LIVINGSTON, Ala. – The University of West Alabama dropped a 33-14 decision to top-ranked Valdosta State in Gulf South Conference football action Saturday night at Tiger Stadium.

The visiting Blazers jumped out to a 12-0 lead on the Tigers before UWA put its first points on the board before the halftime intermission.  VSU opened the scoring with a 10 play, 65 yard scoring drive that was capped off Markus Manson’s two-yard plunge.  The Blazers added five points in the second period on a Zac Williams’ 42-yard field goal and a defensive safety.

UWA took advantage of great field position, starting its first scoring drive inside VSU territory.  Fullback Cole Mason threw for his first career touchdown, connecting with Jason Hawkins from two yards out.

VSU quarterback Chris Hart threw for two touchdowns in the third period to extend the lead to 27-7 after three periods.  T.J. Williams hauled in one of Hart’s pass for a 27-yard strike while Hart’s second of the quarter was a 15-yard touchdown to R.J. Bastone.  Hart finished with 217 yards passing and completed 23 of 40 on the night.  He also rushed for 79 yards.

The Tigers trimmed the lead down to 27-14 late in the final period on a Terry Levy ten yard touchdown catch from freshman signal caller Derrick Thomas with 2:11 remaining in the contest.  Thomas completed 15 passes for 145 yards on the night.  Mason led the Tiger rushing attack with 36 yards on 11 carries.

The Blazers added the final points of the night on Russ Callaway’s 17-yard run.