Why not apply to both and see what happens? Elon has an accelerated PA program, and a great overall reputation. I don’t know Mercer, but it may be better known in the south.

I am surprised to see Mercer on this thread.
It's the small school no one has heard of.
I'm a Mercer alum.
Got a fantastic education there.

I'd see why it's a bit of a toss-up with Elon.
We saw Elon students all the time at the same academic conferences we attended.
I'd say they are very comparable- it's like a U of Mary Washington vs Christopher Newport. Same size and everything else, but probably will have a different feel.

Never heard of Mercer, so no there. Know some well rounded people who went to Elon. Solid school.