Newberry College Wolves Celebrate a Big Win Over Barton Bulldogs
Newberry, SC – The atmosphere was electric on Saturday as the Newberry College Wolves celebrated a fantastic 41-25 victory against the Barton Bulldogs at Setzler Field. After a rocky start to the season, the Wolves have rallied in the last few weeks, now improving their record to 3-4 overall and 3-2 in the South Atlantic Conference.
Wolves’ Offense Finally Shines
After struggling in their earlier games with a total of just 12 points over two losses, the Wolves’ offense exploded, achieving their second-best scoring game of the season. Even though things began slowly with a scoreless first quarter, Newberry didn’t let that get them down. The Bulldogs initiated the scoring with a long eleven-minute drive, concluding in a 19-yard touchdown pass from quarterback Nazir Garrett to receiver John Flood-Brown, putting them ahead 7-0.
But just when it seemed like Newberry might struggle again, they surged back with incredible energy. They quickly tied the game in the second quarter as Reed Charpia targeted Rico Dorsey Jr. with a stunning 50-yard touchdown pass, making it 7-7. With a solid defensive effort that forced a turnover on downs, the Wolves capitalized again, this time securing a 46-yard field goal from Bryce Earley. Before they knew it, they were ahead.
A Dominating Second Quarter
The Wolves found their rhythm and scored a whopping 20 points in that second quarter alone. Dwayne Wright dashed for a rushing touchdown, extending the lead to 17-7. They didn’t stop there; following another defensive stand, Newberry scored again with a 22-yard field goal from Earley, reaching a comfortable 20-10 halftime lead.
After halftime, the Wolves kept their momentum. A spectacular 77-yard punt return by Tyleke Mathis set them up perfectly on the Bulldogs’ 20-yard line. Wright made sure to finish off that drive with a 4-yard touchdown run, widening the gap to 26-10. The Bulldogs, however, weren’t giving up. Trevor Nored, who had recently stepped in as quarterback, connected with Flood-Brown for another score, narrowing the lead to 26-18.
Keeping the Momentum
Newberry promptly responded, and it was Quez Spells who electrified the crowd with a breathtaking 78-yard touchdown run. Even as Barton made a valiant effort to stay in the game, scoring another touchdown to make it a one-score match at 32-25, Newberry was not to be deterred. They marched right back downfield with their final offensive drive, capped off by Trakell Murray’s 15-yard rushing touchdown, bringing their tally to 41 points.
Record-breaking Stats and Key Players
With this outstanding game behind them, the Wolves had remarkable individual performances. Charpia threw for 182 yards and a touchdown, while Dorsey Jr. shone with 119 receiving yards and a score. The running game was also potent, racking up 209 rushing yards and scoring four rushing touchdowns. Wright led the charge with two rushing touchdowns, while Spells added another.
A Bright Future Ahead
Despite the Bulldogs holding the ball for over 20 minutes more than the Wolves and making double the amount of plays, they couldn’t match Newberry’s overall scoring. Wolves head coach Todd Knight appropriately summed it up, stating, “Well you know sometimes the numbers lie to you… At the end of the day, the only number that matters is the scoreboard.”
This victory brings Newberry College back into the fight for the South Atlantic Conference title. With an upcoming homecoming match against Limestone set for Saturday, November 1st, the Wolves are eager to keep this winning streak alive. Coach Knight expressed confidence and excitement for the next game, emphasizing the importance of playing hard at home.
Fans are ready to rally behind the Wolves; it’s time to keep this momentum going!
