SoCon 2024 Game Highlight I Samford vs Tennesee Tech

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Birmingham, AL

Tennessee Tech Golden Eagles vs. Samford Bulldogs Football game at 2024-11-09 08:00 PM (UTC) #55207

SoCon 2024 Game Highlight I Samford vs Tennesee Tech (CdYxDWumCkc)

SoCon 2024 Match Highlight I The Citadel vs Chattanooga

Charleston, SC

Chattanooga Mocs vs. The Citadel Bulldogs Football game at 2024-11-09 06:00 PM (UTC) #55225

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SoCon 2024 Match Highlight I Furman vs Wofford

Greenville, SC

Wofford Terriers vs. Furman Paladins Football game at 2024-11-09 07:00 PM (UTC) #55202

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SoCon 2024 Match Highlight I VMI vs Mercer

Lexington, VA

Mercer Bears vs. VMI Keydets Football game at 2024-11-09 06:30 PM (UTC) #55199

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SoCon 2024 Match Highlight I ETSU vs Western Carolina

Johnson City, TN

Western Carolina Catamounts vs. ETSU Buccaneers Football game at 2024-11-09 05:00 PM (UTC) #55073

SoCon 2024 Match Highlight I ETSU vs Western Carolina (j4qCbD2NoxU)

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Mercer Bears

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Western Carolina Catamounts

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The Citadel Bulldogs

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Mercer Football

𝕬𝖑𝖑-𝕬𝖒𝖊𝖗𝖎𝖈𝖆𝖓 🏈

@MylesTooNice named to the @AP FCS All-American Second Team Defense🔥 https://t.co/qeebwHU2yz

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@TMoore1215 named to the @AP FCS All-American First Team Defense 🫡 https://t.co/cxFhV4y0Z5

The Citadel Football

Tack on another major award for our stud punter James Platte, this time a national recognition via the @AP as a second-team FCS All-American selection!

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Happy Birthday, John Luke! https://t.co/QCxkBr9RmI

Furman Football

This Day In Furman History (Dec. 17, 1988) — Furman becomes the first Southern Conference school and first private institution to claim a NCAA FCS National Championship, beating Georgia Southern, 17-12, in Pocatello, Idaho. https://t.co/BHTZtOTyWq

Samford Football

.@JoeShann12 is officially a Bulldog!

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Welcome to Samford, @Younglashon24!

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Western Carolina Football

Congrats to Susan Rees for being the first to secure her 2025 season tickets 🎟️! Coach Bell gave Susan a call ☎️ to show his appreciation! Catamount Country make sure YOU get your 2025 season tickets NOW‼️ GO CATS🐾

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.@hankweber8 is officially a Bulldog!

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Welcome to the Samford Family, @DunnCaulen!

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<h1>Saturday's Football Roundup</h1><h3>Miller, North Dakota St. defeat Mercer at Gate City Bank Field at the Fargodome</h3>North Dakota St. got off to a hot start through the air on Saturday with two first quarter touchdowns. Mercer answered with a touchdown in the opening frame, but would not muster anymore as North Dakota State defeated the Bears, 31-7, on Saturday.Cam Miller had his eyes on the endzone in North Dakota St.'s win. He threw for two touchdowns and rushed for another one, wreaking havoc on Mercer's defense. Receivers Bryce Lance and Mekhi Collins were Miller's main targets, collecting 73 and 119 receiving yards respectively. The Bison found offensive success throughout the day, outpacing the Bears in total offensive yards 392 to 195.Kelin Parsons, Dwayne McGee, and CJ Miller were all contributors for Mercer in the loss. Much of the Bears' limited offensive success came on early downs. They went just 1-for-11 on third down attempts, and then failed on each of their two fourth down attempts.Mercer finishes the 2024 season with an 11-3 record en route to winning its first SoCon title and advancing to the quarterfinals of the FCS playoffs for the first time in program history.<hr/>

Box Score

ABC/espn+

Fargo, ND

North Dakota State Bison

North Dakota State Bison Football team

Mercer Bears vs. North Dakota State Bison Football game at 2024-12-14 08:30 PM (UTC) #55790

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The Southern Conference

Saturday's Football Roundup 2024/12/14

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Will Healy Named New Head Coach of ETSU Football

<h1>Saturday's Football Roundup</h1><h3>McGee leads Mercer to victory at home, taking down Rhode Island</h3>In a defensive battle, Mercer outbattled Rhode Island to claim a hard-fought 17-10 win.Tailback Dwayne McGee led the way for Mercer, accumulating 114 yards on 21 rushing attempts. Through the air, Adjatay Dabbs was the Bears' best option. Dabbs finished with five receptions for 23 yards and one touchdown. The Bears put an emphasis on valuing the ball, as they did not commit any turnovers all game.Marquis Buchanan, Hunter Helms, and Greg Gaines were all contributors for Rhode Island in the loss. Mercer's defense held Rhode Island to 315 total offensive yardage on the afternoon, which is below their season average of 362.3 yards per game.<hr/>

espn+

Macon, GA

Rhode Island Rams

Rhode Island Rams Football team

Rhode Island Rams vs. Mercer Bears Football game at 2024-12-07 07:00 PM (UTC) #55744

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Saturday's Football Roundup 2024/12/07

