Dominating Season Opener: Washington University Football Crushes Rhodes 49-0 in 2025 Debut

WashU Football Dominates with 49-0 Season Opener

In a thrilling start to the season, the Washington University in St. Louis football team dismantled Rhodes with a commanding 49-0 victory. Over 2,000 fans witnessed the action, marking the team’s first night game since 2018.

The Bears kicked off strong, winning the coin toss and deferring to the second half. Rhodes received the ball first but quickly faced a tough defense that forced a punt. From there, WashU took charge. Senior Fred Ware began the opening drive with a strong five-yard gain, and junior quarterback Levi Moore found junior Makael Carter for a first down with a nice 10-yard pass. Ware capped off the drive with an eight-yard touchdown run, putting WashU up 7-0.

The Bears kept the momentum going. After another Rhodes punt, WashU took over and executed another impressive drive. Ware and Moore were key players, with Moore running the ball in for another touchdown, making it 14-0.

Defense was also a major factor, with junior Joy Chane intercepting a pass, giving WashU another opportunity. Moore launched a 37-yard pass to Carter, setting them up for another touchdown. By the end of the first quarter, the Bears were already ahead 21-0.

In the second quarter, WashU continued its dominance. Senior Ryan Schmadtke grabbed another interception, which led to a quick touchdown pass from Moore to Carter, increasing the lead to 28-0. The Bears’ defense held steady, forcing yet another punt and giving the offense a chance to score again. Moore showcased his skills with a 35-yard touchdown run, pushing the lead to 35-0.

As the first half wrapped up, Ware scored again, ending the half with a powerful 42-0 lead.

The Bears did not slow down in the second half. New sophomore quarterback Alexander Singh hit first-year Avery Lazard for a 34-yard touchdown, extending the lead to 49-0.

Overall, the statistics were impressive. WashU amassed 435 total yards—243 rushing and 192 passing—while holding Rhodes to just 122 yards. Moore was efficient, completing 8 out of 11 passes for 117 yards and a touchdown, while Singh also contributed with a touchdown pass. Ware led the ground game with 103 yards and two touchdowns.

The win sets a positive tone for the season, and as the Bears prepare for their next game against Carroll on September 20, they aim to keep the momentum going.

This victory is more than just a score; it reflects both teamwork and coaching strategies that highlight the Bears’ potential this season. U.S. college football has seen a significant rise in viewership, with the NCAA reporting that over 30 million people tuned in to watch college programs in 2021. This game demonstrates the enthusiasm and dedication present in college athletics today.

Looking ahead, the Bears will need to maintain this level of performance to take on the defending champions, North Central College, later in the month. The community’s support will play a key role in their journey.

For those interested in contributing to the growth of WashU athletics, the W Club offers opportunities for alumni and supporters to provide essential resources for student-athletes.

For more information, visit W Club.

This season seems promising, and fans everywhere are excited to see what comes next.

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