Macon, Ga. – Dwayne McGee showcased an impressive performance by rushing for 223 yards and scoring two lengthy touchdowns, which propelled Mercer to a thrilling comeback victory. The Bears clinched a 44-34 triumph against Western Carolina on Saturday, securing their position at the top of the Southern Conference standings.

Now standing at 7-1, Mercer shares the conference lead with Chattanooga, both teams having recorded four victories out of five games. Meanwhile, East Tennessee and Western Carolina are positioned with three wins and one loss in the league. The Buccaneers are set to face the Bears in an upcoming match this Saturday.

After finding themselves trailing 24-7 with just over four minutes to play in the second quarter, Mercer erupted with an impressive 27 unanswered points, taking the lead at 34-24 as the fourth quarter began. McGee’s explosive runs of 64 and 59 yards, sandwiching a 2-yard touchdown run by Whitt Newbauer just before halftime, played a critical role in reversing the Bears’ fortunes and pushing them ahead 28-24. Additionally, Reice Griffith added valuable points with field goals from distances of 30, 23, and a significant 40 yards in the fourth quarter.

On the Western Carolina side, Paxton Robertson attempted to narrow the gap, successfully kicking a 44-yard field goal with 5:22 left in the game, putting the score at 37-34. However, Mercer quickly responded with a robust six-play drive covering 77 yards, culminating in CJ Miller’s impressive 31-yard touchdown run, which sealed the game for the Bears.

McGee led the rushing attack for Mercer with 18 carries, while Newbauer demonstrated his efficiency by completing 10 of 21 passes for 234 yards and one touchdown. Kelin Parsons contributed significantly with four receptions totaling 102 yards.

For Western Carolina, Cole Gonzales led the passing efforts, going 25-of-47 for 395 yards and achieving two touchdowns, but it was not enough to overcome Mercer’s powerful offensive resurgence.