Monmouth Stuns Charlotte 49ers with 7-0 Shutout

Monmouth’s defense dominates; Charlotte’s offense held scoreless at Jerry Richardson Stadium

MONROE, NC - The Monmouth Hawks delivered a defensive masterclass to upset the Charlotte 49ers 7-0 on Saturday at Jerry Richardson Stadium, as a third-quarter touchdown proved decisive in a tightly contested American Athletic Conference opener.

The lone score came when running back Ezekiel Jennings broke through the line for a 1-yard touchdown plunge midway through the third quarter, capping a 7-play, 40-yard drive and handing Monmouth its first conference victory.

Nut Graf

Monmouth (2-0) showcased a suffocating defensive effort that limited Charlotte (0-3) to just 245 total yards, snapping the 49ers’ momentum after two straight losses. The shutout underscored Charlotte’s ongoing offensive struggles and raised questions about play-calling in crucial red-zone situations.

Key Moments

Jennings’ TD: On Monmouth’s third possession of the second half, Jennings powered through left guard for the game’s only touchdown.
Time of possession: Monmouth controlled the clock for 33:45, keeping Charlotte’s offense off the field.
Turnover battle: Both teams managed clean sheets in turnovers, but Charlotte’s drives stalled inside the red zone twice.

Standout Performers

AJ Swann (Monmouth QB): Efficient in relief, completing 12 of 15 passes for 108 yards and helping sustain long drives.
Zachary Dowell (Monmouth LB): Led the team with 11 tackles, including two tackles for loss, and forced key third-down stops.
Conner Harrell (Charlotte QB): Finished 13-of-24 passing for 142 yards but was sacked three times and intercepted in the second quarter.

What’s Next

Charlotte looks to rebound on September 18 when the Rice Owls visit Jerry Richardson Stadium, while Monmouth hosts an American Conference opponent next weekend aiming to extend its early unbeaten run.