JSU wins 24-21 in first FBS home game vs MTSU

**Gamecocks Secure Historic Home Opener Victory, Edge Middle Tennessee 24-21 in CUSA Debut**

**JACKSONVILLE, Ala. – September 9, 2023** – Jacksonville State University etched a new chapter in its football history Saturday, clinching a thrilling 24-21 victory over Conference USA rival Middle Tennessee in their inaugural FBS home game at JSU Stadium. The Gamecocks, playing their first season in Conference USA, showcased resilience, with running back Cam Cook delivering the decisive touchdown in the fourth quarter to send an enthusiastic announced crowd of 22,098 home happy.

The pivotal score came with just 4:29 remaining in the contest when Cook powered his way into the end zone, giving Jacksonville State a 24-21 lead it would not relinquish. Following the go-ahead score, the JSU defense rose to the occasion, stifling Middle Tennessee’s final two offensive drives to cement the significant win.

The victory moves Jacksonville State’s record to 2-1 on the young season, a promising start for a program navigating its transition to the highest level of collegiate football. Middle Tennessee, meanwhile, remains winless at 0-2, still seeking to find its rhythm under Head Coach Rick Stockstill.

The atmosphere in Jacksonville was electric, marking a culmination of the Gamecocks’ journey from a dominant FCS program to an FBS contender. Under head coach Rich Rodriguez, who took over in 2022 and guided the team through its final FCS season before the full FBS move this year, the Gamecocks have quickly shown they belong. JSU officially joined Conference USA on July 1, 2023.

Early in the game, neither team could establish a significant lead. JSU quarterback Logan Smothers opened the scoring in the first quarter with a 1-yard touchdown run, capping a methodical drive. Middle Tennessee responded swiftly, as quarterback Zion Webb connected with wide receiver Jaylin Lane for a 14-yard touchdown pass, tying the game.

Jacksonville State reclaimed the lead in the second quarter when Cam Cook broke free for a 21-yard touchdown run, his first of two on the day, highlighting his impactful performance. However, the Blue Raiders continued to fight back. In the third quarter, Middle Tennessee’s offense, now led by backup quarterback Nicholas Vattiato who entered the game for Webb, took a brief lead. Vattiato found tight end Holden Willis for a 12-yard touchdown pass, shifting the momentum.

The dramatic fourth quarter saw Jacksonville State’s determination shine. After Cook’s go-ahead touchdown, Middle Tennessee mounted a late charge. The Blue Raiders had an opportunity to tie or take the lead, but a 44-yard field goal attempt sailed wide with less than three minutes on the clock. JSU’s defense then delivered one final stand, denying Middle Tennessee any further progress and running out the clock.

The win marks not only the first home victory as an FBS program but also a crucial early-season Conference USA triumph for Jacksonville State. The Gamecocks will look to build on this momentum as they continue their inaugural FBS season, while Middle Tennessee will regroup and prepare for upcoming challenges to secure their first win. For more information on JSU Athletics, visit JSUGamecocks.com, and for Conference USA details, visit ConferenceUSA.com.