54 Days 'till Kickoff - Sean Biette

It's now 54 days until kickoff of Catamount football against the Mars Hill University Lions in E.J. Whitmire Stadium on September 5th in Cullowhee.

To help pass those long summer days until football season officially starts, and to hopefully get the Catamount faithful more excited about the upcoming season, we'll continue the 100 day football countdown each day until kickoff day arrives.

Utilizing the 2015 Preseason Football Roster, #54 is not assigned.

We will highlight Sean Biette

Sean Biette


Class: RS Freshman
Hometown: Raleigh, N.C.
High School: Cardinal Gibbons HS
Height / Weight: 6-2 / 255
Position: OL




2014 (Freshman): Did not see game action. (Redshirt)

Prior to Western Carolina: Played football and wrestled at Cardinal Gibbons High ... Was a part of three championships teams at CGHS.



Courtesy WCU Athletics Media Relations

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55 Days 'till Kickoff - #55 Spencer Campbell

It's now 55 days until kickoff of Catamount football against the Mars Hill University Lions in E.J. Whitmire Stadium on September 5th in Cullowhee.

To help pass those long summer days until football season officially starts, and to hopefully get the Catamount faithful more excited about the upcoming season, we'll continue the 100 day football countdown each day until kickoff day arrives.

Utilizing the 2015 Preseason Football Roster, #55 is Spencer Campbell

#55 is Spencer Campbell

Class: Incoming Freshman

Hometown: Whiteville, N.C.

High School: Whiteville HS

Height / Weight: 6-3 / 265

Position: OL



Prior to Western Carolina: Started on both offensive and defensive line as a prep ... Was a two-time 1-A All-State team selection, earning accolades both his junior and senior seasons ... Was named All-Three Rivers Conference as a senior while also earning All-Cape Fear Region second team offense plaudits from the Fayetteville Observer .



Courtesy WCU Athletics Media Relations

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56 Days 'till Kickoff - #56 Jerod Walls

It's now 56 days until kickoff of Catamount football against the Mars Hill University Lions in E.J. Whitmire Stadium on September 5th in Cullowhee.

To help pass those long summer days until football season officially starts, and to hopefully get the Catamount faithful more excited about the upcoming season, we'll continue the 100 day football countdown each day until kickoff day arrives.

Utilizing the 2015 Preseason Football Roster, #56 is Jerod Walls

#56 Jerod Walls

Class: Incoming Freshman
Hometown: Lexington, S.C.
High School: Central Davidson HS
Height / Weight: 6-0 / 215
Position: LB




Prior to Western Carolina: Named All-Mid-Piedmont Conference as a senior ... Was also a Lexington Dispatch All-County selection in his final season, finishing with 133 tackles, three sacks, an interception and two blocked kicks ... Also played basketball as a prep, earning Athlete of the Week honors during his career, and competed in swimming ... Was named the Edward Jones Athlete of the Month in March of 2015.



Courtesy WCU Athletics Media Relations

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2015 Football Preseason Preview: Presbyterian

Throughout this preseason, Purple & Gold will preview all of Western's 2015 football opponents. Today we look at the Presbyterian Blue Hose.

For the fourth game of the season, the Catamounts return to Cullowhee for what is hopefully a little payback versus Presbyterian for the 19-14 upset victory in Clinton last season. This is also WCU Family Weekend in Cullowhee.

On the strength of last season's upset, the Cats and Blue Hose are now tied in the overall series at 9-9.  The Blue Hose last defeated the Catamounts in Cullowhee in 1969 when they downed the Cats by a score of 28-17, which was the only blemish on new head football coach Bob Waters' first season at the helm in Cullowhee. The Cats finished the '69 season with a 9-1 record.



Presbyterian

When: Saturday, October 3d at  3:30 pm

Where: E.J. Whitmire Stadium. Cullowhee, NC

Radio: Catamount Sports Network

TV / video: SoCon Digital Network

Head Coach:  Harold Nichols -
Nichols completed his sixth season at the helm of the Blue Hose in 2014, ending the season as the Big South Conference Co-Coach of the Year. A 1989 alumnus of Presbyterian, Nichols came back to the Blue Hose on January 14, 2009, from Bucknell. Last season, Nichols led PC to a 6-5 record, the program’s first winning season since 2007 and its first-ever in the Big South. He guided the Blue Hose to ranked wins over No. 12 Furman and No. 22 Charleston Southern and the team's two road wins stand as the most since three in 2007.

Last year’s record: 6-5 overall, 3-2 in the Big South Conference  

Last Season's Game vs. PC (Oct. 4, 2014) : Turnovers Costly in WCU's 19-14 Road Loss at Presbyterian  "Presbyterian bookended its scores with two interception returns for touchdowns - the second coming inside the game's final two minutes - as the Blue Hose handed Western Carolina a heart-breaking 19-14 road loss in nonconference action on Saturday afternoon at Bailey Memorial Stadium."

Offensive starters - Returning/Lost:  7 / 4  -  On offense, the Hose lost center Dillon Salmans, tight end Kris Hurley, wide receiver Tobi Antigha,  and running back Demarcus Rouse to graduation.