Note: The following was written by Scott Keeler, who worked as a reporter at the Greenville News for more than 25 years and continues to cover the Southern Conference. “Keeler’s Corner” will appear throughout the season.&nbsp;Keeler can be found on X @Scott_Keeler&nbsp;Welcome to Keeler’s Corner! This third installment is a special postseason edition with a focus on this year’s Southern Conference champion, Mercer, the lone SoCon team in the FCS playoffs. I’ll also look at other SoCon teams who were in contention for playoff bids, but ultimately were snubbed. There will be a more traditional Keeler’s Corner recapping the final games of every team in the league after Mercer has completed its season.A year of firsts for MercerMercer made history in the 2023 postseason when it recorded a win in its first ever FCS playoff game. Many more “firsts” came this season.First-year coach Mike Jacobs guided the Bears to their first SoCon championship and first bye in the FCS playoffs as a top eight seed. Seventh-seeded Mercer (10-2) will host No. 10 seed Rhode Island (11-2) Saturday at 2 p.m. on ESPN+. The Rams advanced to face the Bears with a 21-17 win over Central Connecticut State in last Saturday’s opening round.“I like to cook Thanksgiving dinner, so it was good to be able to spend a little time with our families. I think that mental reset for our guys, as well as physical, was good. The bye week was much needed to rest, recoup and recover a little bit. We did get work done though,” Jacobs said during his weekly press conference this week. “Now we’ve got a big-time game against a really good Rhode Island team. One of their losses is to Minnesota, while the other is to Delaware who’s moving up to the FBS level. We’ve got a team that’s chomping at the bit. They’re ready to play”An opportunistic offense and a big-play defense has powered the Bears’ success this season. The list of Mercer “firsts” continues in FCS statistics. The Bears rank No. 1 in the country in third-down percentage defense (25.1 percent), defensive touchdowns (7), turnovers gained average (2.6 per game), defensive interceptions (22), rushing defense (67.4 yards allowed per game - 15 fewer than second place Tennessee Tech), and are second in tackles-for-loss (8.2 per game).Individually, T.J. Moore leads the country in interceptions with seven while teammate Myles Redding is tied for second place with six.The final path to the SoCon titleThe Bears won at least a share of their first conference championship since winning the 1932 Dixie Conference, clinching in style on Nov. 9. Mercer’s offense piled up more than 500 total yards while its defense recorded the program’s first road shutout since 2014 in a 34-0 win at VMI. That marked the fourth time this season that the Bears held an opponent without a touchdown.It was Mercer’s sixth consecutive win, matching the school record, and was its seventh victory in its last eight road games in the regular season. The victory featured some quick striking offense by the Bears. Two of their six scoring drives took 41 seconds, while the longest was three minutes. That one was a 13-play, 88-yard effort to close out the first half as Mercer took a 17-0 lead into the break. Freshman quarterback Whitt Newbauer finished with 282 yards passing, three touchdowns and no interceptions.The Bears fell to 0-2 against teams from Alabama - and undefeated against the rest of the country - the following week with a 52-7 loss at FBS power Alabama.Mercer got to celebrate winning the SoCon title outright at home in the regular season finale on Nov. 23, when the Bears knocked off Furman 49-23.That game featured a back-and-forth opening quarter. Mercer took a 14-10 lead with 42 seconds left on Newbauer’s 46-yard touchdown pass to freshman Adjatay Dabbs. Just 20 seconds later, the Bears’ prolific scoring defense came up with arguably the biggest play of the game as linebacker Tommy Bliss snagged a loose ball out of midair and returned it 35 yards for Mercer’s FCS-best seventh defensive touchdown this season.The Bears again posted more than 500 yards of total offense with a balanced attack of 290 yards passing and 213 rushing. Dabbs finished a career-high day with eight receptions for 181 yards and two touchdowns. Senior Dwayne McGee rushed 15 times for 74 yards to become the third Mercer back with more than 1,000 yards in a season.“I couldn’t be more proud to be a part of Mercer football. I had a unique opportunity when we were at Notre Dame College to be the first to do a bunch of things there - first time being ranked, first time winning a conference championship, first time winning a (Division II) playoff game,” Jacobs said. “To be part of Mercer’s first Southern Conference title is something really special. I can’t say enough about the work that our team has put in. They’ve bought in since the day we got here.“To see that culminate on the field for all of those who helped bring Mercer football back, there’s so many that were a part of that, it was an unbelievable moment for our institution. It’s something I’m really happy that our kids got to be a part of.”To the victor go the spoilsIn August, Mercer was picked to finish fourth in the SoCon and four players made the All-SoCon preseason teams. After winning the league, a total of 17 Bears earned All-SoCon honors and the program nearly swept the league’s yearly awards.McGee was named SoCon Offensive Player of the Year, while Brayden Manley earned Defensive Player of the Year honors. Defensive lineman Andrew Zock was named the league’s Freshman of the Year, while Jacobs earned Coach of the Year.While his teammate earned the SoCon’s top defensive honor, Moore is one of three finalists for the Buck Buchanan Award which is presented annually to the top defensive player in the FCS. The winner, selected after the regular season by a national voting panel, will be announced at the Stats Perform FCS National Awards Banquet Jan. 4 in Frisco, Texas.Black SaturdayMercer became the SoCon’s sixth different champion in the past six years. One would think that parity would be good for the league, but it seems to have had a negative impact on Selection Sundays when the FCS playoff brackets are announced.For the third time in the past five seasons, only the SoCon’s automatic qualifier made the playoff field this season. Mercer is the lone team in, despite the fact that six of the league’s nine teams ranked in the top 25 polls at some point this season.It seemed that the SoCon was poised to send at least three teams to the playoffs before what may now become known as “Black Saturday” took place in Tennessee on Nov. 16. At ETSU, the Bucs were upset by Furman 24-21. Meanwhile at Chattanooga, the Mocs were stunned by Samford 36-13. ETSU and Chattanooga bounced back with wins to close out the regular season, but it wasn’t enough for a playoff bid.The Bucs finished 7-5, but one of those wins was a non-Division I victory making ETSU ineligible for an at-large bid. For the third consecutive season, Chattanooga won seven games in the regular season but only made the playoffs one of those years. The Mocs were listed as one of the first four teams out despite being ranked No. 19 in the Massey ratings.The playoff committee uses Massey as one of the metrics for determining the field, but some teams behind the Mocs in those ratings received at-large bids. That includes Tennessee State, which was No. 46 in Massey and lost at Montana in last Saturday’s opening round.It seems that win-loss record style outranked substance as Tennessee State went 9-3 with no FBS games scheduled, while two of Chattanooga’s losses were to FBS opponents - including a three-point loss at Georgia State.Lest we forget Western Carolina, who actually finished alone in second place in the SoCon thanks to a head-to-head win over Chattanooga. While the computers didn’t like the Catamounts as much as the Mocs, a Western Carolina team that had second-half leads at N.C. State and Montana was seemingly not even in the postseason conversation. A loss to a Campbell team that went 3-9 seemingly doomed the Catamounts. Western Carolina became just the second program since the playoff field expanded to 24 to win at least six conference games and seven Division I games and not make the playoffs.Meanwhile, larger conferences where every team doesn’t play each other continue to put multiple teams in the playoffs each year. Just imagine if ETSU and Chattanooga had non-conference victories on Nov. 16 despite what happened in league play, or if Western Carolina had a non-conference win instead of playing Mercer. It’s likely they could’ve all made the playoff field with what would’ve been each team’s eighth win.

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Keeler's Corner: In-Season Update #3 2024

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Mercer's Moore named to top three for the Buck Buchanan Award 2024

