University of West Georgia Football: A History of Success and Transition
The University of West Georgia (UWG) Wolves football program has a rich history, marked by significant achievements and recent transitions. Representing UWG in college football, the program has evolved over the years, building a strong foundation and setting ambitious goals for the future.
Early Years and the 1982 National Championship
The modern era of UWG football began in 1981, with the team's first NCAA season. After a 14-month "preseason," West Georgia College, as it was then known, secured its first victory on a September night in Birmingham, Alabama, defeating Miles College 37-14. David Archer's 60-yard touchdown pass to Mike McConnell on the sixth play of the game set the tone for a dominant performance. The team rushed for 217 yards, led by David Phillips' 58 yards and a touchdown.
In 1982, the West Georgia football team achieved a historic milestone by winning the NCAA Division III National Championship, defeating Augustana 14-0 in the Stagg Bowl. Playing before a CBS Television audience and 10,000 fans at Garrett-Harrison Stadium in Phenix City, Alabama, the Wolves secured a hard-fought victory. A goal-line stand late in the first half and a 71-yard touchdown pass from David Archer to Al Sheppard with 19 seconds remaining in the half highlighted the game. David Phillips added the final touchdown, sealing the win with 1:17 remaining. Harold Long led the rushing attack with 136 yards, becoming the first 1,000-yard rusher in West Georgia history, finishing the season with 1,061 yards. Linebacker Lawrence Erwin had an outstanding game, racking up 21 tackles. The team avenged its only loss in Division III history with a thrilling 31-24 triple-overtime win over Widener in the 1982 playoffs. Widener missed a field goal in the first overtime, giving West Georgia new life.
Transition to Division I FCS
In recent years, the University of West Georgia has made a strategic move to elevate its football program to the Division I Football Championship Subdivision (FCS). This transition marks a significant step forward for the university and its athletic program.
UWG's director of athletics, Jason Carmichael, stated that the vision is "to be the west Georgia region’s Division I program of choice," emphasizing that this move is "a testament to the hard work that’s gone into our elevation to the FCS level".
Read also: University of Georgia Sorority Guide
The 2023 Season: A Promising Start
The 2023 season has been particularly noteworthy for the Wolves. Under the leadership of second-year Head Coach Joel Taylor, the team achieved a historic 5-0 start, marking their entry into the FCS. This success reflects the "determination and talent of our student-athletes and coaches," according to UWG President Dr. Michael Johnson.
The Wolves' early-season momentum included impressive victories, showcasing their resilience and competitiveness. The team faced a top-25 conference showdown against No. 21 Austin Peay and hosted nationally ranked Abilene Christian, followed by a road game at Tarleton State, and a highly anticipated Homecoming matchup against Central Arkansas.
Football Alumni Network (F.A.N.)
The Football Alumni Network (F.A.N.) at the University of West Georgia is dedicated to bringing together UWG football alumni to reminisce, fellowship, engage, and give back to the program. This community focuses on connectedness and tradition, providing resources to the football program. The F.A.N. welcomes former players, coaches, and support staff. Notable members include Tracy McDaniel ('98), a former offensive lineman and co-founder of "Chase the Victory," and John Copeland ('97), a finance professional with Archer Western Construction.
Key Moments Celebrated: 40 Games That Shaped 40 Years
UWG Athletics celebrated the 40th season of NCAA football by highlighting "40 Games That Shaped 40 Years" on uwgsports.com. Over 10 weeks, four games were featured each week in chronological order, with a fan vote to determine the top-10 games in UWG football history.
One such game was from 1981, the first NCAA football game in school history. West Georgia secured a 37-14 victory over Miles College in Birmingham, Alabama. David Archer's touchdown pass to Mike McConnell set the tone for the game. Another key game saw West Georgia clinch a playoff berth and complete an unbeaten season with a convincing win over Maryville. David Archer ran in both scores in the first half, and Trevon Daniels and Todd Clifton added touchdowns in the second half.
Read also: History of the Block 'M'
Visual Identity
The University of West Georgia maintains a visual brand identity guide to ensure consistent representation of the university and its athletic programs.
Read also: Legacy of Fordham University
tags: #university #of #west #georgia #football #history
