The title says it all in Southern Mississippi's Week 11 conference showdown against Marshall. Forcing four interceptions, three coming from safety Jay Jones and a shutout through the first three quarters took all the pressure off of the quarterback leading the NDL in passer rating. A pick six plus a punt return touchdown early meant shifty running back, Chandler Pittman, got to shine with four rushing touchdowns and a team total and season high of 215 yards on the ground. The Golden Eagles held the Thundering Herd to under 200 total yards and look to bring this defensive mentality when they go on the road to take on Texas State and JMU.
In a dramatic overtime thriller, the Southern Mississippi Golden Eagles triumphed over the Marshall Thundering Herd, 47-12. Despite a strong first half from Southern Mississippi, the game ultimately saw Marshall unable to recover from an early deficit. Here's a breakdown of the action:
First Half Dominance
Southern Mississippi came out of the gates hot, leading 28-0 at the end of the first quarter. The Golden Eagles' offense was fueled by an explosive rushing attack, spearheaded by Chandler Pittman, who ran for 157 yards and four touchdowns on the day. Quarterback Tate Rodemaker also found success, throwing for 167 yards and a touchdown, including a key 48-yard completion to Kyirin Heath, who had three catches for 56 yards and a touchdown.
Marshall, on the other hand, struggled to find any rhythm, with their passing game led by Braylon Braxton (21-30, 206 yards, 1 TD, 3 INTs) stymied by constant pressure from Southern Mississippi's defense. The Thundering Herd were held scoreless in the first half.
Second Half Turnaround
Marshall tried to regroup in the second half. While their offense showed some life, notably with A.J. Turner’s 47-yard receiving touchdown, their efforts were not enough to make up for the significant deficit. Southern Mississippi's defense, led by standout performances from Kristin Booth (6 tackles, 2.5 sacks) and Jalil Clemons (4 tackles, 2.0 sacks), kept pressure on Marshall, preventing them from mounting a successful comeback.
Marshall's defense, despite solid individual efforts from players like Monroe Beard III (5 tackles), was unable to contain Southern Mississippi’s rushing game or make key stops.
Overtime and Final Blow
With Marshall unable to score in the second half and Southern Mississippi adding a couple more touchdowns (including a rushing touchdown from Pittman), the Golden Eagles eventually sealed the victory in overtime, outlasting the Thundering Herd 47-12.
Key Stats
Southern Mississippi's rushing attack: 215 total yards, 4 rushing touchdowns (led by Chandler Pittman’s 157 yards, 4 TDs).
Marshall's offense: 190 total yards, with only one touchdown (a 47-yard reception by A.J. Turner).
Turnovers: Marshall committed 4 turnovers, including 3 interceptions thrown by Braxton, while Southern Mississippi only turned the ball over once.
Player of the Game
Chandler Pittman’s dominant rushing performance (157 yards, 4 TDs) earned him player of the game honors for Southern Mississippi. His physical running style wore down Marshall's defense and set the tone for the entire game.
Southern Mississippi moves on with a resounding victory, while Marshall will need to regroup after an off-kilter performance.
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