded quickly on their ensuing drive, marching 53 yards in nine plays before settling for a 32-yard field goal by Lon Teachey to cut the deficit to 7-3. The Lions then took their first lead of the game just over two minutes later when quarterback JR Martin connected with David Hargro on a spectacular 55-yard touchdown pass, completing a two-play, 57-yard drive that consumed only 44 seconds.

The explosive first quarter saw both teams combine for 17 points, setting the stage for what would become a see-saw battle throughout the evening.

Defense Creates Opportunities in Third Quarter

Winston-Salem State entered halftime trailing 10-7, but the third quarter belonged to the Rams' defense and opportunistic offense. Just six seconds into the second half, linebacker Jamieson Alston intercepted a Martin pass at the Mars Hill 30-yard line, setting up Winston-Salem State in prime scoring position.

The Rams capitalized immediately, with Kelly scoring on a one-yard plunge three plays later to regain the lead at 14-10 with 13:19 remaining in the third quarter. The touchdown capped a quick 30-yard drive that took just 1:35 off the clock.

Winston-Salem State extended their advantage later in the third quarter with their most impressive drive of the game. Starting from their own 15-yard line, the Rams methodically marched 85 yards in 12 plays, controlling the ball for over six minutes. The drive culminated when Lee found Timothy "TJ" Ruff II on a four-yard touchdown pass, pushing the lead to 21-10 with 1:36 left in the third quarter.

Fourth Quarter Drama Unfolds

Mars Hill refused to fold, mounting a determined comeback in the final 15 minutes. The Lions drove 75 yards in 10 plays, with Jon Gullette capping the drive with a 13-yard touchdown run. Mars Hill attempted a two-point conversion, with Hargro completing a pass to make the score 21-18 with 12:33 remaining.

The momentum fully shifted to Mars Hill on Winston-Salem State's next possession. With the Rams driving, Lee was sacked for a five-yard loss and fumbled, with Mars Hill's Tristen McBride recovering at the Winston-Salem State 35-yard line. The turnover gave the Lions excellent field position with 3:35 left on the clock.

Mars Hill capitalized on the short field, scoring four plays later when Martin found Charlie Guinade on a 17-yard touchdown pass with 2:05 remaining. Teachey's extra point gave the Lions their first lead since the first quarter at 25-21.

Rams Respond When It Matters Most

Facing a four-point deficit with just over two minutes remaining, Winston-Salem State's offense found another gear. Lee completed three passes for 56 yards during the game-winning drive, including a crucial 17-yard connection to Davontay Deloatch on third-and-10 from the Rams' own 25-yard line.

The drive's biggest play came when Lee found Washington for a 31-yard gain down to the Mars Hill 13-yard line, giving Winston-Salem State first-and-goal with under a minute to play. Three plays later, Kelly dove across the goal line for his second touchdown of the game.

Mars Hill had one final opportunity with 31 seconds remaining, but the Lions' desperation drive stalled at their own 49-yard line as time expired.

Statistical Snapshot

Winston-Salem State was outgained 452-320 in total offense but made the most of their opportunities when it mattered. Lee completed 19 of 37 passes for 198 yards and two touchdowns without an interception. His favorite target was Washington, who hauled in four catches for 70 yards and a touchdown.

On the ground, Kelly carried the ball 15 times for 71 net yards and two scores, averaging 4.7 yards per carry. Ruff provided a complementary ground threat with 45 net yards on six attempts, including a long of 20 yards.

Mars Hill's Martin completed 20 of 42 passes for 267 yards, two touchdowns and two interceptions. The Lions' rushing attack was led by Gullette, who gained 122 yards on 17 carries and found the end zone once. Hargro led all receivers with three catches for 82 yards and a touchdown.

The Lions held advantages in several key statistical categories, including total offense (452-320), first downs (24-20), and average yards per play (5.9-4.9). However, Mars Hill's two turnovers proved costly, while Winston-Salem State protected the ball better with just one turnover.

Defensive Standouts

Winston-Salem State's defense was led by linebacker Khalil Stimpson, who recorded seven tackles (five solo) and broke up two passes. Kairon Martin contributed six solo tackles, including a sack and two tackles for loss totaling four yards.

The Rams' secondary came up big with two interceptions, including McCorkle's 30-yard return in the first quarter and Alston's crucial third-quarter pick that led to Winston-Salem State's go-ahead touchdown.

Mars Hill's defense was paced by Steven Reid, who totaled 12 tackles (four solo, eight assists), and Isaac Weaver, who added 10 tackles while contributing a sack.

Key Performers

Winston-Salem State:

• Daylin Lee: 19-of-37, 198 yards, 2 TDs, 0 INTs
• JaQuan Kelly: 15 carries, 71 yards, 2 TDs
• Kaleb Washington: 4 catches, 70 yards, 1 TD
• Khalil Stimpson: 7 tackles, 2 pass breakups
• Christopher McCorkle: 1 interception, 30-yard return

Mars Hill:

• JR Martin: 20-of-42, 267 yards, 2 TDs, 2 INTs
• Jon Gullette: 17 carries, 122 yards, 1 TD
• David Hargro: 3 catches, 82 yards, 1 TD
• Steven Reid: 12 tackles (4 solo, 8 assists)

Greensboro Snaps 12-Year Losing Streak Against Quakers in Defensive Battle

GREENSBORO – Greensboro College ended a dozen years of frustration against crosstown rival Guilford with a 21-7 victory Saturday night at Armfield Athletic Center, claiming their first Gate City Soup Bowl triumph since 2012. The win moves the Pride to 1-0 while dropping the Quakers to 0-1 in what proved to be a defensive slugfest that featured more punting yards than either team's offensive output.

