Furman’s Defense Dominates Anderson In Season Opening Win, 20-3

WATCH: Palmetto Sports reporter Ella Grogan LIVE one-on-one with Clay Hendrix ahead of season opener vs. Anderson
Published: Aug. 28, 2026 at 12:21 AM EDT

GREENVILLE, S.C. (Furman Athletics) - Furman’s defense recorded seven tackles-for-loss and held Anderson to just six rushing yards and 160 yards of total offense as the Paladins downed the Trojans, 20-3, in the season opener for both teams Thursday night at Paladin Stadium.

The Paladin offense grinded out 268 yards on the ground and outgained the Trojans 451-160 to claim the first meeting between the schools. CJ Nettles led the Furman rushing attack with 99 yards on 10 carries, including a 47-yard burst in the first half, while quarterback Jake Garcia.

After Nathan Chapman connected on a 40-yard field goal to give Furman a 3-0 lead with 7:10 left in the first half, Ben Croasdale reached the endzone on a four-yard rush to extend the Paladin lead to 10-0 with 3:02 on the clock.

Furman limited the Trojans to only 30 yards of offense in the second half and Chapman converted on a 30-yard kick with 9:05 remaining for the final 20-3 margin.

Eli Lipscomb compiled six tackles, including three tackles-for-loss, a sack, and two quarterback hurries for the Paladins while Raleigh Herbert added six tackles.

Freshman Braylon Peebles broke up two passes in the Furman secondary.

The Paladins (1-0) are back in action on Saturday, September 5, when they travel to Knoxville, Tenn., to face the Tennessee Volunteers. Kickoff at Neyland Stadium is slated for 3:30 p.m. and the game will be streamed live on SEC Network+.Minuteman Press is the Official Sponsor of Furman Athletics press releases.

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