Sept. 22, 2007

Final Stats

Montgomery, Ala. - 4 games. 4 4th quarter deficits. 4 crucial 4th down plays. And, most importantly, 4 wins.

Alabama State found a way to win another close game, holding off Alcorn State 28-25 at Cramton Bowl on Saturday night.

"It's just our character, I guess," laughed `Bama State Chris Mitchell, who ran for two touchdowns and passed for a third. "I don't know if we like it like this or not, but as long as we are winning, it's o.k."

After jumping out to a 14-0 lead behind a one-yard plunge by Rahmod Traylor and Mitchell finding Jonathan Murray for a seven-yard score, the Hornets seemed to be in control of the game. However, less than three minutes later, Alcorn got on the board when Christopher Walker hit Channin Pugh for a 10 yard touchdown.

The Hornets fumbled the ensuing kick, and the Braves took quick advantage. Two plays later, Vernardu Cooper made the score 14-12.

The Hornets went 3 and out, and Alcorn went to work. Six plays later, Walker hit Elliot Moore on a 45-yard bomb and Alcron took an 18-14 lead to the half.

The lead would stay that way until the 4th quarter.

Freshman Joel Raggins, whose speed has caught Reggie Barlow's eye, returned a punt 41 yards to give the Hornets great field position. Starting at the Alcorn 37, Mitchell took matters into his own hands - completing a pass to Rahmod Traylor for 14 yards and running in for the final 23 himself. After the PAT, the Hornets led 21-18.

Alcorn returned the favor of an earlier Bama State miscue by fumbling the kickoff. Three plays, 11 yards and a Mitchell sneak later, the Hornets were up 28-18.

Alcorn did score a final touchdown, but the Hornets held on for a 28-25 win, setting up a matchup of unbeatens versus Southern in Mobile's Gulf Coast Classic next Saturday afternoon.

"It's a great game. It will be exciting for the fans with both teams being 4-0. I know Southern is playing very well. We look forward to the challenge."

NOTES:

• Alabama State has outscored its opponents 46-23 in the 4th quarter this season. • The Hornets have trailed in the 4th quarter of every game they've played this season. • Jay Peck rushed 24 times for 147 yards. It was his third straight 100-yard rushing game, and the 8th of his career. • Quarterback Alex Engram averaged 42.2 yards on six punts - his first time punting. • Joel Raggins' 41-yard punt return was Alabama State's longest return of any kind this season.