The game exploded into action just 12 seconds after kickoff when freshman Sincere McIntyre fielded Asher Frisbee's opening kick at the Greensboro 5-yard line and raced 95 yards untouched for a touchdown. The electrifying return, which came after a brief weather delay, immediately silenced what had been a raucous Guilford crowd and set the tone for an evening that would see the Pride control the game's crucial moments.

Guilford responded with their most sustained drive of the night, marching 60 yards in eight plays to tie the game at 7-7. The drive featured quarterback Caleb Robles connecting with Shane Shapiro for 14 yards on third-and-10, then finding DeHart for seven yards before Sullivan picked up a first down with a five-yard rush. The Quakers capped the drive when Robles punched it in from eight yards out with 5:20 remaining in the first quarter.

The offensive fireworks ended there, as both teams struggled to move the ball consistently throughout the remainder of the first half. Greensboro managed just 53 total rushing yards on 31 attempts, averaging a meager 1.7 yards per carry. Starting quarterback Chase Altis completed 9 of 18 passes for 47 yards but was sacked six times and threw an interception.

Guilford fared slightly better on the ground, accumulating 119 rushing yards on 35 carries for a 3.4-yard average, but couldn't capitalize on their opportunities. The Quakers' best chance to take the lead came as the first half expired when they drove to the Greensboro 26-yard line, only to see Adriano De Castro's 43-yard field goal attempt sail wide left.

The second half belonged to Greensboro's defense and the timely insertion of senior quarterback Josh Sims. After Guilford was forced to punt from deep in their own territory, Greensboro took over at the Guilford 28-yard line with 4:11 remaining in the third quarter. Sims, who had replaced the struggling Altis, immediately provided a spark by finding Kyjuan Westmoreland for 14 yards on the drive's first play.

The Pride methodically moved down the field, with Westmoreland contributing a one-yard rush and Mitrend Curry losing two yards on consecutive plays before Sims found his target. Facing third-and-8 from the Guilford 8-yard line, Sims rolled left and delivered a perfect strike to Karee Dykes in the corner of the end zone for the go-ahead touchdown with 1:38 left in the third quarter.

Guilford's offense, which had managed just 225 total yards through three quarters, couldn't respond to the mounting pressure. The Quakers were particularly hampered by their inability to convert on third downs, finishing just 5-of-18 on the night compared to Greensboro's 5-of-14 mark.

The Pride put the game away with a methodical seven-play, 56-yard drive that consumed 4:27 of the fourth quarter. Sims, who finished 7-of-12 for 109 yards and two touchdowns, showed poise in the pocket despite heavy pressure from Guilford's pass rush. The drive culminated when Sims found sophomore tight end Matt Kidd for an 11-yard touchdown pass with 2:05 remaining, extending Greensboro's lead to 21-7.

Guilford made one final attempt to get back into the game, but junior safety Jay Law sealed the victory by intercepting Luke Hyatt's pass with 1:13 remaining. Law, who recorded two interceptions and four total tackles, returned the pick 20 yards to the Guilford 46-yard line, allowing Greensboro to run out the clock with a pair of kneel-downs.

The defensive statistics told the story of the evening's battle in the trenches. Guilford's Travis Burton terrorized Greensboro's offensive line, recording eight tackles and 3.5 sacks, while teammate Nick Iannone led all players with 10 tackles and added four quarterback hurries. Despite the pass rush, Burton and Iannone couldn't generate enough stops when it mattered most.

Greensboro's defense, anchored by senior linebacker Frank Walker's eight tackles and 2.5 tackles for loss, bent but didn't break when it counted. The Pride forced two interceptions and limited Guilford to just 106 passing yards on 32 attempts. Kalil Marcus added six tackles while Caden Jeter contributed three tackles and a sack.

The offensive numbers reflected the defensive nature of the contest, with neither team reaching 250 total yards. Greensboro finished with 209 total yards while Guilford managed 225, though the Quakers' advantage was largely negated by their two turnovers compared to Greensboro's one.

Dykes led Greensboro's rushing attack with 26 yards on 11 carries while also catching three passes for 30 yards and the crucial third-quarter touchdown. For Guilford, Josh Campbell paced the ground game with 39 yards on nine carries, while Shapiro's five receptions for 44 yards represented the Quakers' most consistent offensive threat.

The victory marked a significant milestone for Greensboro, which had endured eight consecutive losses to Guilford dating back to their last win in the series in 2012. The triumph also represented the Pride's first 1-0 start to a season since that same 2012 campaign, providing early momentum for what the program hopes will be a breakthrough year.

Beyond the scoreboard, the 24th Annual Gate City Soup Bowl achieved its primary community mission, collecting over 11,000 canned goods and non-perishable food items for local food banks. The annual food drive has become a cornerstone of the rivalry, ensuring that regardless of the on-field outcome, the Greensboro community benefits from the crosstown showdown.

The statistical oddity of the evening was the total punting yardage of 370 yards between both teams, which exceeded either the combined passing yards (262) or rushing yards (172) for the game. Greensboro's Guy Galardi III averaged 34.5 yards on six punts, while Guilford's McKinley Reavis punted seven times for a 23.3-yard average.

Key Performers:

• Sincere McIntyre, Greensboro: 95-yard kickoff return touchdown
• Josh Sims, Greensboro: 7-of-12, 109 yards, 2 touchdowns
• Jay Law, Greensboro: 2 interceptions, 4 tackles
• Frank Walker, Greensboro: 8 tackles, 2.5 TFL, 1 sack
• Travis Burton, Guilford: 8 tackles, 3.5 sacks
• Nick Iannone, Guilford: 10 tackles, 4 QB hurries

CULLOWHEE – In a wild back-and-forth affair at E.J. Whitmire Stadium, Gardner-Webb overcame a 21-7 first-quarter deficit to defeat Western Carolina 52-45 in a game that featured 97 total points and multiple lead changes on Saturday afternoon.

