Ferrum, Va. –Shaw University football dropped a hard-fought 14-6 decision on the road at Ferrum College Saturday afternoon at W.B. Adams Stadium.

The Bears struck first late in the opening quarter, putting together an impressive 12-play, 99-yard drive capped by a four-yard touchdown pass from freshman quarterback Justin Wheeler to junior receiver Cobie Bates with 4:09 left in the period. The extra point was blocked, leaving Shaw in front 6-0.

Shaw's defense kept Ferrum scoreless through the first half, but momentum swung on the opening kickoff of the third quarter when the Bears fumbled deep in their own territory. Two plays later, Ferrum capitalized with a two-yard touchdown run by Aiden Vaught to take a 7-6 lead.

The Panthers added to their advantage early in the fourth quarter on a six-yard touchdown pass from Eli Foutz to Omarza Gray, pushing the margin to 14-6. Despite multiple opportunities, Shaw's offense was unable to find the end zone again.

The Bears finished with 200 yards of total offense, highlighted by Wheeler's 90 yards passing and a touchdown, along with 45 rushing yards. Bates led all receivers with six catches for 27 yards and the lone score, while sophomore Antrel Gibson added three receptions for 47 yards. Sophomore running back Christian Rutledge paced the ground attack with 55 yards on 12 carries.

Defensively, freshman linebacker Keyshawn Richardson recorded a team-high nine tackles, while senior lineman Tyrell Reid and junior defensive back Jaden Perkins each added seven stops. Shaw's defense tallied two sacks and forced a fumble.

Costly penalties hindered Shaw throughout the contest, as the Bears were flagged 20 times for 126 yards.

With the loss, Shaw falls to 0-2 on the season, while Ferrum improves to 1-2.

The Bears return to action on Saturday, Sept. 20, opening CIAA play on the road against Lincoln (PA). Kickoff is set for 1 p.m. in Lincoln, Pa.