The West Georgia Wolves football team is having a historic start to the 2026 season: they sit a 0-3 for the first time since 2009 in the midst of an open investigation into newly named head coach Steve Englehart and have a tough road game ahead of them tonight when they travel to Johnson City, Tenn. to take on the East Tennessee State Buccaneers.
The Buccaneers head into the contest boasting one of the best offenses in the Southern Conference. Freshman quarterback Mason Mims is second in the conference in passing yards, while the rushing attack is led by TJ Peyton. Peyton is third in the Southern Conference with 253 yards on the ground this season. The good news for the Wolves is that the Buccaneers are struggling to find success on defense. The team sits at 1-2 this season, and the main reason is the defense is giving up 33 points per game.
Chance for the offense to break out?
UWG could very well have a breakout performance in this game, as the team has been waiting for its chance to shine with the ball. The Wolve boast, statistically, the worst offense in the UAC this season, averaging 5.7 points per game and 208.3 total yards per game. The put into reference that stat, Abilene Christian ranks seventh of eight teams in total yards in the UAC. They average 284 yards per game.
UWG quarterback swap could dominate the headlines
The biggest storyline for the Wolves heading into the contest Saturday will be who is behind the center. The Wolves started Collin Hurst in its first three games. However, Colton Fitzgerald took over the offense in the second quarter of the Wolves 52-7 loss to Arkansas State last weekend. Fitzgerald completed 14/24 passes for 149 yards. Fitzgerald added in a touchdown and two interceptions. Hurst started the game 4/7 for 16 yards before being swapped out midway through the second quarter. All signs are pointing to Fitzgerald to get his first start of the season.
What College Football Countdown had to say about the game
On Tuesday, Brandon Dyer and Michael Miller provided a preview of the game on College Football Countdown.
Keys to victory for the Wolves
The Wolves are facing their weakest opponent of the season thus far, putting them in a situation where a lot of positives can be taken away from the contest. They just have to execute. The team has gotten better through the first three weeks, but it is time for the Wolves to break the losing streak. Establishing a rushing attack will be huge for the Wolves in this game. After averaging 53 yards per game, it is time for a breakout player. Look for Justin Montgomery to have a great game tomorrow for the Wolves. Fitzgerald will be given a lot of opportunities as well. With the current quarterback room in the shape it is, Fitzgerald can stand out in this game.
When and where to watch
Kickoff for the contest is set for 12pm tomorrow, the earliest kickoff time for the Wolves this season. The game will be streamed on ESPN+.