The Runnin' Bulldogs' remarkable comeback was powered by quarterback Nate Hampton, who accounted for 393 yards of offense and six touchdowns while engineering one of the most memorable finishes in recent memory between these two programs.

Early Fireworks Set the Tone

The scoring began quickly when Gardner-Webb's Quasean Holmes broke free for a 65-yard touchdown run just 2:16 into the game, capping a brief two-play, 65-yard drive. However, Western Carolina had an immediate answer when Patrick Boyd Jr. took a handoff 28 yards to the house on the very next possession, requiring just one play and six seconds to tie the game at 7-7.

The Catamounts seized control in the first quarter's final minutes. After forcing a Gardner-Webb punt, Western Carolina needed only three plays to find the end zone again, with Camury Reid punching in a three-yard touchdown run to cap a nine-play, 64-yard drive. The Catamounts weren't finished, as they added another quick score when Bennett Judy connected with James Tyre for a five-yard touchdown pass, pushing their advantage to 21-7 entering the second quarter.

Boyd Jr. was particularly effective early, rushing for 142 yards on 15 carries with one touchdown, consistently finding holes in the Gardner-Webb defense. His 70-yard breakaway run in the third quarter demonstrated the big-play capability that kept the Catamounts competitive throughout.

Offensive Explosion in the Second Quarter

The second quarter belonged to Western Carolina's aerial attack. Isaac Lee, who entered the game as the backup quarterback, delivered the play of the day with a 69-yard touchdown strike to Malik Knight that extended the Catamounts' lead to 35-7. The connection showcased Western Carolina's ability to strike quickly through the air, as Lee finished 3-of-9 for 82 yards and the touchdown.

Gardner-Webb began chipping away at the deficit late in the second quarter. Hampton found Anthony Lowe for an 18-yard touchdown pass, capping a methodical nine-play, 75-yard drive. The Runnin' Bulldogs added another score just before halftime when Hampton powered in from one yard out, making it 35-20 at the break.

Hampton's rushing ability proved crucial throughout the contest. The dual-threat quarterback carried the ball 28 times for 130 net yards and four rushing touchdowns, consistently finding ways to extend drives and put points on the board. His four rushing touchdowns tied for the game high alongside his two passing scores.

Western Carolina's Balanced Attack

The Catamounts demonstrated impressive offensive balance, accumulating 454 total yards. Judy, the primary quarterback, completed 15 of 27 passes for 151 yards and two touchdowns while managing the game effectively. His connection with Tyre proved particularly reliable, as the receiver hauled in five catches for 66 yards and a touchdown.

Western Carolina's ground game complemented their passing attack well. Beyond Boyd Jr.'s explosive runs, Branson Adams contributed 66 yards on 12 carries, providing steady production between the tackles. The Catamounts' offensive line created consistent running lanes, allowing the team to control possession for extended periods.

Defensively, Western Carolina forced some key turnovers, including Hasaan Sykes' 61-yard interception return that set up a scoring opportunity. The Catamounts also recovered a fumble, showing their ability to create short fields for their offense.

The Gardner-Webb Rally

The third quarter saw Gardner-Webb begin their methodical climb back into contention. Hampton connected with Lowe again, this time for a 36-yard touchdown that brought the Runnin' Bulldogs within 42-28. The scoring drive covered 75 yards in six plays, with Hampton showing his arm strength on the decisive throw.

Western Carolina answered quickly with Reid's second rushing touchdown, a one-yard plunge that maintained their two-touchdown advantage. However, Gardner-Webb's offense was just getting started.

The fourth quarter transformed into a showcase for Hampton's leadership and playmaking ability. He rushed for two more touchdowns, including a spectacular 26-yard run that gave Gardner-Webb their first lead of the game at 52-42 with 1:48 remaining.

Special Teams and Field Position Battle

Both kickers played significant roles in the outcome. Gardner-Webb's Charles Viorel converted a crucial 22-yard field goal with 2:36 remaining to give his team a 45-42 lead, though he also missed a 41-yard attempt earlier in the fourth quarter. Western Carolina's Christian Lowery answered with a 29-yard field goal with 42 seconds left, setting up the dramatic finish.

The punting game also influenced field position throughout. Gardner-Webb's Brady Braun averaged 54 yards on two punts, including a 55-yard boot that helped flip field position in the third quarter. Western Carolina's Stephen Brantley handled seven punts with a 43.3-yard average, consistently pinning Gardner-Webb deep in their own territory.

Defensive Standouts

Despite the high-scoring affair, several defensive players made their mark. Gardner-Webb's Jamari Young led all tacklers with 11 stops, while Sabin McLaughlin added eight tackles in support. For Western Carolina, Hayward McQueen Jr. paced the defense with 15 total tackles, showcasing his range across the field.

The defenses struggled to contain the opposing offenses consistently, but both units managed key stops at crucial moments. Western Carolina's pass defense, led by Cam'Ron Dabney's four pass breakups, helped slow Gardner-Webb's aerial attack at times.

Looking Ahead

Both teams face significant challenges next week as they step up in competition level. Gardner-Webb will travel to Atlanta to face Georgia Tech, while Western Carolina heads to Winston-Salem to battle Wake Forest.

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.

WINSTON-SALEM – Wake Forest began the Jake Dickert era with a hard-fought 10-9 victory over Kennesaw State on Friday night at Allegacy Federal Credit Union Stadium, as the Demon Deacons survived a defensive battle in front of 30,789 fans to open the 2025 season.

In a game that featured just 19 total points and minimal offensive fireworks, Wake Forest relied on methodical execution and timely defensive stops to secure its first victory under new head coach Dickert. The win improved Wake Forest's impressive record in season openers, continuing a trend of strong starts that has defined the program in recent years.

