On the heels of two home wins, the No. 14-ranked Mercer Bears will return to Five Star Stadium to face the Furman Paladins at 6 p.m. Sept. 12. Here are three things to know before you go.
Players to watch
During the Bears’ first Southern Conference game of the season, keep your eyes on wide receiver Brayden Smith, linebacker Jyarius Carter and quarterback Jaylen King. Smith, the Southern Conference Preseason Offensive Player of the Year, amassed 131 and 132 receiving yards in Mercer’s first two games of the season, respectively, and ranks third, nationally, with 263 total yards. Meanwhile, Carter, the Preseason All-Southern Conference selection has totaled a team-best 17 tackles through two games this season, and King ranks ninth among NCAA FCS quarterbacks for his passing efficiency rating.
The Stews to headline Ford Football Concert Series
Pre-game festivities start at 10 a.m. on Black Field, culminating at 4 p.m. with a performance by high-energy rock band The Stews as part of the free Ford Football Concert Series. The music starts at 3 p.m. as Macon native and songwriter JB Strauss warms up the crowd as the opener. Leading up to the show, fans can enjoy the Fall Line beer garden and Dr Pepper Fansville featuring inflatables for the kids. At 3:45 p.m., join us for the Bear Walk as the football team, band and cheerleaders make their way to Five Star Stadium. Gates open at 5 p.m.
Mercer is celebrating hometown heroes
The Bears will recognize Middle Georgia’s first responders during the football game for being our hometown heroes. The University also is extending a special invitation to our neighbors in Peach County to come out to the game. First responders and Peach County residents may use a special promo code for a discounted rate on football tickets. Use HEROES or PEACH at checkout.
Mercer vs. Furman
When: 6 p.m. Sept. 12
Where: Five Star Stadium
Tickets: $20-$45, buy online at mercerbears.tixr.com
TV: ESPN+
Radio: Mercer Sports Network — 100.9 The Creek FM or sportsmic.com
Todd Anderson, assistant athletic director for media relations, contributed to this report.
