Box Score / ALCORN STATE, Miss. - It took just four plays to set the tone for a disappointing and frustrating afternoon for Alabama A&M as the Bulldogs fell at Alcorn State, 34-16. The Bulldogs forced a fumble and turnover on the opening kickoff, but gave the ball back when Kevin Atkins' pass was intercepted in the end zone to stop a scoring opportunity just three plays later.  The pick was the first of six Alabama A&M turnovers committed on the day, and the Braves were opportunistic in turning those miscues into 28 points.  The Bulldogs, on the other hand, took possession six times inside Alcorn State territory and managed only 16 points on the day.

After a sluggish start that saw the Braves break out to a 14-0 lead less than a minute into the second quarter, Alabama A&M got back into the game on a nine-yard touchdown pass from Deaunte Mason to Anthony Mitchell.  For the second straight week, Mason replaced Atkins at quarterback for the Bulldogs.  Alcorn State led 14-7 at the half.

Jeremy Licea's 27-yard field goal was the only tally of the third quarter, and Alabama A&M seemed poised for another come-from-behind victory.  Four fourth quarter turnovers, however, spelled a different fate for the Bulldogs, who were outscored 20-7 in the final period.  A&M's lone drive that did not end in a turnover ended on a five-yard touchdown run by Mason.

Alcorn's (2-3, 2-1 SWAC) win, combined with Texas Southern's win at Jackson State, leaves the Braves in sole possession of first place in the SWAC East, a game ahead of Jackson State (1-5, 1-2 SWAC), Mississippi Valley State (2-4, 1-2 SWAC) and A&M (4-3, 1-2 SWAC).  The Bulldogs have an off week and will play next at the Magic City Classic against arch rival Alabama State on Oct. 31.