JACKSONVILLE, Ala. -- Griffin Thomas kicked the eventual game-winning 38-yard field goal midway through the fourth quarter, and the Jacksonville State defense forced two late turnovers in a 38-35 win over Murray State Saturday.

After Thomas's kick put the Gamecocks (5-3, 4-2 Ohio Valley Conference) up by the final margin with 8:51 left, Murray State drove into Gamecocks' territory. After two incomplete passes, the Racers (3-5, 2-3) opted to go for it on fourth-and-2 at the Jacksonville State 45-yard line. Duane Brady got just one yard, though, and the Racers turned it over on downs.

On their next possession, the Racers took the ball from deep within their own territory to a first-and-10 at their own 30. Two plays later, however, Rashod Byers intercepted Casey Brockman's attempt to seal it for the Gamecocks.

Washaun Ealey, a Georgia transfer, rushed for three scores and 146 yards on 37 carries for Jacksonville State.