S. Dakota St. defense makes 9 sacks in 44-6 win over Georgia Southern

S. Dakota St. rolls over Georgia Southern 44-6

BROOKINGS, S.D. — Ryan Crawford threw two touchdowns, including one for 62 yards, Saturday as South Dakota State won its season opener against Georgia Southern 44-6.

South Dakota State (1-0) held Georgia Southern (1-1) to two field goals as its defense recorded nine sacks and forced four turnovers.

Crawford’s touchdown throws came close together, a little less than three minutes apart, in the third quarter. Both found Mike Steffen.

South Dakota State’s Kyle Minett also scored two touchdowns and rushed for 128 yards.

Both field goals by Georgia Southern came from kicker Adrian Mora, the longest hitting from 46 yards away in the first quarter. Kyle Harris of South Dakota State had three field goals, including one from 44 yards.

It was South Dakota State’s first win in a season opener since 2005.