Southern Miss defeats Alcorn State 49-3 in season opener

Southern Miss opened the Blake Anderson era with a 49-3 victory over Alcorn State at Renasant Stadium in Hattiesburg. The win moves the Golden Eagles to a 1-0 record, while Alcorn State falls to 1-1.

Running back Steven Robinson led the offense with 123 rushing yards and three touchdowns on 23 carries, becoming the first Southern Miss running back to record three touchdowns in a single game since 2020. Jamarice Wilder also contributed two rushing touchdowns. Quarterback Ethan Hampton, making his first start, threw a 38-yard touchdown pass to Mario Sanders.

The Southern Miss defense played a significant role in the rout, highlighted by three interceptions from defensive back Kobi Albert. Alcorn State struggled offensively, totaling only 223 yards and committing five turnovers, including four interceptions by quarterback Jaylon Tolbert. Southern Miss finished the game with 543 total yards.