FLORENCE, Ala. – Defense and special teams carried the day for North Alabama as the Lions picked up a 30-7 Gulf South Conference win over Florida Tech at Braly Stadium.
 
North Alabama picked off four FIT passes, returning one for a touchdown and two others set up short scoring drives for the Lions. UNA's special teams also blocked a punt and returned it for a touchdown.
 
Florida Tech entered the game averaging more than 400 yards and 30 points per game but was held to single first quarter score and just 211 total yards. On the flip side, UNA's offense gained just 134 total yards but did not turn the ball over. The Lions' scoring drives on offense covered just 14, 34 and 34 yards.
 
The win snaps a two-game losing skid for UNA and ups the Lions to 2-3 overall and 2-2 in the GSC. Florida Tech is now 3-3 overall and 2-2 in the GSC.
 
A 38-yard punt return by Dwain Smith set up UNA's first score as Chandler Carrera booted a 23-yard field goal at 6:19 of the first quarter.
 
Florida Tech answered quickly, scoring in just two plays as Mark Cato hit Kevin Purlett with a short pass that broke for a 50-yard gain and a touchdown. The extra point gave the Panthers a 7-3 lead at 5:34 of the first quarter.
 
North Alabama took its first lead of the night when Will Evans blocked a Florida Tech punt and Jamal Jackson returned it 22 yards for a touchdown. Chandler Carrera's PAT gave UNA a 10-7 lead at 12:50 of the third quarter.
 
Dre Hall scored on short TD runs of two and three yards later in the third quarter to push the lead to 24-7. Both drives covered 34 yards and were set up by interceptions.
 
UNA's final score came on 28-yard interception return by Maurice Carnell of a Trent Chmelik pass. The extra point attempt failed but UNA led 30-7 with 3:12 left in the game.
 
North Alabama plays at Shorter on October 14 at noon Central.


Dwain Smith


Coach Chris Willis


Maurice Carnell


Dre Hall