The Presbyterian College football team, known as the Blue Hose, began its 2026 season with a 47-37 home victory against UVA Wise on Thursday, August 27, at Bailey Memorial Stadium in Clinton. This win marks the first for head coach Matt Rahl in his new role, following two years as the team’s offensive line coach. The Blue Hose offense accumulated nearly 600 yards of total offense during the game.
This triumph extends Presbyterian College’s home winning streak at Bailey Memorial Stadium to nine consecutive games, a run that dates back two years. The 47 points scored represent the highest in a season-opener for the team since 2021. Five different players contributed at least one touchdown, with 30 of the 47 points scored in the second half.
Sophomore quarterback Landon Sharpe, in his first collegiate start, achieved 367 passing yards and 88 rushing yards, along with four touchdowns. He became the first Presbyterian quarterback since Ren Hefley in 2021 to complete 30 passes in a single game. Rookie wide receiver Anton Smith, a Miami native, recorded over 100 receiving yards in his debut. Transfer running back Jackson Burleson scored two touchdowns and gained 92 all-purpose yards. The team also saw strong defensive performances, including sophomore linebacker Andrew Ruppe leading with nine tackles, a sack, and a fumble recovery, and freshman Tymaries Durant adding seven stops. Transfer defensive back Braylen Carstarphen made a fourth-quarter interception, and freshman Levi Hoss contributed an 11-yard sack.
The Blue Hose offense has now scored at least 40 points in six of its last seven home games and ranks among the FCS top ten for active home winning streaks. The team passed for over 400 yards, a feat not accomplished in five years. Despite three turnovers, Presbyterian College secured 31 first downs and averaged six yards per play, scoring a touchdown or field goal in seven of eight red zone attempts. Rookie kicker Kade Bailey successfully made two of three field goals in his first game.
The team will play its next game on September 5, traveling to Mercer, which was ranked #17 in the preseason AFCA Coaches Poll. Kickoff is scheduled for 6:00 PM.
