North Texas Wins At South Alabama
The North Texas Mean Green kicked off their 2024 campaign with a thrilling 52-38 victory over the South Alabama Jaguars in Mobile, Alabama on Saturday night. In a game that showcased offensive firepower from both sides, it was the Mean Green who ultimately prevailed in the shootout.
First Half Action
North Texas wasted no time getting on the scoreboard, with quarterback Chandler Morris capping off the opening drive with a touchdown run. The Jaguars responded quickly, as quarterback Gio Lopez connected with Jeremiah Webb for a big gain before finding the end zone himself on a designed draw play.
The back-and-forth continued throughout the first half, with Morris adding another rushing touchdown and finding Damon Ward Jr. for a scoring strike. South Alabama kept pace, with Lopez hitting Jamal Pritchett for a long gain and later connecting with Bothwell for a touchdown.
Second Half Surge
The Mean Green came out firing in the third quarter, with Morris orchestrating a quick three-play drive that ended with a touchdown pass to Blair Conwright. North Texas extended their lead further when Morris notched his second rushing touchdown of the game.
South Alabama refused to go away quietly, as Lopez found Pritchett for a long touchdown pass to keep the Jaguars within striking distance. However, a critical special teams error proved costly for South Alabama when a botched punt resulted in a North Texas touchdown.
Late Game Excitement
Despite the setback, the Jaguars continued to fight. Lopez showcased his elusiveness by escaping pressure and finding Anthony Eager in the end zone for a spectacular touchdown. However, North Texas’ offense proved too much to overcome, with running back Isaiah Ragsdale sealing the victory with a late touchdown run.
Statistical Standouts
Chandler Morris had an impressive debut for North Texas, accounting for four touchdowns (two passing, two rushing). For South Alabama, Gio Lopez displayed his dual-threat capabilities, throwing for multiple touchdowns and using his legs to extend plays.
The game lived up to its billing as an offensive showcase, with both teams combining for 90 points and surpassing the over/under of 64.5 set by oddsmakers.
With this victory, North Texas starts their season on a high note and gains momentum heading into conference play. South Alabama, despite the loss, showed flashes of offensive brilliance that they can build upon moving forward.
