South Alabama Offense Steals the Show in First Preseason Scrimmage

In a twist on the usual early-camp narrative, South Alabama's offense took center stage during their first preseason scrimmage on Saturday night at Hancock Whitney Stadium. While defenses typically dominate this phase, the Jaguars' offensive units racked up an impressive 631 yards and secured 36 first downs, finding the end zone six times over the course of 110 plays.

Despite the absence of their expected starting quarterback, Gio Lopez, who was sidelined as a precaution but remained suited up on the sidelines, the offense thrived under the lights. Head coach Major Applewhite reflected on the scrimmage, noting the extended playtime, "We went 60 plays with each unit, and even the threes got about 35 or 40 plays. It was a valuable opportunity to work through various situations — from first and second downs to red-zone scenarios and two-minute drills."

Second-team quarterback Bishop Davenport stepped up in Lopez’s absence, guiding the first-team offense with poise. The Utah State transfer completed 13 of 20 passes, amassing 228 yards and throwing two touchdown passes to wide receiver Jamaal Pritchett. Freshman Jared Hollins took charge of the second-team offense, completing 10 of 20 passes for 84 yards, though he was intercepted once. Walk-ons Brett Nezat and Jared Jones split time with the third team, with Nezat completing 7 of 10 passes for 46 yards and a touchdown, while Jones made the highlight reel with a 47-yard run, the night’s longest rush.

Coach Applewhite saw a silver lining in Lopez's absence, stating, "It’s a blessing in disguise. It gave Bishop and Jared the chance to gain valuable experience with the first and second teams. That kind of experience pays off midseason."

Jamaal Pritchett emerged as the standout player, catching five passes for 142 yards and two touchdowns. His first touchdown, a 60-yard strike, came against the first-team defense, followed by a 24-yard score during red-zone work. Jeremiah Webb added five receptions for 74 yards, while Shamar Sandgren and Keyshawn Woodyard also contributed with notable catches.

On the ground, freshman Fluff Bothwell led the rushing attack with 68 yards and a 3-yard touchdown on nine carries. Tulane transfer Iverson Celestine chipped in with 32 yards and a 4-yard score on nine attempts. The first-team running backs, Kentrel Bullock and Braylon McReynolds, had limited action but combined for 27 yards and a touchdown.

The defense had its moments, particularly early on, holding the offense scoreless for the first 31 plays and recording 12 tackles for loss, six sacks, and five pass breakups. Safety Wesley Miller secured the scrimmage's only turnover with an interception, adding to his tackle for loss. Linebacker Courtney McBride and defensive end Jalyn Durgan each notched multiple tackles for loss and a sack, while linebacker Dalton Hughes tallied two sacks.

Applewhite acknowledged areas needing improvement, especially tackling and ball security, but also praised the defensive effort. "We had some explosive plays against us, but we also pressured the quarterback well and made plays in the red zone," he said. "We’ve got a lot of work ahead, but we’re making progress."

The Jaguars will take a break on Sunday before returning to practice on Monday, with another scrimmage scheduled for Saturday, August 17.