South Alabama Holds Off Ohio 41-36
7 sourcesUpdated Sep 21, 2026
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South Alabama defeated Ohio 41-36 after building a 24-7 halftime lead and surviving a late Bobcats rally. The Jaguars dominated on the ground with 266 rushing yards and four rushing touchdowns, led by Keenan Phillips and Trae’von Dunbar, while backup quarterback Jared Hollins threw for 192 yards and a touchdown. Ohio closed the gap to 24-21 early in the second half and pulled within striking distance late, but South Alabama’s defense forced two turnovers and maintained enough separation to secure the win. Ohio played without starting quarterback Nick Poulos and running back Duncan Brune; Matt Vezza threw two touchdown passes, and freshman Levi Davis added two touchdown throws while providing a late spark. The loss dropped Ohio to 1-2, while South Alabama improved to 2-1 and will next visit Kentucky.
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Hollis threw for 192 yards and that one score was enough to hold off the Bobcats.
Ohio had chances with Davis running for 121 yards but the late surge fell just short.
South Alabama's 266 rushing yards built that halftime lead and kept them ahead the whole way.