Defensive starters - Returning/Lost:  9 / 2  -  On defense, the Hose lost the following starters: linebacker Isaiah Lynn, and defensive back Cory White

Specialist - Returning/Lost:  4 / 2  -  The Hose long snapper Cannon Jordan, kick returner Jeremiah McKie, punt returner Jeremiah McKie were lost to graduation

Offensive Formation:   Spread

Defensive Formation:  4-3

Presbyterian's 6-5 record in 2014 was their first winning season since 2007 and the first-ever in the Big South. Against FCS competition, PC finished with a 5-2 record and its only two losses came to FCS playoff teams Coastal Carolina and Liberty. Against FCS competition, PC allowed only 15.9 points per game and 310.0 total offense yards per game. The Blur Hose earned seven Big South Conference postseason honors with HC Harold Nichols leading the group as Co-Coach of the Year, Redshirt junior linebacker Donelle Williams and junior defensive back Ed Britt earned 1st team honors while senior wide receiver Tobi Antigha, senior offensive lineman Devinn Ritter and redshirt senior long snapper Cannon Jordan received 2d team accolades.

2014 Presbyterian Statistics:
Rushing Offense: 1915 yards
Yards per rush: 4.2 yards
TDs rushing: 14
Passing Offense: 1506 yards or 136.9 yards per game
Passing Comp-Att-Int: 148-256-11
Total Offense: 3421 yards or 311 yards
Fumbles-Lost: 17 - 11
Penalties-Yards: 58 - 534 yards
3d Down Conversions: 47 of 145 or 39%
4th Down Conversions: 7 of 18 or 58%
Field Goals - Attempts: 3 of  6
Red-Zone Scores: 17 of 22 (77%)
Red-Zone Touchdowns: 14 of 22 (64%)
Punts (No. Yards): 80 (3378 yds)
Avg, per punt: 42.2 yds

Who does the Blue Hose play prior to Western? The Blue Hose open their season with a couple of road games against two (somewhat) BCS teams, Miami (Ohio) and Charlotte.  PC then returns to Clinton for a couple of weekends, playing non-scholarship Campbell, then the SoCon;'s Chattanooga pays a visit to Bailey Stadium, just prior to PC's visit to Cullowhee.

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57 Days 'till Kickoff - #57 Avery Worsham

It's now 57 days until kickoff of Catamount football against the Mars Hill University Lions in E.J. Whitmire Stadium on September 5th in Cullowhee.

To help pass those long summer days until football season officially starts, and to hopefully get the Catamount faithful more excited about the upcoming season, we'll continue the 100 day football countdown each day until kickoff day arrives.

Utilizing the 2015 Preseason Football Roster, #57 is Avery Worsham

#57 Avery Worsham

Class: Junior
Hometown: Indian Trail, N.C.
High School: Porter Ridge HS
Height / Weight: 6-1 / 220
Position: DE




2014 (Sophomore): Saw action in each of WCU’s 12 games as a defensive reserve and on special teams … Recorded 10 tackles including five solo stops with one tackle for loss coming as a part of a career-high four tackles and a quarterback hurry against Catawba (Sept. 13) … Tallied a pass break-up against The Citadel (Oct. 25) … Playing for the Gold squad, credited with four tackles including a sack in WCU’s annual Spring Game.

2013 (Freshman): Played in all 12 games as a defensive reserve ... Made his collegiate debut in the season-opener against Middle Tennessee State ... Credited with five tackles including three solo stops ... Made his first career tackle against Wofford ... Finished with a career-high two tackles against Appalachian State in the season finale ... Credited with a game-high seven tackles for the Purple Squad in WCU's annual Spring Game.

Prior to Western Carolina: Helped guide Porter Ridge High to the NCHSAA football finals two-straight seasons as the Western Region champion ... Playing as a defensive end, recorded 90 total tackles including 20 for loss as a senior as a part of earning the Southern Carolina Conference Defensive Player of the Year accolades ... Credited with 10 quarterback sacks, 21 QB hurries, four fumble recoveries including one for a touchdown and one interception ... Was selected to the first team defense on the Charlotte Observer All-Area team ... Had 68 total tackles as a junior with 10.5 sacks and 12 quarterback hurries.

Personal: Full name is Avery Maurice Worsham ... Is the son of Antonio and Latonja Worsham ... Has an older sister, Kayla, who serves in the United States Army.


Courtesy WCU Athletics Media Relations

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2015 Football Preseason Preview: Tennessee

Throughout this preseason, Purple & Gold will preview all of Western's 2015 football opponents. Today we look at the Tennessee Volunteers.

Coming off the 2014-15 season tied for a second-place finish in the Southern Conference, the Catamounts follow up their trip to Charleston, SC with a swing into SEC country and a stop in Knoxville, TN, where they visit Neyland Stadium and the Tennessee Volunteers for game #3 of the season.

This game will mark Western's first ever trip to Neyland Stadium (102,037), and a win would be The Cat’s first-ever victory over a Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS) team (0-52).



