Clemson basketball stuns Arizona, makes first Elite Eight in 44 years
SPORTS

North Greenville takes another shot at North Alabama

STAFF REPORT

North Greenville University quarterback Will Hunter remembers the Crusaders' Oct. 22 game at North Alabama. Or, more specifically, the moments after the Lions' 52-21 victory.

North Alabama running back Damon Cox shook hands with Hunter and wished the Crusaders good luck. Hunter said his response was, "We'll be back."

Since that loss — in which the Lions scored 28 consecutive points in the second half and dropped NGU's record to 4-4 — the Crusaders have won five consecutive games, including two in the NCAA Division II playoffs.

On Saturday, North Greenville returns to Florence, Alabama, to face the Lions again. North Alabama, the region's top seed, will face in the Division II quarterfinals an offense that has found its footing by finding its balance.

During the five-game winning streak, Hunter has completed 59 percent of his passes for 1,275 yards with 11 touchdowns and only one interception. Javon Smith, Mason Sanders, Demaijay Rooks and Christian Bruce have between 31 and 47 receptions this season and have averaged between 15 and 16 yards per reception.

Former Southside High standout Tracy Scott has rushed for 1,067 yards, including 544 in the past four games. He is complemented by Ashton Heard, who has rushed for 714 yards.

The Crusaders' challenge will be to stop a dual threat as well, albeit an individual one. Lions quarterback Jacob Tucker is a finalist for the Harlan Hill Trophy, Division II's version of the Heisman Trophy. Tucker has passed for 2,257 yards with 18 touchdowns and rushed for 884 yards with 14 touchdowns.

Kickoff is at 1 p.m. at Braly Stadium.

North Greenville running back Tracy Scott (2)