Early Exchange Sets Tone

The game's opening sequence established what would become a pattern of sustained drives and defensive resilience. Wake Forest struck first with a masterful 14-play, 75-yard touchdown drive that consumed over seven minutes of the first quarter. The methodical march culminated in a five-yard touchdown run by redshirt senior quarterback Robby Ashford, showcasing the balanced attack that would characterize the Demon Deacons' offensive approach throughout the evening.

Kennesaw State answered immediately with their own impressive touchdown drive. The Owls managed a 10-play, 75-yard scoring march capped by a 19-yard touchdown run from C. Bennett. However, a failed extra point attempt left Kennesaw State trailing 7-6, a missed opportunity that would prove costly in the narrow final margin.

Ashford Commands Wake Forest Offense

Ashford, making his Wake Forest debut, delivered a steady performance that balanced efficiency with timely playmaking. The redshirt senior completed 20 of 28 passes for 218 yards while adding 42 rushing yards and a touchdown on 18 carries. His dual-threat capability kept Kennesaw State's defense honest throughout the game, particularly on the opening touchdown drive where he completed all five pass attempts for 43 yards.

The receiving corps provided reliable support, with redshirt senior tight end Eni Falayi leading the way with four catches for 52 yards. His 18-yard reception marked the most productive tight end performance for Wake Forest in recent memory. Sophomore receiver Micah Mays Jr. contributed three catches for 33 yards, while Chris Barnes added three receptions for 23 yards and also handled kickoff return duties effectively.

Ground Game Provides Balance

Wake Forest's rushing attack, while not spectacular, proved effective in controlling the game's tempo. Five different players contributed to the team's 130 rushing yards, with Ashford leading the way with his 42 yards and touchdown. Running back Taye Clark added 37 yards on 11 carries, while Jamario Clements contributed 26 yards on 11 attempts, including a crucial fourth-down conversion on the opening scoring drive.

Kennesaw State countered with a more productive ground game, accumulating 158 rushing yards led by Bennett's 66 yards and touchdown on 17 carries. Quarterback Dexter Williams II added 44 yards on 14 carries, demonstrating the dual-threat capability that kept Wake Forest's defense challenged throughout the contest.

Defensive Units Shine

Both defenses delivered impressive performances in what became a field position battle for much of the evening. Wake Forest's defense effectively contained Kennesaw State's passing attack, limiting Williams II to just 12 completions on 33 attempts for 149 yards. The pressure was consistent, with the Demon Deacons recording four sacks, including efforts from Gabe Kirschke and Jayden Loving.

Redshirt senior defensive back Nick Andersen paced Wake Forest's defensive effort with nine total tackles and two pass breakups, providing steady coverage and run support. The defensive line contributed three tackles for loss, disrupting Kennesaw State's offensive rhythm at crucial moments.

Kennesaw State's defense proved equally stingy, recording two sacks and seven tackles for loss while forcing several three-and-out sequences. The Owls' ability to generate pressure helped keep the game competitive despite their offensive struggles in the passing game.

Fourth Quarter Drama

The game's decisive moments came in the third quarter when both teams managed their only scoring after halftime. Kennesaw State took a 9-7 lead with 9:45 remaining in the third quarter on a 29-yard field goal by D. Kinney, capping a 14-play, 64-yard drive that showcased their offensive patience and precision.

Wake Forest responded with the game-winning drive, aided by a spectacular 41-yard reception from Karate Brenson that moved the Demon Deacons into scoring position. Connor Calvert converted the ensuing 22-yard field goal attempt with 3:05 remaining in the third quarter, providing what would prove to be the winning margin.

The fourth quarter became a defensive showcase, with both teams struggling to sustain drives. Wake Forest's defense secured the victory with a crucial fourth-down stop, forcing a turnover on downs with under two minutes remaining to preserve the narrow lead.

Looking Ahead

Wake Forest's season-opening victory, while not aesthetically pleasing, demonstrated the type of resilience and execution that championship teams display in challenging circumstances. The Demon Deacons controlled time of possession 35:01 to 24:59 and converted efficiently on third downs, going 6-for-17 compared to Kennesaw State's 9-for-21 mark.

CHARLOTTE – In his first game as App State's starting quarterback, AJ Swann delivered a performance that announced the Mountaineers' intentions for the 2025 season. Completing 31 of 46 passes for 368 yards and three touchdowns without an interception, Swann orchestrated a dominant 34-11 victory over Charlotte on Friday night at Bank of America Stadium.

The Duke's Mayo Classic showcased App State's new-look offense under first-year head coach Dowell Loggains, as the Mountaineers accumulated 586 total yards in front of 35,718 fans. Swann's passing total set a record for the most yards by a quarterback in his App State debut, surpassing the previous mark in emphatic fashion.

Charlotte entered the contest hoping to flip the script in this budding rivalry, but App State's aerial assault proved too much to handle. The 49ers managed just 218 total yards, with their ground game particularly stifled at 76 yards on 29 carries.

The game's opening sequence provided a glimpse of both teams' fortunes. Charlotte's false start penalty set an ominous tone, but the 49ers appeared to catch a break when safety Ja'Qurious Conley forced a fumble at the goal line, punching the ball away from App State receiver Jaden Barnes just before he crossed into the end zone after a 59-yard gain.

That defensive play allowed Charlotte to capitalize with the game's first points. Following the turnover, the 49ers mounted a 13-play, 55-yard drive that consumed over six minutes and culminated in Logan Boyd's 42-yard field goal with 1:21 remaining in the first quarter.

The lead proved short-lived as App State's offensive machine found its rhythm in the second quarter. Rashod Dubinion, operating primarily in the Wildcat formation, punched in a 2-yard touchdown run to cap a methodical 9-play, 81-yard drive that consumed 3:18 and gave the Mountaineers a 7-3 advantage with 8:38 left in the half.

