Alabama State scored 10 points in the fourth quarter relied on its defense to seal the game as TSU dropped a heartbreaking 16-13 contest Saturday inside PNC Stadium.
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The first quarter was all about the defensive units until TSU struck first as scored first after Jacorey Howard's 1-yard run which capped off a seven-play, 75-yard drive. The PAT was good as TSU led 7-0.
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A leaping penalty on a punt early in the second quarter allowed Alabama State to continue a second quarter drive with turned into a 27-yard field goal for a 7-3 TSU lead with 6:03 left. TSU would get to the ASU 25 on its next drive but turned the ball over on downs as they fell one yard short. However, the defense held as the score remained 7-3 entering halftime.
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ASU opened the third quarter with a field goal to draw within 7-6 but TSU countered as Andrew Body capped off a 49-yard drive with a 5-yard touchdown run for a 13-6 lead due to a failed PAT. Both teams would trade punts but ASU began to catch fire early in the fourth quarter but the TSU defense held its ground and forced another Hornet field goal for a 13-9 lead.
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On the ensuing possession, ASU forced and recovered a fumble and a personal foul penalty gave them the ball at the TSU 29. The Hornets took advantage and marched down the field for the go-ahead score as they led 16-13.
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TSU would turn the ball over on downs on the ASU 42 and the Hornets converted a key fourth down late en route to running the clock out.
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TSU finished with 220 yards while allowing 329 total yards. Body passed for 95 yards while LaDarius Owens rushed for 58 yards.
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TSU is back in action next Saturday at Arkansas-Pine Bluff at 2 p.m. on Saturday.
