Following a magnificent display against Shorter the first game of the season, Samford Football faltered in Cullowhee on Saturday, as the Bulldogs fell to the Western Carolina Catamounts 30-7.
Many factors contributed to the stunning loss, starting with the impact of inclement weather; the game was delayed nearly six hours by lightning in the area.
In terms of player performance, Michael Hiers, Samford’s star quarterback, received little help from the offensive line. Though he took six sacks from the opposing team, Hiers still had a solid game: 21-for-31 passing, with 315 yards and a touchdown.
The running game was limited, with only 46 rushing yards against the stout Catamount defense. Furthermore, the Bulldog defense was lit up by WCU; the Catamounts compiled 546 yards of total offense, with 260+ rushing and passing yards, respectively.
Overall, the Samford Football team had an interesting game with an undesirable ending. They could not get momentum going on the road, and the mediocre performance on both sides of the ball was exacerbated by an extensive weather delay and a WCU team hungry for their first FCS Playoff appearance since 1983.
Samford, meanwhile, will look to rebound after a considerable setback. The problem? Samford’s next game is at the Plains, as the Bulldogs will do their best to shock the world and take down the Auburn Tigers on Saturday, Sept. 16.
Sports Editor
