Wofford's effort at Duke left much to be proud of

Don't hang your heads, Terrier fans; there are many things hidden within this 29-point loss to be proud of.

Wofford looking straight at final non-conference tilt against Duke

The national spotlight, harsh as it is, will descend upon the Terriers tomorrow afternoon, whether they like it or not. All those instances which developed Wofford as a program seemed to be leading up to this moment -- a team from a small school, enrollment 1,600, in the suburban town of Spartanburg, S.C., going into the famed home stadium of a perennial powerhouse like Duke -- that will unfold before the nation's eyes.

West Virginia proves to be more than Terriers can handle

It was like it was over before it even started.

Tough test against West Virginia looms before Young's record-setting Terriers

In 2005, the Terriers were stifled not once, but twice on a trip to Morgantown, W.Va.

Terriers turn focus towards Charleston Southern

It always happens. The celebration has to fade at some point, and the thrill of knocking off an opponent like N.C. State subsides, only to live on in memory and the stat sheets. For a program, though, it's necessary. Life goes on.

Historic victory over N.C. State years in the making

Wofford fans were taken through a journey of countless emotions during Sunday's non-conference tilt with N.C. State.

Wagering for success: exclusive interview with Ben Ingram, Wofford grad and quiz show champion

Today, I'm pleased to present an exclusive interview session with Ben Ingram, 2005 Wofford alumnus and Jeopardy! champion. I'd like to extend a large thanks to Ben for his time and participation.

Freshman Brooks finds breakout game against Florida National

It didn't take Derrick Brooks long to make his mark as a Terrier.

A look at what's ahead for Wofford basketball

After a season-opening loss at Stanford, the Terriers came out with a bang, winning their next five contests. The streak, which was unfortunately broken with a four-point setback in a close tilt with William and Mary last Saturday, began with the nationally-televised 86-73 triumph over Iona on Nov. 18.

Small school, big competition: Wofford has a history of playing larger-division foes tough

There's a line in between the two slices of Division I football, the FBS and FCS. Sometimes it's more fine than others.

Wofford men's basketball in better spot than this time last season

The Terriers, who are currently on a five-game winning streak, have a chance to exact revenge on another opponent who bested them last season.

Terrier football has come a long way, and is looking to keep on

It happens.

Cochran, Skinner bright spots early on in laggard victory

It took a while for the Terriers to get things going on Friday night.

From freshmen to stadium plans, Wofford basketball has it down to a science

Freshmen are the future. There's no doubt about that.

Terriers want to avoid rare losing season

Dejectedly, the Terriers made their way to the locker rooms at Paladin Stadium. Behind them, the nearly-barren trees of late fall swayed deliberately in the algid Upstate air. Yes, this is the time of year in which season change, and the focus of the public begins to shift rapidly from football to basketball.

Terriers suffer 31-14 setback to Furman in lackluster outing

On Saturday afternoon at Greenville's Paladin Stadium, the Furman Paladins (3-8, 2-4 SoCon) bested the visiting Wofford Terriers (5-5, 3-3 SoCon) by a score of 31-14.

Wofford looks to clinch winning season, bragging rights in rivalry game with Furman

It's always a mighty occurrence.

Terriers fall behind, drop season opener at Stanford, 74-59

The Terriers started off the 2014-15 campaign with a contest against Stanford, shrouded in the shadows of Palo Alto, Calif., that started late on Friday evening and did not end until the morning hours of Saturday.

In the Dog Pen: exclusive interview with Wofford men's basketball associate head coach Dustin Kerns

Today, Wofford men's basketball associate head coach Dustin Kerns comes "In the Dog Pen" to talk about the upcoming season.

Terriers searching for solace, strong finish in final games with Furman, Mercer

Last year at this point in the season, the Terriers still had a chance to make the playoffs. We aren't going to enjoy any postseason play this season, but we certainly aren't going to let a chance for a surprisingly excellent campaign slip away, the same way we let opportunities and momentum pass us by in yesterday afternoon's dropped decision to Chattanooga, who will keep rolling into the playoffs.

Chattanooga uses strong second half to pull away from Terriers, clinch SoCon title

There was a chance.

As I, like many other Terrier faithful, sit drowning the sorrow that came from the loss to Chattanooga with even more college football, there's one thing that sticks out in my mind: there was a chance.

Terriers have tall order ahead in matchup with league-leading Mocs

Chattanooga has undoubtedly moved up in the realm of Southern Conference football.

In The Dog Pen: exclusive interview with Wofford men's basketball assistant coach Tim Johnson

To help prepare for the upcoming basketball season, we talked to assistant coach Tim Johnson, who graciously agreed to field several inquiries about various topics of interest concerning the Wofford men's basketball program.

A historical perspective on Wofford vs. Chattanooga

It seems as if the annual tilt between the Wofford Terriers and the Chattanooga Mocs almost always has a great deal riding on it.

Wofford men's basketball 2014-15 preview: Young's talented squad has head high, eyes forward

Wofford men’s basketball has gone through quite a bit of change over the past several years.

Time of possession, fourth-down success set Terriers apart

It's just a simple fact of Wofford football: the Terriers like to stage long, meticulous drives that are both time-consuming and exhausting for the defense. When a snag is hit, the defense has to prepare for the fact that Wofford, led by coach Mike Ayers, who "hates to punt," isn't afraid to go for it on fourth down.

