Expect big crowds as alumni and friends return to Mercer University for Homecoming weekend. The No. 12 Bears will face The Citadel Bulldogs at 3 p.m. Oct. 31 at Five Star Stadium. Here are three things to know before you go.
Bears have the edge
Mercer enters the week at 6-2 overall and 3-1 in Southern Conference play, leaning on a physical rushing attack, opportunistic defense and strong special teams. The Bears will ride a four-game win streak into their Homecoming contest against The Citadel. Meanwhile, the Bulldogs, 2-6 and 0-4, are entering the matchup as a team whose identity remains firmly rooted in the run game but has struggled to generate enough explosive offense and defensive consistency to overcome opponents through eight games.
Bottomland headlines pre-game concert
Pre-game festivities start at 10 a.m. on Black Field, culminating at 1 p.m. with a performance by Southern rock band Bottomland as part of the free Ford Football Concert Series. The music starts at noon as Macon native Cam Smith 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 12:45 p.m., join us for the Bear Walk as the football team, cheerleaders and drum line make their way to Five Star Stadium. Gates open at 2 p.m.
‘Tent or Treat’ on Black Field
Fans are invited to celebrate Halloween with their Mercer family as part of “Tent or Treat” on Black Field. Adults and children alike may dress up in costume and trick-or-treat at tailgating tents as they prepare to cheer on the Bears on one of the spookiest days of the year.
Mercer vs. The Citadel
When: 3 p.m. Oct. 31
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.
