Jackson, MS – The N.C. Wesleyan football team hit the road for its USA South Conference opener, taking on the Belhaven Blazers in Jackson, Mississippi. Despite a strong start from the Bishop defense, the Blazers emerged victorious with a 30-12 win.

The Basics:
Score: N.C. Wesleyan 12, Belhaven 30
Location/Venue: Jackson, MS / Belhaven Bowl Stadium
Records: N.C. Wesleyan (0-4, 0-2 USA South), Belhaven (1-3, 1-1 USA South)

In the first quarter, Wesleyan's defense showcased its talent in the trenches, limiting the Blazers to a single 34-yard field goal. The Bishops kept Belhaven out of the end zone for most of the first half, only allowing a single rushing score.

Wesleyan would not go away, quickly responded with an explosive drive on the next possession. Quarterback Chaz Hirschman connected with Justyce Whitten-Bright on a 50-yard touchdown pass, capping off a quick three-play, 75-yard drive and cutting the deficit.

As the game progressed, the Blazers found momentum and increased their lead, but Wesleyan continued to fight. With less than three minutes left in the contest, Hirschman connected with Christian Drumgoole for a 14-yard touchdown pass. Drumgoole, who led the Bishops' receiving corps, finished the game with six catches for 111 yards. Despite the late score, Wesleyan couldn't close the gap, and Belhaven sealed the 30-12 win.

On the defensive side, Eric Cooper led the Bishops with a standout performance, recording thirteen total tackles, eleven of them solo, in an effort to get back in the contest.

Up Next:

Football returns home on Saturday night at 6:00 as the Bishops face Methodist for Homecoming.