Tennessee

When: Saturday, September 19th at 7 pm

Where: Neyland Stadium (102,037). Knoxville, TN

 Radio: Catamount Sports Network 

TV / video: ESPNU

Head Coach: Butch Jones.  The University of Tennessee announced on Dec. 7, 2012 the hiring of Butch Jones as the 24th head football coach of the Vols. Tennessee finished its second season under Jones with a 7-6 record that included a 45-28 win over Iowa in the TaxSlayer Bowl in Jacksonville which marked the first January bowl game for UT since the 2007 season. The Vols opened the 2014 season by playing 21 true freshmen in a 38-7 win over Utah State, the most true freshmen to play in a season opener in UT history. Overall, Tennessee led the nation with 23 true freshman playing in 2014, with 12 true freshmen starting games for the Vols during the season.

Last year’s record: 7-6 overall, 3-5 in the SEC

Offensive starters - Returning/Lost:  11 / 0

Defensive starters - Returning/Lost: 9 / 2  - On defense, the Vols lost the following starters: Defensive tackle Jordan Williams; and cornerback Justin Coleman to graduation.

Specialist - Returning/Lost: 5 / 2  - The Vols lost punter Matt Darr; kickoff returner Devrin Young; to graduation

Offensive Formation:  Spread

Defensive Formation: 4-3 Under  - which is basically a 3-4 with one of the linebackers designated as purely a pass rusher

2014 has to be checked off as a successful one for Tennessee. Despite the fact they lost almost the entire offensive and defensive lines to graduation from the prior season, and experiencing lots of injuries and having to play more true freshmen than any other FBS team in the country, their overall goal of getting to the postseason was achieved.

2014 Tennessee Statistics:
Rushing Offense: 1903 yards
Yards per rush: 3.6 yards
TDs rushing: 20
Passing Offense: 2914 yards or 224 yards per game
Passing Comp-Att-Int: 281-453-14
Total Offense: 4817 yards or 370.5 yards per game
Fumbles-Lost: 18 - 8
Penalties-Yards: 54 - 444 yards
3d Down Conversions: 81 of 208 or 39%
4th Down Conversions: 7 of 12 or 58%
Field Goals - Attempts: 20 of 26
Red-Zone Scores: 50 of 54 (93%)
Red-Zone Touchdowns: 38 of 54 (61%)
Punts (No. Yards): 80 (3378) Avg, per punt: 42.2

Who does the Vols play prior to Western?  The Vols open their season on Sep 5th against Bowling Green, playing in Nashville. In game 2, the Vols return to Knoxville to meet Oklahoma, prior to Western's visit to Knoxville the following week.

The Volunteers played one FCS team during the 2014 season.  The Mocs of UTC made the trip to Knoxville last season on October 11th, losing by a final score of  45-10.  The Vols entered that game having lost 3 straight games on the road.

Ticket Information - Tickets, priced at $40 for all ages, may be purchased through the WCU Ticket Office by Friday, August 21 to guarantee tickets in hand and seats in the WCU section. For more information or to purchase tickets and the tailgate package, contact the WCU Athletics Ticket Office toll free at (800) 34-GOWCU or (828) 227-2401, or via Email at tickets@email.wcu.edu.

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58 Days 'till Kickoff - #58 Daniel Riddle

It's now 58 days until kickoff of Catamount football against the Mars Hill University Lions in E.J. Whitmire Stadium on September 5th in Cullowhee.

To help pass those long summer days until football season officially starts, and to hopefully get the Catamount faithful more excited about the upcoming season, we'll continue the 100 day football countdown each day until kickoff day arrives.

Utilizing the 2015 Preseason Football Roster, #58 is Daniel Riddle

#58 Daniel Riddle

Class: RS Sophomore
Hometown: Raleigh, N.C.
High School: Athens Drive HS
Height / Weight: 6-1 / 225
Position: LB




2014 (Redshirt Freshman): Played in all 12 of the team’s games with nine starts at linebacker … Finished third on the team with 74 tackles including 35 solo stops and five tackles for 32 yards in losses … Was the highest ranking rookie defender in the SoCon, averaging 6.2 tackles per game … Named to the Southern Conference All-Freshman team … Twice finished with double-digit tackles … Recorded 1.5 sacks with a pair of pass break-ups … Made his collegiate debut in the season-opener at USF (Aug. 30) … Made his first career start count, earning Southern Conference Defensive Player of the Week and co-Freshman of the Week from The Sports Network against Catawba (Sept. 13) … Recorded a career-high 18 tackles including seven solo stops with three TFLs, a sack and two forced fumbles in earning the weekly plaudits … Posted an 11-tackle performance in the home win over Wofford (Oct. 11) … In late October, was added to the Jerry Rice Award Watch List for the nation’s top freshman … Named to the 2014-15 Southern Conference Honor Roll.

2013 (Freshman): Redshirted ... Named to the 2013-14 Southern Conference Honor Roll.

Prior to Western Carolina: Was a three-year varsity letter winner and starter at Athens Drive High ... Led the Tri-9 Conference in tackles with over 360 including 65 tackles for loss and 13 sacks ... Named the Tri-9 Conference Defensive Player of the Year, recording 169 tackles and seven sacks as a senior ... Recorded two career receiving touchdowns and an interception ... Was a Tri-9 All-Conference Honorable Mention in 2010 ... Two-time Academic All-Conference.



