WMU forced South Alabama into a 4th-and-1 on its ensuing drive but running back Kentrel Bullock powered his way for a first down and on the next play, he shed through an arm tackle en route to a 22-yard touchdown for a 30-20 lead. An advantage too big for WMU to overcome.

South Alabama was down its starting quarterback, leading receiver and top rusher for Saturday’s Salute to Veterans Bowl, but still rang up 537 yards of offense in a 30-23 victory over Western Michigan at Cramton Bowl in Montgomery.