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The Charlotte 49ers escaped Week 5 of the college football season with a one-point win over conference rival Rice. Despite the win, there was much criticism surrounding the performance.
Much of that was laid at the feet of the defense, which allowed nearly 500 yards of total offense to the Owls.
It was truly a bend but don’t break performance that saw the unit allow its opponent to move at will between the 20s before digging in near the goal line.
Rice had two drives end in the redzone with turnovers on downs. They also missed a 40-yard field goal as time expired to give the 49ers the victory.
A win is a win, and Charlotte will certainly take it, but the team’s play wasn’t overly encouraging for the fanbase. In fact, a number of attendees decided to bolt early before seeing the 49ers take a late lead.
Head coach Biff Poggi called out those “supporters” after the fact.
“You probably should’ve gotten all of your money’s worth by staying for the whole game. For those that weren’t here, that were saying whatever they were on social media, grow up! Get out of your grandmother’s basement and grow up.”
-Biff Poggi
His defensive coordinator, Ryan Osborn, echoed that sentiment.
Charlotte 49ers coaches called out their fanbase.
Osborn sent out a series of message on X blasting his critics. One, in particular, even referenced a family member of a notable Charlotte social media account.
- Ryan Osborn X
Osborn is in his second season as defensive coordinator with the 49ers. This wasn’t the best look!
After receiving blowback for his response, the coach apologized to Niner Nation.
This morning I made some reactionary comments to criticism on social media, and I sincerely apologize for responding so poorly. Niner Nation is amazing, and I made a mistake, plain and simple.
— Coach Oz (@CoachRyanOsborn) September 30, 2024
Ryan Osborn hopes to put this behind him and get back in the good graces of Charlotte fans. A strong performance against East Carolina next week would certainly help!