SPARTANBURG, S.C. – The Southern Conference’s nine football coaches have selected their annual all-conference teams and specialty awards for the 2024 season. Mercer running back Dwayne McGee is the Offensive Player of the Year and Bears defensive lineman Brayden Manley is the Defensive Player of the Year. Mercer defensive lineman Andrew Zock is the Freshman of the Year and Bears head coach Mike Jacobs is the Coach of the Year. ETSU offensive lineman Luke Smith is the Jacobs Blocking Award winner. &nbsp; The coaches, who could not vote for their own players or themselves, selected all-conference first and second teams and all-freshman teams on offense, defense and special teams. Due to a tie in the voting, there was one additional wide receiver on the first team and one additional offensive lineman and defensive back on the second team. &nbsp; 2024 Coaches All-Southern Conference Football Team &nbsp; Roy M. “Legs” Hawley Offensive Player of the Year – Dwayne McGee, Sr., RB, MercerDefensive Player of the Year – Brayden Manley, So., DL, MercerFreshman of the Year – Andrew Zock, DL, MercerJacobs Blocking Award – Luke Smith, Gr., OL, ETSUWallace Wade Coach of the Year – Mike Jacobs, MercerFirst team offenseQB&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Cole Gonzales, Jr., Western CarolinaRB&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Dwayne McGee, Sr., Mercer&nbsp;RB&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Reggie Davis, Jr., ChattanoogaOL&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Luke Smith, Gr., ETSUOL&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Israel Mukwiza, Sr., MercerOL&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Reid Williams, Sr., ChattanoogaOL&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Tyriq Poindexter, Jr., VMIOL&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Blake Whitmore, Sr., Western CarolinaTE&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Jake Young, So., Western CarolinaWR&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; AJ Johnson, So., ETSUWR&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Sam Phillips, Jr., ChattanoogaWR&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; AJ Colombo, Jr., Western CarolinaFirst team defenseDL&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Jaylen George, So., ETSUDL&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Luke Clark, Sr., FurmanDL&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Brayden Manley, So., MercerDL&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Marlon Taylor, Sr., ChattanoogaLB&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Evan DiMaggio, Sr., FurmanLB&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Isaac Dowling, Gr., MercerLB&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Noah Martin, Gr., SamfordDB&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; TJ Moore, Sr., MercerDB&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Myles Redding, Sr., MercerDB&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Josh Battle, Jr., ChattanoogaDB&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Reuben Lowery III, Sr., ChattanoogaFirst team special teamsPK&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Ian Williams, Sr., FurmanP&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; James Platte, Gr., The CitadelLS&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Nathan Tokar, Gr., The CitadelRS&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Colton Hinton, So., FurmanSecond team offenseQB&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Johnathan Bennett, Gr., The CitadelRB&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Bryson Irby, Sr., ETSURB&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Hunter Rice, Sr., VMIOL&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Derrell Bailey Jr., Sr., ETSUOL&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Luke Petit, Jr., FurmanOL&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Riley Adcock, Sr., MercerOL&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; EJ Johnson, Jr., MercerOL&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Derek Simmons, Sr., Western CarolinaOL&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Anthony Garcia, Sr., WoffordTE&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Jordan Davis, Sr., WoffordWR&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Javin Whatley, Jr., ChattanoogaWR&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Kyle Watkins, Sr., WoffordSecond team defenseDL&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Arias Nash, Jr., MercerDL&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Andrew Zock, Fr., MercerDL&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Quay Wiggles, Sr., ChattanoogaDL&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Anthonie Lattany, Sr., WoffordLB&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Zach West, Sr., ETSULB&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Ken Standley, Gr., MercerLB&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Eric Rankin, Sr., VMIDB&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; CJ Douglas, So., SamfordDB&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Jordan Walker, Jr., ChattanoogaDB&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Shamus Jones, Sr., VMIDB&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Mateo Sudipo, Sr., Western CarolinaDB&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Amir Annoor, Sr., WoffordSecond team special teamsPK&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Jude Kelley, Jr., ChattanoogaP&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; John McConnell, Jr., MercerLS&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Alex Applefield, Gr., SamfordRS&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Brayden Smith, So., MercerAll-Freshman OffenseGavin Hall, Furman&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Trey Hedden, Furman&nbsp;&nbsp;Jackson Pryor, Furman&nbsp;Kendall Harris, Mercer&nbsp;&nbsp;Tyler Murray, Mercer&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Whitt Newbauer, MercerEthen Horne, VMI&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Taron Dickens, Western CarolinaZach Watson, Western CarolinaLuke Moise, Wofford&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Amari Odom, Wofford&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;All-Freshman DefenseCaldwell Bussey, Furman&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Ryan Earl, Furman&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Billy Lewis, FurmanJaylan Moson, FurmanAndrew Zock, Mercer&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Leroy Harris III, Chattanooga&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Beni Mwamba, Chattanooga&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Asa Locks, VMIBo Simpson-Nealy, Western CarolinaC.J. Coombes, WoffordMarion Smokes, Wofford&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;All-Freshman Special TeamsBraylon Knauth, The CitadelRiley Smith, FurmanAustin Fletcher, VMINotes: - Western Carolina quarterback Cole Gonzales and Mercer running back Dwayne McGee (Walter Payton Award), Mercer defensive lineman Brayden Manley, Samford linebacker Noah Martin and Mercer defensive back TJ Moore (Buck Buchanan Award), Mercer defensive lineman Andrew Zock, Western Carolina quarterback Taron Dickens and Wofford defensive back CJ Coombes (Jerry Rice Award), Chattanooga defensive back Reuben Lowery III (Doris Robinson Award) and Mercer coach Mike Jacobs (Eddie Robinson Award) are all national finalists for FCS legacy awards.- Entering postseason play, Mercer’s McGee leads the SoCon in rushing yards (1,018) and rushing yards per game (84.8). His eight rushing touchdowns were second in the league, and he ranked fourth in the conference in all purpose yards per game (94.7). McGee is the only player in the SoCon to record over 1,000 rushing yards this season. &nbsp; - McGee claimed SoCon Offensive Player of the Week on Oct. 28, following a 223-yard rushing performance against Western Carolina, which was a battle of top 25 teams. McGee’s 223 yards were the highest rushing output by any SoCon player this season and ranks second in the Mercer record book for a single game.- McGee is the first Mercer player to be named SoCon Offensive Player of the Year.&nbsp; - Mercer’s Manley posted 32 tackles, with 14.5 of those going for lost yardage, leading the SoCon. His eight sacks were second in the conference. &nbsp; - Against Western Carolina on Oct. 26, Manley had a game-high nine tackles, including a career-high 2.5 sacks, and a quarterback hurry in that game, leading to him being named the SoCon Defensive Player of the Week on Oct. 28.&nbsp; - Manley’s selection marks the first time a Mercer player has been named the defensive player of the year in the SoCon. &nbsp; - Mercer’s Zock finished in the top five in the league in sacks (6.5) and tackles for loss (13.5), also earning all-freshman honors in addition to SoCon Freshman of the Year. He is the Bears’ third recipient of freshman of the year, joining 2017 winner Kaelan Riley and 2020-21 winner Carter Peevy. &nbsp; - Zock’s best games of the season came at Wofford on Sept. 28, when he finished with five tackles, including three tackles for loss and a sack, and a quarterback hurry, and against Furman on Nov. 23, when he had three tackles, one for a loss, a pass breakup, a forced fumble, which was returned for a touchdown, and a school-record seven quarterback hurries. &nbsp; - Smith collects ETSU’s third Jacobs Blocking Award. The other two Bucs to receive the award were Matt Pyke (2018) and Tre’mond Shorts (2020-21). - Smith helped ETSU rank first in the SoCon in rushing yards (2,330) and rushing yards per game (194.2). Smith fortified an offensive line that paved the way for two of the top seven rushers in the SoCon as Bryson Irby (763) and Devontae Houston (648) completed the season fourth and seventh, respectively, in total rushing yards. - Mercer’s Jacobs is the Bears’ first SoCon Coach of the Year. Jacobs, in his first year at the helm, led Mercer to a 10-2 record overall and a 7-1 SoCon mark. The Bears won their first outright SoCon regular season title this season. - Jacobs’s squad is ranked No. 9 in the AFCA FCS Coaches’ Top 25 and No. 8 in the Stats Perform FCS Top 25. Jacobs led the squad to the No. 7 national seed in the NCAA Division I Football Championship. - Mercer paced the league with 17 players earning postseason distinction. The Bears had 13 all-conference selections and four all-freshman picks. Furman was second with five All-SoCon selections and eight all-freshman picks.- Mercer’s 13 all-conference selections included six on the first team. Chattanooga had six first-team recipients as well. Furman and Western Carolina each had four first-team selections. &nbsp; - Furman led the conference in all-freshman selections with eight, with Mercer and Wofford following with four apiece.&nbsp; - Furman’s Luke Clark, Samford’s Noah Martin and Western Carolina’s Cole Gonzales each made the first team for the second straight season. In addition to this season, Mercer’s Isaac Dowling was a first team pick in 2022.

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All-Southern Conference football teams announced 11/26/24

