BIRMINGHAM, Ala. — In a thrilling matchup during the 83rd annual Magic City Classic, Kareem Keye threw two touchdown passes as Alabama State claimed victory over Alabama A&M with a score of 27-19 on Saturday.

Keye’s early impact on the game was notable, as he connected with Asa Gregg for a 31-yard touchdown pass right at the beginning. He then secured another score with a 6-yard pass to Derick Harden, which helped propel the Hornets to a solid 17-3 lead at halftime.

The third quarter saw Alabama State extend their advantage with Brandon Gilliams’ second field goal and an impressive pick-six by Ta’Shaun Sims, bringing the score to 27-3 as they headed into the final quarter.

Alabama A&M made a spirited comeback with quarterback Xavier Lankford delivering touchdown passes of 65 and 31 yards to receiver Keenan Hambrick. After each touchdown, the Bulldogs successfully converted two-point attempts, narrowing the score to 27-19 with just five minutes left in the game. However, Lankford’s final chance to close the gap ended with an interception.

In terms of performance, Keye completed 14 of his 20 attempts for a total of 131 yards. On the other side, Lankford wrapped up his game with 13 completions out of 26 attempts totaling 207 yards, including two touchdowns and two interceptions. Hambrick was a standout for Alabama A&M, catching five passes for 139 yards and both of the Bulldogs’ touchdowns.