YSU LIVE | Penguins lead 21-14 at halftime

The YSU football team outscored Southern Illinois 21-0 in the second quarter to take a 21-14 lead at halftime.

It was an impressive turnaround for a Penguin team that was reeling a bit after watching SIU return a blocked punt for a touchdown, then follow it up with a quick touchdown off a YSU fumble.

Trailing 14-0 to start the second quarter, YSU drove 81 yards for the touchdown, which came on a 15-yard pass from Kurt Hess to Kevin Watts. With the receivers initially covered, Hess rolled right, bought time and found Watts in the right corner of the end zone.

On the ensuing play Thomas Sprague blasted SIU kick returner Steve Strothers, forcing a fumble that was recovered by by Ali Cheaib. But three plays managed just two yards and Stephen Blose's 39-yard field goal attempt was partially blocked and fell short.

On the ensuing possession, YSU forced another fumble when linebacker David Rach came off the edge and stripped SIU QB Chris Dieker. Luke Matelan jumped on it, giving YSU a first down at the SIU 20. On third and goal at the 7, Hess again bought time and found Watts in the corner of the end zone for the touchdown with 5:47 left in the quarter.

Brandian Ross gave the Penguins their third defensive turnover when he picked off Dieker near midfield and returned it to the Salukis' 41. On the next play, YSU ran a halfback option, with Jamaine Cook throwing for Dominique Barnes. SIU got flagged for pass interference. It was the second straight drive that saw the Penguins go for a big pass play immediately after an interception.

On third and goal, Hess rolled right and hit Carson Sharbaugh for the 3-yard TD with 1:32 left. YSU also picked up a roughing the passer penalty on the play.