South Alabama dominates Northwestern State for Major Applewhite’s first win
- Gio Lopez threw three touchdown passes and Fluff Bothwell rushed for 143 yards and two touchdowns in the first half.
- South Alabama led 52-10 at halftime and finished the game with a total of 620 yards.
- The victory set a new school scoring record and marked Major Applewhite's first win as head coach.
On Thursday night in Mobile, Alabama, South Alabama achieved a historic victory over Northwestern State, an FCS team, with a staggering score of 87-10. This game marked the first win for new head coach Major Applewhite. The Jaguars showcased a dominant performance, with Gio Lopez throwing three touchdown passes and Fluff Bothwell rushing for 143 yards and two touchdowns, all in the first half. The team quickly established control, scoring a touchdown just 96 seconds into the game after a 62-yard punt return by Jamaal Pritchett. The Jaguars continued to build their lead, with Lopez connecting with Jeremiah Webb for a touchdown shortly after the opening score. By the end of the first quarter, South Alabama led 24-10, and they extended their advantage to 52-10 by halftime. Lopez completed 15 of 19 passes for 257 yards and four touchdowns, while Bothwell's impressive rushing performance came on just seven carries. In addition to Lopez and Bothwell, Kentrel Bullock contributed with 102 rushing yards and two touchdowns. The Jaguars amassed a total of 620 yards, including 363 on the ground, demonstrating their offensive prowess. Northwestern State struggled throughout the game, with quarterback JT Fayard completing only 9 of 23 passes for 165 yards and two interceptions. This victory not only set a new scoring record for South Alabama but also marked a significant turnaround for the team, which had previously lost two games this season. The 52-point margin of victory surpassed the school’s previous record, highlighting the team's potential under Applewhite's leadership.