Mobile, AL
Aug 31, 2024
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North Texas Mean Green secured a 52-38 victory over the South Alabama Jaguars in a thrilling season opener, a game that showcased exceptional quarterback performances and key plays on both sides. North Texas quarterback Chandler Morris, in his first start for the Mean Green, was remarkable, throwing for 415 yards, completing 32 of 41 passes, and accounting for five total touchdowns, seamlessly balancing three passing touchdowns with two rushing scores. His performance was complemented by wide receiver Damon Ward Jr., who tallied 230 receiving yards on 12 catches, including two touchdown receptions.
Despite Gio Lopez's record-setting night for South Alabama, amassing 432 passing yards and three touchdowns while adding 62 rushing yards, the Jaguars fell short. The game was Major Applewhite's debut as head coach of South Alabama. The Jaguars led 19-14 at half-time, benefiting from a crucial goal-line stop, but North Texas exploded with 38 points in the second half, never punting after halftime. Key moments included a blocked punt by Juwaun Price, recovered by CJ Garnett for a touchdown, and pivotal plays by Ward Jr. and Ikaika Ragsdale, who further secured the victory by scoring late in the game.
Chandler Morris (North Texas)
Chandler Morris rushed for a 2-yard touchdown, capping off an impressive opening drive and putting North Texas on the board early.
Gio Lopez (South Alabama)
Gio Lopez rushed for an 8-yard touchdown, giving South Alabama a brief lead and showcasing his mobility.
Damon Ward Jr. (North Texas)
Chandler Morris connected with Damon Ward Jr. for a 3-yard touchdown pass, retaking the lead for North Texas and demonstrating their strong offensive connection.
Fluff Bothwell (South Alabama)
Fluff Bothwell rushed for a 13-yard touchdown, capping off a determined drive and temporarily putting South Alabama ahead.
Blair Conwright (North Texas)
Chandler Morris found Blair Conwright for a 25-yard touchdown pass, extending North Texas's lead early in the third quarter.
Damon Ward Jr. (North Texas)
Chandler Morris hit Damon Ward Jr. with a 54-yard touchdown pass, a pivotal play that further asserted North Texas's dominance in the third quarter.
CJ Garnett (North Texas)
CJ Garnett blocked a punt which was recovered in the end zone, a critical special teams play that shifted momentum firmly in favor of North Texas.
Shamar Sandgren (South Alabama)
Gio Lopez threw a 21-yard touchdown pass to Shamar Sandgren, narrowing the gap and keeping South Alabama’s hopes alive.
Ikaika Ragsdale (North Texas)
Ikaika Ragsdale rushed for a 3-yard touchdown, finalizing the score and ensuring North Texas's victory.
Chandler Morris (North Texas, QB)
Chandler Morris delivered a commanding performance, throwing for 415 yards and three touchdowns, while also rushing for two more scores. His efficiency and poise were key in executing North Texas's high-powered offense.
Damon Ward Jr. (North Texas, WR)
Damon Ward Jr. was instrumental in the victory, catching 12 passes for 230 yards and two touchdowns. His connection with Morris was evident, and he provided critical plays that kept the offense moving.
Gio Lopez (South Alabama, QB)
Gio Lopez set single-game records for South Alabama with 432 passing yards and 494 total yards, scoring four touchdowns. Despite his outstanding effort, it wasn't enough to overcome North Texas.
Jamaal Pritchett (South Alabama, WR)
Jamaal Pritchett had a stellar game with 10 receptions for 197 yards and a touchdown. His performance was a bright spot for South Alabama, showcasing his ability to make big plays.
CJ Garnett (North Texas, DB)
CJ Garnett's blocked punt, recovered in the end zone for a touchdown, was a game-changing moment that significantly tilted the momentum in North Texas's favor.
Blayne Myrick (South Alabama, LB)
Blayne Myrick led South Alabama's defense with 12 total tackles, setting a career high and providing a strong defensive presence throughout the game.
Juwaun Price (North Texas, DB)
Juwaun Price blocked a crucial punt that led to a touchdown, playing an essential role in North Texas's special teams unit and helping to secure their victory.
North Texas Mean Green
7
7
28
10
52
South Alabama Jaguars
3
16
7
12
38
