Tulane Survives South Alabama 33–31 in Road Battle

Photo By: Tulane Athletics

---

MOBILE, Ala. — September 6, 2025

The Tulane Green Wave passed their first true test of the season on Saturday night, edging South Alabama 33–31 at Hancock Whitney Stadium. The game was a rollercoaster, with momentum swinging back and forth before Tulane found a way to close it out. Here’s how it unfolded, quarter by quarter.

First Quarter

Tulane struck first with quarterback Jake Retzlaff guiding a sharp opening drive that ended in a touchdown pass to put the Green Wave on the board. Running back Zuberi Mobley followed with a short-yardage score on Tulane’s next possession, giving them an early cushion. South Alabama responded with a field goal to stay within reach, but Tulane carried a 14–3 lead into the second quarter.

Second Quarter

The Green Wave extended their advantage as Retzlaff connected on another passing touchdown midway through the quarter. South Alabama’s offense began to settle in, answering with a touchdown drive of their own to cut the deficit. Tulane added a field goal before halftime, leaning on Mobley’s rushing to keep the offense moving. By the break, Tulane held a 24–10 lead, appearing in control.

Third Quarter

South Alabama flipped the script after halftime. The Jaguars capitalized on Tulane mistakes, including a defensive lapse that allowed a long touchdown pass. Tulane managed another field goal to slow the momentum, but South Alabama found rhythm offensively and scored again late in the quarter. The Green Wave’s lead was trimmed to just 27–24heading into the fourth.

Fourth Quarter

The final quarter delivered all the drama. Tulane leaned on Mobley’s legs and Retzlaff’s composure, driving down the field for another score to make it 33–24. South Alabama refused to go away, marching down for a touchdown to pull within two points with just minutes remaining. The Jaguars had one last possession, but Tulane’s defense tightened when it mattered most, forcing a stop that preserved the narrow win.

Final Thoughts

Tulane’s ability to withstand South Alabama’s rally highlighted the team’s toughness. Retzlaff’s two passing touchdowns and Mobley’s pair of rushing scores powered the offense, while the defense delivered the game-saving stand. The victory pushes Tulane to 2–0 and sets up a much-anticipated home matchup with Duke next Friday.