Courtesy WCU Athletics Media Relations

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2016 WCU football verbal commit - Donnavan Spencer

Donnavan Spencer

Position:  Running Back
Hometown: Charlotte, NC
High School: Vance HS
Height/Weight:  5'10"  182 lbs
Class:  2016


Hudl highlights       other highlights


Vance running back has a game for the ages  Saturday night in Kannapolis, Donnavan Spencer kept a promise to his schoolmates. He also did something no Mecklenburg County football player had done before. Spencer, a 5-foot-10, 180-pound junior at Vance High, ran 30 times for 405 yards and four touchdowns. Vance beat A.L. Brown 48-35. 

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59 Days 'till Kickoff - #59 Chandler Addertion

It's now 59 days until kickoff of Catamount football against the Mars Hill University Lions in E.J. Whitmire Stadium on September 5th in Cullowhee.

To help pass those long summer days until football season officially starts, and to hopefully get the Catamount faithful more excited about the upcoming season, we'll continue the 100 day football countdown each day until kickoff day arrives.

Utilizing the 2015 Preseason Football Roster, #59 is Chandler Addertion

#59 Chandler Addertion

Class: RS Junior
Hometown: Graham, N.C.
High School: Southern Alamance HS
Height / Weight: 6-3 / 230
Position: LS




2014 (Redshirt Sophomore): Played in all 12 seasonal games as the special team’s long-snapper … Credited with one tackle, a solo stop against Chattanooga (Nov. 1) ... Continued to play a vital role in WCU’s special teams on punt coverage … Named to the 2014-15 Southern Conference Honor Roll.

2013 (Redshirt Freshman): Saw action in all 12 games as the starting long snapper on the WCU punt team ... Credited with six tackles on special teams including five solo stops ... Made a career-high two tackles at Auburn ... Forced a fumble at Georgia Southern ... Named to the 2013 Fall Academic All-Southern Conference team ... Named to the 2013-14 Southern Conference Honor Roll.

2012 (Freshman): Redshirted ... Made the travel squad most weeks as a back-up long-snapper.

Prior to Western Carolina: Was a four-year Academic All-Conference selection at Southern Alamance High ... Hauled in 30 passes for 415 yards and a touchdown his senior season, leading the team in receiving at tight end ... Selected to the All-Region team in his final season ... Received a National Football Foundation Scholarship from the Corrigan/Faircloth Chapter ... Twice received the Southern High School Super Patriot Award ... Also played basketball and baseball as a prep, averaging nine points per game as a power forward on the hardwood while playing first base on the diamond ... Hit .375 with three homeruns in baseball ... Was selected as a team captain for football, basketball and baseball during his senior year ... Came to WCU as an invited walk-on.

Personal: Full name is Chandler Davis Addertion ... Is the son of William "Pete" and Renee Addertion ... His father is an 1984 graduate of Western Carolina ... Has one sibling, Cameron ... His grandfather played Major League Baseball for the St. Louis Cardinals, Montreal Expos, Milwaukee Brewers and San Francisco Giants.



Courtesy WCU Athletics Media Relations

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Tyler Carlton is the new Wide Receivers Coach

Tyler Carlton has been hired by head coach Mark Speir, as the new wide receivers coach, replacing Jaybo Shaw.

"Whereas we had really hoped to retain our entire coaching staff intact from a season ago, it was a great opportunity for Jaybo Shaw to return to Georgia and coach with his dad -- a great former Catamount, Lee Shaw," said Speir. "But we are very excited about what Tyler Carlton will bring to the young men in our program."

"Tyler (Carlton) has a wealth of experience at the Conference USA and ACC-level as both in playing the position and a coach. He's been around some of the best wide receivers in the country -- like former Clemson Tiger, Sammy Watkins -- and having worked with a talented offensive mind in Chad Morris will help make our offense better." Speir added,

Carlton started today with the Catamounts, and will take over the recruiting areas of North Georgia. Prior to Clemson, Carlton was a Student Assistant at Tulsa in 2008 and Quality Control in 2009 & 2010. He was grad assistant at Clemson in 2011 & 2012 and an offensive analyst in 2013 & 2014.

Playing Experience: Punter and wide receiver at Tulsa from 2004-06...member of the 2005 Conference USA champions and Liberty Bowl champions.

Coaching Experience: Student assistant at Tulsa in 2008,09...offensive quality control assistant at Tulsa in 2010.

Education: Earned a degree in exercise sports science from Tulsa in 2009...pursuing a master's degree in human resources at Clemson.

Personal: Born April 4, 1986 in Sapulpa, OK

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2015 Football Preseason Preview: The Citadel

Throughout this preseason, Purple & Gold will preview all of Western's 2015 football opponents. Today we look at The Citadel.

Coming off the 2014-15 season tied for a second-place finish in the Southern Conference, the Catamounts travel to Charleston, SC for the second game of the young season to play The Citadel Bulldogs, and open conference play for both teams.

Western will meet the Bulldogs for the fortieth time since 1972, with The Citadel holding a 16-22-1 overall lead in the series.  Western trails 6-12 in those games played in Charleston.  Can the Cats improve on those two records?


