Runnin' Bulldogs give fans something to cheer about
The Runnin’ Bulldogs lived up to their name on Saturday rushing for 352 yards in a 56-0 rout of Lincoln (PA). In addition the defense pitched its first shutout since 2016 versus Benedict.
“We were not planning on running that much,” head coach Tre Lamb said of the rushing totals, which ranks fourth best in program history. “It’s just one of those things where we got out to a big lead at halftime, and we were trying to melt the clock in the second half without running up the score. Getting the shutout was huge. It means a lot. We set that as a goal in the halftime locker room, and the defense came out and got the job done.”
LOCAL LEADER: Former Crest standout Jalin Graham led GWU in rushing with 87 yards including a 73 yard touchdown run in the second quarter.
“Jalin is going to be a special player for us,” Lamb said. “He is only a freshman so he is going to get better and better. It was good to see him break a big run.”
PUT ME IN COACH: GWU went deep on the depth chart as many fourth string players saw action late in the contest.
“It was good to get those guys in and let them see some playing time,” Lamb said. “It will help us build depth for the future.”
FANS IN THE STANDS: Saturday also marked the first time fans could return to Spangler Stadium at full capacity since 2019, and they did so in large numbers. More than 3,000 people attended, many of whom were students ready to once again enjoy the traditions associated with college football.
“I’ve just missed this atmosphere so much,” sophomore Victoria Fischetti said. “We had a couple of games last spring, but it wasn’t the same. The togetherness is the best part of game day, and we get to have that this year."
Senior Heather Lobas agreed.
“I’m excited to be able to come back and watch the team play,” she said “As a GWU athlete myself (women’s lacrosse), I know how important fan support can be and what a difference it can make. The last couple years have felt a little off. Now that we can come back, that’s reason to celebrate.”
MR. ROBINSON’S NEIGHBORHOOD
Former Carolina Panther player and radio broadcaster Eugene Robinson was on hand to provide color commentary on the ESPN + broadcast of the game with Director of Broadcasting Phil Constantino providing the play-by-play.
“Gardner-Webb is such a beautiful campus,” Robinson said. “It’s one of those places when you just automatically feel at home. I like what Coach Tre Lamb is doing with the program. particularly in the game tonight. He did not run up the score, but at the same time, he gave everybody a chance to play. Those guys practice hard and deserve a chance to play, too.”
UP NEXT: GWU will stay at home next Saturday as they host regional rivals Western Carolina. Players from Cleveland and Gaston counties are plentiful on both rosters. Kickoff is set for 6 p.m.