Danville, VA - The N.C. Wesleyan football team opened its 2024 season with a tough 41-29 loss on the road against Averett on Saturday night. Despite a hard-fought effort, the Bishops couldn't overcome several explosive plays, but fought until the final whistle. 

Averett started its season with a 75-yard flea-flicker touchdown, as Ethan Ross connected with Trevor Testerman to set the tone for the Cougars on the very first play from scrimmage. However, the Bishops responded quickly with a 37-yard touchdown run from Anthony Byrd, capping off a 7-play, 78-yard drive to get on the board.

Quarterback Chaz Hirschman continued Wesleyan's offensive push early in the second quarter, connecting with Byrd again on an 8-yard touchdown pass to close the gap to 14-12. Though Averett extended their lead to 27-15 by halftime, Sophomore kicker Braxtyn Green knocked in a 20-yard field goal to cap an 11-play, 47-yard drive for the Bishops.

In the second half, Averett pulled ahead with two more touchdowns, but Wesleyan fought back. Byrd continued his electrifying night, breaking loose for a 36-yard touchdown, his second rushing score of over 30 yards. The Bishops kept the pressure on late, as 2023 USA South All-Conference selection Christian Drumgoole hauled in his first touchdown of the season, capping a 6-play, 85-yard drive with 8:22 remaining.

The Basics:
Score: N.C. Wesleyan 29, Averett 41
Location/Venue: Danville, VA / Daly Field at Frank R. Campbell Stadium
Records: N.C. Wesleyan (0-1, 0-0 USA South), Averett (1-0, 0-0 ODAC)

On offense, the Bishops racked up 247 rushing yards, with Byrd accounting for 192 yards and two touchdowns on the ground. Hirschman threw for 176 yards on 16-of-25 passing, while Drumgoole led the receiving corps with 85 yards on six catches.

Up Next:

The Battling Bishops will host Ferrum on Saturday night in its 2024 home opener at 6:00 PM.