MEMPHIS — The 2017 Southern Heritage Classic went down the final second as Tennessee State topped Jackson State, 17-15, on Saturday Night at the Liberty Bowl. A fourth-quarter 58-yard punt return for a touchdown by Memphis native Patrick Smith proved to be the difference in the game.

Patrick Smith courtesy of TSU Athletics

Smith’s touchdown with just over five minutes remaining put TSU up 17-9.

Jackson State cut the lead down to 17-15 when Terrell Kennedy returned the ensuing kickoff 87 yards for a touchdown. However, Laquarius Cook broke up a pass on the two-point try to preserve TSU’s slight edge.

With two seconds remaining, JSU’s 47-yard field goal was wide right giving TSU the two-point victory. The Tigers improved to 2-0 on the season, while Jackson State fell to 0-2.

Article Courtesy: Tennessee State Athletics