Brookings, S.D. – The Youngstown State football team dropped a 63-13 decision to top-ranked South Dakota State on a sunny Saturday afternoon at Dykhouse Stadium.

Early big plays helped the Jackrabbits (5-1, 2-0 MVFC) grab momentum forcing the Penguins (2-5 and 1-2) to play catch up throughout the afternoon.

It took just 13 seconds for SDSU to open up a 7-0 lead as Angel Johnson returned the opening kickoff 99 yards for a touchdown.

After forcing a three-and-out, the Jacks drove 75 yards in four plays, and went in front 14-0 on 38-yard rush around the left side by Chase Mason.

The Guins put together a strong drive moving 54 yards in seven plays as Andrew Lastovka kicked a 39-yard field goal with 4:32 left in the quarter.

However, SDSU scored the next three touchdowns to jump on top 35-3, including a 48-yarder on a direct snap to Mason in the second quarter.

Late in the first half, Beau Brungard capped off an impressive eight-play, 91-yard drive scoring on a keeper around the left side from four yards out with just 14 seconds left in the first half. On the drive, Brungard found Latrell Fordham (32 yards) and Max Tomczak (41 yards) for key chunk yardage on third downs.

Punter Brendon Kilpatrick continued his strong play for the Guins. Kilpatrick he had four punts for an average of 52.3 yards per kick. He had a career-long 65-yard kick in the game and placed two inside the 20-yard line.

Lastokva added a 31-yard field goal with 3:08 remaining.

Brungard rushed for 59 yards while passing for 169.

For the game, YSU's offense amassed 372 yards on 72 total plays. The Penguins held the time of possession advantage again holding the ball for 40:27.

The Penguins return home to face South Dakota next Saturday at Stambaugh Stadium. Kickoff for the contest against the fourth-ranked Coyotes is set for 6 p.m.