No. 18 Villanova Edges Elon 29-21, Snapping Phoenix’s CAA Win Streak

Elon’s six-game winning streak in Coastal Athletic Association (CAA) play ended today as the No. 18 Villanova Wildcats defeated the Phoenix 29-21 at Rhodes Stadium.

The closely contested game saw Elon take an early lead and briefly regain it in the fourth quarter, but a 97-yard kickoff return touchdown by Villanova’s Ja’briel Mace proved decisive. Elon (4-3, 2-1 CAA) had built a 21-20 advantage with 5:25 remaining on a second touchdown run by TJ Thomas Jr., before Mace’s return shifted the momentum. Villanova improved to 4-2 overall and 3-1 in the CAA.

Elon opened the scoring with an eight-yard touchdown run by Thomas Jr. following a 62-yard pass from Landen Clark to Isaiah Fuhrmann. Clark finished the game completing 14 of 21 passes for a season-high 66.7% completion rate. Villanova responded with field goals and a pair of touchdown passes from Pat McQuaide to Luke Colella, before Elon briefly regained the lead. Defensive standout DJ James-Hamilton led Elon with 13 tackles, matching his previous career high. This loss impacts Elon’s positioning in the competitive CAA standings as they vie for a playoff berth.

Villanova sealed the victory with a late field goal and an interception in the end zone as time expired. Elon’s next game is scheduled for next Saturday at William & Mary, with kickoff set for 3:30 PM ET. For more information on CAA football, visit the official CAA website. Elon Athletics encourages fans to support the Phoenix through the Phoenix Club.