Open date, tough stretch what Terriers are looking forward to following big SoCon week

Yesterday, something amazing almost happened. The key word--almost--must be recognized.

Wofford disposes of returning SoCon member VMI on homecoming

The Terriers welcomed VMI, an opponent that hasn't met Wofford since 2005, into Gibbs Stadium this afternoon, as they look to build off of a nice win over Samford last week.

Wofford set for homecoming match with returning VMI

The last time that the VMI Keydets took the field at Gibbs Stadium, the year was 2005. On October 15th of that year, the Terriers hosted the Keydets from Lexington, Va., in a relatively pertinent, yet non-conference tilt that was won by the home squad, 38-23. While the victory helped bring an unusually vapid and substandard 6-5 campaign a bit of redemption, this game meant something more. It would be the final time that these two teams--squads that had grown quite familiar with one another--would meet until rejoined as conference members once again, playing on a homecoming Saturday a momentous nine years later.

A look at the Terriers' playoff chances

Let's face it. Wofford's win on Saturday against Samford was big--there's no doubting that--and a crucial road conference victory, but in the grand scheme of things, it's going to be tough for the Terriers to bring their efforts into a playoff situation.

Win against Samford crucial, gutsy, and solid

Yesterday afternoon, the Terriers were gifted with the addition of a player on offense. No wait, he looked familiar. He was wearing #99. Isn't that star defensive end Tarek Odom? On offense?

Terriers take gritty 24-20 road win at Samford

Today, from Seibert Stadium in Birmingham, Ala., the Terriers look to face a tough opponent in the Samford Bulldogs.

The tables have turned in familiar SoCon showdown

In 2012, the Terriers had the ultimate chance. Several teams in contention for a SoCon title fell that afternoon, and the pesky Samford Bulldogs were the only thing in between Wofford and an outright Southern Conference title.

Wofford men's basketball has the potential to do great things this season

On Wednesday afternoon in Asheville, N.C., Southern Conference coaches and media members named Wofford the preseason number-one team.

Penalties and a tough turnover cost Terriers chances, momentum against Western Carolina

Both squads committed five penalties on Saturday afternoon at E.J. Whitmire Stadium in Cullowhee, N.C. The Catamounts' infractions actually cost them five more yards than those brought on by the visiting Terriers. However, a few penalties and the game's only turnover stand out as either big momentum changers or the marking of a turning point in Wofford's chances to win the game.

Catamounts serve Terriers first SoCon loss

This afternoon, Wofford looks to continue a good start to their SoCon schedule with a game against Western Carolina, who have an identical record to the Terriers, at E.J. Whitmire Stadium in Cullowhee, N.C.

Much on the line in encounter between Wofford, Western Carolina this weekend

On Saturday, Wofford will make the trip to Cullowhee, N.C., to take on the Western Carolina Catamounts in E.J. Whitmire Stadium. To help prepare for the matchup, here's a preview powered by questions from the Palmetto & Pine Sports Network, as this is the game of the week.

Terriers have much to be excited about in Jacks, future

Evan Jacks is obviously a different player than he was last season as a redshirt freshman.

Terriers' efforts are finally culminating into quality wins

Wofford put four footballs on the ground yesterday afternoon, and lost three of them. Thankful streaks of momentum were killed in an instant; in the end, The Citadel only needed three yards to win, and had four plays to get it.

But they didn't.

Wofford holds The Citadel in lengthy SoCon-schedule opening battle, 17-13

On a sunny fall afternoon at Gibbs Stadium, Wofford opened their 2014 SoCon schedule against The Citadel. The Terriers have not lost to the Bulldogs since 1998; they are seeking their sixteenth consecutive triumph over the squad from Charleston, S.C.

May the best option win in SoCon opener for Wofford, The Citadel

Wofford and The Citadel, both historically triple option-based programs, will meet at Gibbs Stadium at 1:30 P.M. Eastern, as they both look to start off the SoCon schedule 1-0.

Coach Lee Hanning touched countless lives at Wofford and beyond

Lee Hanning influenced the lives of many more than just Wofford kickers and punters.

Terrier Notebook: Wofford men's soccer 'kind of a big deal' after winning four straight

It just so happened to take place on 'Anchorman Night' at Snyder Field.

Wofford hopes to preserve long winning streak vs. The Citadel

Prior to the 1998 Wofford vs. The Citadel tilt, co-owners of the Spartanburg staple Beacon Drive-In, who were graduates of the respective institutions, struck a bet that would mark the advent of a conference tradition.

The good and bad of Wofford's defensive play against UVA-Wise

"Pass interference."

Those words were uttered by the official quite a bit against Gardner-Webb, as well as in last night's game against UVA-Wise, where the Terriers were flagged as such on five different occasions (although several were not enforced).

But that's not the only thing, defensively, to take away from the 49-15 triumph.

Big plays provided separation on Saturday night, but one in particular changed the game's feel

As was expected, there was no shortage of those electrifying plays that come all the more frequently when Wofford goes into a tilt against a smaller team.

The Terriers' first two possessions ended with big plays, namely a 44-yard touchdown run by Octavius Harden and a 43-yard connection from Evan Jacks to freshman Bryce Motes.

