Charlotte, North Carolina, September 14, 2025
News Summary
In a thrilling matchup, the Charlotte 49ers stunned the Monmouth Hawks with a 42-35 victory. Quarterback Conner Harrell led the team with 382 passing yards and five total touchdowns, including a game-winning run. The tightly contested game saw multiple lead changes, but Charlotte’s offense took charge in the second half, overcoming Monmouth’s strong start. The victory marks a crucial turning point for the 49ers as they look to build momentum in the upcoming American Conference play.
Charlotte, North Carolina – In a thrilling college football matchup, the Charlotte 49ers achieved a stunning 42-35 upset victory over the No. 18 ranked Monmouth Hawks on Saturday. Leading the charge was quarterback Conner Harrell, who displayed an exceptional performance, throwing for 382 yards and accounting for five total touchdowns.
The decisive moment came with just 1:30 left in the game when Harrell executed a game-winning touchdown run, sealing the win for Charlotte. The victory improved the 49ers’ record to 1-2, while Monmouth fell to 2-1 with the loss. Throughout the tightly contested game, neither team led by more than a touchdown at any point, showcasing the intense back-and-forth nature of the match.
Monmouth initially took control of the game, starting with a lead of 7-0, then extending to 14-7 and 21-14 before halftime. Despite the Hawks’ strong start, Charlotte’s offense began to find its rhythm in the second half. The 49ers scored three consecutive touchdowns in the third quarter, flipping the script after trailing for much of the game.
Monmouth managed to tie the game at 28 and later at 35, but Harrell’s decisive run ultimately sealed the game for Charlotte. On Monmouth’s last offensive drive, the team ran eight plays but only gained 14 yards before turning the ball over on downs, ensuring Charlotte’s victory.
Harrell’s remarkable performance included completing 26 of his 30 passing attempts, breaking Charlotte’s program record for single-game completion percentage at 86.7%. He also threw three touchdown passes, including two to standout receiver E. Jai Mason, who caught 10 passes for 228 yards and two touchdowns. Mason’s 228 receiving yards ranked third all-time in Charlotte history.
Freshman running back Rod Gainey Jr. contributed significantly to the offensive effort with 74 rushing yards and a touchdown. All together, Harrell accounted for over 427 total yards in the game, both passing and rushing. In total, the game featured 56 points scored in the second half and over 1,000 yards of total offense from both teams.
Monmouth’s quarterback Derek Robinson put up a fierce fight, completing 36 of 49 passing attempts for 410 yards and four touchdowns. However, it was Charlotte’s defense that shone in the end, highlighted by a pivotal game-ending sack from Curtis Simpson that halted Monmouth’s last drive.
This significant victory was especially meaningful for Charlotte’s head coach, who celebrated his birthday on game day. Coach Albin expressed pride in his team’s grit and determination, emphasizing their ability to overcome early-game struggles. As Charlotte preps for their next game against Rice, they will look to carry the momentum from this historic win into their upcoming American Conference play.
Key Statistics
- Charlotte’s Record: 1-2
- Monmouth’s Record: 2-1
- Conner Harrell Passing: 382 yards, 5 TDs
- E. Jai Mason: 10 receptions, 228 yards, 2 TDs
- Rod Gainey Jr. Rushing: 74 yards, 1 TD
- Total Offensive Yards: Over 1,000
Background Context
Before this game, Charlotte the 49ers were struggling with their season opener. This victory against a ranked opponent can serve as a turning point for the team, igniting their season and boosting morale. Monmouth, on the other hand, will need to regroup after this unexpected defeat as they prepare for their upcoming challenges.
FAQ Section
What was the final score of the Charlotte vs. Monmouth game?
The final score was Charlotte 42, Monmouth 35.
Who was the standout player for Charlotte in the game?
Conner Harrell was the standout player, throwing for 382 yards and accounting for five touchdowns.
What records did Conner Harrell break during the game?
Harrell broke the program’s single-game completion percentage record with 86.7% completion rate.
What was E. Jai Mason’s contribution in the game?
E. Jai Mason had 10 receptions for 228 yards and two touchdowns, marking some of the best stats in the program’s history.
What are Charlotte’s next steps after this game?
Charlotte will begin American Conference play in their upcoming game against Rice.
Game Highlights
| Feature | Charlotte | Monmouth |
|---|---|---|
| Final Score | 42 | 35 |
| Quarterback Passing Yards | 382 | 410 |
| Touchdowns | 5 | 4 |
| Rushing Yards (Key Player) | 74 (Rod Gainey Jr.) | N/A |
| Receiving Yards (Key Player) | 228 (E. Jai Mason) | N/A |
| Team Record After Game | 1-2 | 2-1 |
| Completion Percentage (Key Player) | 86.7% | N/A |
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Additional Resources
- Charlotte 49ers Achieve First Win in Albin Era
- Wikipedia: Charlotte 49ers Football
- Charlotte Holds Off Monmouth for First Win Under Albin
- Google Search: Charlotte 49ers Football
- Charlotte 49ers Secure First Win of Tim Albin Era
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Football (Soccer)
- Charlotte Holds Off Monmouth for First Win
- Google News: Charlotte 49ers
Author: HERE Charlotte
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