Alabama State Football: Big Plays Secure Win

Alabama State outlasts Texas Southern in High-Scoring Affair, 42-24

Texas Southern University (TSU) put forth a dominant offensive performance but ultimately succumbed to teh explosive plays of Alabama State, falling 42-24 on Saturday, November 8, 2025, at ASU Stadium in Montgomery, Alabama. Despite controlling the clock for 42 minutes and amassing 472 total yards, the Tigers were unable to contain ASU’s big-play ability.

Frist Quarter Fireworks

Alabama state struck quickly, scoring on an 87-yard passing play on their opening drive to take a 7-0 lead. Texas Southern responded with a 50-yard field goal by Christian Avelar, narrowing the gap. The Tigers then capitalized on a strong drive,culminating in a 12-yard touchdown pass from KJ Cooper to kordell Rodgers,giving TSU a 10-7 advantage with 2:20 remaining in the first quarter. Though, the momentum shifted dramatically as Alabama State answered with a 99-yard kickoff return, regaining a 14-10 lead.

Did you know? – Kickoff returns for touchdowns are rare in modern college football, making Alabama State’s 99-yard score a notable momentum swing. Such plays can dramatically alter the course of a game.

Tigers Battle Back in the Second Quarter

TSU continued to demonstrate offensive prowess, driving 85 yards to set up a touchdown run by Athean Renfro, briefly reclaiming the lead at 17-14. Alabama State quickly countered with a 73-yard drive of their own, pushing ahead 21-17. Undeterred, the Tigers mounted another impressive drive, capped off by a 19-yard touchdown reception by Trenton Leary from Cooper, establishing a 24-21 halftime lead.

Second Half Struggles and Big Plays Doom TSU

The third quarter saw Alabama State regain control with a 56-yard pass play setting up a three-yard touchdown run, resulting in a 28-24 deficit for TSU. A 34-yard field goal attempt by the Tigers late in the quarter sailed wide. Alabama State extended their lead early in the fourth quarter with another scoring drive, moving ahead 35-24. A promising TSU drive was thwarted when a field goal attempt was blocked and returned for a touchdown, sealing their fate.

Pro tip: – Special teams play, like blocked kicks and long returns, ofen decides close games. Coaches dedicate significant practice time to these phases of the game.

Offensive Stats Tell a Story of Domination

Despite the loss, Texas Southern showcased a potent offense. Quarterback KJ Cooper completed 25 of 25 passes for 220 yards, while running back Athean Renfro rushed for 145 yards on 18 carries. The Tigers dominated possession time, holding the ball for 42 minutes. Defensively, isaiah Bogerty led TSU with five tackles.

Reader question: – Do you think TSU’s offensive success despite the loss indicates a shining future for the program? What adjustments could they make defensively?

Looking Ahead

TSU will look to rebound next Saturday,November 15,2025,with a 2 p.m. kickoff at Southern University. The game will be broadcast on SWAC TV and can also be heard on KTSU 90.9 FM.

Why did it end? Alabama State’s ability to make big plays, especially in the second half, coupled with a blocked field goal returned for a touchdown, proved too much for Texas Southern to overcome.
Who was involved? The game featured a strong performance from TSU quarterback KJ Cooper (25/25, 220 yards) and running back Athean Renfro (145