However, a particular play stands out.

Terriers cruise to 49-15 victory over DII Virginia-Wise

This evening at Gibbs Stadium, Wofford kicked off their final non-conference game before the advent of the SoCon schedule, one against the Division II UVA-Wise Highland Cavaliers.

Terriers looking for victory, morale boost in final game before SoCon play

"...The best football team I've ever gone against."

Dewey Lusk, then in his first year at the helm of the University of Virginia at Wise football program, had that to say about Wofford following the Highland Cavaliers' 47-14 defeat at the hands of the Terriers in 2011.

Travis Thomas' injury will be a tough obstacle for Terrier defense

This Saturday, when the Terriers take the field to close out regular-season non-conference play with UVA-Wise, they will be without a familiar face—and powerhouse—on defense.

Wofford hopes to improve in several ways against UVA-Wise

Before this season started, one of the main topics of conversation concerning Wofford football pertained to the relative weakness of the schedule.

Putting last night's loss into perspective

During Gardner-Webb's first two games of the season, the Runnin' Bulldogs only scored ten points.

Against a team from the United States Collegiate Athletic Association, the Virginia-Lynchburg Dragons, GWU put up 34 points in a shutout.

Last night in Spangler Stadium, the Runnin' Bulldogs put up 43 points against our Wofford Terriers.

Terrier fans have a new reason to be excited about #7

Number seven.

In years past, the mere mention of the number brought Terrier fans to their feet, hoping to witness one of Eric Breitenstein's now-famous hard-nosed rushes.

Now, Wofford fans have a new reason to cheer for #7.

Gardner-Webb holds off struggling Terriers, 43-36

Wofford has made the trip to Boiling Springs, N.C., to take on the Gardner-Webb Runnin' Bulldogs. The Terriers hope to avenge a 3-0 loss last season, while also improving their record to 2-1. Unlike last year's game, which was played in a rainstorm, the weather is clear and the Terriers are ready to play some football.

Last year's shutout one of only eight during Ayers' career

It was 1987. Rick Gilstrap was busy coaching what would be his final season at Wofford. Little did he know that his replacement, an energetic Mike Ayers that was fresh from an Eastern Tennessee State job, would still be at helm of the program to this very day.

However, Ayers' career longevity wouldn't be the only thing from those times to endure.

Despite adversity, Jacks is maturing into a leader for the Terriers

Evan Jacks is working hard to shake off some of the negative connotations left from last season.

Terriers looking to erase last year's bad memories, exact revenge on Gardner-Webb

"Exasperating."

That was what Terrier play-by-play voice Mark Hauser said when asked if he could summarize last year's game against Gardner-Webb in a single word.

Terriers take closer-than-expected win over DII North Greenville

Wofford has kicked off the 2014 home slate at Gibbs Stadium, taking on the Division II North Greenville Crusaders. This is the first meeting between the two schools.

Terriers set for home opener against North Greenville

As the Terriers prepare to open the 2014 home slate with a 7 P.M. (Eastern Time) kickoff against the North Greenville Crusaders, let's take a look at some points of interest coming into tomorrow evening's matchup.

Ayers: North Greenville an 'excellent team,' not one to overlook

"It doesn't matter whether they're a Division II program or not," Wofford head football coach Mike Ayers remarked to TerrierVision on Monday afternoon, referring to the Terriers' next opponent, the North Greenville Crusaders. "They're an excellent team. We're going to have to play really well."

Off Week Musings

Wofford football is facing the first of two open dates this season (the second is on November 1st), a time that will hopefully serve the Terriers well in terms of healing from last Saturday's game and preparation for the next. While there's no game today, that's not stopping us from looking into some topics of interest.

Terrier Notebook: Football, Women's and Men's Soccer, Volleyball

Here's a look at what's happening around Terrier athletics.

Georgia Tech uses second half power to beat scrappy Terriers in season opener

Today, the Terriers kicked off the 2014 football season in Atlanta, taking on the Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets of the ACC. It's the two squads' first meeting since 1901, so we can't really say much in that respect. Everything will have to be settled on the gridiron at Bobby Dodd Stadium.

Position Profile: Special Teams

We've had some great kickers in the past. Even last year's starter, Kasey Redfern, is now making a name for himself with the Jacksonville Jaguars. Then again, we've usually had somewhat of a good depth to our specialists. This year, that changes a little.

Position Profile: Defensive Line

Today, our preview of the defense is completed by a look at the defensive line, a group that looks to be slightly more mature than some other areas on this side of the line of scrimmage, but not without its newcomers.

Position Profile: Linebackers

Today we're going to take a look at the linebacker corps. We've lost big names in Mike McCrimmon and Alvin Scioneaux, but returning starters Travis Thomas and Kevin Thomas look to anchor the post along with some newer faces.

Position Profile: Secondary

Wofford's secondary is packed full of depth and untapped talent. While only two starters are returning, there's three redshirt freshmen and a pair of true freshmen who, along with the returning players, would like to make a difference on the other side of the line of scrimmage for the Terriers this season.

MBB: A Look at 2014-15 Non-Conference Opponents

As the defending-SoCon champion Terriers prepare to travel to Costa Rica, it's a perfect time to look at the non-conference opponents that they'll meet on the court this season.