SPARTANBURG, S.C. – On Monday, the Southern Conference Football Players of the Week presented by Southern Recognition were awarded for all games played on Nov. 23. Western Carolina quarterback Taron Dickens was named the Offensive Player of the Week, Catamounts defensive back Jordy Lowery was named the Defensive Player of the Week and ETSU placekicker Ewan Johnson was named the Special Teams Player of the Week. The awards are selected by the league office. &nbsp; OFFENSIVE PLAYER OF THE WEEK: Taron Dickens, R-Fr., QB, Western Carolina, Miami, Fla.Dickens, who also won the honor on Nov. 4, completed a career-high 36 passes for 408 yards, completing 78.3 percent of his passes and throwing three touchdowns in Western Carolina’s 47-42 win at Samford on Saturday. The redshirt freshman’s touchdown passes came from 29, 6 and 14 yards out. The native of Miami, Florida, improved to 3-1 as a starter this season with the team’s win against Samford. Dickens finished the regular season leading the conference in completion percentage (.738).Other nominees:&nbsp;Devontae Houston (ETSU), Adjatay Dabbs (Mercer), Quincy Crittendon (Samford), Chase Artopoeus (Chattanooga) and Kyle Watkins (Wofford)&nbsp; &nbsp; DEFENSIVE PLAYER OF THE WEEK: Jordy Lowery, R-So., DB, Western Carolina, Bartow, Fla.Lowery recorded three solo tackles and two interceptions, one of which he took for a touchdown in the Catamounts’ win against Samford. The redshirt sophomore’s first pick came at the 8:06 mark in the second quarter at the Western Carolina 22-yard line. The Bartow, Florida, product’s second interception was a 92-yard score, which came with 21 second left in the first half. The 92-yard pick-six was the second-longest in Western Carolina history. Lowery completed the season ranked tied for second in the SoCon in interceptions this season (6).Other nominees:&nbsp;Ray Coney (ETSU), Andrew Zock (Mercer), Noah Martin (Samford), Alex Mitchell (Chattanooga), Eric Rankin (VMI) and Jalen Marshall (Wofford) &nbsp; SPECIAL TEAMS PLAYER OF THE WEEK: Ewan Johnson, R-So., K, ETSU,&nbsp;Knoxville, Tenn.Johnson, who also won the honor on Sept. 23 and Nov. 11, scored 10 points in ETSU’s 16-9 win at VMI, giving the Bucs their fourth straight win in Lexington. The Knoxville, Tennessee, native made field goals from 20, 22 and 40 yards out, along with making his lone PAT attempt during the contest. The redshirt also handled the kickoff duties against the Keydets, kicking off four times for 246 yards. Johnson’s three field goal makes are tied for the second-most in program history in a game.Other nominees:&nbsp;Bradlee Jones (The Citadel), Tommy Bliss (Mercer), Jude Kelley (Chattanooga), Caden Beck (VMI), Christian Lowery (Western Carolina) and Devery Cagle (Wofford) 2024 SoCon Football Players of the Week Offensive Sept. 2&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; DJ Smith, Jr., QB, Mercer Sept. 9&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Amari Odom, R-Fr., QB, WoffordSept. 16&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Trey Hedden, Fr., QB, FurmanSept. 23&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; DJ Smith, Jr., QB, MercerSept. 30&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Khamran Laborn, R-Jr., WR, ETSUOct.7&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Sam Phillips, R-Jr., WR, ChattanoogaOct.14&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; AJ Johnson, R-So., WR, ETSUOct. 21&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Cole Gonzales, Jr., QB, Western CarolinaOct. 28&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Dwayne McGee, Sr., RB, MercerNov. 4&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Taron Dickens, R-Fr., QB, Western CarolinaNov. 11&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Parker Wroble, Sr., WR, MercerNov. 18&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Quincy Crittendon, Jr., QB, SamfordNov. 25&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Taron Dickens, R-Fr., QB, Western Carolina&nbsp; Defensive Sept. 2&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Jalen Marshall, Jr., LB, Wofford Sept. 9&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Amir Annoor, Sr., DB, WoffordSept. 16&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; CJ Coombes, R-Fr., DB, WoffordSept. 23&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; TJ Moore, Sr., DB, MercerSept. 30&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Dainsus Miller, Jr., DB, MercerOct. 7&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; David Powers, Sr., LB, WoffordOct. 14&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; TJ Moore, Sr., DB, MercerOct. 21&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Noah Martin, Gr., LB, SamfordOct. 28&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Brayden Manley, So., DL, MercerNov. 4&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Shamus Jones, Sr., DB, VMINov. 11&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Zach West, R-Sr., LB, ETSUNov. 18&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Billy Lewis, R-Fr., DB, FurmanNov. 25&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Jordy Lowery, R-So., DB, Western Carolina&nbsp; Special teams Sept. 2&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Brayden Smith, So., WR, MercerSept. 9&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; John McConnell, R-Jr., P, MercerSept. 16&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Ian Williams, R-Sr., PK, FurmanSept. 23&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Ewan Johnson, R-So., K, ETSUSept. 30&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; John McConnell, R-Jr., P, MercerOct. 7&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Nate Brackett, R-Jr., P, ETSUOct. 14&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Jude Kelley, R-Jr., PK, ChattanoogaOct. 21&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Jude Kelley, R-Jr., PK, ChattanoogaOct. 28&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; James Platte, Gr., P, The CitadelNov. 4&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Reice Griffith, So., PK, MercerNov. 11&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Ewan Johnson, R-So., K, ETSUNov. 18&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Christian Lowery, Jr., PK, Western CarolinaNov. 25&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Ewan Johnson, R-So., K, ETSU

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SoCon names football players of the week 11/25/24

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Mercer's Jacobs Named Finalist For Eddie Robinson Award 11/25/24

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Mercer Awarded No. 7 National Seed, 1st Round Bye In NCAA Playoffs 2024

<h1>Saturday's Football Roundup</h1><h3>Running game powers ETSU to victory over VMI</h3>ETSU outbattled VMI in a defensive struggle to claim a hard fought 16-9 win.Devontae Houston contributed 104 yards on 18 rushing attempts, while Bryson Irby had 54 yards on the ground and a touchdown. The team committed to the ground game early and often (90 1st quarter rushing yards, 64-36 overall run-pass split). The Buccaneers finished the game with 195 total rushing yards.Quarterback JoJo Crump led VMI with 188 yards combined on the ground and through the air. Hunter Rice added 87 yards rushing on 23 carries for the Keydets.<hr/><h3>Chattanooga leaves Fortera Stadium with a win over Austin Peay</h3>Chattanooga prevailed in a tough battle against Austin Peay on Saturday afternoon, winning by a final score of 24-17.Chase Artopoeus, who was returning from injury, threw for two touchdowns and rushed for another one, wreaking havoc on Austin Peay's defense. As a team, the Mocs' offense generated 2.4 yards per carry and 6.9 yards per pass attempt.The Mocs defense recorded five sacks in the victory. Kobe Joseph led the Mocs defense, racking up 11 tackles, including one sack.<hr/><h3>Dickens shines as Western Carolina pushes past Samford</h3>Western Carolina started Saturday afternoon's matchup well, going up 23 at halftime before holding on to defeat Samford 47-42.Taron Dickens led the way for Western Carolina, throwing for 408 yards and three touchdowns in this one. The Catamounts also found help from wide receiver AJ Colombo, who collected nine receptions for 116 yards as Dickens' favorite target on the afternoon.Quincy Crittendon found the endzone multiple times for Samford. He threw for one touchdown and rushed for another four. Micah Kelly contributed to the Bulldogs' offense as well, scoring one touchdown on the ground.<hr/><h3>Dabbs leads Mercer to victory over Furman</h3>Mercer claimed victory against Furman on Saturday afternoon, winning by a final score of 49-23. The win gave the Bears their first outright SoCon title in football.Adjatay Dabbs was electric, reeling in eight balls for 181 yards to lead the way for Mercer. Whitt Newbauer threw for 257 yards and three scores on the day. The Bears piled up 503 total yards on offense.Colton Hinton caught nine passes for 109 yards and a touchdown for Furman. Running back Gavin Hall ran for 50 yards and tossed a 30-yard touchdown pass to Hinton in the first quarter.<hr/><h3>The Citadel falls to Clemson at Memorial Stadium</h3>Clemson had an impressive start to the game against The Citadel on Saturday afternoon, scoring a quick 14 first quarter points, ultimately winning 51-14.Tailback Jay Haynes led the way for Clemson, accumulating 118 yards on five rushing attempts. Cade Klubnik contributed as well, completing 12-of-16 passes for 198 yards and three touchdowns. Much of the team's success came down to their effectiveness on third down. They converted 56 percent of their attempts, sustaining drives and pushing the offense forward.Javonte Graves-Billips, Garrison Johnson, and Johnathan Bennett were all contributors for The Citadel in the loss, as the three accounted for the Bulldogs' two scores on the day.<hr/><h3>South Carolina gets past Wofford</h3>South Carolina won against Wofford, 56-12, in the Terriers' season finale.LaNorris Sellers' dual-threat ability was on full display to lead South Carolina. He put up 307 yards through the air and 53 on the ground to keep Wofford's defense guessing. As a team, the Gamecocks' offense generated 5.8 yards per carry and 10.7 yards per pass attempt. Devery Cagle made a pair of field goals for Wofford, while Amari Odom found Dylan Djete for a 6-yard score in the second quarter to account for the Terriers' points.<hr/>

