South Alabama’s football team made history with an astounding 87-10 victory over Northwestern State. This victory marks the highest point total by an FBS team since 1991 when Fresno State defeated New Mexico 94-17. It’s a significant achievement for the Jaguars and an all-time school and Sun Belt Conference record.
An Unstoppable Offensive Force
In just 51 minutes, South Alabama dominated Northwestern State, with head coaches from both teams agreeing to shorten the fourth quarter to a six-minute running clock. The Jaguars racked up 363 rushing yards and six touchdowns from four players, with standout performances by Fluff Bothwell and Kentrell Bullock. Both players had over 100 rushing yards and scored two touchdowns each.
The team scored on every possession except for two: a missed 50-yard field goal and a kneel-down at the end of the game.
Coach Applewhite’s First Win
South Alabama’s head coach, Major Applewhite, celebrated his first win of the season following losses to North Texas and Ohio. While he likely hoped for a victory, the 87-10 blowout exceeded expectations. “I’m proud of how our guys played, the way they responded coming off of a loss,” Applewhite said. “In a short week, the staff did an outstanding job. People often say that; it sounds cliché, but they did.”
A Stellar Return for Quarterback Gio Lopez
Quarterback Gio Lopez made a triumphant return after injury, completing 15 of 19 passes for 257 yards and four touchdowns. “It was a great time,” Lopez said. “It was hard last week just watching … It was fun just to be back out there.”
South Alabama’s offense started strong with two touchdowns in just over four minutes, thanks to a 62-yard punt return by Jamaal Pritchett and a touchdown pass from Lopez to Jeremiah Webb. The Jaguars maintained their lead throughout the first quarter, which ended 24-10, but the second quarter sealed Northwestern State’s fate.
A Dominant Second Half
The Jaguars continued their onslaught in the second quarter, adding four more touchdowns and reaching a halftime score of 52-10. Even after the half, South Alabama didn’t let up, scoring four additional touchdowns by the end of the third quarter, making it 80-10. Despite the shortened fourth quarter, South Alabama scored one last touchdown, capping off an unforgettable performance.
A Win to Remember
South Alabama’s 87-point victory will be remembered for years to come. Major Applewhite’s first win with the team sets a promising tone for the rest of the season. The Jaguars’ explosive offense, led by returning quarterback Gio Lopez, made this game one for the record books.