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

CHATTANOOGA, 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. Chattanooga has a 30-11 lead in the series. The teams first met in 1938. Up next Tennessee Tech: hosts Samford on Sept. 12 Chattanooga: 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 here