MONTGOMERY, Ala. — On Saturday, Jacobian Morgan delivered an impressive performance with two touchdown passes as Jackson State narrowly defeated Alabama State 16-10, securing the East Division title in the Southwestern Athletic Conference.

Morgan sparked the Tigers with a 24-yard touchdown connection to Jameel Gardner Jr. in the second quarter, allowing Jackson State (9-2, 7-0) to lead 7-3 at halftime. The quarterback later linked up with Ja’Naylon Dupree for a significant 44-yard touchdown, extending the lead to 14-3 in the middle of the third quarter.

Throughout the game, Morgan completed 8 of 13 passes for a total of 120 yards, although he also threw one interception. A pivotal defensive play came from Ashton Taylor, who sacked Kareem Keye in the end zone, resulting in a safety, which accounted for the only points scored in the final quarter.

The matchup was defined by strong defensive efforts from both teams. Brandon Gilliam put Alabama State (5-5, 4-3) ahead temporarily with a 32-yard field goal late in the first quarter.

The Hornets struggled offensively, managing only 130 yards before halftime, while Jackson State was limited to 85 yards. Despite this, the Tigers found success on the ground, rushing for 134 yards but faced challenges in the passing game, finishing with negative four yards through the air.

Daquon Kincey emerged as a standout for Alabama State, running for 144 yards on 13 carries, including a 46-yard touchdown in the third quarter that closed the gap to 14-10. Quarterback Keye struggled to find his rhythm, completing 3 of 9 passes for just 4 yards and also throwing an interception.

Neither team was able to exceed 200 total yards of offense, and collectively, they struggled on third downs, converting just 5 of 24 attempts. The close contest highlighted the defensive prowess on both sides, culminating in a hard-fought victory for the Tigers.