RICHMOND, Ky. — In a thrilling contest on Saturday, Matt Morrissey connected with Marcus Calwise Jr. on a spectacular 67-yard touchdown pass that secured Eastern Kentucky’s victory over North Alabama, finishing the game at 21-15 and marking the team’s fifth consecutive win.

As the game progressed, North Alabama’s TJ Smith managed to guide his team down to the EKU 45-yard line, but his efforts were thwarted when Mike Smith Jr. intercepted a pass, sealing the fate of the game.

Earlier in the fourth quarter, Smith found Dakota Warfield for a 24-yard touchdown pass that temporarily put North Alabama ahead 15-14 with just under 11 minutes remaining.

Morrissey had an impressive performance, completing 9 of 15 passes for 154 yards, and he also showcased his mobility by rushing for 60 yards, which included a touchdown run. Brayden Latham contributed significantly with 103 rushing yards on 19 carries, scoring once for Eastern Kentucky, who now holds a record of 8-4 and sits at 6-2 in the United Athletic Conference.

On the other side, TJ Smith ended the day with 23 completions out of 39 attempts for 325 yards, including one touchdown but also two interceptions for North Alabama, which concludes the season with a record of 3-9 and 2-5 in conference play. Tanaka Scott was a standout receiver for the Lions, recording 109 yards along with a touchdown catch.