After consecutive losses for the first time all year, Mercer was looking to get back on track with a win versus The Citadel.

The Mercer defense took the field first as they looked to open the game with a stop, but the Bulldogs were able to gash the Bears for a 64-yard gain that set up a one-yard run for the score.

The Bears’ offense looked to be clicking early as they drove down the field with John Russ leading the way but had to settle for a 48-yard field goal by Jagger Lieb.

Mercer’s defense was unable to stop the Bulldogs on the second drive of the game, as they allowed another rushing touchdown, putting the Bulldogs up on Mercer 14-3.

John Russ and the offense drove down the field again, this time finishing of the drive with a quarterback keeper by Russ from four yards out, making the score 14-10.

The Bulldogs went back on offense and scored another rushing touchdown, putting them on top, 21-10.

After trading punts and Mercer’ turning the ball over on downs, the Citadel scored its fourth rushing touchdown of the half.

The second half started with punts being traded by both teams.

Mercer would drive down the field, but it was halted as John Russ had his pass intercepted at the one-yard line.

The Bears’ defense came up with a huge stop to get the offense back on the field. The drive would again stall, but Jagger Lieb booted his second field goal of the day as the Bears inched closer down, 28-13.

After holding the Bulldogs on fourth down, Mercer came back on offense and John Russ hit Avery Ward on a 65-yard flea flicker pass.

Mercer’s defense came up with a huge play, as it forced a Citadel fumble late in the fourth quarter, giving Mercer one last chance to tie the game up.

The Bears’ Alex Lakes rumbled his way in for a two-yard score, but Mercer fell short on the two-point conversion

Mercer falls to 5-5 on the season, as they lose their third straight game. They have a bye week then take on Warner in the home finale as they look to finish out non-conference play undefeated.