Macon, Ga. — In a commanding performance, Mercer secured a decisive 34-7 victory over Princeton on Saturday. The Bears showcased their defensive prowess and special teams effectiveness, starting with Brayden Smith, who electrified the crowd by returning a punt 49 yards for the first touchdown, giving Mercer an early 10-0 advantage in the first quarter.

Later in the same quarter, Mercer’s defense continued to dominate when Isaac Dowling tackled Princeton’s Blaine Hipa during a potential flea-flicker play. The subsequent fumble bounced into the end zone and was pounced on by Brayden Dudley, adding another six points for Mercer.

Mercer outperformed the Tigers significantly in total yardage, amassing 376 yards compared to Princeton’s 196. Despite the offensive struggles, the Bears did not find the end zone through the air until the fourth quarter. Dwayne McGee, who led the rushing attack with 115 yards, capped Mercer’s scoring with a 1-yard touchdown run that extended the lead to 27-7.

Freshman quarterback Whitt Newbauer contributed with a 1-yard touchdown run, solidifying the Bears’ win. Newbauer and starting quarterback Hess Horne collectively completed 16 of 28 passes for a combined total of 195 yards, although Horne did suffer an interception during the game.

On the other side, Smith excelled in the return game, totaling 134 yards on three punt returns, including a long return of 64 yards. Princeton’s lone touchdown came from Ethan Clark, who scored on a 1-yard run and led his team with a game-high 117 rushing yards. Hipa struggled in his performance, completing just 8 of 21 passes for 109 yards and throwing four interceptions throughout the game.