South Alabama had every reason to believe Saturday afternoon would produce an important Sun Belt Conference victory.

The Jaguars scored two first-quarter touchdowns, built an early advantage and moved the football effectively against Louisiana Tech.

But by the time the final whistle sounded, South Alabama had suffered another frustrating defeat.

Louisiana Tech scored 21 second-quarter points and shut out the Jaguars after halftime, securing a 35-20 victory at Hancock Whitney Stadium.

The loss dropped South Alabama to 4-4 overall and 2-2 in conference play.

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And the most troubling part wasn’t the final score.

It was the offense’s inability to finish what it started.

Quarterback Jared Hollins opened the game by connecting with Anthony Eager for a 10-yard touchdown.

After Louisiana Tech tied the contest, Hollins found Eager again for a nine-yard score, giving South Alabama a 14-7 lead.

The Jaguars appeared to have the offensive rhythm necessary to challenge the Sun Belt West Division leaders.

But Louisiana Tech quickly responded.

Quarterback Blake Baker connected with Marcus Calwise Jr. for a 22-yard touchdown, and backup Trey Kukuk later found Jalen Mickens for another score.

South Alabama pulled within 21-20 on an 11-yard touchdown run by Keenan Phillips, but a missed extra point prevented the Jaguars from tying the game.

Louisiana Tech added another touchdown before halftime, taking a 28-20 lead into the locker room.

Then South Alabama’s offense disappeared.

The Jaguars failed to score in either the third or fourth quarter while the Bulldogs extended their lead with a touchdown pass to Luke Watkins.

Hollins finished 14 of 31 passing for 192 yards, two touchdowns and an interception.

Eager was the offensive standout, catching seven passes for 102 yards and both receiving touchdowns.

PJ Martin rushed for 82 yards on 12 carries, while Phillips added 62 yards on the ground.

South Alabama actually outgained Louisiana Tech 397-315 in total offense, but yardage didn’t translate into enough points.

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The Jaguars committed two turnovers and were penalized 12 times for 100 yards.

Those mistakes proved particularly costly against a Louisiana Tech team that improved to 6-2 overall and remained unbeaten in conference play at 4-0.

South Alabama now faces a critical final stretch as it attempts to qualify for postseason play.

The Jaguars have shown they can move the football.

But Saturday demonstrated that offensive production means little without consistency, discipline and the ability to finish drives.

At 4-4, South Alabama needs those improvements immediately.