Overview
- The Hornets closed the Turkey Day Classic with 44 unanswered points after trailing 21-14 at the end of the first quarter.
- Defensive back Ta’Shaun Sims grabbed two interceptions, including a 42-yard pick-six that shifted momentum.
- Quarterback Te’Sean Smoot had a career passing day and finished 5-0 as the starter; AP lists 422 yards and four touchdowns, while local stats credit 351 yards.
- Receiver Jalen Jones recorded 189 receiving yards per AP and became the fifth player in school history to reach 1,000 yards in a season.
- Alabama State finished 10-2 as SWAC East co-champions, but Jackson State advanced on a tiebreaker and the Hornets received no postseason spot.