Samford students, fans enjoy first home game of football season

HOMEWOOD, Ala. (WIAT) – College football season has officially begun. Two local teams kicked off Thursday night at home. One of those games was the Samford Bulldogs versus the West Georgia Wolves.

Some students say their confidence in the team is strong, and they’re pulling for another SOCON championship this year.

“I think we’ve got some experience coming back in the quarterback, offensive line is going to be young, but I feel really good about this team,” said Samford Athletic Director Martin Newton. “Now, we’ve given Hatch a tough schedule, he’s got to go to Baylor and to Texas A&M, but I think other than that we’re going to be great.”

The first game may have been on a Thursday, but it didn’t stop students from getting in on some tailgate action beforehand. Many fans say the first game is usually the most packed out one and has an unmatched energy.

“We’re bulldogs, and the people around this place have a lot of pride in being bulldogs,” Newton said. “It’s unbelievable. I mean, we’ve got the largest freshman class we’ve ever had. About 1,200 freshmen are coming in this year, and it’s going to be crazy. We had them an event the other night at the Pete Hanna Center, they’re excited to get sports rolling, so for me, this is the most exciting time of the year as we get football cranked up, soccer and volleyball, it’s just a great atmosphere and a great energy on campus.”

If you missed tonight’s game, Samford’s second game of the season is also at home. The Bulldogs take on the Citadel on September 6 at 2:30 p.m.