App State's momentum continued building when Swann connected with Barnes for a 10-yard touchdown pass with 36 seconds remaining before halftime. The scoring drive covered 80 yards in 14 plays, showcasing the balanced attack that would define the Mountaineers' evening.

The half's dramatic conclusion came courtesy of linebacker Ja'Den McBurrows, whose diving interception of a Conner Harrell pass set up App State at Charlotte's 35-yard line. True freshman kicker Dominic De Freitas capped the wild sequence with a 47-yard field goal on the final play of the half, extending the lead to 17-3 and providing a psychological blow to the home team.

Charlotte's struggles continued in the third quarter as App State methodically extended its advantage. De Freitas connected on a 35-yard field goal early in the frame, then Swann found Kanen Hamlett for a 19-yard touchdown pass that pushed the margin to 27-3 with 4:27 remaining in the period.

The 49ers finally found the end zone in the fourth quarter when Harrell hit E. Jai Mason for a 16-yard touchdown pass, followed by a successful two-point conversion pass to Gus McGee that cut the deficit to 27-11 with 10:25 left. However, any hopes of a dramatic comeback were quickly extinguished.

App State responded with authority, driving 75 yards in 12 plays before Swann capped the scoring with a 1-yard touchdown pass to true freshman Alex Sanchez with 4:00 remaining. The methodical drive consumed 6:25 and effectively sealed Charlotte's fate.

Defensively, App State coordinator DJ Smith's unit forced two crucial turnovers and held Charlotte scoreless through the first three quarters. McBurrows and Zyeir Gamble each recorded six tackles to pace the defense, while Colton Phares contributed five stops.

The Mountaineers' defensive effort was particularly impressive considering Charlotte managed to move between the 20-yard lines at times. Safety Dylan Hasz provided the game's most crucial defensive play when he forced a fumble at App State's 3-yard line in the fourth quarter, with linebacker Kyle Arnholt recovering the loose ball to thwart Charlotte's best scoring opportunity.

Swann's supporting cast delivered throughout the evening. Barnes finished with six catches for 134 yards and a touchdown despite the early fumble, while Dalton Stroman caught a career-high eight passes for 88 yards. Isaiah Cummings added five receptions for 57 yards, and Dubinion contributed both through the air and on the ground with five catches for 31 yards to complement his 111 rushing yards on 22 carries.

Charlotte's offense struggled to establish any consistent rhythm against App State's defense. Quarterback Conner Harrell completed 13 of 24 passes for 142 yards, one touchdown and one interception, while running back Cameren Stokes led the ground game with 49 yards on 15 carries.

The 49ers' receiving corps was paced by Justin Olson's two catches for 56 yards, including a 47-yard reception that briefly sparked hopes of a fourth-quarter rally. Mason's touchdown catch highlighted his two-reception, 29-yard performance, while Stokes added six yards receiving on two catches.

App State's dominance extended to the statistical categories that often determine outcomes. The Mountaineers converted 7 of 15 third-down attempts compared to Charlotte's 4 of 14, and both teams were perfect on fourth down with two conversions each. More telling was App State's 5-for-5 performance in the red zone compared to Charlotte's 1-for-2 showing.

The victory extends App State's perfect record against Charlotte to 4-0, with previous wins coming in 2018, 2019, and 2020. The Mountaineers also improved to 2-0 at Bank of America Stadium, having defeated East Carolina 33-19 in a season opener at the venue in 2021.

For App State, the comprehensive victory provides an ideal start under Loggains' leadership while showcasing the potential of Swann's arm talent and the offensive system's versatility. The balanced attack that produced nearly 600 yards suggests the Mountaineers could be a force in Sun Belt Conference this season.

Charlotte, meanwhile, must regroup quickly from a performance that exposed weaknesses in pass defense and offensive efficiency. Coach Tim Albin's squad will look to bounce back in their home opener against North Carolina on September 6, with the opportunity to play against the state’s flagship university in front of their home crowd providing motivation for improvement.

Lenoir-Rhyne's 2025 campaign got off to a difficult start Friday night as the Bears dropped their season opener to eighth-ranked West Florida 48-21 in a game that saw the visitors struggle with early mistakes and explosive plays allowed on defense.

The Argos jumped on the Bears immediately, scoring touchdowns on their first three possessions to build a commanding 21-0 lead before the first quarter ended. West Florida quarterback Marcus Stokes orchestrated the early barrage, connecting with TJ Lane for an 11-yard touchdown pass just 1:06 into the game after recovering a Lenoir-Rhyne fumble on the opening kickoff.

Stokes continued his efficient night by finding Tyree Holloway for a 71-yard touchdown strike that extended the lead to 15-0. The senior signal-caller capped the first quarter with a one-yard rushing touchdown, putting the Bears in a three-score hole before they could establish any rhythm.

West Florida's offensive efficiency was on full display throughout the first half. The Argos converted on their first six possessions, adding a 29-yard field goal from Brogan Woeber and another touchdown pass from Stokes to Corey Scott to push the advantage to 31-0.

Lenoir-Rhyne finally broke through just before halftime when quarterback Khamoni Robinson, making his first career start, engineered a quick four-play, 65-yard drive. Robinson hit Zion Agnew for a 51-yard completion to set up a six-yard touchdown pass to Tate O'Bryan with no time remaining in the half.

The third quarter provided the game's most competitive stretch as both teams found the end zone twice. West Florida opened the second half with another long touchdown pass from Stokes to Holloway, this time for 33 yards, but the Bears responded with their best football of the night.

Robinson connected with Songa Yates for a 27-yard touchdown pass, completing an 89-yard drive that cut the deficit to 38-14. Four minutes later, running back LJ Turner broke free for a 26-yard touchdown run, capping an 87-yard drive that brought Lenoir-Rhyne within 17 points at 38-21.

