ROME -- Florida Tech spoiled he Hawks' home opener Saturday night, earning the win 44-0.

In total the Hawks were held to just 73 yards of offense; while FIT rolled up 581 all-purpose yards. Rushing, Shorter couldn't put any gains together; netting -10 yards on the ground. While, in the air the Hawks' three quarterbacks tallied 83 yards on nine completions.

Tyler Pullum made his third start under center for Shorter, passing for 47 yards – 5 for 11 on attempts. Matt Williams, in his SU debut, tallied 36 yard, going 4-8 on the night. Devante James also saw action in the contest, and was 0-1 on the night.

Ulysses Carswell was the Hawks leader on the ground, rushing for twelve yards in the game on seven carries. Joseph Ross, Marquese Christian and Maurice Sutton each had two receptions for Shorter; with Ross leading the night with 26 yards.

On defense, Kevin Knight turned in a team high nine tackles; while Rodney Jackson and Justin Filmore added seven. Jevaris Jones finished with six tackles, and recovered a fumble. John Jarrard added five tackles on the night.

Barnett Bailey finished the night with 138 yards on kick returns, and David Thompson added 400 yards on 11 punts.

On offense for the Florida Tech, QB Mark Cato threw for 200 yards; while Trevor Sand added 41 yards rushing. Jaaron Barrett made the most of his one catch on the night, tallying 69 yards. And on defense, Trai Cadore and Skylar Sheffield lead the effort with five tackles each.

Shorter will take another shot at the win column next Saturday, September 24, when they travel to Cleveland, Miss. for a 7:00 PM EST start at Delta State.