The Citadel   

When: Saturday, September 12th at 6 pm

Where: Johnson Hagood Stadium. Charleston, SC

Radio: Catamount Sports Network

TV / video: SoCon Digital Network

Head Coach: Mike Houston - Houston is in his second season with the Bulldogs.  Prior to taking over at The Citadel, he led Lenoir-Rhyne to the NCAA Division II national championship game in 2013.  He was named the 24th head football coach of The Citadel on January 9th 2014. In his last three seasons as the head coach at Lenoir-Rhyne, Houston led the Bears to three consecutive South Atlantic Conference championships, including a school-record 13 wins to earn his third-straight SAC Coach of the Year honor. Houston also was named the Don Hansen Super Region II Coach of the Year in 2013.

Last year’s record: 5-7 overall, 3-4 in the SoCon

Last Season's Game vs. The Citadel: Cats Down The Citadel for Homecoming Win, 29-15 - Junior quarterback Troy Mitchell accounted for 422 yards of total offense including 291 yards passing on 21-of-29 passing and a game-high 131 yards rushing to pace the Catamount offensive attack. True freshman tailback Detrez Newsome tallied the first 100-yard rushing performance of his career with 123 yards on the ground as a part of 154 all-purpose yards.

Offensive starters - Returning/Lost:   9 / 2
The Bulldogs lost starting quarterback Aaron Miller and starting slot Jake Stenson to graduation.

Defensive starters - Returning/Lost:  6  / 5
On defense, the Bulldogs lost the following starters - defensive tackle Cam Mobley, defensive end Justin Oxendine, bandit Rah Muhammad, linebacker Carl Robinson, and cornerback Walker Smith

Specialist - Returning/Lost:  7 / 0

Offensive Formation: Triple Option - With the departure of GSU, the Cats will only face two in-conference teams that run a variable of the triple option offense, Wofford & The Citadel. In 2014, the Bulldogs finished the season ranked #2 nationally in rushing offense at 347.2 yards per game.

Defensive Formation: 4-2-5  The Bulldogs lost five starters from a defense that finished #7 in total defense last season, giving up 43 touchdowns, and was last against the pass giving up 2960 yards against the pass.

Who does the Bulldogs play prior to Western:  Prior to Western game, The Citadel opens the season at home against former SoCon football member Davidson.  The Wildcats are currently members of the Pioneer League

Returning for the Bulldogs is Sam Frye who was named to the All-Southern Conference first team as well as, Mitchell Jeter selected to the second team. Cam Jackson, Isiaha Smith and Dee Delaney were tabbed to the all-freshman squad.

Frye is the leader of an offensive line that paved the way for a for the Bulldog rushing attack that ranked second in the nation at the conclusion of the regular season. The Citadel finished the season with 4,166 yards on the ground and the dogs ranked in the top 10 nationally in four other categories, including second in sacks allowed (six), seventh in time of possession (32:32), ninth in red zone offense (89.8 percent) and 10th in third down conversions (47.8).

At the 2015 SoCon Media Day, the Bulldogs were picked by both the coaches and media of complete the season at 7th place in the standings. The Citadel placed two on the first-team preseason All-Southern Conference selections by the conference's coaches, it was announced Wednesday. Senior offensive lineman Sam Frye and senior defensive lineman Mitchell Jeter earned first-team accolades. The Citadel was one of four schools in the Southern Conference to have at least one first-team representative on both sides of the ball.

2014 The Citadel Statistics:
Rushing Offense: 4166 yards or 347.2 yards per game
Yards per rush:  5.5
TDs rushing:  34
Passing Offense:  958 yards or 79.8 yards per game
Passing Comp-Att-Int:  65-147-1
Total Offense:  5124 yards or 427 yards per game
Fumbles-Lost:  28 - 11
Penalties-Yards:  71 - 607 yards 3rd
3d Down Conversions:  86 of 181 or 48%
4th Down Conversions:  16 of 31 or 52%
Field Goals - Attempts:  9 of 14
Red-Zone Scores:  44 of 49 (90%)
Red-Zone Touchdowns:  36 of 49 (73%)
Punts (No. Yards):   47 (1791) Avg, per punt: 38.1

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60 Days 'till Kickoff - #60 Zachary Greene

It's now 60 days until kickoff of Catamount football against the Mars Hill University Lions in E.J. Whitmire Stadium on September 5th in Cullowhee.

To help pass those long summer days until football season officially starts, and to hopefully get the Catamount faithful more excited about the upcoming season, we'll continue the 100 day football countdown each day until kickoff day arrives.

Utilizing the 2015 Preseason Football Roster, #60 is Zachary Greene

#60 Zachary Greene

Class: RS Freshman
Hometown: Randleman, N.C.
High School: Randleman HS
Height / Weight: 6-3 / 240
Position: DE




2014 (Freshman): Redshirted ... Playing for the Purple squad, credited with one tackle in WCU's annual Spring Game.

Prior to Western Carolina: Began his prep career at Southwestern Randolph High before finishing his career as a defensive end at Randleman High ... Named to the All-Randolph County team as a junior after recording 93 tackles ... Also played baseball as a prep.

Personal: Is the son of Randy and Glynis Greene ... Has a brother, Gabi ... Intends on majoring in natural resource management.



