The season started with a three-game road trip that has seen the Football Hawks beat NCAA Division I FCS Campbell and fellow Division II foe Chowan.

These wins have brought enough recognition to the program that the NCCAA rankings have Shorter at No. 1.

Shorter shares the top mark with Kentucky Christian and Northwestern College with a 2-1 record thus far into the season.

Head coach Phil Jones was excited to hear the news.

“We are excited to be No. 1,” said Jones. “The players are honored to be associated with the National Christian College Athletic Association and believe the foundation for their success is in their relationship with Jesus Christ.”

Eric Dodson and his 382 yards passing on the season, which includes a school record 191 yards in the win over Campbell, leading the Hawks.

In the same game, Brandon Morten topped the prior mark of receiving yards in a game as he hauled in four receptions for 107 yards, on his way to a team high 215 receiving yards.

Bradley Moon has been racking up yards rushing with 272 yards and four scores so far, and T.J. Telfair is averaging 9.4 yards a carry en route to 178 more rushing yards. In total, the Hawks have rushed for 753 yards in three games.

The defense sees 2011 AFCA All-American Demery Hawkins atop the tackles list with 23, including 5.5 for loss. Luke Wilson has taken the lead in sacks with 2.0, with Jamal Denson adding 1.5.

Shorter returns to the field this weekend in the first home game of the season. On Saturday the Hawks welcome the Charleston Southern Buccaneers to town for a 1:30 pm kick off at Historic Barron Stadium. This is also Homecoming weekend for the University, sure to bring an exciting atmosphere to celebrate the top ranked team on their home turf.