Wofford College Football Secures Winning Season with Dominant Victory Over Chattanooga 35-13
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Wofford College concluded its football season on a high note Saturday, defeating Chattanooga 35-13 at Gibbs Stadium and securing its first winning season since 2019. The Terriers, finishing with a 6-6 overall record and a 5-3 mark in the Southern Conference, controlled the game from the opening drive, never relinquishing the lead.
Terriers Dominate in Season Finale
The victory marked a significant turnaround for the Wofford program, which had struggled to achieve consistent success in recent years. “It was a really well-played game,” said head coach Shawn Watson. “I thought we were really executing schematically. I’m talking offense, defense, and special teams.” The Terriers’ offense, led by quarterback J.T. Fayard, proved efficient, while the defense stifled the Mocs’ attack in the second half.
Key Performances Fuel Wofford Victory
J.T. Fayard orchestrated a strong passing game, completing 22 of 28 passes for 244 yards and three touchdowns. Running back Gerald Modest Jr. contributed a pair of touchdowns on 10 carries for 76 yards, showcasing a potent ground attack. Wide receiver Ivory Aikens was a consistent threat, hauling in six catches for 91 yards and a touchdown.
The Terriers’ offense struck early, with a 46-yard reception by Aikens setting up a 22-yard touchdown pass to Colby Alexander just over 13 minutes into the first quarter. Modest Jr. added two rushing touchdowns, one in the second quarter and another in the fourth, further solidifying Wofford’s control.
Defensive Standout Seals the Deal
Wofford’s defense played a crucial role in the victory, forcing three turnovers and consistently pressuring Chattanooga’s quarterback, Battle Alberson, who finished with 215 passing yards. Maximus Pulley’s interception in the third quarter proved particularly impactful, shifting momentum firmly in Wofford’s favor.
“Our defense was stellar all year long,” Watson emphasized. Kade Moledor led the defensive effort with 11 tackles, while Brandon Maina added nine tackles and continued to build his impressive career sack total. Maina finished the season with 10.5 sacks, the fifth-most in a single season in Wofford history, bringing his career total to 19.0, tied for fifth all-time.
Second-Half Surge Secures Victory
After building a 21-13 lead at halftime, Wofford shut out Chattanooga in the second half, adding two more touchdowns to extend their advantage. A three-yard touchdown reception by Aikens early in the third quarter and a four-yard pass to Isaiah Scott in the fourth sealed the victory. Chattanooga struggled to mount a consistent offense, hampered by penalties and a strong Wofford defensive front.
Looking Ahead for Wofford Football
The win concludes a season of growth and improvement for the Wofford football program. The team’s 5-3 conference record is their best since winning the Southern Conference in 2019. The game also marked the final home contest for 19 Wofford seniors, including fifth-year players Seth Foster, Quincy Hughes, Brandon Maina, and Maximus Pulley. “There is a lot of good stuff to build on for next season,” Watson stated, expressing optimism for the future of the program. The Terriers will look to carry this momentum into the next season, building upon the foundation laid by this year’s senior class and a promising group of returning players.
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