FLORENCE, Ala. — North Alabama Head Football Coach Brent Dearmon told FOX54 Sports that Stanford transfer Ari Patu has been named the UNA starting quarterback, confirming an earlier report.
The Graduate student quarterback transferred to UNA from Stanford after three seasons in the Golden State. The California native started one game and appeared in 8 total games for the Cardinal from 2021-2023.
Patu has completed 17 of his 31 (54.8%) passes for 150 yards, recorded three touchdown passes, and has thrown one interception in his career. He has also rushed for 76 yards on 10 attempts.
North Alabama opens the 2024 regular season on August 24 in the FCS Kickoff in Montgomery, Ala. The Lions will face Southeast Missouri State in the nationally televised game.