However, West Florida's depth and talent eventually wore down the Bears. The Argos added two more field goals and a rushing touchdown from Stokes in the fourth quarter to secure the victory.

Robinson completed 24 of 35 passes for 310 yards and two touchdowns in his debut, becoming the first Bears quarterback to throw for at least 300 yards in a season opener since 2018. Agnew led the receiving corps with four catches for 112 yards, while Yates added four receptions for 91 yards and a touchdown.

Turner provided the ground game's lone bright spot, rushing for 35 yards and a score on just five carries. The Bears managed only 62 total rushing yards against a West Florida defense that consistently pressured Robinson, recording six sacks for 42 yards in losses.

Defensively, team captain Tre'von Cooper paced Lenoir-Rhyne with 10 tackles, while Desmond Greene recorded the Bears' first interception of the season. The Bears struggled to contain West Florida's balanced attack, allowing 537 total yards including 353 through the air.

Stokes completed 20 of 30 passes for 353 yards and four touchdowns while adding two rushing scores. Scott led the Argos receivers with nine catches for 172 yards and a touchdown, while Holloway caught just two passes but turned them into 104 yards and two touchdowns.

The loss drops Lenoir-Rhyne to 0-1 on the season and mostly likely ends their 30-week streak in the national rankings. The Bears will look to rebound next Saturday when they travel to Tusculum for their South Atlantic Conference opener.

DURHAM – Duke turned a competitive game into a rout with 21 fourth-quarter points, defeating Elon 45-17 Thursday night at Wallace Wade Stadium in both teams' season opener.

The contest remained close through three quarters, with Elon trailing just 24-17 entering the final period. But the Blue Devils (1-0) scored three touchdowns in the fourth quarter to pull away from the Phoenix (0-1), who had kept pace for most of the evening.

The Phoenix entered halftime tied 10-10 and remained within striking distance until the game's final 14 minutes. Elon quarterback Landen Clark rushed for a 2-yard touchdown with 14:12 remaining in the fourth quarter, capping a 12-play, 75-yard drive that pulled the Phoenix within seven points at 24-17.

That would be as close as Elon would get.

Duke responded immediately with a five-play scoring drive aided by a 63-yard run from Anderson Castle that set up the Blue Devils at the Elon 8-yard line. Quarterback Darian Mensah found Sahmir Hagans for a 6-yard touchdown pass to push the lead to 31-17 with 11:28 remaining.

The floodgates opened from there. Que'Sean Brown returned a punt 78 yards for a touchdown just over two minutes later, and Peyton Jones added a 5-yard rushing score with 1:55 left to cap the scoring.

Mensah, making his Duke debut after transferring from Tulane, completed 27 of 34 passes for 389 yards and three touchdowns. The redshirt sophomore spread the ball effectively, with five different receivers catching at least three passes.

Hagans led Duke's receiving corps with five catches for 54 yards and two touchdowns, while Cooper Barkate added five receptions for 117 yards in his Blue Devils debut. Brown contributed six catches for 93 yards and finished with 175 all-purpose yards thanks to his punt return touchdown.

For much of the evening, Elon matched Duke's offensive output. The Phoenix gained 275 total yards, including 163 rushing yards on 44 carries. Clark led the ground attack with 61 yards on 18 carries while adding 101 passing yards on 10-of-16 completion.

TJ Thomas Jr., returning from a season-ending injury suffered last October, provided a spark for Elon with 95 all-purpose yards. His 44-yard run on the final play of the first quarter set up a 35-yard field goal by Luke Barnes that tied the game 3-3.

The Phoenix kept the game interesting with timely defensive plays. Brodie Carroll forced a fumble late in the second quarter that Dillon Pardue recovered, helping Elon maintain its halftime tie. Carroll finished with seven tackles in his Phoenix debut.

Darren James-Hamilton led all defenders with 11 tackles, including seven solo stops. The performance marked his second strong showing against Duke, following nine tackles in last year's season opener.

Duke's defense applied consistent pressure throughout the night, recording three sacks and 10 tackles for loss. The Blue Devils held Elon to just 11 yards on the Phoenix's first three possessions, setting an early tone.

The turning point came in the third quarter when Duke scored touchdowns on consecutive possessions to take control. Mensah connected with Hagans for a 15-yard score at 10:59 of the third quarter, capping an 83-yard drive that gave Duke a 17-10 lead.

Three minutes later, Mensah found Andrel Anthony for a 27-yard touchdown that extended the advantage to 24-10. The scoring pass came on the eighth play of an 88-yard drive that showcased Duke's offensive balance.

Duke's ground game produced 159 yards on 25 carries, with four different players recording rushing touchdowns. Castle led the way with 69 yards on just three carries, while Jones and Jaquez Moore each found the end zone.

The Blue Devils controlled the tempo despite being outpossessed 32:53 to 27:07, making their opportunities count with explosive plays. Duke averaged 9.3 yards per play compared to 4.4 for Elon.

Special teams played a significant role in the final outcome. Brown's 78-yard punt return touchdown broke the game open, while Jeff Yurk kept Elon competitive with strong punting. Yurk averaged 49.8 yards on five punts, placing two inside the Duke 20-yard line.

The early stages of the game suggested a much different outcome. Duke missed a 45-yard field goal on its opening drive, while Elon managed just 11 total yards on its first three offensive possessions. The Phoenix offense came alive midway through the first quarter when Thomas broke free for his 44-yard run.

That play sparked an Elon drive that resulted in Barnes' 35-yard field goal, knotting the score at 3-3 with 9:50 remaining in the second quarter. The Phoenix had driven 58 yards in 13 plays, showing the persistence that would keep them competitive.

Duke regained the lead with 8:01 left in the second quarter when Moore broke through for a 32-yard touchdown run. The score came on a four-play, 75-yard drive that began with explosive completions to Nate Sheppard and Hagans.

