FAYETTEVILLE — Fayetteville's defense of its 2011 state championship got off to a sour start Thursday night at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium.
The No. 1 Purple 'Dogs lost 42-20 to Memphis University School in the Hooten's Kickoff Classic, snapping a five-game win streak.
MUS (2-1) used a relentless pass rush to stymie the Fayetteville offense, sacking Austin Allen six times. Allen, a University of Arkansas commit, finished the game completing 18 of 36 passes for 263 yards and one touchdown, but was intercepted twice.
Daryl Patton - Fayetteville-Memphis University School Postgame
Watch VideoFayetteville pulled within 28-20 with 6:18 remaining on a 5-yard touchdown to Brooks Ellis, a fellow UA commit.
After MUS blocked the extra point, Shane Tucker returned the ensuing kickoff for a 95-yard touchdown to put the game out of reach. The Owls added a 23-yard touchdown pass from Jordan Rodgers to Devon Perry with 3:01 remaining.
Rodgers finished the game with 217 yards passing and three touchdowns. He also added a rushing touchdown.
Safety Alex Brignoni, a third UA commit from Fayetteville, didn't play because of a hamstring injury.
The Purple 'Dogs (0-1) will return to the field next Friday at Jefferson City, Mo.
The game was the second of two Thursday night in Fayetteville. Watson Chapel defeated Siloam Springs 48-24 in the season-opener for both teams.