ROME, Ga.- The Shorter football team fell in their season opener against Anderson at the Hill in a 34-7 final. 

The Hawks started out strong as graduate quarterback Michael Rich Jr. led the offense down the field, converting multiple third down conversions. Rich capped off the drive by connected with Cole McCranie on an eight yard receiving touchdown to put the Hawks ahead by a touchdown early. The Hawks continued to control the pace for the remainder of the quarter and contain the Trojans offense. 

The Hawks offense cooled down after a strong first quarter, but still maintained a strong presence on the defensive side of the field. The Trojans would finally strike with 28 seconds left in the quarter to even the score as both teams entered the half. 

Anderson came out strong in the second frame, scoring a pair of touchdowns to jump ahead 20-7. The Hawks continued to fight, but struggled to stop the Trojan offense. Anderson would find the endzone two more times to close out the game. 

Michael Rich finished the game 12-23 with 115 yards and a touchdown, while freshman wide receiver Alex Garnett had a solid debut for the Hawks, hauling in five receptions for 52 yards. Defensively, Brian Gilmore Jr. led the way with 10 total tackles. Mikey Matos Jr. made his presence felt recording four tackles, a sack, and a forced fumble. 

The Hawks will be back in action next Saturday as they have their first road contest against Savannah State on September 6 with a 6:00 PM kickoff time. 

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