Preview Capsule for Palmetto & Pine Sports

You can read the 2014 Wofford football preview capsule I wrote for Palmetto & Pine Sports by clicking this link or by reading below.

Position Profile: OL/TE

Ask any Terrier fan, hardcore or casual, what any success we can hope to achieve this season will hinge on, and there's a good chance that their answers contain some allusion to the strength of the offensive line.

There's a lot of pressure on this year's team, like a squad of any given season, to uphold the program's stance in the conference, but, after a year like 2013, the airs of rebuilding and adjusting to the changing times are prevalent in the minds of staff, as well as the fans.

Lack of identity, execution among Terriers' 2013 inconsistencies

Last year, there were obviously a lot of problems and little inconsistencies that ultimately played a major role in the disappointing finish Mike Ayers and staff oversaw. Perhaps they were big inconsistencies. 

Nevertheless, let's take a look at some of the most prominent.

Media Day Recap: Terriers tabbed fourth, seeking consistency this season

Courtesy Southern Conference

Representatives of SoCon football programs and media members alike converged on the Spartanburg Marriot Wednesday for the 2014 SoCon Football Media Day.

In attendance for Wofford were head coach Mike Ayers, RB Will Gay, and LB Travis Thomas.

In The Dog Pen: Exclusive Interview with Terrier color analyst Thom Henson

Just as we had the opportunity to ask a few questions to the Voice of the Terriers, Mark Hauser, his partner in the booth, color analyst of fifteen years Thom Henson came "In The Dog Pen" to give his insights on some topics that many Terrier fans are wondering about this time of year.

Position Profile: WR

Watching receivers like Jeff Ashley and Brenton Bersin take up their role in a triple option offense was always a highlight of Saturdays past. As those teams saw run-heavy QB Mitch Allen's leadership, and the rising of rushing attacks such as Eric Breitenstein and Donovan Johnson, the role of the pass in Ayers' system can be overlooked.

Proud to be a member of the Palmetto & Pine Sports Network

Talkin' Terriers is proud to be a charter member of the Palmetto & Pine Sports Network, a coalition of communities from the Atlantic Sun, Big South, and Southern Conference.  Our goal as a network is to bring collaborative coverage of the schools and conferences in the South that we all know and love.

Game Throwback: 2010 vs. Elon

In what turned out to be the first of two SoCon championship seasons in our current decade, the Terriers faced an early holdup at Elon's homecoming game on October 23rd.

Fresh off a 45-14 rout of Western Carolina at Gibbs, Wofford had won the last five games they played (three of which were SoCon contests), boasting a 5-1 record, only blemished by a 33-10 season-opening setback to the FBS Ohio Bobcats.

Position Profile: FB/HB/RB

Wofford's all-time rushing leader, Eric Breitenstein.
Photo courtesy Wofford College Athletics

It's no secret that the rush is arguably the most important offensive component of the Terriers. I mean, from 1997-2012, Wofford has placed in the top seven Division I rushing schools, and they captured the top spot in 2011 and 2012, which is (coincidentally or not?) also when Eric Breitenstein was a Terrier.

Undoubtedly the most impressive fullback in recent memory, and arguably the best in school history, Breitenstein ran for 5,730 career yards, including a blazing 2,035 during his senior year.

Position Profile: QB

Michael Weimer, one of the Terriers' QB options for 2014.
Photo by David Scearce/318photo

To be a quarterback at Wofford, just like any other position, you have to sacrifice a great deal.

To be a great quarterback at Wofford, though, you have to run the option smoothly, exercise tremendous judgment and ball security, and take an immense amount of punishment from the defense, all in the name of success.

You don't have to go back ages to find a player who's obviously exemplifying those traits. Mitch Allen, who in his four-year career amassed over 2,500 rushing yards, and over 2,300 through the air, was a prime example of a Terrier QB, one that was often noted for his fearlessness as he brilliantly executed the option.

In The Dog Pen: Exclusive Interview with the Voice of the Terriers, Mark Hauser

Longtime Voice of the Terriers Mark Hauser was gracious enough to field a set of questions I had about our upcoming seasons, both football and men's basketball. To begin, however, I asked him, "What factor about Wofford College has kept you working with the Terriers for as long as you have?"

Giving It Another Look: Mercer

It's time to take another look at Wofford's 2014 football schedule, which we will conclude with Mercer. You can read our new non-conference preview here and earlier previews here.

The Terriers' regular season will come to an end against new SoCon member Mercer on November 22 in Spartanburg. In the two squads' first meeting since 1941, Wofford will be seeking their first ever triumph over the Bears.

Giving It Another Look: Furman

It's time to take another look at Wofford's 2014 football schedule, which we will continue with Furman. You can read our new non-conference preview here and earlier previews here.

We've come across yet another member of the group that shared the SoCon title last season, and, yes, it's a tough one.

The Furman Paladins have shared a classic rivalry with the Terriers in recent years, but unlike past seasons, the Paladins broke free from the "middle of the pack" to take hold of a playoff spot in this transitional SoCon. The only problem? They weren't the only ones to break free from the pack. They were joined by Chattanooga and Samford, but bested the latter 35-17 to earn a postseason bid.

An Hour Late, A Year Early

Today, I'd like to leave you a thought. While it originated well over two decades ago, it can easily be applied to any season as necessary.

