Boone, NC
Sep 19, 2024
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In a stunning display of offensive and defensive prowess, the South Alabama Jaguars overwhelmed the Appalachian State Mountaineers with a decisive 48-14 victory on Thursday night in Boone, North Carolina. The Jaguars surged to an early dominance, quickly establishing a 28-0 lead by halftime, thanks to a blend of explosive plays and staunch defense. Gio Lopez, the Jaguars' versatile quarterback, was instrumental in the win with his dual-threat capabilities, throwing for 154 yards and two touchdowns while also rushing for 105 yards and an additional touchdown.
Appalachian State managed to show some fight, with Joey Aguilar connecting with Dalton Stroman for a spectacular 47-yard touchdown as the first half concluded. However, their efforts fell short as the Jaguars' defense consistently stifled their attempts, including a key interception by Jordan Scruggs that quashed a critical scoring opportunity. South Alabama's offense continued to pile on the points, propelled by a powerful ground game that amassed 322 rushing yards and featured contributions from multiple players, including standout running back Fluff Bothwell who racked up 116 yards and two touchdowns. The emphatic win not only improved the Jaguars' record but also set a high standard for their Sun Belt Conference campaign.
DJ Thomas-Jones (South Alabama Jaguars)
DJ Thomas-Jones received a pass from Gio Lopez for a 10-yard touchdown, giving the Jaguars an early 7-0 lead on their opening drive.
Fluff Bothwell (South Alabama Jaguars)
Fluff Bothwell broke through the line with a 22-yard rushing touchdown, quickly extending South Alabama's lead to 14-0.
Gio Lopez (South Alabama Jaguars)
Quarterback Gio Lopez showcased his mobility with a 31-yard rushing touchdown, pushing the score to an unassailable 21-0 advantage for South Alabama.
Kentrel Bullock (South Alabama Jaguars)
Kentrel Bullock capped off a 96-yard interception return by Jordan Scruggs with a 2-yard rushing touchdown, putting South Alabama up 28-0 just before the half.
Dalton Stroman (Appalachian State Mountaineers)
Dalton Stroman leapt over defenders to secure a 47-yard touchdown pass from Joey Aguilar, cutting the deficit to 28-7 as the first half expired.
Jamaal Pritchett (South Alabama Jaguars)
Jamaal Pritchett caught an 18-yard touchdown pass from Gio Lopez, extending the Jaguars' lead to 34-7 early in the second half.
Iverson Celestine (South Alabama Jaguars)
Iverson Celestine powered through the defense for a 6-yard rushing touchdown, finalizing the score at 48-7.
Maquel Haywood (Appalachian State Mountaineers)
Maquel Haywood scored on a 2-yard run, adding a late touchdown for Appalachian State to close the game at 48-14.
Jordan Scruggs (South Alabama Jaguars)
Defensive back Jordan Scruggs intercepted a pass in the end zone and returned it 96 yards, setting up a crucial score that significantly demoralized the Mountaineers.
Jamaal Pritchett (South Alabama Jaguars)
Jamaal Pritchett returned a punt for 21 yards, setting up excellent field position that led to an early South Alabama touchdown.
Gio Lopez (South Alabama Jaguars, QB)
Gio Lopez excelled both in the air, passing for 154 yards and two touchdowns, and on the ground, rushing for 105 yards and another touchdown. His dual-threat capabilities were pivotal in setting the offensive tempo.
Fluff Bothwell (South Alabama Jaguars, RB)
Fluff Bothwell showcased his rushing prowess, accumulating 116 yards on 14 carries and scoring twice. His consistency in the run game was crucial in maintaining offensive momentum.
Jordan Scruggs (South Alabama Jaguars, CB)
Jordan Scruggs delivered a game-changing 96-yard interception return, which halted an Appalachian State scoring threat and set up a key touchdown. His defensive play was a turning point in the game.
Jamaal Pritchett (South Alabama Jaguars, WR)
Jamaal Pritchett was impactful in both receiving and special teams, catching an 18-yard touchdown pass and returning punts for a total of 67 yards, significantly aiding the Jaguars' field position.
Dalton Stroman (Appalachian State Mountaineers, WR)
Dalton Stroman's 47-yard touchdown catch as time expired in the first half was a highlight for the Mountaineers, demonstrating his ability to make contested catches under pressure.
Maquel Haywood (Appalachian State Mountaineers, RB)
Maquel Haywood was effective in the backfield, rushing for 47 yards and scoring a late-game touchdown. His versatility was also evident in his 23 receiving yards.
Joey Aguilar (Appalachian State Mountaineers, QB)
Joey Aguilar led the Mountaineers with 266 passing yards, including a 47-yard touchdown pass, and became the FBS leader in passing yards for the season at 1,230 yards. However, he was also intercepted once, which hampered his team's efforts.
DJ Burks (Appalachian State Mountaineers, SAF)
DJ Burks, in his first career start, recorded a career-high 14 tackles, showcasing his defensive skills and tenacity in a challenging game for Appalachian State.
South Alabama Jaguars
14
14
13
7
48
Appalachian State Mountaineers
0
7
0
7
14