Courtesy WCU Athletics Media Relations

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2016 WCU football prospect - Samad Foster

Samad Foster


Position:  Safety
Hometown: Statesboro, GA
High School:  Statesboro HS
Height/Weight:  5'11" / 180 lbs
Class:  2016


Hudl highlights              read more here  

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61 Days 'till Kickoff - #61 Jake Thornton

It's now 61 days until kickoff of Catamount football against the Mars Hill University Lions in E.J. Whitmire Stadium on September 5th in Cullowhee.

To help pass those long summer days until football season officially starts, and to hopefully get the Catamount faithful more excited about the upcoming season, we'll continue the 100 day football countdown each day until kickoff day arrives.

Utilizing the 2015 Preseason Football Roster, #61 is Jake Thornton

#61 Jake Thornton

Class: RS Senior
Hometown: Toccoa, Ga.
High School: Stephens County HS
Last College: Carson-Newman
Height / Weight: 6-0 / 265
Position: OL



2014 (Redshirt Junior): Played in all 12 games making 11 starts along the offensive line, missing the start against Wofford but played in the win over the Terriers … Named first team All-Southern Conference on offense by the voting media … Named to the 2014-15 Southern Conference Honor Roll.

2013 (Redshirt Sophomore): Started all 11 of the games in which he saw action at offensive center, missing the home overtime win over Elon due to injury ... Battled through both a wrist and knee injuries that limited some playing time ... Credited with one tackle assist at Chattanooga ... Named to the 2013 Fall Academic All-SoCon team ... Named to the 2013-14 Southern Conference Honor Roll ... Was limited during spring drills and did not play in WCU's annual Spring Game. 2012 (Redshirt Freshman): Sat out due to NCAA transfer rules.

Prior to Western Carolina: Enrolled at Carson-Newman for the 2011-12 academic year and was a member of the football team but did not see game action; High School: Named first team All-Region in 2010 ... Received the Wendy's Heisman Trophy from Stephens County ... Helped lead SCHS to region championships in 2007 and 2008 ... Also played baseball as a prep.

Personal: Full name is Jake Robert Thornton ... Is the son of Robert and Cathy Thornton ... Has one sister, Mollie ... His grandfather, Billy Shaw, played for the Buffalo Bills from 1960-69 and was a member of the Pro Football Hall of Fame Class of 1999.



Courtesy WCU Athletics Media Relations

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Football Preseason Preview: Mars Hill

Throughout this preseason, Purple & Gold will preview all of Western's 2015 football opponents.

Coming off the 2014-15 season tied for a second-place finish in the Southern Conference, the Catamounts open the 2015 schedule by hosting mountain neighbor, Mars Hill Lions, on Saturday, Sept. 5th on Labor Day weekend.


In addition to celebrating Catamount Club Day, WCU will also hold its 5th Annual Freshmen Run & Military Appreciation Day in conjunction with the season-opener. Don't forget the fireworks after the game as the Western sky will be illuminated with fireworks to open the 82nd season of WCU football.


Mars Hill Lions

Courtesy WCU athletics     

When:  Saturday, September 5th at 7 pm

Where: E.J. Whitmire Stadium. Cullowhee, NC

Radio: Catamount Sports Network

TV/video: SoCon Digital Network

Series history: In the 22 meeting between these two football teams, Western leads the series, 15-5-1 overall. The first game played was in Western's inguinal football season, 1931. The Cats lost that game, 33-0 in Cullowhee. The two teams last game in the series was 2013, and the Cats have won 15 straight.


Head Coach: Tim Clifton is in his 23d season at Mars Hill. During his tenure at Mars Hill, the Lions have a 115-106 (.520) record. The Lions are 129-100-1 at home in 48 years at Meares Stadium. Clifton has recorded 15 winning seasons in 22 years as the head coach for the Lions. Clifton has the most wins by any Mars Hill head coach and picked up his 100th career victory in 2011. After the win over Brevard College in 2006 (55-0), Clifton moved into second position in all-time coaching victories by SAC coaches.

Game Notes:      Western Carolina (when available)                          Mars Hill

Last year’s record: 4-6, 3-4 in South Atlantic Conference  (NCAA Div II)

Last Game vs. Mars Hill  (Sep. 21 2013):  Mitchell, Benson Tally Trio of Fourth Quarter TDs in Comeback Win - Junior wide receiver Karnorris Benson hauled in three, fourth quarter touchdown receptions as Western Carolina rallied from an 11-point deficit in the final frame to upend the Mars Hill Lions, 30-23, on a soggy Saturday afternoon at E.J. Whitmire Stadium / Bob Waters Field.

Offensive Formation: Multiple

Defensive Formation: Multiple 8-man front

Offensive starters - Returning/Lost:  10 / 1

Defensive starters - Returning/Lost:  7 / 4

Who does the Lions play prior to Western:  This is Mars Hills first game of the season.

Seven Lions earned All-Conference honors from the 2014 season, with Keshaun Taylor claiming Freshman of the Year honors. In his first collegiate season, Taylor caught 32 passes for 626 yards and two touchdowns. Taylor also returned 12 kickoffs for268 yards with an average of 22.3 yards per return. Denzell Goode earned first team accolades at offensive line. Jamel Harbison earned second team honors at running back. Harbison ran for 1,204 yards on 227 carries with nine touchdowns. Marquez Williams was named to the second team at tight end. Williams caught seven passes for 100 yards and had one rushing touchdown. Christiaan Davis claimed second team defensive lineman honors after a 52 tackle, two sack season.