I was looking through old newspaper articles dealing with Terrier athletics, this time specifically on Wofford's first Division II playoff appearance, which came in 1990 against Mississippi College.

Terrier Notebook: Nichols to Louisiana Tech, Redfern signs with Panthers, SoCon Academic Honors, MBB News and more

Here's a look at some recent news of interest concerning Wofford athletics:

Giving It Another Look: Chattanooga

It's time to take another look at Wofford's 2014 football schedule, which we will continue with Chattanooga. You can read our new non-conference preview here and earlier previews here.

It just wouldn’t be right for this not to be a major game on the Terriers’ schedule. In fact, in 2011 and 2012, Wofford clinched playoff bids in late-season, feverish meetings with the Mocs. Last season, the Terriers fell behind early and couldn't get anything going later, falling 20-10.

The Mocs split a SoCon title with Furman and Samford, but failed to reach the postseason after dropping a heartbreaker in overtime to Samford.

Chattanooga has become a part of the new "Big Three" of the SoCon, and look to be likely the toughest roadblock for the Terriers this season.

Giving It Another Look: VMI

It's time to take another look at Wofford's 2014 football schedule, which we will continue with VMI. You can read our new non-conference preview here and earlier previews here.

On October 25, an old foe will visit Spartanburg to take on the Terriers for the first time since 2005. That foe is VMI, a former SoCon member who fled to the Big South after the 2002 season.

The Keydets have won only two games in each of the last three seasons; last year's coming against Division II Glenville State (WV) and Gardner-Webb. Additionally, VMI was defeated by North Greenville, who is included on the Terriers' 2014 non-conference slate, and The Citadel.

Giving It Another Look: Samford

It's time to take another look at Wofford's 2014 football schedule, which we will continue with Samford. You can read our new non-conference preview here and earlier previews here.

Samford has become a part of the new "Big Three" in SoCon football (you can read our earlier post on this topic here), along with Chattanooga and Furman; a trio that seemingly replaced the previous version, which consisted of the well-known powers Georgia Southern and Appalachian State, and a small yet resilient school otherwise known as Wofford.

Giving It Another Look: Western Carolina

It's time to take another look at Wofford's 2014 football schedule, which we will continue with Western Carolina. You can read our new non-conference preview here and earlier previews here.

Honestly, it's been a rough ride for the Catamounts lately. WCU has only notched four wins since 2011, and three of those four were against Division II foe Mars Hill. The other, an overtime triumph over Elon last season, served as the squad's first SoCon (or, for that matter, Division I) win since 2010.

MBB: Changes Coming in 2014-15

Switching gears from football to basketball, we're going to take a look at some changes coming to the team in 2014-2015.

You have most likely heard about Samford's trouble with transferring players: during their now-ousted head coach Bennie Seltzer's two seasons, they have lost fourteen players.

On the other hand, Wofford's dealings in the transferring practice may not be so publicized. Four Wofford players transferred out before last season, including Jarell Byrd, who played 798 minutes and scored 187 points in his two seasons (2011-2012, 2012-2013) with the Terriers. He was joined by three freshmen, James Long (who went to West Virginia), Kevin Hickson, and Bryan Harris (who went to UMBC).

Giving It Another Look: The Citadel

It's time to take another look at Wofford's 2014 football schedule, which we will continue with the SoCon opener, The Citadel. You can read our new non-conference preview here and earlier previews here.

Perhaps we can carry an offensive spark from the apathetic games against North Greenville and UVA-Wise into our SoCon schedule, which starts with The Citadel's visit to Gibbs Stadium on October 4th.

Idaho Added to 2015 Schedule

The Idaho Vandals will join Clemson as FBS opponents for the Terriers in the 2015 season.

This game is a great opportunity for the Terriers. The Vandals have recorded only four victories since 2011, a time span that included last season's 1-11 season, in which the only win came against Temple, 26-24.

Giving It Another Look: The Non-Conference Slate

It's time to take another look at Wofford's 2014 football schedule, starting with non-conference slate. You can read our earlier previews here.

Game One: Georgia Tech

Well, it seemed that over the years, we had scratched and clawed ourselves into a great position in our games against FBS teams. It really seemed to fall into place with the earlier games against South Carolina, namely in 2006 and 2008. This only continued with our '11 and '12 contests with Clemson and the Gamecocks, respectively.

Solving the Non-D1 Problem (Part Two)

This is part two of "Solving the Non-D1 Problem"; an expansion of my earlier article.

Now that we've gotten the Big South idea out of the way, I am pleased to bring you some extra ways we can fix this horrid scheduling dilemma.

Solving the Non-D1 Problem

For Wofford, playing lower-division opponents (North Greenville and Virginia-Wise) this year is no fun.

No fun for the smaller team, as they likely have to trek a good distance to get walloped on the gridiron.

No fun for the fans, as the excitement of the usual home schedule eludes them this season.

Most importantly, however, it is no fun for the Terriers, because filling up open spots on the schedule with lower-division schools, as opposed to Division I schools, makes it harder for them to make the playoffs.

Bulldogs End Wofford's Season

Alec Paradowski leads off for the Terriers in the first inning.

A sloppy outing late in the game contributed to a 12-3 loss to the Samford Bulldogs, which effectively ended the Terriers' season.

