Chattanooga’s run-heavy offense and two fourth-quarter interceptions turned a close Homecoming game into a 41-18 win over Western Carolina. AJ Colombo’s 86-yard punt-return touchdown briefly put WCU ahead, but the Catamounts couldn’t sustain their offense and suffered their first home loss of the season.

By the Numbers
  • Chattanooga rushed for 295 yards and five touchdowns.
  • WCU converted 2 of 11 third downs; its season average was 44%.
  • The Catamounts committed 12 penalties for 116 yards and had two passes intercepted.
  • Attendance: 11,889.
Yes, But

Colombo’s long return and Lex Thomas’ fourth-quarter touchdown pass gave WCU flashes of momentum. But Chattanooga controlled the ground game, limited the Catamounts’ third-down success and turned both late interceptions into touchdowns.

State of Play
  • WCU is 3-5 overall and 1-3 in the Southern Conference, with its first home defeat of the season.
  • Chattanooga snapped WCU’s four-game winning streak in the series.
What’s Next

WCU visits Furman on Saturday, Oct. 31, at 2 p.m. Both teams enter at 1-3 in conference play.

Bottom Line

WCU’s big-play spark wasn’t enough to overcome a lopsided ground game and costly turnovers. A sharper third-down offense and better ball security will be essential against Furman.