A big third quarter by the host Charlotte 49ers proved to be the difference as WKU (1-5, 0-2 C-USA) fell in their Conference USA road opener, 40-14.
Trailing 9-7 at the break, the Hilltoppers could not find their rhythm in the third quarter and saw Charlotte, on the legs of running back Benny Lemay, score 21 unanswered points in the third quarter to put the game out of reach.
Redshirt freshman quarterback Davis Shanley was efficient in completing nearly 70 percent of his passes (20-of-29), but WKU turned the ball over three times in the defeat.
After a WKU turnover on the first drive, the 49ers needed just one play, a 35-yard rush by Lemay, to get on the scoreboard. A two-point conversion attempt failed. The Hilltoppers responded with a nine-play, 85-yard drive that ended in a four-yard touchdown run by true freshman quarterback Kevaris Thomas. Thomas used every bit of his 250-plus pound frame to barrel his way in the endzone.
But, it was all Charlotte from then on out. Charlotte’s passing attack combined for 237 yards through the air and 211 on the ground to put the game out of reach.
Redshirt sophomore quarterback Steven Duncan appeared late in the game and led the team on an 11-play, 75-yard drive where he connected on the corner fade to tight end Steven Witchoskey for his first career receiving touchdown.
Sophomore receiver Jacquez Sloan led the Hilltoppers in receptions and receiving yards, tallying 83 yards on six catches including a long of 42, his second 40-plus yard reception in the last two games.
WKU returns home for two games and will host Old Dominion in the annual Live United White Out game, set for Saturday, Oct. 20 at 6:30 p.m. from Houchens Industries-L.T. Smith Stadium.
(FROM WKU ATHLETICS)