Catawba to Host Carson-Newman on October 31

Catawba College welcomes the 15th-ranked Carson-Newman University Eagles to Shuford Stadium for a conference showdown.

Updated on Oct. 28, 2026 in Football

Catawba to Host Carson-Newman on October 31

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Catawba College will host 15th-ranked Carson-Newman University at Shuford Stadium in Salisbury on October 31. The game matches a 4-4 Catawba squad against a 7-1 Eagles team currently holding a 5-1 conference record.

Why it matters

Carson-Newman brings a potent triple-option offense that ranks fifth nationally in rushing yards per game, presenting a significant tactical challenge for Catawba. Both teams enter the matchup rested after a bye week.

Carson-Newman enters the game averaging over 300 rushing yards per contest at a rate of 5.25 yards per carry. Catawba holds an all-time record of 14-43-1 against the Eagles, including a 9-20 mark at home.

The players

Catawba College

This private liberal arts college located in Salisbury participates in the South Atlantic Conference.

Carson-Newman University

This Tennessee-based university competes in Division 2 and is currently ranked 15th nationally.

The details

Catawba is looking to build on its recent 37-33 victory over Anderson, while Carson-Newman aims to maintain its strong 7-1 season standing. The two teams last met in 2025, where Carson-Newman secured a 24-16 win.

The football series between these programs began in 1932.
Catawba last achieved a victory over Carson-Newman in 2023.
Carson-Newman defeated Catawba 24-16 in their 2025 meeting.
Kickoff at Shuford Stadium is scheduled for 1 p.m. on October 31, 2026.

Season Trajectory

This matchup directly impacts the South Atlantic Conference standings for both teams. A win would strengthen Carson-Newman's push for a postseason spot while providing a critical upset for the 4-4 Catawba program.

Fans should monitor the rushing yardage differential, as Carson-Newman enters the game averaging over 300 yards per match on the ground. Catawba's defensive ability to limit this high-volume run game will be the primary factor determining the final point spread.

The takeaway

The game hinges on whether Catawba can neutralize the triple-option offense that has propelled Carson-Newman to a top-15 national ranking. Fans looking to follow the contest should prepare for a heavy reliance on the ground game from the visiting team.