MONTGOMERY, Ala. — Averett University football couldn't overcome a big first-half deficit in a 42-6 conference loss at Huntingdon College on Saturday afternoon.

Huntingdon (6-3, 5-2 USA South) took a 14-0 lead in the first quarter and added it to it in the second quarter. The Hawks scored on a 45-yard pass in the final minute before halftime to take a commanding 28-0 lead at the break.

Down 35-0 midway through the third quarter, Averett (2-7, 1-6 USA South) put together what turned out to be its lone scoring drive of the day. The Cougars drove 75 yards on 13 plays and capped the effort with a 4-yard quarterback keeper by junior Drew Evans for a touchdown. Huntingdon blocked the extra point to keep the score at 35-6.

Huntingdon, which finished with 511 yards of total offense, added a sixth touchdown late in the third quarter to extend its lead.

Averett's run game couldn't find the success it enjoyed in the previous week's win at Methodist, especially with Averett trailing by several touchdowns early. The Cougars' offense also was hampered by three interceptions.

Averett's defense also had three take-aways, with seniors Ben Harris and Donald Downs each making an interception. Harris also recovered a fumble. Juniors Dontae Gilbert and Michael Reives led the Cougars with 11 tackles each, with Harris added 10 take-downs, including a sack.
 
Averett finishes the season next Saturday at home when the Cougars host rival Greensboro College at 1 p.m.