BIRMINGHAM, Ala. (Interstat) — Alabama State used a strong second half to beat Southern 30-17 on Saturday at Legion Field.

Southern led 17-13 at halftime after the teams traded points through the first two quarters. Alabama State took control in the third quarter, outscoring Southern 14-0, then added a fourth-quarter field goal to secure the win.

The Hornets improved to 1-0, while the Jaguars dropped to 0-1.

Andrew Body completed 14 of 23 passes for 192 yards and rushed eight times for 38 yards with a touchdown for Southern. Trey Holly ran 15 times for 38 yards and caught three passes for 22 yards for Alabama State. Christian Johnson completed 17 of 27 passes for 174 yards, rushed 14 times for 81 yards and scored a touchdown. Mike Franklin added a rushing touchdown. Randall King caught four passes for 77 yards and a touchdown for Southern.

Alabama State opens with Lane at home Sept. 5, and Southern hosts Kentucky State the same day.