In Western Carolina's sixth game of the 2026 season, the Cats return to return to the road to face the preseason SoCon favorite, the nationally ranked #22/21 Mercer Bears. This is the thirteenth time overall that the Cats and Bears have met on the gridiron since Mercer joined the SoCon.
Game 7 - #22/21 Mercer Bears
When: Saturday, October 10, 2026
Where: Macon, GA.
Radio: Catamount Sports Network
TV / video: ESPN+
Mascot: Bear
Fan Message Board: none
The Series: The series stands at 2-10 for the Cats against Mercer, and the Cats are riding a 10 game losing streak vs. the Bears. Last season's game ended 47-49, with a missed field goal costing the Cats the win and at least a share of the SoCon Championship.
Kerwin Bell's Record vs. Mercer: 0-5
Joel Taylor's Record vs. WCU: 0-0
Joel Taylor's Record vs. WCU: 0-0
The Bears enter this game with a 4-2 overall record and are 1-1 in the SoCon with a win over VMI and a loss to Furman.
Read the preseason preview: A look at the Mercer Bears
Mercer's 2026 Record: 4-2 overall, 2-1 home, 2-1 away, 1-1 SoCon
2026 Mercer Statistics (6 games): Rushing Offense: 1613 yards
Yards per game: 253.7
Yards per game: 253.7
Yards per rush: 6.2 yards
Rushing 1st downs: 67
TDs rushing: 10
Passing Offense: 1098 yards, or 183 per game
Avg. per pass: 7.7 yards
Passing 1st downs: 44
Passing: Att-Comp-Int: 142-88-6
TDs rushing: 10
Passing Offense: 1098 yards, or 183 per game
Avg. per pass: 7.7 yards
Passing 1st downs: 44
Passing: Att-Comp-Int: 142-88-6
TDs Passing: 11
Total Offense: 2620 yards or 436.7 yards per game
Fumbles-Lost :6-2
3d Down Conversions: 24-79
4th Down Conversions: 8-9
Total Offense: 2620 yards or 436.7 yards per game
Fumbles-Lost :6-2
3d Down Conversions: 24-79
4th Down Conversions: 8-9
