STATESBORO, Ga. () — A fourth-quarter rushing touchdown propelled Georgia Southern past Jacksonville State, 41-34, in the team’s home opener on Sept. 13 at Paulson Stadium.

The Eagles enjoyed a great first half. They put up 31 points through the first 30 minutes, despite being outgained in total yards, 282-200.

However, the tide started to turn on the visitors’ favor late in the second half. The Eagles gave up a touchdown with 24 seconds remaining in the first half. Then proceeded to give another 10 unanswered points.

Georgia Southern trailed 34-31 in the fourth quarter after the 17-0 run from Jacksonville State.

The Eagles tied the game at 34 early in the fourth quarter. Tripp Bryant connected on a 43-yard field goal.

In the fourth quarter, OJ Arnold capped off a 65-yard drive with a six-yard rushing touchdown. The score gave Georgia Southern a 41-34 lead, which they would not relinquish.

The Eagles earn their first win of the season. Next week, they host Maine at home with the kickoff slated for 7 p.m.