Baseball Preview: Samford

Man, it seems like we play Samford a lot. Actually, four out of our last six games were against the Bulldogs. We split those four evenly with Samford, our pair of wins coming in the form of a regular-season concluding doubleheader sweep.

Looking at last night's victory again, I am still struck by two things: the success of our pitching staff, and the Terriers' never-give-up attitude when it seemed all hope was lost.

Terriers Stay Alive

Wofford starter Connell Anderson warms up.

I didn't want this to be a farewell post. Farewell, that is, to the Terriers' 2014 baseball campaign. It was turning into quite the thing of beauty: strong pitching, an impressive record, and the will to survive in the SoCon Tournament.

Thanks to only the Terriers themselves, this is absolutely not a farewell post.

Coming Up Short

What's the first thing that pops into your mind when you hear the term "money game"? A major team running up the score on a smaller, lower-budget program cloaked in anonymity? Well, for quite a few years (not counting last season), the Terriers were not just a small FCS opponent. They were a small FCS opponent that was not to be taken lightly. 

2014 Football Preview: Mercer

This article is part of a series previewing the Terriers' 2014 football opponents. Mercer will visit Gibbs Stadium on November 22 to close the regular season.

We've already introduced Mercer as part of our "New SoCon Members" series, but in case you need a refresher, the Bears put football back on campus last season, which was the first since 1941.

Former Furman head coach Bobby Lamb's Bears, competing in the Pioneer Football League, finished with a statistically pleasing 10-2(6-2 conference) record.

2014 Football Preview: Furman

This article is part of a series previewing the Terriers' 2014 football opponents. The Terriers will travel to Furman on November 15th.

One of the SoCon's biggest rivalries, and a closely matched one at that, will enter its latest installment on November 15th. This will be the second straight meeting in Greenville.

Series Salvaged: Terriers Sweep Doubleheader, Earn #6 Seed, Bye in SoCon Tourney

Wofford earned a bye and a six-seed in the upcoming SoCon Tournament with a doubleheader sweep of the Samford Bulldogs.

Terriers Fall to Samford, 2-0

Samford pitchers Alex Ledford, Jared Brasher, and Parker Curry combined for an eight inning no-hitter on Friday night, before the Terriers ruined the bid in the ninth, facing pitcher Alex Gracia. Matt Ramsay and Eric Brink recorded Wofford's only hits of the game.

Terrier Notebook: APR Scores, Panthers Training Camp, Baseball Outlook

Here's a look at some news of interest concerning Terrier athletics:

Starting From Scratch

Remember the "Big Three" of SoCon Football? Perennial powerhouses Appalachian State and Georgia Southern were probably the first to come to mind. Completing that trio were the Terriers, modest yet persistent in their climb from "just another school" to a SoCon authority.

2014 Football Preview: Chattanooga

This article is part of a series previewing the Terriers' 2014 football opponents. Wofford visits Chattanooga after the off week.

The Terriers will get a break (which, considering Wofford's history of injury troubles, will most likely be a welcome one) after the first four SoCon games on the 2014 slate, which include The Citadel, Western Carolina, Samford, and VMI.  After this off week comes the Chattanooga Mocs, who have recently risen as one of the SoCon's top powers.  The game, on November 18, will be the second straight Terriers/Mocs contest played in Chattanooga.

Terriers Sweep UNCG, Look Forward to Samford, SoCon Tourney

Today, Wofford completed a three-game sweep of the UNCG Spartans.  On Friday, the Terriers recorded a walk-off 5-4 victory, while Saturday saw a 2-1 win. Today, the Terriers rallied to score four runs in the bottom of the seventh, overcoming a one-run deficit to cement a 8-4 victory.

Scioneaux Signs With Chargers

Alvin Scioneaux signed with the San Diego Chargers as an undrafted free agent.

UVA-Wise Replaces Jacksonville on 2014 Schedule

This article is part of a series previewing the Terriers' 2014 football opponents.  UVA-Wise replaces Jacksonville in Game Four.

Well, this is awkward.  Already eight games in, and we have to go back and re-preview game four.  Why? Jacksonville has apparently taken Wofford off next year's slate, and our replacement is none other than Virginia-Wise, one of our favorite Division II opponents of recent years.  The Highland Cavaliers play in the Mountain East Conference, where they finished last season 2-9 (2-7 conference), under fourth-year head coach Dewey Lusk.

2014 Football Preview: VMI

This article is part of a series previewing the Terriers' 2014 football opponents.  VMI visits Gibbs Stadium on October 25.

We already spotlighted VMI as one of the new SoCon members in 2014-15, so let's have a brief recap: The Keydets were longtime SoCon members(1924-2003), who left for the Big South Conference. Wofford's first SoCon game was a 23-13 victory over the Keydets in 1996.  The Terriers also won the last meeting between the two schools, 38-23 in 2005, two seasons after VMI left the conference.

VMI finished last season with a 2-10(1-4 Big South) record under seventh-year head coach Sparky Woods.

