Photo credit: Charlotte Athletics
A win is a win, no matter who the opponent is, so a big congratulations out to Tim Albin in his first victory here at Charlotte. The Niners scored a touchdown on every drive in the second half, and they needed every one to upend #18/#20 (FCS) Monmouth Hawks on Saturday night at Jerry Richardson Stadium. The game had everything a casual observer would want to see; drama with a late decisive score, and a lot of points, with CLT pulling it out 42-35.
Welcome to the show, Connor Harrell. Much had been said by Niner Nation about Harrell's performance to date, and after tonight, I think he's bought some time. He went 26/30 throught the air, and if my memory serves me correctly, 2 of those were drops, with one being a dime that should have been a touchdown. In total Harrell amassed over 400 total yards, 5 touchdowns (3 passing, 2 running), and 1 interception. It wasn't always perfect, as Charlotte fumbled again on a speed option that had an extremely late pitch in the red zone (same happened in the opener against App State in the red zone). That has to be cleaned up.
Also deserving of some love, E. Jai Mason who reeled in 10 catches for 228 yards and 2 touchdowns. One of those 10 was a crucial 3rd and 7 pickup with 1:49 left in the 4th, as Harrell found Mason streaking down the field for a 55 yard strike, putting Charlotte inside the 10. The Niners went on to score what would be the game winning touchdown 3 plays later on a Harrell keeper. Another bright spot for the CLT offense, running back Rod Gainey Jr. Gainey talled 74 yards on 15 carries, finding paydirt once. The Charlotte offense had struggled in both games coming into tonight, we'll see if they can carry that momentum into Thursday night at JRS versus Rice.
After looking much improved against UNC Chapel Hill last week, the defensive unit could not contain the Monmouth Hawks and their high-powered offense. Quarterback Derek Robertson torched the Charlotte secodary, throwing for 410 yards and 4 touchdowns. Charlotte's defense was able to get to pressure on Robertson with 4 sacks on the night, the first sacks allowed all season by the Hawks.
It'll be a short week for Charlotte with Rice on Thrusday night on ESPN in primetime. Like last year, Sportscenter will again be on campus during the day on Thursday. A great opportunity to showcase campus and the program, as CLT kicks has their first conference game of the season. The Owls are lead by former Davidson coach Scott Abell, who has them 2-1 coming into the 704. Look for JRS to be sold out again in this one.
