Quarterback Kyler Murray completed three touchdown passes, including one in the pivotal third quarter, as Texas A&M defeated Western Carolina 41- 17 on Saturday night at Kyle Field in College Station, Texas.

Murray's 16- yard touchdown pass to wide receiver Damion Ratley was part of a 13- point third period that enabled the Aggies (7- 3) to pull away from the competitive Catamounts (6- 4).

Texas A&M kicker Tyler Bertolet made two long field goals in the third quarter - from 47 and 52 yards - that helped the Aggies build on their 21- 14 lead at the half.

After the Catamounts cut the lead to 34- 17 with 11:18 left in the fourth quarter on a 24- yard field by Logan Howard, Texas A&M quickly answered to put the game out of reach.

Backup quarterback Kyle Allen completed a 22- yard touchdown pass to receiver Christian Kirk with 10:19 left, and Bertolet followed with the extra point to provide the final score.

Texas A&M running back Tra Carson led the Aggies with 109 yards on 17 carries. Murray completed 22 of 39 pass attempts for 191 yards with three touchdowns and two interceptions.

Western Carolina running back Detrez Newsome gained 111 yards on 17 carries.