Charlotte is off to a 2-0 start after a 38-10 victory over Gardner Webb
49ers are off to a fast start to the season
After what was a statement win against Duke to open the season, the 49ers remained rooted in their process and defeated the Gardner-Webb Bulldogs, 38-10. This moves the 49ers to 2-0 on the 2021 season which also happens to be the best start for the program since 2015.
“I want to get to the point where we are expected to beat Duke and expected to go and beat Gardner Webb,” head coach Will Healy said following the game. “That should become the expectation around here.”
The 2015 season may have started off great for the 49ers, but ended very rough as they would not win another game the remainder of that season. This year’s team will look to not repeat that same result as they prepare for the remainder of the season.
Photo creditChris Crews, Niner Times
Chris Reynolds moves into first place all-time in passing yards for Charlotte
While Reynolds might not have put up the same numbers he did against Duke in week one, he achieved the ultimate goal of a win, and he put up enough passing yards to move into first place all-time in the 49er annals.
This record was previously held by Matt Johnson with 5,405 yards. Reynolds spoke on what his interactions with Matt were like and just what this accomplishment means to him after the game on Saturday. “First and foremost, being around for so long, I have met a lot of alumni. Matt Johnson is one of those dudes,” Reynolds stated. “Every time I see him, he introduces me with a hug, a smile, sees how I’m doing.”
Reynolds sang the praises of the guys that he has played with over the years and the guys he is playing with this year. With the potential of Reynolds staying another year with the “Covid year” as it is being called, it will leave 49er fans wondering if they will have Reynolds around for another year or if he will move on from college football.
Photo creditBrian Westerholt, Associated Press
Markees Watts moves into second place all-time in sacks, surpassing Larry Ogunjobi
After a game where the defense held Gardner-Webb to only 10 points, Watts was able to move into second place in 49er history in career sacks, trailing only Alex Highsmith. With Watts being out some in 2020 due to bouts with injuries he has shown that he is hungry this year.
He is not done yet though according to what he had to say to the media after Saturday’s win. “It is a great accomplishment for me, but I am still hungry. I want to beat Alex (Highsmith),” Watts said.
Watts will need to average about a sack per game the rest of the way to catch Highsmith who has 20. It is obtainable and Watts, as he said, is hungry to do just that.
Looking ahead
The 49ers have their first road test of the season against Georgia State on September 18 and when asked how the team’s preparation will change heading on the road Healy answered with two words. “It doesn’t.” The team will hit the road on Friday and look to come home with a win.
Catch the action on ESPN+ at 7 pm this Saturday.