Aug 31, 2001

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. (AP) - Justin Barnes threw for one touchdown and ran for another to lead Chattanooga to a 28-14 win over Samford in the season opener for both teams Thursday night.

Jason Ball scored the go-ahead touchdown for Chattanooga on a 2-yard run early in the second quarter for a 14-7 lead.

Barnes finished off Samford with a 53-yard touchdown pass to Cos DeMatteo in the fourth quarter to make it 28-7.

Samford scored first on a 35-yard touchdown pass from Josh Kellett to running back John Williams. Kellett also threw for Samford's other score, hitting Aryvia Holmes on an 11-yard play.

Ball ran 130 yards on 32 carries. His score came after safety Temus Terry intercepted a Samford pass.

Barnes completed five-of-eight passes for 122 yards.

Chattanooga's other quarterback, Chuck Spearman, threw for a touchdown. He completed 11-of-17 for 104 yards.

Kellett was 20-of-38 for 163 yards.