STATESBORO- The Georgia Southern football team became bowl eligible after defeating ULM, 51-29, at home on Saturday.

In another cold and rainy contest, the team rushed for 245 yards and saw the return of redshirt-sophomore running back Matt LaRoche after an absent Troy game. The running game was led by junior running back J.D. King’s 102 yards while junior running back Wesley Kennedy III had 76 yards and 19 carries.

Redshirt-junior Shai Werts rushed for two touchdowns while adding one score in the air in what could be called his best performance of the season.

Redshirt-sophomore Reynard Ellis and redshirt-junior linebacker Randy Wade led the defense with eight tackles each. Rutledge returned his first Eagle interception in the third quarter for a 42 yard touchdown run and added a solo tackle.

GS maintained possession of the ball majority of the game and the defense forced many Warhawks three-and-outs. Senior quarterback Caleb Evans threw for 285 yards but added two interceptions.

With this win, GS is now bowl eligible heading into Arkansas State next weekend on the road. The team improves to 6-4 overall and 4-2 in the conference.

Amanda Arnold, The George-Anne Sports Editor, gasports@georgiasouthern.edu