Utah Tech Beats North Alabama 34-33 in Overtime

ST. GEORGE, Utah – The Utah Tech Trailblazers delivered a heart-stopping performance at home this past Saturday, November 4, securing a thrilling 34-33 overtime victory against conference rival North Alabama at Greater Zion Stadium. Running back Asa Chatman emerged as the undisputed hero, scoring both the game-tying touchdown in the fourth quarter and the go-ahead score in overtime, capping a dramatic contest that saw the Trailblazers claim a crucial United Athletic Conference (UAC) win.

The game’s tension escalated in the final minutes of regulation. With the Trailblazers trailing, Chatman powered into the end zone for a crucial touchdown, forcing the game into an extra period. In overtime, Chatman once again found the end zone, putting Utah Tech ahead. Quarterback Kobe Tracy then connected with wide receiver Beau Hickman on a gutsy two-point conversion, giving the Trailblazers a 34-27 lead. North Alabama responded with a touchdown of their own, but their subsequent field goal attempt to win the game went wide, sealing Utah Tech’s dramatic victory.

Utah Tech’s offense was potent throughout the afternoon, racking up 480 total yards. Junior quarterback Kobe Tracy orchestrated much of the attack, completing 30 of 47 passes for 373 yards and two touchdowns. His primary targets included Beau Hickman, who hauled in 7 catches for 107 yards, and Rickie Falco, who added 6 catches for 83 yards and one touchdown. Chatman’s heroics were part of a strong ground game that complemented the aerial assault.

North Alabama’s offense also put up big numbers, accumulating 400 total yards. Wide receiver Noah Tidwell was a constant threat, catching 11 passes for an impressive 159 yards and a touchdown. The Lions utilized a two-quarterback system, with Noah Ogle throwing for 122 yards and a score, while Walter Payton contributed 126 yards, another touchdown, and one interception.

The hard-fought nature of the contest was also reflected in the penalty count. Both teams struggled with discipline, with Utah Tech being flagged 11 times for 105 yards, and North Alabama committing 11 penalties for 85 yards, often at critical moments.

For the Trailblazers (now 3-6 overall, 1-3 UAC), the victory marked a significant turning point in their season, providing a much-needed morale boost and their first conference win in the inaugural season of the United Athletic Conference. North Alabama (now 3-6 overall, 1-3 UAC) will undoubtedly rue the missed opportunities in a game that could have swayed either way until the final play.

The dramatic overtime finish, witnessed by an energetic home crowd, underscored the competitive spirit of NCAA Football Championship Subdivision (FCS) play within the UAC. The Trailblazers will look to carry this momentum into their next matchup as they continue their conference schedule.

For more information on Utah Tech Athletics, visit [UtahTechTrailblazers.com](https://www.utahtechtrailblazers.com).