CW Network

Clemson, SC

Clemson Tigers

Clemson Tigers Football team

The Citadel Bulldogs vs. Clemson Tigers Football game at 2024-11-23 08:30 PM (UTC) #52399

Furman Paladins vs. Mercer Bears Football game at 2024-11-23 08:00 PM (UTC) #55532

Western Carolina Catamounts vs. Samford Bulldogs Football game at 2024-11-23 08:00 PM (UTC) #55522

ETSU Buccaneers vs. VMI Keydets Football game at 2024-11-23 05:00 PM (UTC) #55478

Clarksville, TN

Austin Peay Governors

Austin Peay Governors Football team

Chattanooga Mocs vs. Austin Peay Governors Football game at 2024-11-23 06:00 PM (UTC) #55512

espn+/sec network

Columbia, SC

South Carolina Gamecocks

South Carolina Gamecocks Football team

Wofford Terriers vs. South Carolina Gamecocks Football game at 2024-11-23 09:00 PM (UTC) #52081

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Saturday's Football Roundup 2024/11/23

Mark Wharton Interview (AD at UTC and Vice Chair of the NCAA Division 1 FB Championship Committee)

SPARTANBURG, S.C. – On Monday, the Southern Conference Football Players of the Week presented by Southern Recognition were awarded for all games played on Nov. 16. Samford quarterback Quincy Crittendon was named the Offensive Player of the Week, Furman defensive back Billy Lewis was named the Defensive Player of the Week and Western Carolina placekicker Christian Lowery was named the Special Teams Player of the Week. The awards are selected by the league office. &nbsp; OFFENSIVE PLAYER OF THE WEEK: Quincy Crittendon, Jr., QB, Samford, Decatur, Ala.Crittendon completed 34-of-50 of his pass attempts, finishing with a season-high 340 yards and a touchdown pass in Samford’s 36-13 win at then 19th-ranked Chattanooga. The junior also ran for a team-high 59 yards on 18 carries and a touchdown. The Decatur, Alabama, native’s 38-yard touchdown pass came in the second quarter and his 12-yard touchdown run came in the third quarter. Crittendon is ranked fourth in all of FCS football in completion percentage (.716).Other nominees:&nbsp;Johnathan Bennett (The Citadel), Devontae Houston (ETSU), Trey Hedden (Furman), Whitt Newbauer (Mercer), Taron Dickens (Western Carolina) and Ryan Ingram (Wofford)&nbsp; &nbsp; DEFENSIVE PLAYER OF THE WEEK: Billy Lewis, R-Fr., DB, Furman, Athens, Ga.Lewis recorded a season-high nine tackles, seven of which were solo and a pass breakup in Furman’s 24-21 upset win at then 21st-ranked ETSU. The redshirt freshman also had an interception and a forced fumble in the contest. The native of Athens, Georgia, secured his interception in the first minute of the fourth quarter at the Furman 30-yard line, which he returned 16 yards, halting ETSU’s scoring threat and keeping the score tied at 21-21. For his performance, Lewis was named the <a href="https://theanalyst.com/na/2024/11/stats-perform-fcs-national-awards-week-12">Stats Perform FCS National Freshman Player of the Week</a> on Monday.Other nominees:&nbsp;Evan Byrd (The Citadel), Ray Coney (ETSU), Andrew Zock (Mercer), Noah Martin (Samford), Alex Mitchell (Chattanooga), Eric Rankin (VMI), Wesley Scott (Western Carolina) and David Powers (Wofford) &nbsp; SPECIAL TEAMS PLAYER OF THE WEEK: Christian Lowery, Jr., PK, Western Carolina,&nbsp;Acworth, Ga.Lowery scored a career-high 15 points for Western Carolina in the Catamounts’ 58-28 win over VMI. The junior was 3-for-3 on field goals and made all six of his PAT attempts. The Acworth, Georgia, product’s field goal makes came from 45 and 26 yards out in the first quarter, before making a 27-yard boot in the third. Lowery also booted a career-best 11 kickoffs in the game for the Catamounts.Other nominees:&nbsp;Ben Barnes (The Citadel), Ian Williams (Furman), John McConnell (Mercer), DJ Rias (Samford) and Javin Whatley (Chattanooga) 2024 SoCon Football Players of the Week Offensive Sept. 2&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; DJ Smith, Jr., QB, Mercer Sept. 9&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Amari Odom, R-Fr., QB, WoffordSept. 16&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Trey Hedden, Fr., QB, FurmanSept. 23&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; DJ Smith, Jr., QB, MercerSept. 30&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Khamran Laborn, R-Jr., WR, ETSUOct.7&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Sam Phillips, R-Jr., WR, ChattanoogaOct.14&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; AJ Johnson, R-So., WR, ETSUOct. 21&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Cole Gonzales, Jr., QB, Western CarolinaOct. 28&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Dwayne McGee, Sr., RB, MercerNov. 4&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Taron Dickens, R-Fr., QB, Western CarolinaNov. 11&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Parker Wroble, Sr., WR, MercerNov. 18&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Quincy Crittendon, Jr., QB, Samford&nbsp; Defensive Sept. 2&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Jalen Marshall, Jr., LB, Wofford Sept. 9&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Amir Annoor, Sr., DB, WoffordSept. 16&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; CJ Coombes, R-Fr., DB, WoffordSept. 23&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; TJ Moore, Sr., DB, MercerSept. 30&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Dainsus Miller, Jr., DB, MercerOct. 7&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; David Powers, Sr., LB, WoffordOct. 14&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; TJ Moore, Sr., DB, MercerOct. 21&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Noah Martin, Gr., LB, SamfordOct. 28&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Brayden Manley, So., DL, MercerNov. 4&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Shamus Jones, Sr., DB, VMINov. 11&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Zach West, R-Sr., LB, ETSUNov. 18&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Billy Lewis, R-Fr., DB, Furman&nbsp; Special teams Sept. 2&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Brayden Smith, So., WR, MercerSept. 9&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; John McConnell, R-Jr., P, MercerSept. 16&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Ian Williams, R-Sr., PK, FurmanSept. 23&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Ewan Johnson, R-So., K, ETSUSept. 30&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; John McConnell, R-Jr., P, MercerOct. 7&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Nate Brackett, R-Jr., P, ETSUOct. 14&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Jude Kelley, R-Jr., PK, ChattanoogaOct. 21&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Jude Kelley, R-Jr., PK, ChattanoogaOct. 28&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; James Platte, Gr., P, The CitadelNov. 4&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Reice Griffith, So., PK, MercerNov. 11&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Ewan Johnson, R-So., K, ETSUNov. 18&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Christian Lowery, Jr., PK, Western Carolina

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SoCon names football players of the week 11/18/24

