Jax Leatherwood throws 2 TD passes, defense provides spark in Tennessee Tech's win over Chattanooga

Jax Leatherwood threw two touchdown passes and Tennessee Tech turned a solid defensive effort into a 24-9 victory over Norfolk State in the Southern Conference opener for both teamsCHATTANOOGA, Tenn. -- Jax Leatherwood threw two touchdown passes and Tennessee Tech turned a solid defensive effort into a 24-9 victory over Norfolk State on Saturday night in the Southern Conference opener for both teams.Leatherwood threw for 161 yards on 19-of-32 passing and the Golden Eagles turned two interceptions into touchdowns.Tennessee Tech (2-0), ranked No. 12 in the Stats Perform FCS Top 25, did not score until about a minute remained in the first half. Marcus Harris II's 1-yard touchdown run finished off a 45-yard drive that was set up by Jameson Wharton's interception. Tennessee Tech led 7-6 at halftime.Leatherwood's two touchdown passes came in the second half, the first a 16-yard connection with Maury Sullivan following an interception by Omari Philyaw. Early in the fourth quarter, Leatherwood hit Gabe Nunez for an 11-yard score.The game had less than 500 yards of total offense with Tennessee Tech gaining 237 yards and Chattanooga 227.Journey Wyche had 113 yards rushing for the Mocs (1-1). Battle Alberson completed 6 of 16 passes for 37 yards with two interceptions. Jude Kelley kicked three field goals for all of Chattanooga's points.Popular ReadsChattanooga has a 30-11 lead in the series. The teams first met in 1938.Tennessee Tech: hosts Samford on Sept. 12Chattanooga: at Eastern Kentucky on Sept. 12 —-Sign up for Top 25 poll alerts here, visit the Top 25 here and see AP’s full college football coverage hereSponsored Content by Taboola