BIRMINGHAM, Ala. - No. 24 Birmingham-Southern used a big-play offense and took advantage of LaGrange turnovers for a 41-14 win Saturday in the season openers for both teams.

Birmingham quarterback Jimmy Stainback threw for 165 yards for two touchdowns and ran for 89 yards and another touchdown to spark the homestanding Panthers. All-American running back Shawn Morris ran for 66 yards and a touchdown to go with a 79-yard touchdown reception.

Quarterback Ed Russ threw for 157 yards and a touchdown for LaGrange. He was 15-for-37 with one interception. He had a team-high 70 yards on the ground.

Kent Gibson scored on a 13-yard pass reception and added 55 yards on the ground. Michael Jones scored on a 7-yard run to close out the scoring.

The Panthers had two turnovers converted into touchdowns by Birmingham.

The Panthers host Millsaps next Saturday. Kickoff is 1 p.m.