<h1>Saturday's Football Roundup</h1><h3>Furman back in the win column with win over ETSU</h3>Furman snuck past ETSU on Saturday afternoon by a final score of 24-21.Trey Hedden led the way for Furman, throwing for 210 yards and two touchdowns in this one. In the rushing attack, running back Myion Hicks garnered most of the Paladins' success, accumulating 65 yards and one touchdown. Devontae Houston led the way for ETSU, rushing for 103 yards on 12 rushing attempts.<hr/><h3>Dickens leads Western Carolina to victory over VMI</h3>Western Carolina was overpowering on Saturday afternoon, collecting score after score in a lopsided 58-28 victory over VMI. The Catamounts jumped out to a 41-7 lead in the first half.Taron Dickens led the way for Western Carolina, throwing for 294 yards and two touchdowns. In the ground game, tailback Jalynn Williams ran for two touchdowns.Hunter Rice led the way for VMI, rushing for 109 yards on 13 rushing attempts.<hr/><h3>Samford victorious in visit to Max Finley Stadium, taking down Chattanooga</h3>Samford got off to a slow start on Saturday afternoon, but ultimately turned it up to defeat Chattanooga by a final score of 36-13.Quincy Crittendon led the way for Samford, showcasing his dual-threat ability. He threw for one touchdown and rushed for another one. The Bulldogs also found help from wide receiver Brendan Jenkins, who collected eight receptions for 93 yards as Crittendon's favorite target on the afternoon. The Bulldogs' defense put on a clinic, racking up four sacks.Sam Phillips caught eight passes for 66 yards, while Reggie Davis ran for 50 yards on 14 carries to lead Chattanooga.<hr/><h3>Graves-Billips leads The Citadel to road victory over Wofford</h3>The Citadel weathered a quick start from Wofford, coming back from 11 down in the first quarter to claim the victory 30-17.Javonte Graves-Billips had four catches for 68 yards and two touchdowns to lead The Citadel. Johnathan Bennett threw for 166 yards and ran for 41 yards on 11 carries.Running back Ryan Ingram starred in the ground game for Wofford, racking up an impressive 103 yards on 12 carries.<hr/><h3>Alabama cools off Mercer</h3>Alabama toppes Mercer, 52-7, on Saturday.Jalen Milroe led the way for Alabama, showcasing his dual-threat ability. He threw for two touchdowns and rushed for another one. Down the field, Milroe was primarily looking for receiver Ryan Williams, who finished with three receptions for 36 yards and one touchdown. Whitt Newbauer found Kendall Harris for a 31-yard score in the second quarter for the Bears' lone touchdown during the contest.<hr/>

Tuscaloosa, AL

Alabama Crimson Tide

Alabama Crimson Tide Football team

Mercer Bears vs. Alabama Crimson Tide Football game at 2024-11-16 07:00 PM (UTC) #52386

Spartanburg, SC

The Citadel Bulldogs vs. Wofford Terriers Football game at 2024-11-16 06:30 PM (UTC) #55443

Chattanooga, TN

Samford Bulldogs vs. Chattanooga Mocs Football game at 2024-11-16 05:30 PM (UTC) #55442

Cullowhee, NC

VMI Keydets vs. Western Carolina Catamounts Football game at 2024-11-16 06:00 PM (UTC) #55415

Furman Paladins vs. ETSU Buccaneers Football game at 2024-11-16 05:00 PM (UTC) #55333

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Saturday's Football Roundup 2024/11/16

SPARTANBURG, S.C. – On Monday, the Southern Conference Football Players of the Week presented by Southern Recognition were awarded for all games played on Nov. 9. Mercer wide receiver Parker Wroble was named the Offensive Player of the Week, ETSU linebacker Zach West was named the Defensive Player of the Week and Buccaneers placekicker Ewan Johnson was named the Special Teams Player of the Week. The awards are selected by the league office. &nbsp; OFFENSIVE PLAYER OF THE WEEK: Parker Wroble, Sr., WR, Mercer, Hoschton, Ga.Wroble caught three passes for a career-high 102 yards and had a rush for 15 yards as Mercer shutout VMI, 34-0, on Saturday. The senior scored in the third quarter from 69 yards out and in the fourth quarter from 28 yards out. The native of Hoschton, Georgia, has four receiving touchdowns this season, which is tied for second on the Bears. Mercer is now ranked No. 9 in the <a href="https://www.afca.com/polls/">AFCA</a> poll and No. 7 in the <a href="https://theanalyst.com/na/2024/11/stats-perform-fcs-top-25-poll-11">Stats Perform</a> poll.Other nominees:&nbsp;Devontae Houston (ETSU), Justis Durant (Chattanooga) and Ryan Ingram (Wofford)&nbsp; &nbsp; DEFENSIVE PLAYER OF THE WEEK: Zach West, R-Sr., LB, ETSU, Boone, N.C.West recorded eight tackles, including a career-high 3.5 sacks, in ETSU’s win over then-22nd ranked Western Carolina on Saturday. The redshirt senior also forced a fumble and recovered another during the contest. The Boone, North Carolina, native's 3.5 sacks were tied for the third-most ever by a Buc and the most by an ETSU player over the past three seasons. West currently leads the SoCon in sacks (8.5). ETSU is now ranked <a href="https://theanalyst.com/na/2024/11/stats-perform-fcs-top-25-poll-11">No. 21 in the Stats Perform</a> Top 25 poll.Other nominees:&nbsp;Ken Standley (Mercer), Alex Mitchell (Chattanooga) and Anthonie Lattany (Wofford) &nbsp; SPECIAL TEAMS PLAYER OF THE WEEK: Ewan Johnson, R-So., K, ETSU,&nbsp;Knoxville, Tenn.Johnson, who also won the honor on Sept. 23, went a perfect 4-for-4 on his kick attempts against Western Carolina. The redshirt sophomore converted all three of his extra point tries and hit a 40-yard field goal in the first quarter to score the game’s first points. The product of Knoxville, Tennessee, also handled kickoff duties for the Buccaneers, logging two touchbacks on his five attempts.Other nominees:&nbsp;Reice Griffith (Mercer) and Devery Cagle (Wofford) 2024 SoCon Football Players of the Week Offensive Sept. 2&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; DJ Smith, Jr., QB, Mercer Sept. 9&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Amari Odom, R-Fr., QB, WoffordSept. 16&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Trey Hedden, Fr., QB, FurmanSept. 23&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; DJ Smith, Jr., QB, MercerSept. 30&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Khamran Laborn, R-Jr., WR, ETSUOct.7&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Sam Phillips, R-Jr., WR, ChattanoogaOct.14&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; AJ Johnson, R-So., WR, ETSUOct. 21&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Cole Gonzales, Jr., QB, Western CarolinaOct. 28&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Dwayne McGee, Sr., RB, MercerNov. 4&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Taron Dickens, R-Fr., QB, Western CarolinaNov. 11&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Parker Wroble, Sr., WR, Mercer&nbsp; Defensive Sept. 2&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Jalen Marshall, Jr., LB, Wofford Sept. 9&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Amir Annoor, Sr., DB, WoffordSept. 16&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; CJ Coombes, R-Fr., DB, WoffordSept. 23&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; TJ Moore, Sr., DB, MercerSept. 30&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Dainsus Miller, Jr., DB, MercerOct. 7&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; David Powers, Sr., LB, WoffordOct. 14&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; TJ Moore, Sr., DB, MercerOct. 21&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Noah Martin, Gr., LB, SamfordOct. 28&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Brayden Manley, So., DL, MercerNov. 4&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Shamus Jones, Sr., DB, VMINov. 11&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Zach West, R-Sr., LB, ETSU&nbsp; Special teams Sept. 2&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Brayden Smith, So., WR, MercerSept. 9&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; John McConnell, R-Jr., P, MercerSept. 16&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Ian Williams, R-Sr., PK, FurmanSept. 23&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Ewan Johnson, R-So., K, ETSUSept. 30&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; John McConnell, R-Jr., P, MercerOct. 7&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Nate Brackett, R-Jr., P, ETSUOct. 14&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Jude Kelley, R-Jr., PK, ChattanoogaOct. 21&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Jude Kelley, R-Jr., PK, ChattanoogaOct. 28&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; James Platte, Gr., P, The CitadelNov. 4&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Reice Griffith, So., PK, MercerNov. 11&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Ewan Johnson, R-So., K, ETSU

