VALDOSTA, GA -- The No. 16 Valdosta State Blazers (7-2, 5-2 GSC) scored early and often en route to a 51-3 victory over the University of Arkansas at Monticello's Boll Weevils (1-9, 1-6 GSC) Saturday at Bazemore-Hyder Stadium in Valdosta.

   Derek Tharpe opened scoring for the Blazers just under three minutes into the game, taking advantage of a great punt return that gave VSU the ball at the UAM eight-yard line, catching a two-yard touchdown pass from Willie Copeland to cap a three play drive.

   It was downhill from there for the Weevils, who trailed 17-0 after the first quarter. Valdosta State extended their lead to 30-0 at halftime, using a 27-yard touchdown run and two field goals to extend their lead.

   The Boll Weevils got on the board with 8:20 remaining, as Ryan Guardia (So., Hurly, Miss.) booted a 41-yard field goal, but UAM was unable to break through again. VSU added three touchdowns in the fourth quarter to extend their lead to the final margin.

   Ryan Pilcher (Jr., West Monroe, La.) led UAM with eight tackles. Lafayette Fredrick (Fr., Hot Springs, Ark.) was UAM’s leading passer, connecting on 10 of 20 passes for 105 yards.

   The Weevils will return to action Saturday, Nov. 11, as they travel to Cleveland, Miss., to face Delta State. Kickoff from Parker Field is set for 4 p.m.