Terrier Notebook: Draft Watch, 2014 Bosscars, Other Terrier News

Here's a look at some recent news of interest concerning Wofford athletics:

Postgame Thoughts: Wofford vs. South Carolina

The Terriers came into Columbia today to take on a #11 Gamecocks team. Wofford has been steady lately, coming off a tough extra innings loss to Presbyterian and a series win over The Citadel. After tonight's 15-1 loss, their record stands at an even 25-25, with a 7-14 SoCon mark.

2014 Football Preview: Samford

This article is part of a series previewing the Terriers' 2014 football opponents. Wofford hopes to snap their two-loss streak to Samford on October 18.

Wofford's hopes for an outright SoCon title in 2012 were dashed with a two-overtime loss to the Samford Bulldogs. Samford fought back from a 24-9 deficit to tie the game with no time left in regulation.  An exchange of missed field goals, a Bulldog touchdown, and a Terrier fumble later, Wofford had no choice but to split the title with Appalachian State and Georgia Southern, only after beating Chattanooga the following week.

Last year, the Bulldogs came out on top by a touchdown in Spartanburg, 34-27.  Under seventh-year head coach Pat Sullivan, Samford finished 2013 with a 8-5(6-2 SoCon) record, splitting a SoCon title with Chattanooga and Furman.

2014 Football Preview: Western Carolina

This article is part of a series previewing the Terriers' 2014 football opponents.  Wofford's SoCon slate continues with WCU.

The Terriers will travel to Cullowhee, North Carolina, on October 11 to face the Western Carolina Catamounts.  This will be Wofford's second SoCon game and the sixth contest overall.

The Catamounts have fallen on some tough times lately.  From 2011 to 2012, WCU only won two games, both against Division II Mars Hill(NC).  Last season, the Catamounts made a slight improvement, finishing with a 2-10(1-7 SoCon) record.  In addition to the now-yearly win against Mars Hill, Western Carolina notched a SoCon win over Elon.

Where Are They Now: Noah Dahlman, Cameron Rundles

If you've watched a Wofford basketball game in the last few years, you've undoubtedly noticed some great players.  In fact, a lot of talent comes into Spartanburg.  Today's post looks at where two former Terrier standouts are now.

2014 Football Preview: The Citadel

This article is part of a series previewing the Terriers’ 2014 football opponents. The Citadel travels to Gibbs Stadium on October 4 to kick off SoCon play.

Wofford's foray into the newly shaped SoCon begins on October 4 against The Citadel.  The Terriers have defeated the Bulldogs each time for the last fifteen years, the most recent being last season’s 21-10 victory a week after the demoralizing 69-0 loss to Baylor to open the season. The Bulldogs finished last season 5-7 (4-4 SoCon).

The Citadel is entering 2014 with a new coach, Mike Houston, who led Lenoir-Rhyne to last year's Division II National Championship game, in which they lost to Northwest Missouri State.  Houston replaces Kevin Higgins, who left for an assistant spot at Wake Forest.

2014 Football Preview: Gardner-Webb

This article is part of a series previewing the Terriers' 2014 football opponents.  The Gardner-Webb Runnin' Bulldogs serve as Wofford's final opponent before emerging into SoCon action.

For the third straight year, the Terriers will face the Gardner-Webb Runnin' Bulldogs out of the Big South.  Last season's Bulldogs finished with a solid 7-5(2-3 Big South) record.

Included within those seven wins is a game Terrier fans would like to forget. On September 21, GWU defeated Wofford 3-0, on a late field goal in a deluge of rain.  Prior to this, Wofford's last time being shut out was on November 5, 2005, a 24-0 loss to Western Carolina in Cullowhee.  The last time they were shut out in Spartanburg, however, was against Davidson, way back in 1987, the season before Mike Ayers began his Terrier head coaching career.

Terrier Notebook: Baseball, SoCon Track and Field Championships, Ayers in Rifle Exhibition

Here's a look at some recent news of interest concerning Wofford athletics:

2014 Football Preview: North Greenville

This article is part of a series previewing the Terriers' 2014 football opponents.  Wofford's non-conference start continues against North Greenville.

On September 13, the North Greenville Crusaders (Tigertown, SC) out of the Division II Conference Carolinas visit Spartanburg to continue the Terriers' non-conference, season-opening block that kicked off with Georgia Tech.  North Greenville finished last season 5-6, which is, ironically,the same record Wofford had in 2013.

Victim of Circumstance

On November 19, 2011, Terrier fans endured a perilous matchup with the Chattanooga Mocs. Wofford allowed the Mocs to gain a 21-7 lead going into halftime, only to stage a ferocious comeback that ultimately resulted in a 28-27 victory.  To many, Mark Hauser's voice still resounds: "The Terriers are going to the playoffs!"

2014 Football Preview: Jacksonville

NOTE: Jacksonville has dropped Wofford from the 2014 Schedule, and Game Four has been replaced with Virginia-Wise. This article will stay up for archival purposes.

This article is part of a series previewing the Terriers' 2014 football opponents. Wofford opens home play against non-conference Jacksonville.

The Terriers' 2014 schedule at Gibbs Stadium will open up against the Pioneer League's Jacksonville Dolphins on September 6th.  Jacksonville finished last year's slate with a 5-6 record, posting an even 4-4 in conference play.

Don't Forget VMI

This article is part of a series spotlighting the new SoCon members entering in 2014.

