Hope and Concern: Western Carolina

Brandon Pechloff leads the #1 Passing Offense in the Socon. Photo: Doug Powell

Western Carolina has started off its season with a 1-1 record and looks to improve on it next week when the Catamounts travel to Georgia Southern to take on the Eagles.  With their bye this week it is a perfect time to analyze some, “Hope and Concern for the Cats.”

Hope

Freshman running back, Shaun Warren has been spectacular early this season for the Catamounts accumulating 254 yards rushing and 4 touchdowns.  Warren was named Socon Freshmen of the Week last week for his efforts against Mars Hill.  Warren’s 254 rushing yards is 2nd in the Socon and his 4 touchdowns lead the conference.  Sophomore quarterback, Brandon Pechloff has orchestrated the new pistol offense well and is 2nd in the conference in passing yards/game. After two games (Georgia Tech and Mars Hill), Western Carolina leads the Socon in passing offense.

Concern

Most of Western’s yards and touchdowns came against cupcake, Mars Hill, and even against the Lions the Catamounts had their struggles.  WCU trailed for most of the first quarter against Mars Hill before finding a rhythm and cruising to a victory.  Western Carolina’s schedule always features Socon powerhouses such as Appalachian State and Georgia Southern.  The Catamounts have not fared well with these teams in the past and have struggled to gain momentum through their schedule.  The pistol offense has looked good for the most part early, but how will it look when WCU faces the teams in their conference?  The Catamounts will face a huge test this weekend against the top team in the conference, Georgia Southern.