Elon answered immediately with perhaps its most impressive drive of the night. Clark found Zimere Winston for 29 yards to move into Duke territory, then capped the nine-play march with his 2-yard scoring run to tie the game 10-10 at halftime.

The second half belonged to Duke's passing attack. Mensah threw for 167 yards and two touchdowns in the third quarter alone, connecting with Hagans and Anthony for scores that established control.

Barkate emerged as a key weapon for the Blue Devils, hauling in catches of 17, 46 and 10 yards during Duke's first touchdown drive of the second half. His 46-yard reception moved Duke into the red zone and set up Hagans' first scoring catch.

Dylan Magazu provided Elon's most consistent offensive threat, catching three passes for 61 yards during the Phoenix's fourth-quarter touchdown drive. All three receptions came on the 12-play march that temporarily kept Elon's hopes alive.

The victory marked Duke's fourth consecutive season-opening win and produced the program's highest point total in an opener since 2017. For Elon, the loss dropped the Phoenix to 0-1 but showed they could compete with Atlantic Coast Conference opposition for extended periods.

Thomas finished his return from injury with 46 rushing yards and a 46-yard kickoff return, while Clark's 61 rushing yards marked the first time an Elon quarterback led the team in rushing since 2022. The Phoenix won the turnover battle 1-0 thanks to Carroll's forced fumble.

Duke will face a significant test next week when No. 12 Illinois visits Wallace Wade Stadium. Elon returns home to face Davidson at Rhodes Stadium, seeking its first victory of the season in front of the home crowd.

WILSON – Barton College's football team faced a harsh reality check in their 2025 season opener, falling 35-7 to Virginia State University Thursday evening at Truist Stadium in what became a lopsided affair that exposed several areas needing immediate attention for the Bulldogs.

The Bulldogs (0-1) found themselves in an early hole as Virginia State jumped out to a commanding 21-0 lead in the first quarter alone. Barton's defense struggled to contain Trojans quarterback Rahsaan Matthews, who torched the secondary for 343 passing yards while finding receivers with alarming ease throughout the contest.

The early struggles that plagued Barton from the opening kickoff were evident as Virginia State's talented skill position players found success against the Bulldogs' defense. The Bulldogs allowed Virginia State to score on their first three possessions, including a devastating 58-yard touchdown pass that came just over a minute into the game.

Offensively, Barton faced significant challenges establishing any rhythm against a Virginia State defense that seemed to have an answer for every play call. The Bulldogs managed just 115 total yards compared to Virginia State's overwhelming 569, with the ground game particularly struggling as Barton finished with negative-3 rushing yards on 18 attempts.

Senior quarterback Trevor Nored, expected to be a leader for this Barton squad, completed 10 of 14 passes for 114 yards but found himself under constant pressure. The Waldorf, Maryland native was sacked twice, though he did connect with sophomore running back Jackson Parrish for Barton's lone touchdown in the fourth quarter.

That scoring drive represented Barton's most sustained success of the evening, as Nored methodically moved the Bulldogs 71 yards in eight plays, capping the drive with an 8-yard touchdown pass to Parrish with 9:42 remaining in the game. The Graham, North Carolina product's touchdown reception prevented what appeared destined to be a shutout and provided the home crowd of 3,335 with their only opportunity to celebrate.

Defensively, senior linebacker Ja'Correy Bible provided the lone bright spot for Barton, leading all tacklers with 13 total tackles in a tireless effort to slow down Virginia State's multi-faceted attack. The San Antonio, Texas native was seemingly everywhere on the field, making tackles from sideline to sideline while trying to rally his teammates throughout the difficult evening.

The statistical disparities painted a stark picture of Barton's struggles. Virginia State controlled the clock for over 40 minutes compared to Barton's 19:46, forcing the Bulldogs into eight punting situations while Virginia State punted just twice. Barton's inability to convert on third downs (2-of-10) and sustain drives left their defense on the field for extended periods, contributing to the mounting fatigue as the game progressed.

For first-year players and newcomers to the program, the opener served as a sobering introduction to college football at this level. The speed and physicality displayed by Virginia State exposed areas where Barton must improve quickly if they hope to compete effectively in conference play.

Special teams also presented challenges for Barton, with punter Andrew Bontekoe working overtime throughout the evening. Despite the heavy workload, Bontekoe averaged a respectable 36.8 yards per punt and placed two kicks inside the 20-yard line, providing some field position assistance when the offense struggled.

Looking ahead, Barton faces another significant test next Saturday when they travel to Institute, West Virginia, to face West Virginia State at noon. The road environment will present additional challenges for a young Bulldogs squad still searching for their identity.

The team must learn from this experience and use it as motivation while building on the character they showed by continuing to fight throughout the game as they prepare for next week.

The loss, while disappointing, represents just the first chapter in what the program hopes will be a season of growth and development. With 11 games remaining on the schedule, Barton has ample opportunities to address the issues exposed Thursday night and show the progress expected from a program building toward sustained success.

For Barton fans, patience may be required as this team finds its footing, but the foundation for improvement was evident in moments throughout the contest, particularly in Bible's defensive leadership and the late scoring drive that showed the offense's potential when everything clicks together.

RALEIGH – East Carolina's fourth-down pass sailed incomplete with 37 seconds remaining, ending a dramatic comeback attempt as NC State held on for a 24-17 victory Thursday night at Carter-Finley Stadium.

The Pirates, who trailed 17-0 early in the second quarter, nearly completed an improbable rally against their most bitter in-state rival before quarterback Katin Houser's pass to Desirrio Riles came up a yard short of the goal line on fourth-and-one from the Wolfpack nine-yard line.

"We were actually planning on going for two and get stopped on fourth down there," ECU head coach Blake Harrell said. "They saw that one, cover zero, double edge pressure and just couldn't get a good ball there to Desirrio and get across the line."