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SoCon names football players of the week 11/11/24

<h1>Saturday's Football Roundup</h1><h3>ETSU victorious in matchup against Western Carolina</h3>ETSU snuck past Western Carolina on Saturday afternoon by a final score of 24-21.Devontae Houston starred in the ground game for ETSU, rushing for one touchdown. Gino English contributed as well, completing 11-of-23 passes for 154 yards and two touchdowns. Taron Dickens found the endzone multiple times in Western Carolina's loss. He threw for one touchdown and rushed for another two. Branson Adams added 81 yards rushing on 14 carries.<hr/><h3>Newbauer, Mercer take the win over VMI</h3>Mercer collected a resounding victory over VMI on Saturday afternoon, taking the win by a final score of 34-0.Whitt Newbauer led the way for Mercer, throwing for 282 yards and three touchdowns in this one. The team's offense was firing on all cylinders, accumulating 518 total yards.<hr/><h3>Durant leads the way as Chattanooga cools off The Citadel</h3>It was all about the ground game for Chattanooga on Saturday afternoon. The Mocs were dominant rushing the football through the The Citadel defense, as they claimed the 31-7 victory.Tailback Justus Durant led the way for Chattanooga, accumulating 103 yards on 16 rushing attempts. Down the field, Chris Domercant was the Mocs' best option. Domercant finished with two receptions for 69 yards.Cooper Wallace starred in the ground game for The Citadel, rushing for one touchdown.<hr/><h3>Ingram leads Wofford to victory over Furman</h3>Wofford triumphed over Furman 19-13 in this gritty, low-scoring battle.Tailback Ryan Ingram led the way for Wofford, accumulating 120 yards on 23 rushing attempts. Down the field, Kyle Watkins was the Terriers' best option. Watkins finished with five receptions for 106 yards. The Terriers found offensive success throughout the day, outpacing the Paladins in total offensive yards 385 to 284.Myion Hicks starred in the ground game for Furman, rushing for one touchdown.<hr/><h3>Jones leads Tennessee Tech to victory over Samford</h3>Tennessee Tech got off to a slow start on Saturday afternoon, but ultimately turned it up to overpower Samford by a final score of 27-7.DJ Rias, Quincy Crittendon, and E. Jai Mason were all contributors for Samford in the loss. <hr/>

Tennessee Tech Golden Eagles

Tennessee Tech Golden Eagles Football team

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Saturday's Football Roundup 2024/11/09

Keeler's Corner: In-Season Update #2 11/8/24

SPARTANBURG, S.C. – On Monday, the Southern Conference Football Players of the Week presented by Southern Recognition were awarded for all games played on Nov. 2. Western Carolina quarterback Taron Dickens was named the Offensive Player of the Week, VMI defensive back Shamus Jones was named the Defensive Player of the Week and Mercer placekicker Reice Griffith was named the Special Teams Player of the Week. The awards are selected by the league office. &nbsp; OFFENSIVE PLAYER OF THE WEEK: Taron Dickens, R-Fr., QB, Western Carolina, Miami, Fla.Dickens, making his first career start, completed 34-of-48 his pass attempts, finishing with 431 yards and five touchdowns in Western Carolina’s 38-34 comeback win over then No. 25/18 Chattanooga. The redshirt freshman also ran for a team-best 41 yards on 19 carries against the Mocs. The Miami, Florida, product’s touchdown passes came from 15, 32, 3, 11 and 8 yards out. Dickens was named the <a href="https://theanalyst.com/na/2024/11/stats-perform-fcs-national-awards-week-10">Stats Perform FCS National Freshman Player of the Week</a> on Monday for his performance. Western Carolina is now ranked <a href="https://theanalyst.com/na/2024/11/stats-perform-fcs-top-25-poll-10">No. 22 in the Stats Perform Top 25</a> poll.Other nominees:&nbsp;Gino English (ETSU), Dwayne McGee (Mercer) and Ryan Ingram (Wofford)&nbsp; &nbsp; DEFENSIVE PLAYER OF THE WEEK: Shamus Jones, Sr., DB, VMI, Chester, Va.Jones recorded a game-high 13 tackles, a pass breakup, a blocked field goal and an interception as VMI defeated Furman, 21-17, on Saturday. The senior’s blocked field goal came in the first quarter with 6:01 on the clock, keeping the VMI lead at 7-0. The native of Chester, Virginia, logged his interception with 1:41 left in the game, effectively ending the contest to give the Keydets their first win of the season. . For the season, Jones is third on the team with 70.0 tackles and a team-high two interceptions.Other nominees:&nbsp;Zach West (ETSU), TJ Moore (Mercer), Noah Martin (Samford), Ken Moore Jr. (Western Carolina) and Jalen Marshall (Wofford) &nbsp; SPECIAL TEAMS PLAYER OF THE WEEK: Reice Griffith, So., PK, Mercer, Pace, Fla.Griffith accounted for 13 points in a 37-31 victory of ETSU on Saturday in a matchup of top 25 squads. The Paca, Florida, native converted on all four of his extra point tries, while going 3-for-3 on field goals for the Bears. The sophomore’s field goals were from 36, 36 and 31 yards out, with the final make coming with 97 seconds left in the game. Mercer is now ranked No. 13 in the <a href="https://www.afca.com/polls/">AFCA</a> poll and No. 10 in the <a href="https://theanalyst.com/na/2024/11/stats-perform-fcs-top-25-poll-10">Stats Perform</a> polls.&nbsp;Other nominees:&nbsp;Nate Brackett (ETSU), Will Thorley (Samford), Christian Lowery (Western Carolina) and Sam Spence (Wofford) 2024 SoCon Football Players of the Week Offensive Sept. 2&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; DJ Smith, Jr., QB, Mercer Sept. 9&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Amari Odom, R-Fr., QB, WoffordSept. 16&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Trey Hedden, Fr., QB, FurmanSept. 23&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; DJ Smith, Jr., QB, MercerSept. 30&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Khamran Laborn, R-Jr., WR, ETSUOct.7&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Sam Phillips, R-Jr., WR, ChattanoogaOct.14&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; AJ Johnson, R-So., WR, ETSUOct. 21&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Cole Gonzales, Jr., QB, Western CarolinaOct. 28&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Dwayne McGee, Sr., RB, MercerNov. 4&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Taron Dickens, R-Fr., QB, Western Carolina&nbsp; Defensive Sept. 2&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Jalen Marshall, Jr., LB, Wofford Sept. 9&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Amir Annoor, Sr., DB, WoffordSept. 16&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; CJ Coombes, R-Fr., DB, WoffordSept. 23&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; TJ Moore, Sr., DB, MercerSept. 30&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Dainsus Miller, Jr., DB, MercerOct. 7&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; David Powers, Sr., LB, WoffordOct. 14&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; TJ Moore, Sr., DB, MercerOct. 21 &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Noah Martin, Gr., LB, SamfordOct. 28&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Brayden Manley, So., DL, MercerNov. 4&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Shamus Jones, Sr., DB, VMI&nbsp; Special teams Sept. 2&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Brayden Smith, So., WR, MercerSept. 9&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; John McConnell, R-Jr., P, MercerSept. 16&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Ian Williams, R-Sr., PK, FurmanSept. 23&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Ewan Johnson, R-So., K, ETSUSept. 30&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; John McConnell, R-Jr., P, MercerOct. 7&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Nate Brackett, R-Jr., P, ETSUOct. 14&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Jude Kelley, R-Jr., PK, ChattanoogaOct. 21&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Jude Kelley, R-Jr., PK, ChattanoogaOct. 28&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; James Platte, Gr., P, The CitadelNov. 4&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Reice Griffith, So., PK, Mercer