The Keydets of Virginia Military Institute round out the new SoCon members in 2014-15.  This Lexington, Virginia-based school has an enrollment of around 1,500, making it a bit smaller than Wofford.

What About ETSU?

This article is part of a series spotlighting the new SoCon members entering in 2014.

It's been a while, ETSU.  A while since the Bucs disbanded their football team after the 2003 season.  It's been an even longer stretch since Mike Ayers launched his head coaching career at ETSU in 1985, a post he held for the next two seasons, interrupted by the dawning of his Wofford career.  Now, the Buccaneers are bringing football back for the 2015 season, a year later than the other "new guys" in the SoCon, VMI and Mercer.

The Thing About Mercer

This article is part of a series spotlighting the new SoCon members entering in 2014.

The Mercer Bears splashed onto the scene this March by pulling off a huge NCAA Tournament upset over three-seed Duke. Before that, they earned their spot as a fourteen-seed by denying Florida Gulf Coast in the Atlantic Sun Championship, effectively barring the Eagles from a back-to-back appearance in the NCAA Tournament. If you follow the SoCon (or read this blog often) you probably know that are part of a trio of new members entering the SoCon this year, along with VMI and ETSU, but you might not know a lot about this school, or how they will stack up with the rest of the SoCon (or at least the Terriers, because we all know that's all that matters), so let's get you caught up.

2014 Football Preview: Georgia Tech

This article is part of a series previewing the Terriers' 2014 football opponents. The season begins August 30th at Georgia Tech.

Wofford opens up their 104th-ever football campaign on August 30th, a bout with the Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets in Atlanta.  The Yellow Jackets, of the ACC, finished 7-6 (5-3 conf.) in 2013. Tech's season ended with a 25-17 loss to Ole Miss in the Music City Bowl.

Wofford Baseball Update

Following a road win against the Gardner-Webb Runnin' Bulldogs, the Terriers were swept in a three-game series vs. Western Carolina in Cullowhee. Wofford then completed the road trip with a 7-3 disposal of UNC Asheville.

Commentary: NCAA Tourney wins 'Just Not There' for Terriers

As you already know, Wofford displayed a less-than-perfect game and lost to Michigan, 58-40, in the second round of this year's NCAA tourney. However, this wasn't the Terriers' first rodeo--or dance, for that matter.

Game Throwback: 2007 vs. Appalachian State

USA Today Sports Images

If 2007 is too long ago to remember vividly, let's recap.

Terrier Notebook: Thoughts on the 2014 Football Schedule, Terrier Social Media, Wofford Baseball

Here's a look at some recent news of interest concerning Wofford athletics:

A Look Into the Past of Terrier Basketball (eBay style)

It's not easy to find old Wofford stuff, even with our technologically advanced world.  So when I stumbled across these gems, listed on eBay, I was pretty surprised.

A Few Thoughts on Wofford/Michigan

Well, a new day has dawned and the Terriers' season is over.  But I'm not upset.  I'm proud of how the Terriers played through the season; how they claimed their third SoCon title (albeit avoiding Davidson) and tourney bid.  Proud of how they came out swinging against the Wolverines. After all, we were the smallest school in the tournament.

Preview: (15) Wofford vs. (2) Michigan

Well, now that the brackets are out and the hysteria of teams hoping for an at-large bid has faded, let's take a look at the Terriers' selection.

Bracketology Update

As today's selection show nears, here's an update on the major outlets' projections:

Wofford Bracket Projections

I've always felt that the most exciting time of the NCAA Tournament seems to be the "First Four".  There's something about the culmination of late season charm and the excitement of the tourney that makes it special.

Introducing Woffopedia

What if there was an all-Wofford version of Wikipedia?

Now That's A Terrier

While Terrier Nation erupted after Wofford clinched their third NCAA Tourney bid with a 56-53 disposal of Western Carolina, Senior Aerris Smith shared an emotional interview with the Wofford/IMG Sports Network at the conclusion of his final game as a Terrier.

SoCon Tried and True

Tonight's SoCon Championship game features Wofford and Davidson Western Carolina.  

The Terriers have looked great the last two games, cruising past The Citadel and Georgia Southern.

WOLI Rising

From about 2005 to 2012, ESPN Spartanburg was the place to find Wofford Athletics.  For the 2012 season, they moved to WOLI-AM/FM.

A Tribute to the 2008 Wofford Football Media Guide

Save for the information unique to the previous season, the general information in media guides don't vary that much from year to year. So what's so special about that book, you ask?

The Changing Face of the SoCon

As I worked on these "color bars" for each SEC and SoCon team(football-playing team in 2014, that is), I couldn't help but think that the SoCon seems a little empty.

What Happened?

I was going to post some thoughts on the valiant win at Elon, but after tonight's loss, I can't help but think, "What happened?"

The "Retro Terrier"

A big trend nowdays is for brands, especially athletic programs, to go back to "retro" designs and logos.

Year of the Terrier?

Although Wofford's nine game winning streak was snapped at the hands of Davidson on Saturday, I couldn't help but realize that this year's team has something special.  Just like those teams in '09 and '10 led by Noah Dahlman and co., the 2014 Terriers are performing amazing comebacks, great team play, and the will to play farther into March than restricted by the SoCon Tourney.  This team may just have what it takes to give the Mike Young and Wofford their third NCAA Tournament appearance.