South Alabama plays well against NCSU, but suffers first loss in program history

Not surprisingly, USA fell to 19-1 all time as they met their first FBS opponent in North Carolina State of the Atlantic Coast Conference.

Many expected North Carolina State to completely dominate USA from start to finish, but the Jags were able to compete reasonably well for most of the game against a program that had more scholarship players, a much larger budget, and a 116 year head start before letting the game get away late and falling 35-13.

There are positives to be taken from this game. An undersized USA offensive line was able to pave the way for Kendall Houston's 117 yards and 6.5 yard per carry average. USA's receivers made some big plays and the Jags converted on 7 of 15 3rd downs. USA DL Romelle Jones had a great night, consistently beating NC State linemen and recording two sacks. The defense held the Wolfpack to 96 yards and a 2.6 yard per carry average.

There were also some negatives, none of which were terribly surprising. A redshirt Freshman QB struggled against the best defense he has seen to date. They had too many athletic guys and were able to find some mismatches against our defense. We couldn't generate a consistent pass rush, allowing Mike Glennon to put up great numbers. 9 penalties, several of which gave NC State first downs, really hurt.

South Alabama still has a ways to go before being able to compete on a consistent basis at the FBS level, but they're not far away. With a couple of Sun Belt teams struggling against FCS teams tonight, I would not be at all surprised to see USA win a few games next year. Time will tell.

Next up is Kent State. This should be another great test for USA. The Kent State program has struggled recently, but the Jags will face the challenge of bouncing back from a loss for the first time. It will be interesting.

USA! USA! USA!