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SoCon names football players of the week 11/4/24

<h1>Saturday's Football Roundup</h1><h3>VMI gets its first win of the season</h3>VMI prevailed in a tough battle against Furman on Saturday afternoon, winning by a final score of 21-17.Hunter Rice starred in the ground game for VMI, rushing for one touchdown. Ethen Horne finished with four receptions for 59 yards and one touchdown for the Keydets. <hr/><h3>Western Carolina wins in faceoff with Chattanooga at E.J. Whitmire Stadium</h3>Western Carolina weathered a quick start from Chattanooga, coming back from 14 down in the first quarter to claim the 38-34 victory.Taron Dickens led the way for Western Carolina, throwing for 431 yards and five touchdowns. Receivers De'Andre Tamarez and Isaiah Johnson were Dickens' main targets, collecting 59 and 67 receiving yards respectively.Chris Domercant had 101 yards receiving and a touchdown for Chattanooga in the loss.<hr/><h3>Ingram leads Wofford to victory over Samford</h3>Wofford triumphed over Samford, 17-13, in a gritty, low-scoring battle.Ryan Ingram starred in the ground game for Wofford, rushing for one touchdown. Down the field, Kyle Watkins was the Terriers' best option. Watkins finished with five receptions for 112 yards. Quincy Crittendon led the way for Samford, throwing for 242 yards and a touchdown. Micah Kelly added 87 yards rushing on 16 carries for the Bulldogs.<hr/><h3>Mercer victorious, takes down ETSU</h3>Mercer came back from 11 down in the first quarter to claim the victory 37-31 over ETSU.Tailback Dwayne McGee led the way for Mercer, accumulating 124 yards on 25 rushing attempts. Kelin Parsons finished with four receptions for 60 yards and one touchdown for the Bears.ETSU quarterback Gino English was 14-for-19 through the air, finishing with 267 yards and two touchdowns.<hr/>

ETSU Buccaneers vs. Mercer Bears Football game at 2024-11-02 07:00 PM (UTC) #54974

Wofford Terriers vs. Samford Bulldogs Football game at 2024-11-02 07:00 PM (UTC) #54965

Furman Paladins vs. VMI Keydets Football game at 2024-11-02 05:30 PM (UTC) #54935

Chattanooga Mocs vs. Western Carolina Catamounts Football game at 2024-11-02 06:30 PM (UTC) #54968

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Saturday's Football Roundup 2024/11/02

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Finalists for 2024 FedEx Doris Robinson Scholar-Athlete Award 10/30/24

SPARTANBURG, S.C. – On Monday, the Southern Conference Football Players of the Week presented by Southern Recognition were awarded for all games played on Oct. 26. Mercer running back Dwayne McGee was named the Offensive Player of the Week, Bears defensive lineman Brayden Manley was named the Defensive Player of the Week and The Citadel punter James Platte was named the Special Teams Player of the Week. The awards are selected by the league office. &nbsp; OFFENSIVE PLAYER OF THE WEEK: Dwayne McGee, Sr., RB, Mercer, Kissimmee, Fla.McGee finished with 245 all-purpose yards for Mercer won its top-25 battle against Western Carolina, 44-34, on Saturday. The senior ran for 223 yards and two touchdowns on 18 carries, while bringing in two catches for 22 yards. His 223 yards were the highest rushing output by any SoCon player this season and ranks second in the Mercer record book for a single game. The Kissimmee, Florida, native’s two touchdowns came from 64 yards out in the second quarter and from 59 yards in the third quarter. Mercer is now ranked No. 16 in the <a href="https://www.afca.com/polls/">AFCA</a> poll and No. 12 in the <a href="https://theanalyst.com/na/2024/10/stats-perform-fcs-top-25-week-9">Stats Perform</a> Top 25 poll.Other nominees:&nbsp;Johnathan Bennett (The Citadel), Jaylen King (ETSU), Reggie Davis (Chattanooga) and Cole Gonzales (Western Carolina)&nbsp; &nbsp; DEFENSIVE PLAYER OF THE WEEK: Brayden Manley, So., DL, Mercer, Vanceboro, N.C.Manley recorded a game-high nine tackles, including a career-high 2.5 sacks, and a quarterback hurry in Mercer’s win over Western Carolina. The sophomore’s first sack came in the third quarter. The native of Vanceboro, North Carolina, combined with teammate Caden Camese for a sack with 5:54 left in the game before concluding his day with a solo sack in the final two minutes of the contest. Manley now leads the SoCon in sacks this season (6.0).&nbsp;Other nominees:&nbsp;Evan Byrd (The Citadel), Ray Coney (ETSU), Noah Martin (Samford), Chris Victor (Chattanooga), Hayward McQueen Jr. (Western Carolina) and Eli Campbell (Wofford) &nbsp; SPECIAL TEAMS PLAYER OF THE WEEK: James Platte, Gr., P, The Citadel, Aiken S.C.Platte punted five times, averaging 54.6 yards per kick for The Citadel as the Bulldogs topped Samford, 28-11, on Saturday. The graduate student had four punts over 50 yards, including a 61-yard boot in the second quarter, as the native of Aiken, South Carolina, pinned Samford inside the 20-yard line on three occasions with his punts. Platte is currently ranked second in the FCS in punting average (48.4) and was named the <a href="https://theanalyst.com/na/2024/10/stats-perform-fcs-national-awards-week-9">Stats Perform FCS National Special Teams Player of the Week</a> on Monday for his performance.Other nominees:&nbsp;Elijah Taylor (ETSU), Reice Griffith (Mercer), Jude Kelley (Chattanooga) and Paxton Robertson (Western Carolina) 2024 SoCon Football Players of the Week Offensive Sept. 2&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; DJ Smith, Jr., QB, Mercer Sept. 9&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Amari Odom, R-Fr., QB, WoffordSept. 16&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Trey Hedden, Fr., QB, FurmanSept. 23&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; DJ Smith, Jr., QB, MercerSept. 30&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Khamran Laborn, R-Jr., WR, ETSUOct.7&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Sam Phillips, R-Jr., WR, ChattanoogaOct.14&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; AJ Johnson, R-So., WR, ETSUOct. 21&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Cole Gonzales, Jr., QB, Western CarolinaOct. 28&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Dwayne McGee, Sr., RB, Mercer&nbsp; Defensive Sept. 2&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Jalen Marshall, Jr., LB, Wofford Sept. 9&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Amir Annoor, Sr., DB, WoffordSept. 16&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; CJ Coombes, R-Fr., DB, WoffordSept. 23&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; TJ Moore, Sr., DB, MercerSept. 30&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Dainsus Miller, Jr., DB, MercerOct. 7&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; David Powers, Sr., LB, WoffordOct. 14&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; TJ Moore, Sr., DB, MercerOct. 21&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Noah Martin, Gr., LB, SamfordOct. 28&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Brayden Manley, So., DL, Mercer&nbsp; Special teams Sept. 2&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Brayden Smith, So., WR, MercerSept. 9&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; John McConnell, R-Jr., P, MercerSept. 16&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Ian Williams, R-Sr., PK, FurmanSept. 23&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Ewan Johnson, R-So., K, ETSUSept. 30&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; John McConnell, R-Jr., P, MercerOct. 7&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Nate Brackett, R-Jr., P, ETSUOct. 14&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Jude Kelley, R-Jr., PK, ChattanoogaOct. 21&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Jude Kelley, R-Jr., PK, ChattanoogaOct. 28&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; James Platte, Gr., P, The Citadel

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