CULLOWHEE, N.C. (Interstat) — A key Southern Conference matchup is set for Saturday at E.J. Whitmire Stadium as the Western Carolina Catamounts host the Furman Paladins.

Furman (4-1) enters the contest riding a three-game winning streak, most recently a 31-22 victory over East Tennessee State last Saturday. The Paladins’ offense is powered by quarterback Trey Hedden, who threw for 358 yards and two touchdowns in the win, and running back Gavin Hall, who rushed for 101 yards.

Western Carolina (3-3) is looking to build momentum after a 23-21 road win against Wofford. Catamounts quarterback Taron Dickens put up impressive numbers in the victory, completing 53 of 56 passes for 378 yards and three touchdowns while adding 44 yards on the ground.

The game features two of the conference’s top offensive units. The Paladins’ only loss this season was a one-point defeat to Presbyterian in early September. The Catamounts have shown a potent offense, scoring 50 and 42 points in wins over Samford and Campbell, respectively, but have also conceded an average of 36 points in their three losses.

According to Interstat’s game simulator, this contest is projected to be a nail-biter, with Western Carolina edging Furman 30-29.

Kickoff is scheduled for Saturday, Oct. 11, 2025.