The loss denied the Pirates a chance to build on their momentum from December's 26-21 victory over NC State in the Go Bowling Military Bowl. Instead, the season opener exposed the same inconsistencies that plagued ECU throughout much of last season while highlighting the team's resilience in adverse situations.

NC State linebacker Jamel Johnson made the game-sealing tackle, wrapping up Riles behind the line of scrimmage to preserve the Wolfpack's eighth consecutive opening-game victory under head coach Dave Doeren.

"It was a team win, it really was," Doeren said. "Offensively we jumped out 17-0, got us a lead. Defensively, they had -20 rushing yards in the first half. It was really stingy. Both sides of the football helped each other throughout the night."

The Pirates' offensive struggles began immediately, managing just six plays and eight total yards in the first quarter while NC State built a commanding early advantage. ECU punted on four consecutive possessions to start the game, unable to establish any rhythm against a Wolfpack defense that looked determined to avenge December's bowl defeat.

"Obviously a disappointing loss there," Houser said. "Our motto on offense is start fast, and obviously we did not do that tonight."

NC State capitalized on ECU's early miscues with methodical efficiency. The Wolfpack opened the scoring after a 15-play, 64-yard drive that consumed over six minutes, settling for Nick Konieczynski's 29-yard field goal when the Pirates' defense stiffened in the red zone.

The flood gates opened in the second quarter. CJ Bailey, NC State's sophomore quarterback, punched in an 11-yard rushing touchdown to cap a seven-play drive, then connected with Wesley Grimes for a 48-yard scoring strike just 42 seconds later. The quick succession of scores left the Pirates reeling and their traveling fans stunned.

But ECU's first sign of life came when the Wolfpack got caught in a substitution mix-up late in the second quarter. Houser found Jayvontay Conner wide open over the middle, and the receiver did the rest, racing 79 yards for a touchdown that cut the deficit to 17-7.

"It's definitely good, especially for week one, to get punched in the mouth and come back out even harder," said safety Teagan Wilk, who transferred back to ECU this season after spending one year at Houston. "When I was coming off the sidelines every series, I could really see it in everybody's eyes that nobody's worried. As an older guy, that's what you want to see from the younger guys."

Wilk provided the momentum-shifting play just before halftime, intercepting Bailey's pass and returning it 20 yards to the NC State 43-yard line. The Pirates had a chance to trim the lead further, but penalties pushed them back, and Nick Mazzie's 53-yard field goal attempt fell short as time expired.

NC State seemed to regain control early in the third quarter when Hollywood Smothers capped a 10-play, 80-yard drive with a two-yard touchdown run, extending the lead to 24-7. But the Pirates refused to fold, showing the same fight that carried them to nine victories in Harrell's first season.

Marlon Gunn Jr. opened the fourth quarter with a four-yard touchdown run, finishing a nine-play, 72-yard drive that pulled ECU within 24-14. When Konieczynski missed a 40-yard field goal attempt, the Pirates seized the opportunity, driving 61 yards in nine plays before Mazzie connected from 34 yards to make it 24-17 with 8:32 remaining.

The Wolfpack appeared ready to put the game away when Bailey found Teddy Hoffmann for 50 yards, moving into ECU territory. But three consecutive running plays netted negative yardage, and Konieczynski's 46-yard field goal attempt sailed wide right, giving the Pirates one final chance with 5:41 on the clock.

Houser, who finished with career highs of 30 completions, 44 attempts and 366 passing yards, methodically moved ECU down the field. London Montgomery contributed 14 rushing yards on three carries during the drive, helping the Pirates reach the NC State nine-yard line.

But when the Pirates needed one yard on fourth down, they came up empty. Houser's pass to Riles, intended for the left corner of the end zone, was knocked away by Johnson, allowing NC State to run out the final seconds.

The game statistics told the story of two contrasting halves. After NC State outgained ECU 144-8 in the opening quarter, the teams finished with nearly identical totals – the Wolfpack holding a slim 423-413 advantage in total offense.

Houser's performance provided encouragement despite the loss, as he completed passes to 10 different receivers and connected on 11 throws of at least 15 yards. Brock Spalding caught a career-high six passes for 97 yards, while Riles and Anthony Smith – who spent three years at NC State before transferring – also hauled in six catches each.

The Pirates' ground game, however, never found traction. ECU managed just 30 net yards on 29 rushing attempts, a stark contrast to the 326 yards they accumulated in December's bowl victory. A 23-yard loss on a botched snap in the second quarter epitomized the struggles.

"We popped a few runs in there but nothing like we should to control the game, especially in the second half," Harrell said. "One of our plans to win is to win the rushing battle, and we certainly did not do that."

The Pirates' cause wasn't helped by 10 penalties for 86 yards, three failed fourth-down attempts and Mazzie's missed field goal attempt. But their ability to rally from 17 points down demonstrated the character that Harrell has instilled since taking over the program.

For NC State, Bailey threw for 318 yards and accounted for two touchdowns – one passing, one rushing. Grimes finished with a career-high 121 receiving yards on four catches, while Smothers contributed 106 total yards from scrimmage. Freshman Hoffmann made an immediate impact with 93 receiving yards on five catches.

The Wolfpack defense, led by linebacker Caden Fordham's 11 tackles, limited ECU to one yard per carry – the lowest average since a November 2023 game against Wake Forest.

"You've got 57 thousand plus fans here, and what a great rivalry game for our fans," Harrell said. "When you go play a 60-minute ball game against a good opponent and an atmosphere like this, you find out exactly where you are and unfortunately, we came up on the wrong side of it and a side I don't want to be on, but we've got to improve from here."

The loss drops ECU to 0-1 to start the season, while NC State improves to 1-0. The Pirates will look to regroup when they return home for their next contest against Campbell, while the Wolfpack continues its season against Virginia on September 6.