2014 Mars Hill Statistics:
Rushing Offense: 1899 yards or 190 yards per game
Yards per rush: 4.4
TDs rushing:  18
Passing Offense: 2150 yards or 214 yards per game
Passing Comp-Att-Int:  151-308-19
Total Offense: 4049 yards or 405 yards per game
Fumbles-Lost:  20 - 9
Penalties-Yards:  63 - 558 yards
3rd Down Conversions:   68 of 151 or 45%
4th Down Conversions:  10 of 24 or 42%
Field Goals - Attempts:  8 of 10 or 80%
Red-Zone Scores:  34 of 45 (76%)
Red-Zone Touchdowns: 36 of 45 ( 58%)
Punts (No. Yards):  38 (1428)
Avg, per punt:  37.6

South Atlantic Conference Football Preseason Poll
1. Lenoir-Rhyne – 55 points (6 1st-place votes)
2. Carson-Newman – 51 (2 1st place)
3. Newberry – 39
4. Catawba – 37
5. Tusculum – 30
T6. Mars Hill – 27
T6. Wingate – 27
8. Brevard – 14

Mars Hill Players to watch - RB-Jamel Harbison; RB-Shaikel Davis; WR-Keshaun Taylor; OL-Joe Hillan; FB-Marquez Williams; DL-Christiaan Davis; DL-Johnny Maxey; DB-Trey Clark


A total of seven Mars Hill were named to the 2015 South Atlantic Conference preseason All-Conference teams. Running backs Shaikel Davis and Jamel Harbison, tight end Marquez Williams and defensive lineman Christiaan Davis earned first team honors. Shaikel Davis led the league in 2013 with 1,254 rushing yards, but missed the 2014 campaign due to injury. In his first season with the Lions, Harbison finished with 1,250 rushing yards and nine touchdowns with a season-high 290 yards against Brevard on October 13. Williams, a second team All-SAC selection in 2014, caught seven passes for 100 yards and had a rushing touchdown. Christiaan Davis made 52 tackles, 7.5 tackles for loss and recorded two sacks while earning All-SAC and Don Hansen All-Super Region honors. Reigning SAC Offensive Freshman of the Year Keyshaun Taylor earned a spot as a wide receiver on the second team. Taylor caught 32 passes for 626 yards and two touchdowns. He also returned 12 kickoffs for 268 yards. Offensive lineman Joe Hillin joins Taylor on the second team. Hillin was part of an offensive line that allowed the Lions to have the second best passing attack in the SAC with an average of 215 yards per game. Defensive lineman Johnny Maxey earned second team accolades. Maxey made 16 tackles and 2.5 tackles for loss last season.

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62 Days 'till Kickoff - #62 Ethan James

It's now 62 days until kickoff of Catamount football against the Mars Hill University Lions in E.J. Whitmire Stadium on September 5th in Cullowhee.

To help pass those long summer days until football season officially starts, and to hopefully get the Catamount faithful more excited about the upcoming season, we'll continue the 100 day football countdown each day until kickoff day arrives.

Utilizing the 2015 Preseason Football Roster, #62 is Ethan James

#62 Ethan James

Class: Junior
Hometown: Hudson, N.C.
High School: South Caldwell HS
Height / Weight: 6-2 / 265
Position: OL




2014 (Sophomore): Saw action in all 12 games with nine starts along the offensive line including starting the first five games of the season … First five starts came at left guard while the remaining four starts came at right guard.

2013 (Freshman): Played in nine games with a pair of starts along the offensive line ... Made his collegiate debut in the season-opener at Middle Tennessee State before making his first start on the road at Samford ... Also saw time on special teams as the long snapper on PATs and field goals ... Named to the 2013-14 Southern Conference Honor Roll.

Prior to Western Carolina: Was a three-year varsity starter for South Caldwell High and head coach Butch Carter helping the Spartans to back-to-back conference championships in his final two seasons ... Was a two-time All-Northwestern 3A/4A Conference selection and twice named first team All-Caldwell County ... Named the team Offensive MVP as a junior and senior while serving as a team captain both seasons ... As a senior, was selected to the East-West All-Star game ... Could see time as a long-snapper for the Catamounts.

Personal: Full name is Ethan Michael James ... Is the son of Mick and Laurie James ... Has one sibling, Landyn.



Courtesy WCU Athletics Media Relations

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Happy Independence Day from Purple & Gold

63 Days 'till Kickoff - #63 Zach Weeks

It's now 63 days until kickoff of Catamount football against the Mars Hill University Lions in E.J. Whitmire Stadium on September 5th in Cullowhee.

To help pass those long summer days until football season officially starts, and to hopefully get the Catamount faithful more excited about the upcoming season, we'll continue the 100 day football countdown each day until kickoff day arrives.

Utilizing the 2015 Preseason Football Roster, #63 is Zach Weeks

#63 Zach Weeks

Class: RS Freshman
Hometown: Bryson City, N.C.
High School: Swain County HS
Height / Weight: 6-3 / 260
Position: OL




2014 (Freshman): Redshirted ... Named to the 2014-15 Southern Conference Honor Roll.

