New beginnings for Charlotte 49ers as Albin takes the helm

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — For the first time, The American Conference Kickoff media days were held in Charlotte, instead of Texas.

For the Charlotte 49ers, that suited them just fine.

“It’s very exciting,” coach Tim Albin said. “It’s pretty special.”

Albin takes over the 49ers after four successful seasons at Ohio University, where he went 34-19 in four seasons.

The Bobcats won their third-straight bowl game in 2024 and went 11-3.

Now, Albin takes over a Charlotte program entering its eleventh season.

The 49ers have had one winning season and bowl appearance.

“We’re going to have a good football team. I don’t know when, but it’s going to happen,” Albin said.

Albin spoke one-on-one with WCNC Charlotte Sports Director Nick Carboni, who asked him about the three-man race for the starting quarterback spot.

Charlotte brought in three Division I transfers to compete for the job:

• Zach Wilcke (NW Mississippi/Southern Miss)
• Conner Harrell (UNC)
• Grayson Loftis (Duke)

“All three have starting experience at the Division 1 level,” Albin said.

But who will start the team’s first game?

“All three can create and extend plays,” Albin said. “It’ll come down to execution. We recruited those guys because they can all create.”

Charlotte opens the season on Friday, Aug. 29 at Bank of America Stadium against in-state rival App State.

“It’s going to be a great one,” Albin said. “We’ve got a lot of work to do before we get there. It’s going to be an electric atmosphere.”

After the House vs. NCAA settlement, colleges can distribute up to $20.5 per year to athletes.

Charlotte will likely not have that type of money to distribute in 2025-26, but AD Mike Hill believes the program will be in the top third of The American.

“I know we’re competitive,” Albin said. “We had a plan going in and had contacts ready to go. We’ve got resources. We’re always looking for more resources. But what’s going to make that easier? That’s winning some games. And that’s what we’re going to try to get done.”

Contact Nick Carboni at ncarboni@wcnc.com and follow him on Facebook, X and Instagram.

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