Samford Football Team Edges Alabama State Hornets 12-7 in Home Opener

Strategic Insights -

In a thrilling matchup at Pete Hanna Stadium, the Samford football team secured their first win of the season with a 12-7 victory over the Alabama State Hornets. The Bulldogs' defense proved key in the second half, allowing a mere 49 total yards as they sealed the win. Damonta Witherspoon led the offense with 126 rushing yards and a touchdown, while quarterback Quincy Crittendon completed 19-of-25 passes for 185 yards and a touchdown.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Samford football team improved to 1-2 on the campaign with the win over Alabama State, marking their third-straight home victory dating back to last season.
  • Damonta Witherspoon recorded 126 rushing yards on 23 carries and a touchdown, the most by a Bulldog in a single game.
  • Quincy Crittendon completed 19-of-25 passes for 185 yards with one touchdown and one interception, adding 16 rushing yards on 11 carries.
  • Iaan Cousin led the Bulldog receiving core with four catches for 75 yards and a score.
  • Brendan Jenkins closely matched Cousin's output with four passes for 74 yards.
  • Noah Martin captained the Bulldog defense with 11 tackles, his third-straight game with a double-digit tackle performance.
  • Makhi Gilbert provided a sack in the second quarter, while Conroy Cunningham II and Jaylin Rainey each had half a sack in the victory.
  • The Samford defense held the Alabama State offense to only 49 total yards in the second half.
  • The Bulldogs' defense forced two punts in the fourth quarter to secure the win.

Statistics:

  • Damonta Witherspoon: 126 rushing yards on 23 carries, 1 touchdown.
  • Quincy Crittendon: 19-of-25 passes complete, 185 yards, 1 touchdown, 1 interception.
  • Iaan Cousin: 4 catches, 75 yards, 1 touchdown.
  • Brendan Jenkins: 4 catches, 74 yards.
  • Noah Martin: 11 tackles, 3-straight games with double-digit tackles.
  • Makhi Gilbert: 1 sack in the second quarter.
  • Conroy Cunningham II and Jaylin Rainey: 1/2 sack each in the victory.
  • Alabama State offense: 49 yards allowed in the second half.

Sources:

  • Samford University, The State of Alabama news release