Prior to Western Carolina: Was a three-year starter along both the offensive and defensive line ... In addition to earning All-Smoky Mountain Conference accolades, was named the SMC Lineman of the Year for 2013 ... Anchored an offensive line that combined for 6,039 yards and averaged 37 points per game ... Graded out at 94-percent or better on blocking assignments ... On defense, recorded a combined 77 tackles including 10.5 for losses and batted down three passes ... Earned NC Preps All-State honors as a senior ... Was a part of Swain County's 2011 I-AA North Carolina State Championship team ... Joined the WCU football team as a preferred walk-on.



Courtesy WCU Athletics Media Relations

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America, America I gave my best for you......

This coming 4th of July we stand proud as Americans.

Let us never forget those who have helped make our FREEDOM possible.

 

64 Days 'till Kickoff - #64 Tyler Philpott

It's now 64 days until kickoff of Catamount football against the Mars Hill University Lions in E.J. Whitmire Stadium on September 5th in Cullowhee.

To help pass those long summer days until football season officially starts, and to hopefully get the Catamount faithful more excited about the upcoming season, we'll continue the 100 day football countdown each day until kickoff day arrives.

Utilizing the 2015 Preseason Football Roster, #64 is Tyler Philpott

#64 Tyler Philpott

Class: RS Senior
Hometown: Columbus, N.C.
High School: Polk County HS
Height / Weight: 6-2 / 300
Position: OL




2014 (Redshirt Junior): Started all 12 games along WCU’s offensive line … Started the first five games at right guard before finishing the season with seven-consecutive starts at left guard … One of four offensive players to start all 12 games – one of two along the offensive line … Named to the 2014-15 Southern Conference Honor Roll.

2013 (Redshirt Sophomore): Played in all 12 of WCU's seasonal games making three starts ... Started the Virginia Tech game at right guard before starting at left guard against Mars Hill ... Started at center against Elon at home ... Forced his first career fumble on a WCU punt in the third quarter at home against Elon ... Credited with four tackles in four different games, tallying three solo stops. 2012 (Redshirt Freshman): Saw action in 10 of WCU's 11 games on the year including seven starts ... After playing as a reserve in three of the first four games, started the final seven games at offensive left guard.

2011 (Freshman): Redshirted.

Prior to Western Carolina: Was a three-time all-conference selection and was named to the Times-News All-Area team four times ... Named to the 2010 NCPreps.com 2-A All-State football team as an offensive lineman ... Additionally named second team All-Area by the Herald-Journal as a senior ... Tabbed the 2010 Western Highlands Conference Lineman of the Year ... Playing along the defensive line, the team captain recorded 104 tackles and tied the team lead in sacks with eight as a senior in 2010 ... Added 30 tackles for loss, five pass deflections and two fumble recoveries ... Selected to participate in the US Army High School All-American Junior combine program ... Was also tabbed to play in the East-West All-Star game in Greensboro, N.C., during the summer of 2011 ... Played for Polk County HS head coach Bruce Ollis ... Was additionally an undefeated state-championship wrestler, winning the NCHSAA 2-A heavyweight title with a 37-0 record, and played baseball as a prep.



Courtesy WCU Athletics Media Relations

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65 Days 'till Kickoff - #65 Kaleb Spry

It's now 65 days until kickoff of Catamount football against the Mars Hill University Lions in E.J. Whitmire Stadium on September 5th in Cullowhee.

To help pass those long summer days until football season officially starts, and to hopefully get the Catamount faithful more excited about the upcoming season, we'll continue the 100 day football countdown each day until kickoff day arrives.

Utilizing the 2015 Preseason Football Roster, #65 is Kaleb Spry

#65 Kaleb Spry

Class: RS Freshman
Hometown: Kannapolis, N.C.
High School: A.L. Brown HS
Height / Weight: 6-2 / 285
Position: OL




2014 (Freshman): Redshirted ... Named to the 2014-15 Southern Conference Honor Roll.

Prior to Western Carolina: A two-year varsity letter winner who started at offensive center as a senior ... Was voted a team captain ... Listed as a two-star prospect by Rivals.com ... Ranks inside the Top 20 in his high school class academically ... Was honored by the Great American Rivalry Series at A.L. Brown's season-opener for having his team's highest GPA ... Also received his team's Academic Achievement award ... Also played basketball as a prep ... High school coach was Mike Newsome.

Personal: Is the son of Terry and Meredith Spry.



Courtesy WCU Athletics Media Relations

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66 Days 'till Kickoff - #66 Ryan Matson

It's now 66 days until kickoff of Catamount football against the Mars Hill University Lions in E.J. Whitmire Stadium on September 5th in Cullowhee.

To help pass those long summer days until football season officially starts, and to hopefully get the Catamount faithful more excited about the upcoming season, we'll continue the 100 day football countdown each day until kickoff day arrives.

Utilizing the 2015 Preseason Football Roster, #66 is Ryan Matson

#66 Ryan Matson

Class: Incoming Freshman

Hometown: Concord, N.C.

High School: Cox Mill HS

Height / Weight: 6-6 / 320

Position: OL



Prior to Western Carolina: Played at Cox Mill High School in Concord, NC.  Rivals 2-star and 247-3 star,  Had offers from Charlotte and East Carolina.

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