MOBILE, Ala. — In an impressive performance, Gio Lopez passed for 158 yards and a touchdown while also rushing for 67 yards and another score, leading South Alabama to a 25-9 victory over Troy on Tuesday evening in the highly anticipated Battle for the Belt.
With this win, South Alabama improved to 3-4 overall and 2-1 in the Sun Belt Conference, marking their first victory against Troy since 2017 and breaking a six-game losing streak in this rivalry. The Trojans had previously dominated their encounters in Mobile, winning six consecutive games there, including the Dollar General Bowl in both 2016 and 2018.
The game took a decisive turn in the second quarter when South Alabama exploded for 16 points. Lopez connected with Jeremiah Webb, executing a beautiful over-the-shoulder catch in the back of the end zone for a 24-yard touchdown, putting the Jaguars ahead 10-0. Following this score, South Alabama’s defense secured a safety on Troy’s next possession. Lopez then further extended the lead with a dazzling 49-yard touchdown run just five plays later, bringing the score to 19-0.
Historically, Troy had limited South Alabama to 19 points or fewer in six of their last seven matchups, making this performance particularly noteworthy. Lopez completed 16 of 21 passing attempts and made 11 rushing attempts in a vital home game for South Alabama, their first contest at home since September 12. Additionally, Laith Marjan contributed significantly by making three field goals, two of which were from 42 yards.
Troy struggled early in the game, failing to achieve a first down in the first quarter, which prompted a change at quarterback. Matthew Caldwell took over from starter Tucker Kilcrease and successfully led the Trojans on a 15-play drive late in the first half that culminated in a short field goal, narrowing the deficit to 19-3. However, Caldwell experienced difficulties, throwing two interceptions, while Kilcrease also contributed one interception during the game.
The Trojans finally reached the end zone with 2:35 left in the fourth quarter, but it was too little, too late in an otherwise challenging game.