By KEVIN ECKLEBERRY

Daily News

BIRMINGHAM – The LaGrange College Panthers staged a furious fourth-quarter rally, but it was Birmingham Southern hanging on for a 34-28 victory on Thursday in the season opener for both teams.

Trailing 34-7, LaGrange College scored 21 consecutive points in the fourth quarter to get within six.

After LaGrange College’s final touchdown with a little more than two minutes remaining, Birmingham Southern was able to pick up a first down and run out the clock.

Kelly Hall had a big night for the Panthers, completing 16-of-20 passes for 201 yards with two touchdowns, and he also had a scoring run.

Tyler Benjamin caught three passes for 93 yards with a touchdown, and Marcus Campbell had seven receptions for 69 yards with a touchdown.

Elijah Robertson led the defensive effort with 13 tackles, and Jordon Turner had an interception.

LaGrange College hosts Berry College on Sept. 8.

OF NOTE: For more on Thursday’s game, see Saturday’s sports section.